Charting the internet pop world one blog post at a time.
Sombr and Lady Gaga lead the way on this year’s chart with 4 songs apiece, with Sombr grabbing 3 in the Top 10. Conan Gray is next with 3 (all in the Top 20), and several others have two: Alexander Stewart, Sonny Fodera, Hayla, Crash Adams, Jordan Shaw, Benson Boone, Martin Garrix, Damiano David, John Summit, and David Archuleta.
You can find a written list of the year end chart at the following link: https://www.tinyurl.com/BILLCSTop90of2025
While I’m grateful for the bounty of music brought to us by Sombr, Lady Gaga, Conan Gray, and Alexander Stewart and several others, 2025 is not going to go down in the history books as one of the best years in music. Things have to change for the better. Never has it been more apparent that dollars are the bottom line when releasing music. A&R and promotion by major labels has gotten more visibly lazy than ever, and promotion is only notable when a superstar artist drops a release. The industry basically shuts down during December, a huge money grab allowing old Christmas songs to bring in the dollars that would otherwise require work. The music world and its fans are being conditioned to revolve around streaming services, Instagram and Tik Tok. Artists are being encouraged to use every opportunity for fans to pay them for something; free meet-and-greets, even for new or rising indie artists, now seem to be out of the question. Social media engagement is way down. Bring me back to the early 2010’s when artists and even their managers were interested in talking to their fans. Now even indie artists turn off their notifications. A positive step by Billboard to put limits on the duration of songs on the Hot 100 was implemented but was long overdue. But then Billboard severed its ties with You Tube, which to me was just a dumb move. Here’s a toast to all that was positive in 2025 and I look forward to more of that in 2026. The BILLCS Top 30 begins its 28th year online next week.
Check out information about my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS after the chart commentary below as they are directly tied in with this blog. As most of you know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded. The Big 20 and the picks of the week are happily being syndicated and you can find the current schedule for all at the bottom of the home page of this blog.
Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.
Never did I think when it first appeared on this chart that “Eleven Eleven” by Conan Gray would stick around and top the chart. But over the past few months, the song has grown on me immensely, and, along with fellow #1 “Vodka Cranberry”, is the second of my two favourites on Conan’s Wishbone album. “Eleven Eleven” is Conan’s fourth #1, following “Yours” (which sadly he won’t play in concert because he hates it), “Never Ending Song”, and “Vodka Cranberry”.
Will Swinton gets his third Top 10 entry as the lovely “Find a Way” bounds into the Top 10, rising 11-6.
“Find a Way” by MK and Clementine Douglas continues to move up the chart, climbing 10-7.
“Elevate” is a song that fans of pop/dance music need to discover, as brought to you by UK singer/songwriter Kelli-Leigh from her album Legacy. It motors into the Top 10, up 13-8.
The last new entry in the Top 10 is by Greyson Chance, no stranger to this part of the chart, with “Flip the Record” becoming his 8th Top 10 release by rising 16-10.
The Fastest Riser on the chart could be a huge festival anthem in 2026. It’s “Guardian Angel” by Dimension and Karen Harding, which soars 24-11.
A smooth, atmospheric deep house track that gets under my skin tends to do well on the chart. That means good things for “Holding On” by MashBit, Luke Alexander and sunsett., which climbs 18-12.
Another song making quick work of the chart is Alexander Stewart’s “The Boy I Almost Was”, which vaults 25-14. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself in a puddle the first few times you hear this one.
Tiësto’s return to form with his trance track “Bring Me to Life” with Swedish singer FORS is going down well with fans, and it climbs 26-17.
An earworm out of the gate, and only the artist’s third single, is “Gemini” by Stoke-on-Trent, England-based pop/rock singer Jorge Wilson, which rises 28-19.
Making her debut on the chart is Grammy-nominated electronic alternative artist FKA twigs with “Perfectly” at #27. The song has been added to the digital version of her fourth album Eusexua.
Also making their debut is a rock duo of women from Argentina called Pacifica, with the infectious “Indie Boyz” at #28 from their third album In Your Face!
This edition of the Report is my last official one for new music for 2025. Due to the holiday season, there will be no Report next week, but I’ll be working on both my Top 90 Songs of 2025 list and accompanying radio show, which will be broadcast once again by my home station, Halton Hills Radio Online. In addition to four new songs, I have two Christmas treats in the Report to help with the related merriment! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, enjoy the season whatever you choose to do!
In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my new music and retro picks of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”. The Musicman James Rogers’ Classic Five choices this week are from that interesting year in music, 1980. If you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30.
Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.
THE LEGAL MATTERS, “Everybody Knows”
About the artist: The Legal Matters is an indie power pop trio from Michigan consisting of Keith Klingensmith, Andy Reed and Chris Richards, who have released three albums thus far, the last being Chapter Three in 2021.
About the record: If “Everybody Knows” is any indication, the members of The Legal Matters clearly know how to create an earworm that could easily turn into a singalong. The inspiration comes from “big early 70’s rock”, so it’s no surprise when memorable songs from that era like George Harrison’s “What Is Life” and Badfinger’s “No Matter What” start popping in your head. I can also hear elements that could be drawn from other 70’s artists like Andrew Gold and The Cars and even early 80’s post punk bands like The Plimsouls and The Records. Familiarity is always a plus, but the harmonies here are on point and the production (by the band) is crystalline, and there’s very little else to prevent “Everybody Knows” from winning you over.
Other comments: The Legal Matters’ fourth album, called Lost At Sea, is due in early 2026.
JAY BIRD, “Magick”
About the artist: Jay Bird is a San Jose area dance producer, whose recent releases have been embracing all shapes and forms of house and disco, 2025-style. He also runs his own label, Birdhouse Records, and its similarly named production networking group, The Birdhouse.
About the record: Jay Bird has waved his “Magick” production wand to create an infectious song about those dance floor denizens who stay on the floor and keep the party going. I’m glad that producers like Jay Bird, MGR.Mike and others are getting back to throwing the spotlight on club goers rather than themselves. That’s something which captures the “Magick” of the disco era, outside of all of the excess, where the focus was on dancing together and having fun. The uncredited male vocal is evocative of that time and the brisk rhythm will keep you pumped.
Other comments: It’s a good time for EDM superstar producer/DJ’s to follow the lead of their indie counterparts and start reinventing themselves.
THE GOLD NEEDLES, “Eleven Eleven”
About the artist: The Gold Needles are a pop/rock quintet from Kingston-upon-Hull in East Yorkshire, England that was formed in 2015, and have just released their fourth album, Mood Elevator.
About the record: “Eleven Eleven” follows up the recent single “Turns to Gold”, which I wrote about recently, also included in the Mood Elevator album. The Gold Needles have a penchant for prodding the listener with familiar sounding vocals and melodies, trying to elicit guesses as to what songs or performers inspired them for the particular song. In “Eleven Eleven”, to me the focus is on the classic 60’s British invasion, including an urgent and catchy melody befitting of bands of that era such as The Hollies or The Zombies. And it would be different if it all wasn’t done so very well, more like a fresh update than anything else.
Other comments: The timeless vibe of “Eleven Eleven” could find its way onto any of your favourite pop playlists, of older or newer tracks.
ZAREMA, “Closure” (David Alexander remix)
About the artist: Zarema is a Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter, born in Uzbekistan but raised in Crimea (a Ukrainian territory that was annexed by Russia in 2014) of Crimean Tatar descent. Before relocating to L.A., Zarema had established a career that led her to perform all over eastern Europe as well as Turkey.
About the record: “Closure” is a pop song about loss that has been stylishly refitted as an emotional electronic ballad through David Alexander’s remix. Its candid lyrics have been reinforced through this new mix. While it’s suited to the pop ballad format, its original arrangement was perhaps a little too safe. This remix reminds me of what happened with some of Celine Dion’s early 90’s hits when they were transformed into bigger, often better, dance tracks. Zarema has a classic, on point pop vocal style with her lovely accent intact – hidden behind my surname, I myself am of half Ukrainian heritage – and her ability to be vulnerable and compassionate in this recording is quite touching.
Other comments: The subject of the song – losing a family member in the early days of the pandemic – will resonate with many listeners.
ALFIE ORDINARY, ALLAN JAY, OPHELIA PAYNE, “Feliz Navidad (With Christmas Chaos)” (Matt Pop remix radio edit)
About the artists: In this festive collaboration, we have British drag artist and DJ Alfie Ordinary, Scottish singer Allan Jay (who has been featured in these blog pages before), and British cabaret performer Ophelia Payne, and all are about to turn your Christmas, well, sideways!
About the record: As its subtitle indicates, this cover of Jose Feliciano’s holiday standard “Feliz Navidad” is nothing short of chaotic in the best kind of way. Each artist lends their personality and even some ad libs to their respective parts of the song, and they are all in fine voice, with Allan anchoring the song in the chorus. So make sure you add it to your Christmas playlist to give it that much more holiday glam and glimmer!
Other comments: For a good time, do watch the video where the artists let loose on a small pub stage at the following link: Feliz Navidad. The record is also available on CD for a limited time, for those who would like a physical copy.
THE JAMES CLARK INSTITUTE, “It’s Still Snowing Outside”
About the artist: The James Clark Institute is a Toronto-based rock quintet that specializes in classic new wave era three minute power pop releases (think Elvis Costello, Nick Lowe, The Clash, and Joe Jackson), such as those in their most recent album release, Under The Lampshade, produced by music scene veteran Moe Berg.
About the record: “It’s Still Snowing Outside” (also produced by Moe) embues the spirit of Christmas in its keen enthusiasm for, as Bing Crosby sang, ” a white Christmas”. It’s a genial throwback to our younger days and in remembrance of those no longer with us to keep the season in our hearts and make it special for not only ourselves, but those closest to us. A little kindness goes a long way, and while many of us are humbug about all the snow, let the kids and those who enjoy winter sports bask in it while they can.
Other comments: The James Clark Institute also released a memorable and unique Christmas song last year which you should check out, “Orange Christmas”, and you can find my review of it at the following link: Orange Christmas
My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online.
It’s “Guardian Angel” by UK dance producer Dimension in a collaboration with Karen Harding
My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, including those mentioned above. It debuts Saturdays on Russ Horton’s Top 40 Timeline on UK National Radio at 1pm EST.
This week’s Top 40 Timeline is a repeat so my retro pick will return at a later date.
“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online station Halton Hills Radio Online. You can hear my Retro Pick of the Week which debuts every week on the “Top 40 Timeline”. Big Daddy’s record of the week can also be heard each week on “The Big 20”.
“The Roads” by Jonah Kagen, originally released in 2023, has been revived through huge streams on social media
DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and has now moved to Chicago-based Lake Radio Online where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter is also on air Fridays on “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it too broadcasts the New Music Pick. Check the schedule for my New Music Pick of the Week on the blog home page near the bottom.
It’s L.A. based American-Asian pop singer/songwriter Emei with “Ginger Tea”
“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays) where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Tuesdays after 7pm EST. The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.
Bruce Springsteen – Hungry Heart
Harlequin – Innocence
Robert Palmer – Looking For Clues
Rough Trade – Fashion Victim
David Bowie – Ashes To Ashes
“Friends Don’t” by Alexander Stewart and Lauren Spencer Smith gets three appearances (six weeks) at #1!
It’s “Holding On” by MashBit, Luke Alexander and sunsett. (27-18)
This edition of the BILLCS Top 30 is my last chart for this year, which began with the chart of December 30, 2024. That means over the next few weeks I will be preparing and recording my year end list for my Top 90 Songs of 2025, which will also result in a two hour radio show of its Top 30 songs. As always I get excited at this time of year to prepare the list and the show, and I hope you look forward to it as much as I do. You’ll see in the chart commentary that I’ve identified a number of coincidences, based on past chart appearances, and there might even be more, but these are the ones that have come to mind!
Check out information about my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS after the chart commentary below as they are directly tied in with this blog. As most of you know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded. The Big 20 and the picks of the week are happily being syndicated and you can find the current schedule for all at the bottom of the home page of this blog.
Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.
The beauty of both song and vocals keeps “Friends Don’t” (above) by Alexander Stewart and Lauren Spencer Smith on top for a third appearance (sixth week). It’s immensely satisfying in retrospect to see a song that you first heard in concert the year before, not knowing if it would ever be released, land at the top of your chart and become one of your favourites of the year. Alexander’s “His Problem Instead” also happened to be on the chart exactly a year ago. And because Alexander’s What If album is such a fine release, there are more songs within to hear, and the pensive album track “The Boy I Almost Was” (below) is one of the six debuts on this chart, bowing at #25.
With “Eleven Eleven” by Conan Gray remaining at #2, does that mean it has peaked or is next in line for #1? Find out in two weeks!
“Super Powers” (above) by TELYKast and Oaks has already reached #1 on the national dance charts, but on this chart it’s up 5-3. TELYKast was also on the chart exactly a year ago with future #1 “Surrender Your Love” (with Catello). Be sure to check out their latest stellar collaboration with Sam Gray called “Hold On”, below.
Madrid-based American singer Reigen gets his second Top 5 entry, “Come Back to Me” (which peaked at #2 in 2015 and coincidentally was on the chart 11 years ago this week) with his Spanish-language dance rave up “Quiero Bailar” rising 7-5.
The Magician’s fun “Night to Night” continues to make short work of the chart, climbing 13-6.
Donna Summer’s “Run – Disco” moves up 11-9, posthumously becoming her second Top 10 entry on the chart thanks to producers Mousse T and Toby Gad. “Stamp Your Feet” reached #4 in 2008.
MK gets his second consecutive Top 10 entry “Come Find Me” , following up his #2 “Dior” with Chrystal. It’s also vocalist/songwriter Clementine Douglas’ 4th Top 10 entry.
Will Swinton’s thoughtful rocker “Find a Way” looks to become his third Top 10 entry in two weeks, as it climbs 19-11. Will’s previous entry “Flames” was on the chart exactly a year ago.
L.A.-based dance producer HISSTERIA moves up 15-12 with his rollicking drum ‘n bass track “RUDEBOI”.
With “Summertrain ’25” holding at #4, Greyson Chance rises 21-16 with his additional entry which is more of a rocker, “Flip the Record” (above). Greyson also happened to have two songs on the chart 3 years ago this week with “My Dying Spirit” and “Athena”. You can also check out Greyson’s latest single below called “Savanna”.
The Fastest Riser on the chart is the infectious house track “Holding On” by producers MashBit and Luke Alexander with Canadian producer/vocalist sunsett. (aka Rico 56). It soars 27-18.
The Highest Debut is a song that has every right to be a festival favourite. It’s the magnetic “Guardian Angel” by UK dance producer Dimension with British house music queen Karen Harding at #24. It’s the first appearance for Dimension on the chart, but it’s Karen’s 11th, having been to #1 once too with “Undo My Heart” (with Digital Farm Animals) in 2020. Coincidentally, she was on the chart five years ago this week with “Let’s Get Together” (with Illyus & Barrientos) which peaked at #5 in 2021.
Dutch superstar dance producer Tiësto returns to the chart for an 8th appearance with “Bring Me To Life” at #26 with Swedish vocalist FORS. He was last on the chart earlier in the year with “Hold Me” (with Jordan Shaw) which peaked at #5, and was coincidentally on the chart exactly 3 years ago with “10:35” (with Tate McRae). He has been on the chart listed as a remixer four times, too.
As their first collaboration “Won’t Give Up” rests at #30 in its 10th and final appearance on the chart (20 weeks, with a #4 peak), UK producer MXTR and US multi-talent Tyler Garrett have a new entry at #27 with their second effort, “Crash”.
One of the most irresistible and catchy songs out there is an indie release with lots of 80’s flavours from Stoke-on-Trent, England’s Jorge Wilson called “Gemini”, which bows at #28. It’s Jorge’s first chart entry and only his third release.
Rounding out the six debuts at #29 is “Rip” by Miguel from his fifth album, and first in seven years, CAOS. It’s his seventh chart entry and almost a year to the date his song “Always Time” debuted on the chart (later to peak at #13), and that one also appears on CAOS. Miguel has had two #1’s on the chart, with “Adorn” in 2013 and “Pineapple Skies” in 2018 (and in yet another coincidence – it was #3 on the chart 8 years ago this week), which went on to be my #1 song of that year.
ONLINE RADIO SHOWS
You can hear me and many of my blog choices on this growing list of online radio stations and features!
Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs. The show also repeats on Saturday evening at 6 pm EST.
My New Music Pick of the Week debuts each week on The Big 20. It airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking at the following link: Schedule.
On Saturdays and Sundays from 8pm to Midnight EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix”, four hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.
My Retro Pick of the Week airs each week on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline”, Saturdays at 4pm EST. You can view its schedule by going to the lower right corner of the home page of this blog.
The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada
I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my Retro Pick of the Week on the live online radio show “The 3D Variety Show”, powered by www.xstreamrockradio.com with “The Musicman” James Rogers. I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. The show repeats on Alberta’s www.katpowerhit.ca on Wednesdays at 6pm EST.
Chicago’s Lake Online Radio now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Sundays at Midnight EST, which airs my New Music Pick of the Week. You can also hear the new music pick on Hunter’s other show Fridays at 8pm EST on “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio.
For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! Schedules are updated regularly.
I’m glad that Ticketmaster and Live Nation are currently under investigation by the US government regarding their practices for allowing what is essentially legal ticket scalping. Hopefully that will bring along an overhaul of their entire ticketing process, which disadvantages infrequent, local buyers in favour of those who are elsewhere in the world and mass-buy and then resell on their APP. I had an experience recently where I was “in the queue” for an artist presale (with applicable code) with 26,000 other potential buyers. And for other, more popular artists, that can now exceed hundreds of thousands. And the process favours those with lots of money, regardless of where they are in the world. Back in the pre-2000’s, concerts were focused on their local audiences, and if you were from out of town, you needed to know someone who could buy tickets for you so that you didn’t have to make a long trek or stay on the phone potentially for hours. You can’t tell me that Live Nation doesn’t know who these big buyers are, but instead of intervening, they stay out of it. And that’s simply not right.
In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my new music and retro picks of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”. The Musicman James Rogers’ Classic Five selections transport us back to a grand era for music, 1978-79. And a flashback BILLCS Top 30 chart returns us to just prior to the new millenium in 1999.
Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.
FEED THE FIRE, TYLER GARRETT, “New Dimension”
About the artists: Feed the Fire is a rising dance producer from Hamburg, Germany (real name Philip Burian) specializing in drum ‘n bass. Tyler Garrett is a singer/songwriter based in L.A. who has been featured several times in these blog pages, most recently with his collaborations with MXTR.
About the record: “New Dimension” is a tight collaboration with plenty of hooks, where the talents of Feed the Fire and Tyler Garrett are clearly aligned. Tyler’s previous collaborations with MXTR ushered him into the drum ‘n bass sub-genre and his songs and vocals are a great fit. “New Dimension” is brisk and frenetic, the way d’n’b fans like it, but with equal appeal to pop/dance fans looking for something a little more special.
Other comments: Tyler’s first collaboration with MXTR, “Won’t Give Up”, peaked at #4 on the BILLCS Top 30 and is just wrapping up its chart run.
BLUE INITIALS, HOp3, “No Sleep”
About the artists: Blue Initials is a new project by Quebec electronic producer Francis Raymond, aka Kayliox, and follows up his first single under this name, “Aube”, which I wrote about. HOp3 is a new vocalist and producer also from Quebec.
About the record: There’s a current fascination happening with early 2000’s techno and trance, and even Tiesto is revisiting that sound. Blue Initials taps nicely into this era with “No Sleep”, a song whose theme is akin to Faithless’ “Insomnia”. So naturally, it’s a fine song for clubs in the wee hours with uber-slick synth riffs and a captivating vocal by HOp3. It’s a song that doesn’t fit the mold for Kayliox and I’m glad Francis has found a new outlet in Blue Initials for its sound.
Other comments: “No Sleep” is part of a double-single released in tandem with “Lovesick”.
CADDY CALLAGHAN, “Wait a minute”
About the artist: Caddy Callaghan is a rare breed, a Melbourne-based songwriter for many years who has taken the big leap to perform and release her own music in 2025.
About the record: Recorded in Nashville with fellow Aussie Rick Price, “Wait a minute” is only Caddy’s fourth single, but it sounds like she’s always been putting out her own music. It’s got old school pop warmth that you don’t find anywhere else except in classic records by the likes of Carly Simon, Linda Ronstadt and Bonnie Raitt. Caddy is fearless with loading emotion into “Wait a minute” so that it reaches you inside. Her vocal is smooth and she takes her time unveiling the song without making it protracted or forced. It’s a gorgeous song that’s a complete win for the listener.
Other comments: Out of Caddy’s Nashville sessions will come her debut album, There You Are.
MADISON MARGOT, “But I Do”
About the artist: Madison Margot is an L.A.-based singer/songwriter whose focus is on storytelling but her style veers towards pop and alternative rock depending on the song.
About the record: Following up this summer’s “Fun”, which I wrote about, Madison’s sound on “But I Do” finds her in Taylor Swift/Gracie Abrams territory with dashes of The Cranberries’ Dolores O’Riardon. “But I Do” finds her coming to grips and finally understanding what brought on an emotional relapse, to move away from second guessing her feelings and sentiments without regret. Her vocal is assured and carefree, and the guitar-led melody flows beautifully.
Other comments: Using her degree in Gender and Women’s Studies, Madison frequently works with women to uplift them through the creative process.
KEN TIZZARD & MUSIC FOR GOATS, “Kiss Me Deadly”
About the artist: Ken Tizzard is a Toronto area singer, songwriter and bassist originally from Newfoundland, who has been a member of Canadian rock bands The Watchmen and Thornley. Music For Goats is his current project with bassist Ken Grain and guitarist Neil Lucy.
About the record: “Kiss Me Deadly” is an offbeat and interesting choice for a cover, following up the recent “Other Side of Wrong” which I wrote about. The original was recorded in 1978 by British punk rock group Generation X (later Gen X), which spawned the solo career of Billy Idol (who co-wrote the song with band member Tony James). Ken’s version grabs the punk edges of the song and puts his own spin on it without letting it mellow. Rather, he redefines the song with modern instrumentation and technology and a different, stripped down arrangement. “Kiss Me Deadly” still has a bitter and cutting angst, and Ken’s ragged-sounding vocal is an ideal vessel for conveying that vibe.
Other comments: About the song, Ken says: It’s “really about rediscovering my youth in order to find my way into something new… beliefs that we should grow out of things as we age because they are childish or foolish, forget it – I’ve had enough of that”. I’ll second that!
McEWEN, “Complete”
About the artist: McEwen’s appearances in this blog go almost back to its start when he recorded many memorable pop/dance bops as Adam Tyler, several of which landed on the BILLCS Top 30. McEwen has been his pop/dance project over the last several years, including the release of his 2022 album 0524, while he and “McHusband” Erik raise their twin daughters.
About the record: “Complete” is one of McEwen’s best recent releases, which starts off by zeroing in on a funky and playful rhythmic hook that might have been inspired by Timbaland’s “The Way I Are”. But the latter half of the song breaks away from that and is infused with the familiar vocal style and electronic production (along with some sax flavour) that I associate with Adam Tyler songs like “Electric Valentine” and “Knew You Better”. I’m glad McEwen is tapping into his own 2010’s retro style for “Complete” and it compliments the song’s welcome message.
Other comments: You can follow Adam and Erik and their kids on their Instagram channel at the following link: McHusbands.
FAITH RICHARDS, “Private Star”
About the artist: Faith Richards is an American pop/R&B singer/songwriter currently based in Dallas, who has also lived overseas in Paris and London in recent years.
About the record: I first wrote about a song by Faith back in 2023 which was more pop/hip hop flavoured, and “Private Star” showcases another side of her talents. It’s a lush, exotic ballad which really highlights her voice, often in lovely extended notes, as well as her range. It will make you think of R&B-flavoured ballads by the likes of Jessie Ware, Emeli Sandé, or Alexandra Burke, all being from the UK with European influences too.
Other comments: “Private Star” is a taste of Faith’s forthcoming sophomore album, following up her debut, 2022’s I’ll Bloom When I’m Ready.
My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online.
It’s fab deep house track “Holding On” by MashBit, Luke Alexander and sunsett.
My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, including those mentioned above. It debuts Saturdays on Russ Horton’s Top 40 Timeline on UK National Radio at 1pm EST.
It’s Donna Summer’s first post-70’s disco release, “The Wanderer” (1980)
“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online station Halton Hills Radio Online. You can hear my Retro Pick of the Week which debuts every week on the “Top 40 Timeline”. Big Daddy’s record of the week can also be heard each week on “The Big 20”.
It’s Aerosmith and Yungblud’s “Problems” from their collaborative EP One More Time
DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and has now moved to Chicago-based Lake Radio Online where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter is also on air Fridays on “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it too broadcasts the New Music Pick. Check the schedule for my New Music Pick of the Week on the blog home page near the bottom.
It’s “Find a Way” by L.A.-based New Zealander Will Swinton
“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays) where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Tuesdays after 7pm EST. The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.
Rupert Holmes – Escape (The Pina Colada Song) (1979)
The Who – Who Are You (1978)
Anne Murray – You Needed Me (1978)
Stonebolt – I Will Still Love You (1978) (You Tube link)
Andy Gibb – An Everlasting Love (1978)
26 years later, and I’m pleased to see almost half of the artists on the chart continuing to perform and release new music within the last few years. And we remember the artists who have since passed on – The magnificent Whitney Houston and Chris Cornell, James Renaud (of Sky), Natina Reed (of Blaque), and Rich Cronin and Devin Lima (of LFO).
01 01 THE FUTURE OF THE FUTURE (STAY GOLD) Everything But the Girl with Deep Dish
02 02 FIVE FATHOMS (LOVE MORE) Everything But The Girl
04 03 ALL I WANT Sky
03 04 ROMANTICIDE Tal Bachman
05 05 CAN’T CHANGE ME Chris Cornell
06 06 ARRIBA Joée
07 07 HELLO TIME BOMB Matthew Good Band
08 08 MISERY The Moffatts
12 09 MY LOVE IS YOUR LOVE Whitney Houston
10 10 I KNEW I LOVED YOU Savage Garden
11 11 TELL ME EVERYTHING Adam Cohen
15 12 TEMPERAMENTAL Everything But The Girl
14 13 SEPTEMBER Deborah Cox
09 14 THE DOLPHIN’S CRY Live
13 15 IF YOU SLEEP Tal Bachman
16 16 BEFORE YOU Chantal Kreviazuk
30 17 BRING IT ALL TO ME Blaque, *N Sync
20 18 THE GREATEST ROMANCE EVER SOLD Prince [as “The Artist”]
19 19 BLUE (DA BA DEE) Eiffel 65
17 20 SMOOTH Santana, Rob Thomas
21 21 TAKE A PICTURE Filter
22 22 GIRL ON TV LFO
24 23 THE GREAT BEYOND R.E.M.
18 24 ALL THE SMALL THINGS Blink 182
NEW 25 DON’T WANNA LOSE YOU Shawn Desman
NEW 26 LOVE WINS EVERYTIME McMaster & James
29 27 THE CHEMICALS BETWEEN US Bush
NEW 28 SPANISH EYES Ricky Martin
26 29 HANG TEN Edwin
23 30 ZIP-LOCK Lit
I’m glad major record labels are starting to get underneath the fast emergence of AI in the industry before it can do more harm than good. I believe in AI as a tool that can assist musicians and make their work unique. It should never be considered as a substitution for the work of humans. There are many opportunists who have already seen AI as a huge money grab, and they will be stopped in their tracks. What I hope is that indie labels will follow the lead of the industry and not look for the usual loop holes to make money without using real artists to make music. People are not musicians if they sit at a computer and play with AI to get results to replace artistry.
In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my new music and retro picks of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”. The Musicman James Rogers takes us back to that grand year of music, 1969, for his Classic Five selections. If you missed them on Monday, you’ll also find out which songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30.
Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.
STARSIGNS, LINNEY, “Scorpio (Talk to The Stars)”
About the artists: Starsigns is the collective of American-Asian dance producers Manila Killa, MYRNE, and yetep. Caitlin Linney is a prolific American singer/songwriter who has collaborated with Manila Killa and yetep. before, but also many other producers like Robbie Rivera, Tritonal, Gareth Emery, and MiTiS. Starsigns’ first release in 2024, “Leo (Flicker)”, with George Gleeson, got to #3 on the BILLCS Top 30.
About the record: “Scorpio (Talk to the Stars)” is a big and bouncy trance-and-techno influenced dance track that returns Starsigns to their astrology-themed songs after a bit of a break. The way the song builds up to its drops is classic contemporary dance music song structure, and Linney’s vocal is enticing and mysterious as is befitting to the Scorpio sign. The song easily stands out amid the current onslaught of sped-up releases and those with uncredited and likely AI vocalists (currently being cut off at the knees by most of the biz, but sadly not yet streaming platforms). The producers in Starsigns have been around long enough to know high calibre releases like this featuring real talent always win.
Other comments: Starsigns has so far tackled half of the 12 astrological signs in songs, through their EP’s Fire Signs and Air Signs.
TRIVECTA, vanru, “Before I Go”
About the artists: Trivecta is Florida-based electronic producer Sam Dobkin, known for pushing boundaries in the future bass sub-genre, collaborating with such notables as Seven Lions, Wooli, SLANDER, and Last Heroes, and remixing songs for the likes of Illenium. vanru is a new British singer/songwriter whose real name is Rupert Blackman.
About the record: For “Before I Go”, Trivecta steps away from harder future bass sounds, in favour of a fast-paced emotional house track, certainly one of his best releases. Newcomer vanru has one of those instantly likeable and recognizable voices that we’ll be hearing again and again just as you have with other singers like Justin Jesso, J.T. Roach or Dylan Matthew. “Before I Go” works on all levels and could easily be a highlight in a club or festival set.
Other comments: “Before I Go” also marks a return for Trivecta to the Monstercat label, for which he has recorded numerous songs during the last decade.
MICO, eaJ, “Ever After”
About the artists: Mico is Toronto-born singer/songwriter/actor Miguel Veluso, known for his Canadian radio hit from 2022, the fun and anthemic “Cut My Hair”, and from his participation in the streaming musical TV series EPIC: The Musical. He has released one album (in three iterations, including live tracks) and a number of EP’s to date. eaJ is American-Asian singer Jae Park, who was previously a member of the K-Pop group Day6.
About the record: “Ever After” is a bright and hopeful release that combines the vocal talents of Mico and eaJ, who simply sound great together. The energy in this record is contagious and it will have you bopping along solidly for all of its nearly three minute length. I’m not on Tik Tok, which may explain why my home town guy Mico dropped off my radar, but he obviously has fans in Europe, where he is currently touring. But “Ever After” should have no problem reigniting his presence at radio, and eaJ’s presence is simply gravy.
Other comments: “Ever After” is also the first release for Mico on Columbia Records, so hopefully good things come out of this new deal.
MRKO, ALIX ROBSON, “My Life”
About the artists: MRKO is an L.A. dance producer (aka Marco Galli) who has released a number of singles in 2025, including “Gonna Do” (with Sophia May) which I wrote about earlier this year. Alix Robson is not only the managing director of a recording facility in England, she has been a go-to vocalist for several producers including 4 Strings, The Disco Fries, and Tom Ferry, and has collaborated with Sam Smith, Olly Murs, and many others.
About the record: MRKO dips into classic house rhythms with a funky, early 2010’s edge for “My Life” in a fresh-sounding, tidy production. It’s highlighted by Alix Robson’s soaring vocal – she’s been compared to several singers such as Leona Lewis for her range. Her power and soulful finesse remind me of Clementine Douglas, and I remember her from GT_Ofice’s 2023 track “Can’t Deny” (which reached #8 on the BILLCS Top 30). “My Life” could give any house set a lift in clubland.
Other comments: You can also check out the extended version of “My Life” at the following link: My Life
KLAAS, “Pulling Me Into Love”
About the artist: Klaas Gerling is a German producer who rose to fame with his 2008 remix of Guru Josh’s “Infinity” and later got his own #1 record with a rework of Londonbeat’s “I’ve Been Thinking About You” in 2019. He has also worked with many other producers such as The Bodybangers and Like Mike & Dimitri Vegas.
About the record: “Pulling Me Into Love” is a fast-paced, big room-flavoured dance bop that features solid, uncredited female vocals that are sped up a bit for the chorus. The song is really a quick tease at only 2:16 and features some signature Klaas production sounds. It’s a seamless European dance record for sure, but we need an extended mix (which is likely out there somewhere)!
Other comments: For this release, Klaas has collaborated again with top-drawer songwriter Daniel Volpe, who has been mentioned in my blog numerous times since its inception.
TALKING VIOLET, “Destroy”
About the artist: Talking Violet is an alternative rock quartet from Windsor, Ontario, formed in 2018, which falls into the dreampop sub-genre. The band consists of vocalist/guitarist Jillian Goyeau, guitarist/vocalist Jayden Turnbull, bassist Dylan Iannicello, and drummer Jeremie Brousseau.
About the record: Fans of 80’s and 90’s art-pop groups from England like The Cocteau Twins and The Sundays will adore Talking Violet’s “Destroy”. The song’s about two people who can’t be together, yet can’t stay apart – “Do you miss me / Like I miss you / We destroy each other”. The difference between Talking Violet and other current similar bands is the lack of keyboards, much in keeping with the organic and ethereal 80’s and 90’s sound. “Destroy” provokes you in bits and pieces, which makes you keep coming back to hear more, ultimately working as a whole, which rewards your patience and attention.
Other comments: Talking Violet have released two independently released albums to date and continue to perform locally in Windsor.
My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online.
It’s Australian rockers Moonwood with “Where Are The Kids?”
My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, including those mentioned above. It debuts Saturdays on Russ Horton’s Top 40 Timeline on UK National Radio at 1pm EST.
Top 40 Timeline is a repeat this week, so the retro pick will return next week.
“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online station Halton Hills Radio Online. You can hear my Retro Pick of the Week which debuts every week on the “Top 40 Timeline”. Big Daddy’s record of the week can also be heard each week on “The Big 20”.
It’s Canadian musician Steve Mahabir with “Away”, which Big Daddy says reminds him of the music of Murray McLauchlan
DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and has now moved to Chicago-based Lake Radio Online where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter is also on air Fridays on “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it too broadcasts the New Music Pick. Check the schedule for my New Music Pick of the Week on the blog home page near the bottom.
It’s The Magician’s very catchy “Night to Night” and its sample from Baltimora’s 80’s smash “Tarzan Boy”
“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays) where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Tuesdays after 7pm EST. The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.
Lou Christie – I’m Gonna Make You Mine
The Archies – Bang Shang-a-Lang
The 5th Dimension – Wedding Bell Blues
Peter, Paul & Mary – Leaving On A Jet Plane
Temptations – I Can’t Get Next To You
“Friends Don’t” by Alexander Stewart and Lauren Spencer Smith continues its stay at the top
It’s Will Swinton’s “Find a Way”, which climbs 26-19
Kicking off the last month of the year is a new BILLCS Top 30, which will be the second last chart that counts towards my year end list. I’ll be working on that and its accompanying online radio special over the next few weeks. November has been a rather quiet month release-wise (December will be quieter), which allows three more indie songs to jump on to the chart, making more than half the chart by indie releases!
Check out information about my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS after the chart commentary below as they are directly tied in with this blog. As most of you know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded. The Big 20 and the picks of the week are happily being syndicated and you can find the current schedule for all at the bottom of the home page of this blog.
Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.
Wishing Alexander Stewart a speedy recovery from a bout of pneumonia he contracted while touring in Europe, and had to cancel a few concert dates. The music industry is demanding, and artists must look after their health first. In the meantime, Alexander and Lauren Spencer Smith get a second appearance at #1 with “Friends Don’t” (above). After seeing Alexander’s local show last November 30, apparently I put it out there on social media about how much I’d love to see “Friends Don’t” get a release. And it did, but as a duet rather than a solo track. Following it up from his album What If is “The Way a Heart Breaks” (below).
Closing in again on #1 after a rousing performance of “Vodka Cranberry” (in its last appearance on the chart at #9) at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade last week is Conan Gray with the song that to me anchors his album Wishbone, “Eleven Eleven” (4-2).
TELYKast has had two previous #1’s at year’s end, in 2021 it was “Unbreakable” and in 2024 it was “Surrender Your Love”. Though it has fierce competition ahead, their track with Sweden’s Oaks, “Super Powers”, jumps 9-5.
I’ll tell ya, “Fake It” by Polar Bears & Jay Mason is one hard song to shake. The catchy deep house track rises 8-6.
Spain-based American singer Reigen is now four-for-four on the chart as his Spanish-language dance party track, “Quiero Bailar”, becomes his latest Top 10 entry, moving up 11-7.
Getting his 5th Top 10 entry is Juno Award winning dance producer Felix Cartal with “Summer Rain” (12-10), a collaboration with US singer/songwriter Reo Cragun.
Climbing 15-11 is “Run – Disco”, the unearthed Donna Summer track originally recorded in 2008 and given 2025 lustre by producers Mousse T and Toby Gad.
One of the most irresistible songs out there that deserves more attention is “Night to Night” by The Magician, which creates a new song around the chorus of 1986’s “Tarzan Boy” by Baltimora, and climbs 19-13.
The fastest riser on the chart is the thoughtful “Find a Way” by New Zealand-born alternative rocker Will Swinton, which soars 26-19.
The other debuts from the previous chart also move up respectfully with six point jumps for “Flip the Record” (above), a bluesy rocker by Greyson Chance (27-21) with his second chart entry joining #4 “Summertrain ’25”, and “Addicted” (below) by alternative lo fi pop/hip hop duo N i G H T S (28-22).
Australian rock quintet Moonwood return to the chart with their 3rd entry, “Where Are The Kids?” as the highest debut at #26. The song fleshes out the group’s tight sound with more keyboards this time and an early 2000’s flavour. Their track “Curfew” got to #5 on the BILLCS Top 30 in 2023. Check out the video for “Where Are The Kids?” at the following link: Kids
Next at #27 is a super-cool deep house track that’s full of hooks, “Holding On” by Dallas-based MashBit, NYC’s Luke Alexander, and Montreal producer/vocalist sunsett. (who usually records as Rico 56). MashBit previously appeared on the chart earlier in the year with his VIP remix of Angrybaby’s “Back to Life”, which reached #2. Rico 56 got to #6 in 2023 with fellow Canadians Luis Torres and DLMT (who has since rebranded as Dansyn) with “Wildfire”.
At #28 is the third chart entry for Windsor, Ontario pop/rock multi-talent MELØ, the early 80’s rock-flavoured “New Way of Missing You”. His previous entry, the infectious “I Don’t Speak French”, reached #7 earlier this year. Check out the video for “New Way of Missing You” at the following link: New Way
ONLINE RADIO SHOWS
You can hear me and many of my blog choices on this growing list of online radio stations and features!
Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs. The show also repeats on Saturday evening at 6 pm EST.
My New Music Pick of the Week debuts each week on The Big 20. It airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking at the following link: Schedule.
On Saturdays and Sundays from 8pm to Midnight EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix”, four hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.
My Retro Pick of the Week airs each week on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline”, Saturdays at 4pm EST. You can view its schedule by going to the lower right corner of the home page of this blog.
The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada
I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my Retro Pick of the Week on the live online radio show “The 3D Variety Show”, powered by www.xstreamrockradio.com with “The Musicman” James Rogers. I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. The show repeats on Alberta’s www.katpowerhit.ca on Wednesdays at 6pm EST.
Chicago’s Lake Online Radio now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Sundays at Midnight EST, which airs my New Music Pick of the Week. You can also hear the new music pick on Hunter’s other show Fridays at 8pm EST on “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio.
For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! Schedules are updated regularly.
Forgive me while I editorialize a bit. For now, I’m done with club culture as it is. Having been to dance clubs in Las Vegas, Miami, New York and Toronto post-pandemic, I can tell you that many of the biggest DJ/producers who play the largest club venues in those cities are now being heavily influenced by streaming for their sets. It’s just too easy, and it’s a cash grab.
Pre-pandemic sets were much more original, featuring ID’s or excerpts of songs which caused immediate reaction and some of which are still used today. But post-pandemic, ID’s and excerpts of dance tracks from yore now dominate these sets. No matter the DJ/producer, you WILL hear them anywhere you go. You know the songs – “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)”, “Sandstorm”, “Take Over Control”, “Rather Be”, and others. You’ll hear new and older songs by the DJ/producers in their own sets. Unless they are big buddies with the DJ/producers, there isn’t much in the way of music played by new artists. And we’re paying even more money to see these shows which are often augmented by effects, lasers and such.
So unless these DJ/producers start reinventing themselves and become less lazy – Tiësto, at age 56, returning to the trance style that broke him out worldwide more than 20 years ago is a good sign – I’ll only go to clubs to see unique shows by artists who have carved out their own lane to attact music fans who want to be there – John Summit and Gareth Emery are good examples – rather than casual streaming listeners attending with equally disinterested friends just for the experience of hearing remixes of too-familiar songs. Armin van Buuren making millions from touring over the years and recently saying EDM is dead instead of doing something about it is not helpful. And I feel bad too for those just coming of age to attend clubs for the first time.
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In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my new music and retro picks of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”. The Musicman James Rogers’ Classic Five choices are lit up with a selection of songs released between 1979 and 1986. Since the Report didn’t publish last week, I’ve also added last week’s new music and retro picks, as well as the songs that are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30. And to cap it off, I have a BILLCS Top 30 Flashback Chart to 2019!
Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.
DIMENSION, KAREN HARDING, “Guardian Angel”
About the artists: Dimension is British dance producer Robert Etheridge, who has been releasing music for the last 13 years and has worked with such artists as Chase & Status, Sub-Focus, Poppy Baskcomb, and Alison Wonderland. Karen Harding is the Queen of British House Music about whom I’ve written many times, noted for her hits “Say Something”, “Undo My Heart” (with Digital Farm Animals) and “Need Your Love” (with Felix Cartal).
About the record: “Guardian Angel” is an uplifting anthem bop that is sure to make dance festival goers stop in their tracks. Dimension has revved up drum ‘n bass beats for this one, and Karen works her vocal magic to elevate the song into something special. “Guardian Angel” can’t miss for club DJ’s or dance music radio stations. Fans of recent dance music tracks with vocalists Hayla and Clementine Douglas will revel in this one.
Other comments: Dimension and Karen Harding have also collaborated with British producers/songwriters Billen Ted (Nathan Evans, MNEK, Joel Corry, Becky Hill) for this one for Ministry of Sound.
PARTY PUPILS, little luna, “Little Lies”
About the artists: Party Pupils is the dance production project of L.A.-based Ryan Siegel, which originated with singer/songwriter MAX back in 2016, with whom several songs and an EP have been released, most notably 2020’s “Set Me Free” with Oliver Heldens. little luna is a rising singer/songwriter who has been releasing her own music for the last five years, and has been opening for such performers as 5 Seconds of Summer and the Steve Miller Band.
About the record: Reimagining Fleetwood Mac’s classic “Little Lies” as a pop/dance track and having it work as well as it does is a major coup for Party Pupils and little luna. It’s instantly likeable thanks to little luna’s reverence to the original vocal by the late Christine McVie without being a direct copycat – without that, it simply wouldn’t work. Musically, it all works well too, with production and effects that do not overwhelm or weigh down the song, while adding in welcome harmonies to make “Little Lies” a treat all over again.
Other comments: While dance music fans will enjoy it, I’m happy to also pitch this cover of “Little Lies” to fans of Christine and Fleetwood Mac, who may even get the most out of it.
JORDAN ANTHONY, “Hurt Me Sooner”
About the artist: 20 year old Singer/songwriter/pianist Jordan Anthony is based in L.A. but hails from Perth, Australia, where he was a contestant as a teenager on his country’s versions of The Voice and American Idol, as well as its representative at EuroVision Junior.
About the record: I’ve written about Jordan’s most recent singles, but “Hurt Me Sooner” may yet be the best to date. His powerful vocal here has soulful edges in a compelling retrospective “what if” breakup story. Jordan says, “Sometimes the worst thing we can do is try to deny how we feel. I hope this song helps someone sit with their emotions instead of running from them, to feel the feels and start to heal.” He’s particularly inspired by Ed Sheeran and Lewis Capaldi, but could easily find fans who enjoy newer artists like Alexander Stewart too.
Other comments: Part of Jordan’s success in Australia had to do with exposure and visibility, so let’s hope he can continue to gain momentum to perform live shows in North America and the rest of the world.
PAUL HETHERINGTON, “Cruel” (7th Heaven radio edit)
About the artist: Based in Melbourne, Australia, Paul Hetherington is a singer/songwriter who hit his stride in 2024, after spending years trying to find his niche, with the Dave Audé remix of “Dirty Mind” and the 7th Heaven remix of “The Thrill of the Chase”. Both songs acquired dance music chart numbers in the UK as well as attention in Australia.
About the record: While Paul didn’t write “Cruel” – it’s a cover of a New Zealand hit by Dane Rumble – it’s a brilliant song that shows off his solid interpretation into the 80’s-flavoured pop/dance style that he is achieving. The slick production is by Jon Dixon of 7th Heaven, and over the years 7th Heaven have worked with just about every major pop name under the sun – Cher, Donna Summer, Kylie Minogue, Ariana Grande, Take That, which is only the start. Overall it’s flushed with a Europop sound that never gets stale.
Other comments: An extended version of “Cruel” and remix EP are coming soon.
JORGE WILSON, “Gemini”
About the artist: Jorge Wilson is an independent pop/rock artist from Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England. Since launching as a solo artist in 2023 after being part of a band, Jorge is only three singles deep.
About the record: There’s no doubt that Jorge Wilson has a flair for writing a punchy, groove-heavy song with “Gemini”. You’re sold within the first 20 seconds, which gives you the benefit of listening for a wicked guitar solo and to a story about self-discovery. “Gemini” has multiple meanings, some of which are explored in the song, but the focus is on duality – at different stages in our lives, when faced with different situations and decisions, we sometimes discover another “person” within ourselves that we never knew existed. Jorge has a fine voice and “Gemini” is a great song by which to get to know him.
Other comments: “Gemini” at times bears a passing resemblance melody-wise to Bryan Adams’ “Run to You”. It’s very promising and this Gemini certainly want to hear more.
GLASSIO, “When The Beat Carries On”
About the artist: Glassio (aka Sam Radseresht) is an American DIY talent based out of London who has been releasing music for nearly 10 years and has over 10 million streams thus far.
About the record: “When The Beat Carries On” is a gentle slice of dreamy, authentic, alternative pop that uses the idea of a continuous beat throughout all stages of discovery and rediscovery in our lives. Certain things will always be constants, and all of us would be lost if they changed. So instead, through all of our ups and downs and reinventions, there will always beats and music. Glassio doesn’t rush the process, he lets the whimsical, sometimes anthemic earworm of a melody play out underneath the story. The song is positive solace to which you can turn when you need to get your head into a different space.
Other comments: Glassio’s next album, The Imposter, arrives on February 25, 2026.
My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online.
This week’s pick:
“Flip the Record” is a blues-flavoured rock track by Greyson Chance
Last week’s pick:
“Find a Way” by tall, gravelly-voiced New Zealand-born alternative rock singer Will Swinton
My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, including those mentioned above. It debuts Saturdays on Russ Horton’s Top 40 Timeline on UK National Radio at 1pm EST.
This week’s pick:
The Gene Pitney-penned “He’s a Rebel” by The Crystals – or rather Darlene Love & The Blossoms – from 1962
Last week’s pick:
Bobby Darin’s classic “Mack the Knife”, which was #1 for 9 weeks in 1959
“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online station Halton Hills Radio Online. You can hear my Retro Pick of the Week which debuts every week on the “Top 40 Timeline”. Big Daddy’s record of the week can also be heard each week on “The Big 20”.
Big Daddy thinks that Justin Jesso’s hook-filled “Stuck in the Middle” would be a Top 10 hit in another time and place
DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and has now moved to Chicago-based Lake Radio Online where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter is also on air Fridays on “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it too broadcasts the New Music Pick. Check the schedule for my New Music Pick of the Week on the blog home page near the bottom.
It’s Jacob Collier’s rendition of The Beatles’ “Norwegian Wood”
“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays) where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Tuesdays after 7pm EST. The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.
Fine Young Cannibals – Johnny Come Home (1986)
Falco – Vienna Calling (1986)
Bee Gees – Love You Inside Out (1979)
Pretenders – Middle Of The Road (1983)
John Mellencamp – Pink Houses (1983)
No surprise – “Friends Don’t” by Alexander Stewart and Lauren Spencer Smith grabbed the top spot this week
It’s “Super Powers” by TELYKast and Oaks (19-9), a recent national dance radio #1 release
So much has happened in six years, yet a lot of these songs still seem quite fresh!
07 01 LIGHTS UP Harry Styles
02 02 LIKE LIKE (OKJAMES remix) Lostchild
01 03 DREAMER Throttle
05 04 BREAKING HEARTS Benedict Cork
06 05 DREAMLAND Pet Shop Boys, Years & Years
09 06 FLICKER Anden
08 07 DON’T BREAK MY HEART AGAIN (Stormby Edit) Peter Wilson
11 08 WHO’S GONNA LOVE U Ryan Shepherd, Heather Janssen
12 09 FAMILY AFFAIR The Disco Fries
13 10 FAITH Galantis,Dolly Parton, Mr. Probz
03 11 I’M NOT ALRIGHT Loud Luxury, Bryce Vine
15 12 BROKEN ONES Illenium, Anna Clendening
16 13 PUNCHING IN THE DARK Hellberg, Aloe Blacc
19 14 MAD Brandon Colbein
17 15 ACID DREAMS MAX, Felly
18 16 WALK ALONE The Him
22 17 I FEEL LOVE Sam Smith
04 18 ON THE WAY UP 2.0 Apollo LTD
27 19 TOXIC WORLD Peter Foldy
23 20 WILL WE TALK Sam Fender
NEW 21 SHIVOHUM Tritonal, Henry Dark
10 22 PUSH Kazaky, Gaspar
14 23 THOSE WERE THE DAYS Midnight Kids, Jared Lee
NEW 24 DON’T GIVE UP Gramatik, Ryan Shaw, Probcause
20 25 RITUAL Tiesto, Jonas Blue, Rita Ora
21 26 POOLSIDE VIBE Pretty Sister, MarcLo
NEW 27 IF WE NEVER MET John.k
NEW 28 TAKE OFF Retrovision
24 29 HERE U R Win & Woo, Sara Skinner
25 30 TOUGH LOVE Avicii, Agnes, Vargas & Lagola
Two of my fellow Canadians – one from my city – score their first #1’s on the BILLCS Top 30, and are also the first Canadians to reach the top in over a year!
REMINDER: I’ll be travelling to Las Vegas this week, so there is no BILLCS New Music Report on Wednesday.
Check out information about my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS after the chart commentary below as they are directly tied in with this blog. As most of you know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded. The Big 20 and the picks of the week are happily being syndicated and you can find the current schedule for all at the bottom of the home page of this blog.
Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.
Toronto’s Alexander Stewart and Nanaimo’s Lauren Spencer Smith reach the summit this week with their incredible duet “Friends Don’t”. I won’t mind if Alexander sings it solo when I see his show again in March, but maybe we’ll get a duet! The song comes from his top notch album What If. It’s so rare that a singer from my city gets to the top of my chart, so I’m quite delighted about this. The last Canadian #1 on the chart was “feel less” by Felix Cartal and Lights in mid-2024, and the last act from Toronto to reach #1 was Frank Walker with Loud Luxury (who are from London, Ontario, though Toronto often calls them its own) and “Like Gold” in early 2021. You can also check out another stunning album track from Alexander’s What If, the heart-wrenching “The Boy I Almost Was”, below.
DJ Martinee and France Joli’s powerhouse disco track, 2025 style, “My Everlasting Love”, continues to rise, moving up 5-3.
Although “Vodka Cranberry” leaves #1 after a month at the top (2 appearances), the exhilarating album track from Wishbone, “Eleven Eleven” by Conan Gray, zips into the Top 5, up 11-4. Might we find Conan at the top of the chart again sometime soon?
Greyson Chance has now completed his 6 week South East Asia tour, and added on “Summertrain ’25” (above, which climbs 10-5) to a limited vinyl release of his 2019 album Portraits. It’s his first Top 5 entry since 2022’s “Black Mascara”. He also gets a second concurrent chart entry with his bluesy and emotional “Flip The Record” (below), which arrives at #27.
L.A. producers TELYKast have the Fastest Riser on the chart with their North American dance radio #1, “Super Powers” (19-9), with Swedish singer/songwriter Oaks. It’s their 5th Top 10 entry.
The third new entry to the Top 10 is “Zombie” by Yungblud, which climbs 12-10. Best wishes to Yungblud while he takes care of his well-being after having to cancel some North American tour dates. He also just received 3 Grammy nominations, including one for “Zombie”.
Madrid-based American singer/songwriter Reigen’s festive Spanish language track “Quiero Bailar” is making short work of the chart, up 20-11 this week.
“Summer Rain” advances 17-12 and looks to be yet another Top 10 entry in the making for Juno Award winning Canadian dance producer Felix Cartal, with vocal by American singer Reo Cragun.
The bright and friendly pop sounds of Toronto-based multi-talent Creighton Doane’s “Need a Friend” (23-18) is yours to check out and listen to a relatable song about a lonely individual who gets helped out through the kindness of others.
The hook and verse from Baltimora’s “Tarzan Boy” are hard to resist in The Magician’s wonderful new track “Night to Night”, which rises 26-19.
“RUDEBOI” is the fun drum ‘n bass track by new L.A. dance producer HISSTERIA, and climbs 24-20. It’s a bit more of a novelty, but his new single “SNOBS” will certainly make you smile, so give it a listen below.
L.A.-based, New Zealand-born Will Swinton is back with his second chart entry of 2025, “Find a Way” at #26. It’s his third overall, following “Harmless” (#2 in 2024) and this year’s “Flames” (#8).
And the final debut is “Addicted” by the Philadelphia indie duo with the distinct lo-fi hip hop flavoured sound, N i G H T S. It bows at #28 and is their 5th chart entry, following last year’s “Hopeless” (#6).
ONLINE RADIO SHOWS
You can hear me and many of my blog choices on this growing list of online radio stations and features!
Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs. The show also repeats on Saturday evening at 6 pm EST.
My New Music Pick of the Week debuts each week on The Big 20. It airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking at the following link: Schedule.
On Saturdays and Sundays from 8pm to Midnight EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix”, four hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.
My Retro Pick of the Week airs each week on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline”, Saturdays at 4pm EST. You can view its schedule by going to the lower right corner of the home page of this blog.
The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada
I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my Retro Pick of the Week on the live online radio show “The 3D Variety Show”, powered by www.xstreamrockradio.com with “The Musicman” James Rogers. I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. The show repeats on Alberta’s www.katpowerhit.ca on Wednesdays at 6pm EST.
Chicago’s Lake Radio Online now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Sundays at Midnight EST, which airs my New Music Pick of the Week. You can also hear the new music pick on Hunter’s other show Fridays at 8pm EST on “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio.
For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! Schedules are updated regularly.
If you love new music but don’t know any of the artists about whom I’ve written today, that’s all the more reason to check out today’s selections in the Report, which range from contemporary disco to edgy alternative rock. I will be vacationing in Las Vegas next week, so there will be no Report, and it will return on Thursday November 27.
In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my new music and retro picks of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”. The Musicman James Rogers’ Classic Five choices all come from the early 80’s. You’ll also find out what songs were in the Top 5 of the BILLCS Top 30 5-10-15-20-25 years ago!
Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.
PACIFICA, “Indie Boyz”
About the artist: Pacifica is the Buenos Aires, Argentina alternative rock duo of Inés Adam and Martina Nintzel, who were internet friends before a further in-person meeting in New York City led to them releasing music together.
About the record: “Indie Boyz” displays it’s 90’s and 00’s roots in grunge and garage rock proudly. From the memorable, crunchy bass work through to the swaggery, droll vocal, Pacifica has crafted a light-hearted, vibey song that stands out and will hold your attention. The duo aptly calls it an “ode to late-night indie sleaze”, and you’ll want to hear more.
Other comments: “Indie Boyz” comes from Pacifica’s third album called In Your Face.
JAVI, “Carnivore”
About the artist: Javi is an L.A.-based multi-talent of Puerto Rican and Latin heritage whose pop/R&B/dance songs have appeared a bunch of times in these blog pages through both originals and covers like Sade’s “Cherish The Day”.
About the record: “Carnivore” might just be Javi’s most striking release yet. It’s an immersive and haunting story about vampirism, full of seductive rhythms, catchy wordplay, and a compelling vocal from the singer. The best way to check out this enticing song may just be to set aside 6 minutes for its video story to unfold. It’s beautifully shot and features some fine choreography, and a magnetic screen presence by Javi, using his tall, imposing figure to full effect, at the following link: Carnivore
Other comments: Javi releases a handful of songs every year and perhaps “Carnivore” will help make them be more frequent.
MGR. MIKE, “Heaven” and “Light It Up (Soul Fire)”
About the artist: Nashville-based MGR.MIKE creates new iterations of 70’s disco as well as similarly inspired events to make people want to dance. He’s already appeared on the BILLCS Top 30, peaking at #4 earlier this year with the unique and inspiring “The Message” (with Mexican producer Milton V).
About the records: “Heaven” and “Light It Up (Soul Fire)” have been released in quick succession, and I couldn’t decide which one to write about, so they both win! “Heaven” is hugely reminiscent of classic 70’s instrumentals like “The Hustle” with an invested hook and melody that will keep you grooving though there are no vocals or words. “Light It Up (Soul Fire)” captures the essence of energetic, anthemic 70’s R&B-flavoured releases led by (uncredited) female vocals through such artists as Chic, The Pointer Sisters, and First Choice. Both are well-defined and there’s enough contemporary disco flavour for those music fans looking for something fresh. Check ’em both out and see if you like one better than the other.
Other comments: MGR. MIKE is performing in Toronto on Saturday, November 15 at Spaghetti Disco, 1166 Dundas Street West (doors are at 11pm).
KACEY FIFIELD, “Out of Mind”
About the artist: Kacey Fifield is a NYC-based, L.A.-raised singer/songwriter/guitarist whose songs have appeared many times in these blog pages – can it be five years already?? This has allowed me to watch her progress from teenage collaborator to a confident adult solo artist who likes to take risks, moving from electronic pop and ballads to dramatic-sounding rock.
About the record: “Out of Mind” is her most cutting and edgy release to date in all departments – vocally, musically and lyrically. Producer Riley Aki pushes all boundaries here, opting for a sometimes deliberately muddy sound, in turn acting as an effect for Kacey’s vocal. There’s plenty of shredded guitar work happening in the song about being “metaphorically haunted by an ex”. It’s a cathartic and exciting release, certainly one of Kacey’s best ones to date, and shows a lot of obvious recent growth.
Other comments: Next up is a horror-themed video for “Out of Mind” (since it was released on Hallowe’en), and a new EP in 2026.
THE GOLD NEEDLES, “Turns to Gold”
About the artist: The Gold Needles are a pop/rock quintet from Kingston-upon-Hull in East Yorkshire, England that was formed in 2015 featuring the lead vocals of guitarist Simon Dowson, and has released three albums to date. The band’s style samples a bevy of influences, from 70’s punk rock through to 80’s west coast new wave era rock.
About the record: “Turns to Gold” follows up “Supernature”, which I wrote about earlier this year, and has a jaunty, carefree melody that could have easily stepped out of 1979 or 1980. Simon’s vocal remind me of a mix of Glenn Tilbrook and Chris Difford of Squeeze, Andy Partridge of XTC, and Ric Ocasek of The Cars. The focus of this track is on electric guitar, courtesy of splendid work by member Dave Burbidge, with particular inspiration from Thin Lizzy. The song is about what I call “playing the music industry biz game” – getting burned along the way, developing a strong sense of cynisism, and learning from it all. They make a heavy topic for musicians light, enjoyable, and refreshing for listeners to soak in.
Other comments: The Gold Needles’ fourth album and first in four years, Mood Elevator, arrives on December 12.
GEORGIA BLACK, “Kicks”
About the artist: Georgia Black is an alternative pop singer from London who infuses her songs with R&B and jazz flavours and has been releasing music for about 7 years. She is also an actor, having performed in Punchdrunk’s acclaimed theatre production “The Drowned Man”.
About the song: While she is in good company with other contemporary jazz/pop vocalists like Norah Jones, Samara Joy and Madeleine Peyroux, Georgia Black has her own flair through which she spins her own love stories like “Kicks”. Her style is dreamy and escapist but not without a bit of punch and edge. She’s clearly a versatile talent and “Kicks” is only one glimpse of that.
Other comments: “Kicks” is culled from Georgia’s debut album Rope, which you can explore to find out more, and you can check out the video for “Kicks” at the following link: Kicks
My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online.
The Magician samples Baltimora’s “Tarzan Boy” in “Night to Night”
My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, including those mentioned above. It debuts Saturdays on Russ Horton’s Top 40 Timeline on UK National Radio at 1pm EST.
It’s the Oscar-winning “Theme From ‘Shaft'” by Isaac Hayes (1971)
“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online station Halton Hills Radio Online. You can hear my Retro Pick of the Week which debuts every week on the “Top 40 Timeline”. Big Daddy’s record of the week can also be heard each week on “The Big 20”.
It’s Eagle-Eye Cherry with “Chasing Down a Dream”
DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and has now moved to Chicago-based Lake Radio Online where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter is also on air Fridays on “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it too broadcasts the New Music Pick. Check the schedule for my New Music Pick of the Week on the blog home page near the bottom.
DJ Hunter wishes us all a belated 11:11:11 through Conan Gray’s “Eleven Eleven”
“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays, returning on November 18) where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Tuesdays after 7pm EST. The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.
Lionel Richie – You Are (1983)
Christopher Cross – All Right (1983)
Doug & The Slugs – Who Knows How (1983)
Billy Joel – You May Be Right (1983)
BB Gabor – Jealous Girl (1981) (You Tube link)
The Top 5 songs from the BILLCS Top 30 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years ago…
2020
01 HOUSE IS HAPPINESS, Stan Sax
02 UNDO MY HEART, Karen Harding, Digital Farm Animals
03 TYPE LIKE THAT, Pawl, Discrete
04 ONE LAST SONG, Benedict Cork
05 DIAMONDS, Sam Smith
2015
01 HELLO, Adele
02 LET YOU GO, River Tiber
03 LIFE’S A BEACH, Brandyn Burnette
04 CAKE BY THE OCEAN, DNCE
05 MY RELIGION, Dan Talevski
2010
01 RESURRECTION (Penguin Prison remix), The Temper Trap
02 LOVE PART II, Bright Light Bright Light
03 WHITE KNUCKLE RIDE (Penguin Prison remix), Jamiroquai
04 PRETENDER, Elouise
05 START A FIRE, Ryan Star
2005
01 PRETTY VEGAS, INXS
02 DO WHAT U WANT, jASeFOs, Claire van der Boom
03 PRECIOUS, Depeche Mode
04 GOLD DIGGER, Kanye West, Jamie Foxx
05 TRIPPING, Robbie Williams
2000
01 HERE WITH ME, Dido
02 SHE BANGS, Ricky Martin
03 TWISTED TENDERNESS, Electronic
04 CASE OF THE EX (WHATCHA GONNA DO), Mya
05 NO MORE, Ruff Endz
BILLCSMUSIC BLOG
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