ACTRESS TEYANA TAYLOR TAKES THE "BOSSES CHAIR" AT ESSENCE FEST 2026!

 FRESH FROM THE OSCARS STAGE IN HOLLYWOOD!

(March 20, 2026) Singer, songwriter, actress, and entrepreneur Teyana Taylor sits at the helm of one of the largest music festivals in the country.

Fresh off the Oscars stage in Hollywood, Teyana and her creative company, The Aunties, as Chief Curator for 2026, will change the weekend in ways organizers proclaim you will feel from the first day to the last.

She Is Not Just a Name on a Press Release...

She's more than the entry on an awards ceremony envelope.

The Essence Black Women in Hollywood honoree. Golden Globe winner. Oscar-nominated actress and GRAMMY-nominated singer. We have watched her build The Aunties into one of the most intentional creative companies working right now. What she does, across music, film, fashion, and stage design, is exactly what will shape the full Festival of Culture experience from the moment you walk through the doors on July 3 to the moment the lights come up on July 5.

In her words: "ESSENCE has always been more than a festival — it is a reunion. I'm a true Auntie. The one in your corner, cheering you on, telling you the truth with love, and making sure every room you walk into knows you belong there. That's what I'm bringing to this programming."

That is the energy we are coming with this summer. Teyana and The Aunties work directly with our programming, talent, and community teams, shaping the mainstage, the daytime experiences, and the moments in between so the entire weekend tells one cohesive and uplifting story.

So don't miss the high-energy presence that was the talk of the awards season this year in one of the "sauciest cities in the world," New Orleans.

Teyana Taylor is not new to this; she's "true to this!" This time she's gracing the stage as a "real boss!"

For more ticket information, visit: https://www.essence.com/essencefestival2026/...

LEDISI RELEASES NEW ALBUM-"THE CROWN!"

MEGA STAR LEDISI RELEASES NEW ALBUM: (Los Angeles, CA – March 19, 2025) – Grammy Award-winning artist Ledisi is set to reign supreme with the release of her highly anticipated 12th studio album, The Crown, arriving April 25 via Listen Back Entertainment/BMG.

The Crown features the chart-rising lead single, "Love You Too", a soulful and infectious track that’s quickly becoming a fan favorite. The album also includes the powerful anthem "BLKWMN" which has received widespread praise following Ledisi’s breathtaking performance of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" at Super Bowl LIX.

Ledisi states, “With every album I sing LIFE and write songs geared towards the human experience.” She goes on to say, “The Crown is a metaphor for being in the spotlight and being of service to others. I hope people feel no matter how heavy or challenging life is we always choose to wear our crowns with grace and confidence. Always choosing love and the truth.”

In addition to the new album, Ledisi is gearing up to hit the road for her highly anticipated "Love You Too Tour," which will kick off May 28 in Baltimore, MD. Special guest Marsha Ambrosius will join on select dates. The tour will also make stops in New York, DC, Chicago, St. Louis, Cleveland, Toronto, and more.

With her unmatched vocals, undeniable stage presence, and a growing collection of powerful anthems, Ledisi is poised to make 2025 a year to remember.

For tour dates, album details, and ticket information, visit www.ledisi.com.

LOVE YOU TOO TOUR – DATES

(* = Marsha Ambrosius will not appear)

DATE CITY VENUE

May 28, 2025 Baltimore, MD Lyric Baltimore
May 30, 2025 Washington, D.C. The Theater at MGM National Harbor
May 31, 2025 Washington, D.C. The Theater at MGM National Harbor
June 1, 2025 Newark, NJ New Jersey Performing Arts Center
June 3, 2025 Virginia Beach, VA The Dome
June 4, 2025 Wilmington, NC Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College
June 6, 2025 Atlantic City, NJ Circus Maximus Theater at Caesars Atlantic City
June 7, 2025 Durham, NC Durham Performing Arts Center
June 8, 2025 Columbia, SC Township Auditorium
June 10, 2025 Louisville, KY The Louisville Palace
June 12, 2025 Chicago, IL The Chicago Theatre
June 13, 2025 Milwaukee, WI Riverside Theater
June 14, 2025 Detroit, MI* Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre (w/ Rahsaan Patterson)
June 16, 2025 Toronto, ON Massey Hall
June 17, 2025 Cleveland, OH House of Blues
June 19, 2025 St. Louis, MO Stifel Theatre
June 20, 2025 Florence, KY Turfway Park Event Center
June 21, 2025 Memphis, TN Orpheum Theatre
June 22, 2025 Huntsville, AL Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
June 24, 2025 Charlotte, NC Ovens Auditorium
June 25, 2025 Greenville, SC Peace Center - Concert Hall
June 27, 2025 Jacksonville, FL Florida Theatre
June 28, 2025 Stockbridge, GA* Stockbridge Amphitheater (w/ Kindred the Family Soul)
June 29, 2025 Savannah, GA Johnny Mercer Theatre

"VisionVoiceVarion" thanks "Strong Arm Media's" Tasha Stout for the information in this press release.

CLUB QUARANTINE-"BATTLE OF THE VERZUZS"

ERYKA BADU AND JILL SCOTT-HOME ALONE, TOGETHER

"Battle of The Verzuzs, Feminine Style!"

(Somewhere Over The World Wide Web)---May 9, 2020---In the words of McFadden and Whitehead, "Ain't No Stopping Us Now!" This week two other "mega hitmakers" took that declaration to another level when they infiltrated the internet in a "Battle of the Verzes" in the mist of the coronavirus pandemic.

Grammy winners Erykah Badu and Jill Scott faced-off on Instagram LIVE and everyone, including the "Forever First Lady" Michelle Obama was here for it!

Spike Lee, Janet Jackson, Tamar Braxton, Niece Nash, and Ludacris were among 700-thousands fans who grabbed a cocktail and headed to the VIP conveniently set in their own homes.

"Club Quarantine Battles"were introduced by popular producers  Swiss Beatz and Timbaland.  The concept turned even more heads  when singer/songwriters Baby Face and Teddy Riley squared-off, satisfying for music starved fan seeking live performances during the national quarantine.

Saturday night's "showdown" was the first between two female performers. Jill Scott and Erykah Badu, considered "game changers" in their own right complimented each other, sharing tender tidbits on how, even after several hits about relationships  still struggle with heartbreak and insecurities. 

The industry icons who appeared more like friends than foes were in the LIVE chat room for more than 3 hours, trading hits, reminiscing about being on tour together in the early years.

Both taking a few moments to dispel any rumors of catfights and an on-going feud. "Love your sister, " Love your brother.  Recognize and celebrate each other.  There's room in the inn for everyone," Scott said.

After 48 hours in which the music industry suffered the losses of entertainment mogul Andre Harrell and Rock and Roll architect Little Richard, the entertainment world appeared to be more than ready for the soothing, incense-scented vibe of this 'fiercely feminine' duo.

Good time had by all, including the headliners.

Chattanooga's Own: Usher Carpool Karaoke

(Los Angeles, CA.)--Chattanooga native and singer, Usher was featured on Carpool Karaoke with James Corden, on Tuesday night. 

The eight-time Grammy winner even sported a hoodie with Chattanooga on the front. The video quickly became the number one trending video on YouTube. 

It's refreshing to see no matter where he goes or who he is with, Usher Raymond always has and displays fond memories of "The Scenic City!" Come on Chattanooga, let's continue to throw our support behind this one and make it go viral.   Thanks Usher for always, always being a stand-up guy.

"GOLDEN MOMENT" WITH NEWLYWED JILL SCOTT

2016 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

For Tour Updates: http://www.ticketmaster.com/Jill-Scott-tickets/artist/806530

Chattanooga's Famed Tivoli Theater

(Chattanooga, TN.)---She's a "boss chick" with 3 Grammys; 16 years under her belt and a national tour that's stronger than ever! Music fans are still "basking in the afterglow" following Jill Scott's high energy performance at Chattanooga's famed Tivoli Theater recently.

The Scenic City is part of the final leg of the singer/songwriter's 2016 Summer Concert Series.
Jill is scheduled for performances in Jacksonville and Miami at the end of August. From there, she's off to headline The 2016 Tom Joyner Morning Show Family Reunion Labor Day Weekend in Kissimmee, FL.

"Jilly from Philly" appears to be in a good place these days, paying tribute to her new husband with a new song entitled "Jahraymecofasola." Scott says the new single is her gift to her new husband Michael Dobson. The couple was married in June.

Scott also told fans how she never thought she would ever have more children, that after a difficult pregnancy with her only biological son Jett.  "In June, God saw fit to bless me with six more children," she said affectionately.  My husband and I are so lucky to embrace our new life and truly live every single day in the moment!

Here's hoping the FAMILY REUNION brings on a "NEW BEGINNING" for Jill Scott as she embraces her new life and extended family.

PRESS PLAY and TAKE "ANOTHER LOOK" at why Jill Scott is truly all about living her life like it's "GOLDEN!"

Congratulations again Jill.  If your strong vocals, stamina, and electric smile are any indication,  you'll be celebrating 20-plus years in the business in no time.

Tivoli Theater in Chattanooga August 24, 2016

Tivoli Theater in Chattanooga-August 24, 2016

Chrisette Michele Is "Better," Thank You!

Photo Credit:  Elpwe Ray of  "E Photo"

AFTER A BRIEF HIATUS, CHRISETTE MICHELE EMERGES "BETTER"

(New Orleans, LA.)--She’s no stranger to our VISION/VOICE/VARION viewers.  For years we have brought you the many hairstyles, videos and fashion style transformations of this Grammy Award winning artist.  After so many songs about relationships and heartbreak, Chrisette Michele is singing a new tune. In fact, Chrisette will tell you "she's BETTER, thank you!" Check out her brand new look, new vegan lifestyle and new tour. We got a chance to chat with Chrisette briefly during her performance during Essence Music Festival 2013 in New Orleans.   Chrisette Michele is currently on tour.  Find out when she is coming near you by visiting her official website.  http://www.thisischrisettemichele.com/

18 DAYS AND COUNTING! BAYFEST WEEKEND PASSES ON SALE NOW!

STAY CONNECTED FOR TICKET GIVEAWAYS

(MOBILE, AL)--VISION/VOICE/VARION is your headquarter for "all things Bayfest!" This year the VVV crew is stepping it up, bringing you even more exclusive interviews, cool giveaways and all of the music you can handle.

THIS JUST IN: K-Rob, a Bayfest favorite is performing again, Sunday, October 6th.  But this time, Vision/Voice/Varion has learned K-Rob is opening act for his legendary uncle, Ron Isley and The Isley Brothers.  That's just a sample of some of the exciting entertainment news you can expect over the next two weeks. Varion Walton and her crew are gearing up to cover Bayfest 2013 from the opening ceremonies to the final closing song.

2013 BayFest Performer, K-ROB  Photo Coutesy: E-Photo

Bayfest's line-up for 2013 is second to none! The Zac Brown Band, Anthony Hamilton, Tamia, Hunter Hays, Tamar Braxton, R. Kelly and many more.  125 national and local acts performing on 9 different stages in Downtown Mobile.  

CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO as Varion Walton talks with Shana Jordan, Executive Director of Bayfest about this year's line-up and how Alabama's Largest Music Festival continues to "the destination" for the first weekend in October.

Organizers expect more than 250-thousand screaming music fans looking for the hottest stars in country, R&B, Rap, Hip Hop and Rock and Roll. This year there's something to satisfy even the most discriminating music critic. Spread the word, tell a friend, "Bayfest 2013 is simply going to be epic!"

STAY CONNECTED TO VISION/VOICE/VARION FOR EXCITING BAYFEST TRIVA AND GIVEAWAYS!                           
                                                                  

CHECK OUT THE COMPLETE LINE-UP, PLUS GET YOUR WEEKEND PASSES NOW: VISIT: www.bayfest.com