NATIONAL RADIO DAY--HONORING THE MEMORY OF GINA BROWN

NATIONAL RADIO DAY

August 20, 2025

(New Orleans, Louisiana)--This week, I pause to remember my best friend, the late Gina Brown, a true queen of the airwaves.

A proud New Orleans native, Gina had a gift with a microphone that could move souls. She began her journey more than 30 years ago as the smooth Sunday Jazz Brunch host at Ninety-Three Blx in Mobile. And in her final days, she poured her heart into the mic at 102.3 WHIV FM New Orleans, where the mantra is “We honor independent voices.” Gina did just that, leaving her soul in the control room and in the hearts of listeners across the Crescent City.

Her beloved segment, “G’s Corner,” and her golden voice are deeply missed. On this day, we celebrate not just National Radio Day but the legacy of one of the greatest disc jockeys to ever do it, my dear friend, the late, great Gina Brown.

Miss you, babygirl, Varion

“When Legends Align: A Forgotten Interview, a Forever Memory”

 Remembering Singer/Songwriter Betty Wright 

(New Orleans, Louisiana)--Have you ever had a project you never quite found the time to finish?

Recently, I unearthed a true gem, an exclusive interview I did with the legendary R&B singer, Betty Wright. I always remembered it, not just because of the interview itself, but because my best friend, Gina Brown, was the concert promoter, and Gina was also the opening act that night, October 5, 2018, in New Orleans.

  

     (Photo Credit: Gus Bennett, New Orleans "The People Project!")

Who could’ve imagined that nearly seven years later, both Gina and Betty would no longer be with us?

Gina was more than a friend; she was family. And Betty Wright? She was Gina's early influence and musical hero. To see Gina shine that night alongside her icon was unforgettable. It’s been emotional revisiting this footage, but also comforting, like hearing their voices echo through time.

As I finally pieced this story together, I was also reminded of how many lives Betty touched, mentoring major artists, uplifting her daughters, and leaving a mark far beyond the stage.

So here’s the takeaway: don’t wait!  Finish the projects you’ve been putting off. You might just uncover a treasure worth sharing with the world.

ALL NEW: GET YOUR COPY OF GINA BROWN'S NEW SINGLE TODAY!

CLICK HERE TO WATCH GINA'S LATEST VIDEO:
http://youtu.be/ibjlpUAV5cI

Essence Music Fest 2013 - "There's Nothing Like It!

GOT PLANS FOR JULY 4th?     

The Essence Music Festival will host some of the world's top brands and deliver a jammed-packed weekend of interactive fan experiences and excitement, starting with the NEW Princess of Southern Soul--Gina Brown.

Don't miss your chance to watch the pages of Essence Magazine come to life as fans engage with editors,  A-List celebrities and the some of the "biggest names in news and entertainment!"

(New York, NY)—There are less three weeks to go until the nation’s largest African American gathering of music and culture converges upon the city of New Orleans from July 4-7. This year, the 19^th annual ESSENCE Festival features a musical line-up that is second to none, including Beyoncé, Maxwell, New Edition, Charlie Wilson, Brandy, Jill Scott and more. Attendees can also expect appearances from world-renowned speakers, authors, innovators and celebrities for the ESSENCE Empowerment Experience, as well as an opportunity to engage with the world’s most esteemed brands.

Top global brands will come together for a weekend of great music, rich cultural experiences, delicious samples, make-overs, vehicle test drives, celebrity meet and greets and more.  From Presenting Sponsor Coca-Cola to major sponsors Walmart, Ford, McDonald’s, My Black Is Beautiful, Verizon and State Farm fans will experience unmatched consumer engagement each day at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and throughout the city of New Orleans. Official sponsors MSNBC, Coors Light, TV One and Visa Prepaid will also turn up the heat with even more innovative and exciting ways to connect with Festival-goers.

"VISION/VOICE/VARION" will be front row and center stage as The 19th Annual Essence Festival hosts some of the 'worlds top brands and delivers a jammed-packed weeked of interactive fan experiences and excitement.  For the first time ever, VVV will bring you the 4th of July "Family Reunion Day!"  One of the featured artists will be none other than Vision/Voice/Varion favorite Gina Brown.  Gina joins Doug Fresh, Tweet and dozens of other nationally renowned recording artist on Independence Day.  The variety of music promises to be a "blast" for the entire family to enjoy.                        

New Orleans Own--Gina Brown 

The ESSENCE Center Stage in the Convention Center is at the epicenter of everything Hot Right Now at the ESSENCE Festival throughout the weekend. Attendees will connect with our ESSENCE editors and favorite celebrities who will be on full display on the ESSENCE Center Stage each day. Our exclusive category, vendor and media partner participants will have an opportunity to interact with the ESSENCE reader and showcase their brand message through live moments. In addition, our attendees will have a chance to engage with celebrities and personalities in the Fan Zone as well as buy official merchandise, ESSENCE subscriptions and official ESSENCE branded photos.

For more informaiton about the latest news about The EssenceFestival-visit:  http://www.essence.com/festival 

GINA BROWN: "Sizzling and Giving You A Reason to Smile"

SUMMER'S SIZZLING!

Gina Brown "Sizzling" This Summer

(NEW ORLEANS, LA.)--Hotter than July!  Music fans get ready for a "double dose" of summer fun that's "sizzling!" Gina Brown, one of the hardest working women in entertainment will burn up the stage and the "airwaves" this summer as she gives you something to "smile about" and move you right out of your seat and dancing in the isles.

Gina Brown and Anutha Level will kick off the first ever Essence Music Festival's "FAMILY FUN DAY" July 4th.  The Louisiana Lottery is a proud sponsor of Essence 2013.  I'm proud to tell you after nearly 20 years in the business, this well deserving artist is finally hitting "lucky 7s!"  Way to go Gina, turn up the heat because New Orleans, Louisiana is about to be on "FIRE!"

ALL NEW: NEW ORLEANS' OWN GINA BROWN SLATED TO KICK OFF ESSENCE MUSIC FEST 2013

ESSENCE MUSIC FEST-FIRST EVER "FAMILY REUNION DAY!"

(New Orleans, LA.)--Gina Brown's got a secret, but I'm spilling the beans!  That's right, ALL NEW my girl and best friend will be one of the featured artists kicking off the annual ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL in New Orleans. This year event organizers announce the first ever "Family Reunion Day!" Essence Fest 2013 features Beyonce', Charlie Wilson, Maxwell, New Edition-just to name a few.  But, before these legendary artists can take center stage, first you'll be rocked out of your seat and dance in the isles with New Orleans' rising star Gina Brown.

Gina Brown, featuring Anutha Level will kick off the "four day music festival July 4th with a day designed with families in mind.  The fire works July 4th will not be limited to the skyline of downtown New Orleans, but with some of the best local artists "The Big Easy" has to offer. 

It's going to be explosive!  Essence Music Fest kicks off July 4th and ends on my birthday July 7th!  YES! You know I'm over the moon because I will spend another birthday and another season covering one of my favorite events with one of the hardest working women in the industry, Gina Brown.

Gina Brown- W&A File Photo

If you haven't been, just know there's nothing like ESSENCE FEST!  For more than 16 years this annual event has attracted music lovers from all around the world to the Crescent City and Gina Brown is definitely the entertainer to take it from hot to "sizzzlllling!" The addition of the "Family Reunion Day" is a great way to ensure there's something for everyone!

The addition of the "Family Reunion Day" is timely and what's a family reunion without "The Electric Slide, The Cupid Shuffle or The Wobble?" Brace yourself--ALL NEW 

The "G-Slide" a critically acclaimed single and line dance that's gaining Brown critical acclaim on the R&B and Southern Soul charts will be just one of the singles this New Orleans based entertainer will perform live.  "G's Spot" has been climbing the blues charts since November 2012 and Gina Brown is sure to take the party to"another level" as leads off what's being billed as "the event of the summer."  

ESSENCE MUSIC FEST-201---Photo: "E"Photo

Since 2010, 'VISION/VOICE/VARION" has been your exclusive "all access" backstage pass all of the exclusive interviews, red carpet arrivals, music and this year is no exception! Book your flight and purchase your tickets today, you won't be disappointed. ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL 2013...."it's going to be epic!"

CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS ON ESSENCE FEST and THE FAMILY REUNION WEEKEND:  http://www.essence.com/2013/04/18/essence-festival-announces-first-ever-family-reunion-day

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT ESSENCE FEST MUSIC LINE-UP:

http://www.essence.com/festival/schedule/artist

2013 Essence Festival Nightly Line Up!

ESSENCE 2013-"SIZZLING!"

(NEW ORLEANS, LA.)---The 2013 Essence Music Festival Line-up is almost set!  Which night will you rock out to some of the best in R&B, Hip Hop and Neo-Soul?  Essence Music Fest in New Orleans, Louisiana is more than an event, it's a reunion.  Some of the hottest performers in the world descend on "The Big Easy" leaving their mark in the most memorable way.    
 

Gina Brown & Anutha Level Performing July 4th

ALL NEW:  My girl Gina Brown officially kicks off the party with an "explosive" performance July 4th.  Be sure to join the "Empress of New Orleans" and Mayor Mitch Landrieu as they welcome thousands to this colorful hot bed for fun and entertainment.

VISION/VOICE/VARION is also gearing up to bring you another exciting year of "all things Essence!" VVV...."your all access pass to some of the hottest musical performances this summer!"  Stay close!

Singer Trey Songz & Varion Walton-Photo By-"E" Photo

"Red Carpet Ready!"

Reason to Smile Commercial Featuring Gina Brown

(New Orleans, LA.)--For weeks we've been building up, previewing and teasing you about the new Louisiana Lottery jingle and commericial. This week, it's official Gina Brown is now the new voice and face behind this revamped campaign.  Spread the word;  tell a friend-- Gina Brown is doing "the darn thing," giving you something to smile about!   

LOUISIANA LOTTERY--NEED A REASON TO SMILE?

"WHAT'S HOT"-EXCLUSIVE!

(New Orleans, LA)--It is a follow-up to a "VISION/VOICE/VARION" Exclusive!  Soon officials will unveil the "new look and voice"of the "Louisiana Lottery." But you don't have to wait, in this week's edition of What's Hot--"VISION/VOICE/VARION" has your FIRST LOOK at the commercial hitting the airwaves soon.

It is a "sweepstakes" paying off with BIG DIVIDENDS for Gina Brown.  She's been selected to lend her talents to this campaign on the heels of turning heads and winning critical acclaim with her new CD, "G's Spot!" Her single "The G Slide" has Gina Brown line dancing all over the country while climbing the Southern Soul charts as "Best New Artist" of 2012.

Congratulations Gina, 2012 has been an incredible year.  It is just the beginning,  I'd "bet" cold, cash money "2013 is going to be epic!" Check out Gina Brown in action singing the new official jingle for The Louisiana Lottery.

Gina Brown Unplugged!

(Fairhope, AL.) No "auto tunes" here!  My best friend Gina Brown just recently confirmed something I've always known, "the girl can sang!" Gina surprised me when she ended up in an impromptu concert with singer/songwriter Mike Eagan.

Eagan was performing a few cover songs at Aurora's in Downtown Fairhope. He was gracious enough to welcome the New Orleans native to the stage Labor Day weekend. What struck me immediately when we walked into the dimly light room was small spotlight that lit Mike's hair and the boxed fan that blew his long "blond" locks in the wind for affect. Check out the video and you'll see what I mean.

                        

                          Gina Brown Performing at Aurora's-Downtown Fairhope

       
There they were, Mike, his single stool, his guitar, mechanical fan and Gina.  Though the room, the stage area just off the banister where Mike stood was completely dark, it shed a light on something I wasn't prepared for. Sometimes you have to "take advantage of unexpected opportunities." But even with that, you better know your craft and always, always be prepared.

   
This impromptu concert was not only an opportunity for Gina Brown to show her growth and maturity as an artist, it solidified something I've always known..."if you can sing, you can sing anytime, anywhere and in any genre." Gina Brown who has performed with an eight piece band and even an orchestra standing there in the dark--on the side of a single instrument flexing her vocals in a way they had never been used before.  She was singing one pop tune after another and "nailing it!"

     
Gina's history for the most part consists of jazz, blues and the occasional cover tune, but this particular night she just nailed anything she sung and completely unrehearsed! She really grabbed me when she performed one of my favorites--Etta Jame's "At Last!"  I've heard Gina sing "At Last" a dozen times before, but not like this. There was something about that single guitar, no drums, no base line that gave me a chance to finally hear the raw, "unplugged" version of this dynamic singer's talent.    

I'll be the first to admit I'm biased because I know how hard Gina has worked to get to where she is in her career.  Gina Brown has played everything from nightclubs to Jazz Fest in New Orleans. She has played everything from the "chitterlings circuit," to Las Vegas. I personally know about her dedication to her craft and her season after 20 years she is finally reaping a harvest. Gina Antoinette Brown is finally getting her due. She has a repertoire of songs, thanks in part to her producer and husband Rick Jones that are her own. "Can't Stop Thinking of You," "The G-Slide", "I'm a Lady" and many more soon to be released on her new CD.        

I couldn’t' be more proud of my friend because she's earned everything that's coming her way. That night with Mike Eagan only reminded me of what it means to be a "professional singer." In an age "auto tunes" Gina Brown isn't some "souped up" performer, she's the real thing.  Put her in any setting and  with any musician--she knows what she knows.  She truly lives up to her tag line, "music isn't what I do, it's who I am!    

Gina Brown’s popular line dance "The G-Slide" is a single on her new CD -"The G Spot" set to be released September 30th. Check out her website www.ginabrownonline.com for more information.

She Speaks book signing by Katina Walton

When "She Speaks", she speaks of heartache, depression, anxiety, molestation and sometimes yes, even incest!  She speaks of the calamities and tragedies that have polarized her life. She speaks of a longing to be free from all that plagues her spirit. The poets in "She Speaks" talk about their struggles, challenges, victories and even triumphs in overcoming their demons, oppressors and their "audacity of hope."

Saturday, January 21, 2012 Katina Walton's vision of "She Speaks" was realized with the official book signing and performances of some of the most prolific poets featured in her anthology of poetry.  It was standing room only as all of North Alabama came out to hear the words of these driven, determined women.  Women freeing their minds, their bodies and their hearts.

This video was created and edited by Charles Beason.  He's is the graphics designer and co-publisher of Radar Magazine.  His skilled eye captured the essence of this incredible night. Through his careful selection of images and sound Charles captured a "moment in time" that's considered provoking, entertaining , empowering and leaves wanting more.

Congratulations Katina Walton, not only are you my little sister, but you're my best barometer for how to take it to "another level."

Singing Legend Etta James Dead at 73

Etta James

(Riverside, California)--Her music timeless, her voice original! Today the world mourns the lost of one of the most iconic singers of our time. Blues singer Etta James died today in Riverside, California surrounded by her family.

She died from complications from leukemia. "She died with her husband, Artis Mills and he sons by her side," Lupe De Leon, her longtime friend and manager tells the Associated Press today in a press release.

She was diagnosed with leukemia in 2010 and also suffered from dementia and hepatitis C. James died at a hospital in Riverside just shy of her birthday.  She would have turned 74 Wednesday.

"This is a tremendous loss for the family, her friends and fans around the world", De Leon said.  "She was a true original who could sing it all- her music defied category."   I worked with Etta for over 30 years.  She was my friend and I will miss her always," Leon said.

Like so many, I was sad, but not surprised by her passing.  I'd been following her progress in the hospital for weeks and felt she cheated death when she was recovered and made it home.

During those weeks in the hospital I stopped and reflected on "my connection" to Etta James.  My best friend and singer Gina Brown on occasion served as her opening act. Gina's first concert with this blues legend was in San Francisco in 2006.  Gina shared with me stories of this "feisty" older woman who rolled around the concert hall in her motorized scooter never bothering to say "please or thank you." Perhaps after more than 40 years in the industry she felt she earned the right.

Though the latter years of her life were shrouded in controversy with President Barak Obama, singer Beyonce', her classic hit "At Last" and the 2009 Inaugural Ball, I found it ironic as the light of Etta James started to "dim", Gina Brown's star in the blues industry really started to shine. Just this year alone Gina Brown has been nominated as "best new artist" in several blues categories for her two singles, "We're Having A Party" and "The G-Slide".

Over the years Etta James became outspoken and defied "any category" when it came to her music, (she moved with the greatest of ease from R & B to Blues) I'm sure Gina Brown joins me in "thanking her" for opening the door for her, Beyonce' and countless others!

Thank you Etta for your "classic music".  I'd hoped you cheated after being administered final rites weeks ago, however today with your passing I'm reminded, "sometimes God gets us stronger for the journey!"  Rest in Peace!

Ledisi Opens Up About Breaking The Music "Image" Mold

(New Orleans, LA.) August 25th--She was born in "the big easy" and a one point sung with the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra.  However, Ledisi always knew there was something else!  In an exclusive interview, the Grammy award winning, "Pieces of Me" singer opens up to Varion about how difficult it was to break the mold of the music industry. She also talks about her New Orleans influenced jazz vocals, plus serves gives some advice from the heart for other New Orleans artist still trying to break it into the big time!

Gina Brown's "Pink Passion Performance" Race For A Cure!

(New Orleans, LA.) July 29th --

Gina Brown and Varion Walton

She has always been there for me with my charity fundraiser "White Linen Nights" and I couldn't think of any other place I'd rather be than by my friend's side as she kicked off her first ever "Pink Passion Party"!  Friday night Gina Brown was in rare form as her performed to a "standing room only crowd" at "Sweet Lorraine's" in New Orleans. In addition to entertainer, songwriter and performer, last night she became Gina Brown, "The Advocate!"

New Orleans, LA.

Richard & Susan Woodfin -Dairy Queen, Owners-New Orleans

After a scare of her own earlier this summer, Gina decided to join in with the fight to raise the awareness of "women helping women." Thank God she's fine, but now Gina is joining forces with LBCHP, The
Louisiana Breast and Cervical Health Program in  spreading the word, "Early Detection Saves Lives!" 

With the help of such corporate sponsors as Dairy Queen-New Orleans; she's educating New Orleans about "free mammograms and other health screenings." This "party with a purpose" was such a success it caused the owner of "Sweet Lorraine's" to share his heartfelt story about his own mother's battle with this horrible disease. There wasn't a dry eye in the room as he told how she suffered and ultimately lost her life to cancer.

"Its all about Early Detection"










 

If you missed it, don't worry, Gina will hold another " Pink Passion ormance" in October for the official kick off of "Breast Cancer  Awareness" month. Remember, Get examined ladies, "the life you save may be your own!"



If you are having a breast problem, please call (1-888-599-1073) http://labchp.Isuhsc.edu. Supported by Susan G. Komen "Race for the Cure", United Way of Greater New Orleans and The National Breast Cancer Foundation.

"ALL ACCESS" ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL-"GOSPEL CELEBRATION"

(New Orleans, LA.) July 3rd-- GOSPEL CELEBRATION HONORING DR. MARVIN SAPP.

Here are a few snap shots of some of the red carpet arrivals.  If you've never attended the Sunday Gospel  Celebration you truly are missing a hallelujah good time!  Here are a few shots with Honoree Pastor Marvin Sapp, CNN's Roland Martin  (I consider Roland to be "The Ambassador of The Essence Music Festival.  He's very accessible and makes certain everyone is having a good time.) Tasha Stoute of The Chamber Group is also a big part of the event each year.  My dear friend Gina Brown and I got an opportunity to not only meet Roland Martin and many others back stage, but as you saw in the previous post Gina even broke out in an impromptu concert with Shirley Murdock.   "HOW SWEET THE SOUND"!

Essence "Gospel Celebration" with Shirley Murdock & New Orleans' own Gina Brown

(New Orleans, LA.) July 3--There's a "sweet spirit" in this place!!  New Orleans is bursting at the seams with incredible talent during this year's Essence Music Festival. Watch as Varion captures Gospel Singer Shirley Murdock and New Orleans own Gina Brown in an impromptu concert "backstage" as the Legendary Singer Marvin Sapp was being honored during the "Gospel Celebration".