Posts in category: Lifestyle & Culture

Br.adio Hosts Its 2^nd Annual Br.unch Giving a Moment to Reset and Relax for Local Creatives By: Christie “Caleico” Patrick 

Baton Rouge’s creatives got a much-needed reset before 2021 at BR.adio’s BR.unch 2.0 located  at The Parlor yesterday, Sun., Dec. 27. Music mixed by Bandeaux Pat and a welcoming  ambience created by Vic set the scene. A Jenga table and video game area complete with Mortal  Kombat also entertained guests while Chef Genesis Bobo served traditional southern brunch  dishes, encouraging an atmosphere much like a family gathering, which was the goal of BR.adio  creator Jireh. Jireh started this annual tradition last year as a safe space for artists to gather with likeminded, but diverse, individuals without pressure, although the opportunity to do business is always there. The spirit of growth was ever present, not just within those that attended, but the organization as well, which started on Instagram live but officially blossomed into an incorporated nonprofit this year.  

Vic, the kind host with a radiant smile and self-proclaimed “girl with the gifts”, fit the vibe of the  event as this was her first time bringing her gift of hosting to the forefront after years as an artist focused on poetry, sewing, and acting. Local businesses Zi’Guay, Red House of Socks, and Sunny Side Clothing made their mark, and some sales, by attending as vendors. Some of Baton Rouge’s best musical talent were also in attendance, including local group Freethinkerz,  specifically creator Jay Ones, labelmates Si. and MyNameDwayne, and newest member Robert Grant Jr. When reflecting on the significance of having safe spaces like the BR.unch, Jay Ones sited the camaraderie and networking aspects as key when saying, “It’s cool. I like it, having a space to come kick it with fellow creatives from the Baton Rouge area and others.” 

Thinking of attending the next Br.unch? Then, mark the last Sunday of next year as taken because that’s the date of this event’s next installment. However, you can keep up with this organizations’ growth and other events on Instagram @br.adio. You can also keep up with host Vic (@__thatgirlwiththehair) to see what events she will be hosting next and Bandeaux Pat  (@bandeauxpat) to see what events he will be spinning at or putting on as well. The vendors are  located at @everythingziguay, @redhouseofsocks, and @sunnyside225. Jay Ones (@jayones)  will be dropping the Red Wine EP soon; so, keep an eye out for that. However, you can stay tuned for all projects of the Freethinkerz including Si. (@iseeyousi), MyNameDwayne  (@mynamedwayne), and Robert Grant Jr (@mrgrantjr) at @freethinkerzinc.