BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – May 31/23 spotlighting new songs by @CashCash @AngieStone #LuisTorres #JakeHuffman

No preliminary commentary or remarks this week, let the new songs speak for themselves! 🙂

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, transporting us back to 1985-86 this week. You can also find out which songs were #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 over the last 25 years!

The BILLCS New Music Report is a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me @billcs on Twitter @thebillcs on Instagram or @BILLCSMusicProjects on Facebook.

REMINDER: Click the photo above the artist’s name and song title to hear the song or watch the video.

SPOTLIGHTING

CASH CASH, “Bleach (Move On)”

New Jersey dance trio Cash Cash are coming full circle, returning to a vibrant melodic pop/dance style with early 2010’s vibes that also features vocals this time by their own Jean Paul Maklouf. He absolutely kills it on “Bleach (Move On)”, and I hope that means we’ll hear more of his affecting vocal! After considerable success over the last decade, which includes Billboard Hot 100 and dance club play chart smashes and regular residencies in Las Vegas (where I saw them perform last summer), Cash Cash have switched labels and seem to have gotten some of their stylistic freedom back. “Bleach (Move On)” is nothing like what they’ve released recently, and fans of One Republic and Bastille will enjoy it equally as much as dance music fans.

ANGIE STONE, “Good Man”

Angie Stone returns with her first album in four years called Love Language and from it we have this new classic slice of R&B, “Good Man”. It’s solid R&B that goes down easy and does not disappoint. Angie’s silky smooth, expressive voice is the gift that she has shared with us in one form or another for many years. She was a member of one of rap’s first female groups, The Sequence, and spent time in the 90’s in groups Vertical Hold and Devox, before singing on one of the seminal R&B albums of the last 25 years, D’Angelo’s Brown Sugar. She finally got to release her own songs solo soon after, on 1999’s amazing Black Diamond, and is probably best known for the R&B and dance music classic “Wish I Didn’t Miss You” from 2002, which coincidentally debuted on my BILLCS Top 30 chart 21 years ago this week. In the intervening years she’s never stopped working, whether it’s recording albums, playing shows, or taking acting lessons. So even though she’s never been away, “Good Man” is a strong welcome back release that should do well at R&B radio next to the latest Lizzo and Alicia Keys songs.

LUIS TORRES, “Freak Like Me”

Toronto’s Luis Torres is on a roll after recently collaborating with DLMT and Rico 56 on the wonderful “Wildfire” which recently debuted on the BILLCS Top 30, so it’s no wonder that Tiësto’s Musical Freedom label has grabbed this one for release. “Freak Like Me” is actually a rework of Lee Walker’s 2016 take on DJ Deeon’s 90’s house classic featuring vocals by Katy B. Luis pitches up the vocals and builds a slamming new standout rhythm track around the song’s chorus. “Freak Like Me” should be an instant add for clubs and DJ’s can certainly have fun interpolating any one of the remixes of the Lee Walker take from the likes of Armand van Helden or Sonny Fodera with Luis’ version to create something original for their sets.

JAKE HUFFMAN, “Body Talk”

Connecticut singer/songwriter Jake Huffman has just released a four song EP called Younger. I’ve already written about previous singles “Martyr” and “Babe” which are included, but “Body Talk” is an entirely different cup of tea from those solid alternative rock flavoured tracks and my favourite track from the EP. “Body Talk” is a bluesy R&B-flavoured rock track that benefits from a gravelly vocal by Jake and some chunky bass sounds (maybe a mix of bass guitar and synths?). It’s got a simple, catchy chorus and an enticing rhythm which are instantly appealing.

FEATURING

TASBA, “Fantasia” (radio mix)

“Fantasia” is a moody but intriguing slice of instrumental deep house by rising Denver electronic dance producer TASBA (aka Tanya Barrett). I can certainly visualize and sense the excitement of being taken to somewhere dreamy and special, and “Fantasia” has all of the right elements of a progressive electronic production to place yourself there. It’s all about the atmosphere, which is why the beats don’t get too heavy, though it does contain a nice drop (there is also a radio edit of “Fantasia” which you can listen to right here). If you’re in the Denver, Colorado area, you can watch for TASBA in concert and I’m pleased to say that she is performing quite regularly.

TYLER GARRETT, “Automatic”

L.A. -based singer/songwriter Tyler Garrett continues to release complex electronic songs both lyrically and musically, the latest being “Automatic”. This one is definitely aimed at those who enjoy more progressive songs by the likes of Gareth Emery and Illenium. “Automatic” does a good job at showcasing Tyler’s sharp vocal, even though it’s quite a busy, layered production that would really shine if played over stadium speakers. Repeated listens will help draw you in to the dark, intense vibe of the song.

MOBIUS RADIO, “The More You Know”

Mobius Radio is a recent project formed by Canadian singer/songwriter/guitarist Dylan Hennessy, which brings you the single “The More You Know”. The song is a part of an upcoming conceptual self-produced release that revolves around music being played on a pirate radio station. The voice other than Dylan’s which you hear in “The More You Know” is long-time Canadian broadcaster Jeff Woods, who has helped Dylan shepherd and shape the new release, and is featured in the video above along with drummer Alex Van Briggle. “The More You Know” is a stalwart rocker that will appeal to fans of late 90’s, early 00’s Canadian rockers like Our Lady Peace, I Mother Earth, Moist and more, with enough edge to attract fans of 00’s bands like Billy Talent, Three Days Grace, and Black Veil Brides. Dylan’s appealing vocal and an interesting message are also highlights of “The More You Know”.

TISOKI, PAULINE HERR, “Let You Down”

Despite releasing music for most of the last decade, I must admit that I am new to the music of both Tisoki and Pauline Herr, though both are established with electronic music fans. Tisoki (L.A. based British producer Bradley Edwards) has a new EP coming soon called Euphoria, which will also include this new single “Let You Down”, initially recorded as a demo about two years ago. American producer Pauline Herr is popular on the live electronic festival circuit, and this collaboration gels nicely. I’ll call it emo-electronic – it’s carefully crafted, sometimes minimal-sounding electronic music featuring numerous unconventional elements, some of which could be drawn from drum ‘n bass and perhaps even tribal rhythms, as well as a dejected-sounding but empathetic female vocal (which may be Pauline or someone else). Fans of the genre looking for something fresh will be engrossed.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 20 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

“Telepathic Powers” is by L.A. based rocker Cobi from his album Love In The Wildwood

“BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S PICK OF THE WEEK

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

Remo Forrer with Switzerland’s EuroVision 2023 powerful entry “Watergun”

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Hunter J. Wilbur is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype” and “Addictive Energy” which can be heard on several online stations including Classic Hits Canada.

Nashville-born alt.pop singer MORGXN with ‘Beacon”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show heard Tuesdays on Planet Radio Canada. The Classic Five is “pop music 101” of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

REO Speedwagon – Can’t Fight This Feeling
Bryan Adams – Heaven
John Parr – St. Elmo’s Fire (Man In Motion)
a-ha – Take On Me
Starship – Sara

25 YEARS OF BILLCS TOP 30 #1’s

Songs that rocked my personal chart at this time during the last 25 years.

2022 MERCER Aretha

2021 IDRIS ELBA & INNER CITY featuring STEFFANIE CHRISTI’AN No More Looking Back

2020 PORTER ROBINSON Get Your Wish

2019 M-22 White Lies

2018 MERCER featuring RON CARROLL Satisfy

2017 LOUD LUXURY & RYAN SHEPHERD Fill Me In (Something To Say)

2016 CONNOR PHILLIPS Lost (Young Bombs remix)

2015 COREY NILES featuring ALEX LACASSE Chasing Stars

2014 SAM SMITH Stay With Me

2013 TRAVIS GARLAND Blue Electric Roses

2012 BRIGHT LIGHT BRIGHT LIGHT Waiting For The Feeling

2011 ERIC SAADE Popular

2010 PENGUIN PRISON The Worse It Gets

2009 THE FRAY You Found Me (Lenny B mix)

2008 ESTELLE featuring KANYE WEST American Boy

2007 MAROON 5 Makes Me Wonder

2006 THE FRAY Over My Head (Cable Car)

2005 THE CAESARS Jerk It Out

2004 GEORGE MICHAEL Amazing (Full Intention remix)

2003 EVANCESCENCE featuring PAUL McCOY Bring Me To Life

2002 JIMMY EAT WORLD The Middle

2001 DEPECHE MODE Dream On

2000 MATCHBOX TWENTY Bent

1999 RICKY MARTIN Livin’ La Vida Loca

1998 NEXT Too Close

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – May 25/23 spotlighting new songs by @MorginMadison & @RyanLucianmusic @ZacPoor @BJonesdj & @Rudeejay x @RobbieRosenlive @Airportsmusic

Thanks to the interactions on Twitter of many fans of BTS and member JIMIN, whose “Like Crazy” (English version) is #1 on the BILLCS Top 30, my blog received more than 1,000 unique visits, and I got over 60 new followers on Twitter, almost 74,000 views of my tweet when it went to #1 on Monday, over 4,500 likes and almost 1,700 retweets. It has been an amazing week. Thanks to the very kind BTS and JIMIN fans who tweeted back, and even made a point of checking out some of the other songs on my chart.

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, featuring songs from 1970-71. I’ve also included my #1 song and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30.

The BILLCS New Music Report is a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me @billcs on Twitter @thebillcs on Instagram or @BILLCSMusicProjects on Facebook.

REMINDER: Click the photo above the artist’s name and song title to hear the song or watch the video.

SPOTLIGHTING

MORGIN MADISON, RYAN LUCIAN, “Stimulate”

If the intention of “Stimulate” is to keep dancers going through to late into the night, then it’s mission accomplished! Morgin Madison hails from Boise, Idaho, and after a career change to producing a few years ago, his music caught the attention of Deadmau5’s label, which released his album Living The Phantasm in 2021. His bold and anthemic remix of Tritonal’s “Out Of The Dark” resonated with me and got to #7 on the BILLCS Top 30 that year. With “Stimulate” he’s teamed up with Australian producer Ryan Lucian for a second time – their other collaboration “From The Start” is currently charting at dance music radio. “Stimulate” though is a trippy trance/techno-infused deep house track for clubs featuring infrequent male and female vocals largely used for effect. It could easily light a fire in a late night deep house set and help ignite one of those nights when dancers just won’t want to leave.

ZAC POOR, “Catapult”

L.A. based singer/songwriter Zac Poor follows up “Pink House” and the heart-wrenching “Ghost Boy” (which reached #4 at the top of the year on the BILLCS Top 30) with “Catapult”. All three singles offer up varied emotions and interesting topics, with “Catapult” about finding oneself in another potential relationship because it seems the right thing at the right time. With minimal electronic backdrop, “Catapult” showcases Zac’s formidable power and range, which I remember so well from when he covered Demi Lovato’s “Skyscraper” years ago – as good as if not better than the original. Many people will relate to this song who find them bouncing from relationship to relationship seemingly without the ability to stay with one partner. Despite all of our ups and downs, “Catapult” offers some hope when there’s an idyllic situation upon which we can build.

B. JONES, RUDEEJAY, ROBBIE ROSEN, “Face Your Fears”

“Face Your Fears” is slick eurohouse with a twist, brought to you by Spanish producer B. Jones, Italian producer Rudeejay, and frequent blog visitor, NYC singer/songwriter Robbie Rosen. The song starts off like a folk song with a classic Robbie Rosen vocal and a stunning melody that could have been forged a long, long time ago. The powerhouse synths kick in with a techno-tinged vibe, and meshing the two together, you have a potential singalong that will work just as well on the dance floor. There’s a lot of talent here too. Former “American Idol” contestant Robbie has had 11 BILLCS Top 30 chart entries including two #1’s among his prolific and vast repertoire. B. Jones is not only one of Spain’s top producers, but she is also well known throughout the world. And Rudeejay has been pleasing European audiences with memorable songs for over 20 years.

AIRPORTS, “Need U Here”

Australian multi-instrumental, producer and vocalist Aaron Lee is the force behind Airports and his latest release “Need U Here”. The song is a frenzied fireball fueled by emotion, in particular various forms of loss which Aaron has experienced himself. His fresh pop-punk style fuses with the wild energy inspired by drum ‘n bass electronic music, and shows off some impressive guitar work too. He does bring the energy level down briefly for a caring, human moment. “Need U Here” will stay with you long after it’s over thanks to an earnest vocal and lyrics that cut to the chase. Hopefully “Need U Here” will help lead Airports for a place on the international pop map.

FEATURING

FAMBA, OLIVIA SEBASTIANELLI, “40 Days and 40 Nights”

Canadian dance producer Famba continues with songs mainly geared for dance clubs with the techno-infused “40 Days and 40 Nights”, featuring Italian-English vocalist Olivia Sebastianelli, who has also recorded recently with such notables as Sunnery James & Ryan Luciano and Andrew Rayel. “40 Days” will appeal to those dance music radio curators too, who took Famba’s “Storm” to #1 a few years back. Musically, this one is a throwback to that song in some ways, which is not a bad thing, and the techno touches are appealing. Famba continues to evolve as a producer and Olivia’s voice is a solid match in “40 Days”.

MR! MOURAY, “Who’s Paying Now”

Laden with some great guitar riffs, “Who’s Paying Now” takes us three songs deep into Toronto quartet Mr! Mouray’s album What’s The Stouray, after previous singles “Cats Can’t Fly” and “Pretty In Ink”. The energetic “Who’s Paying Now” draws on the pop and punk roots of the band’s key members, veteran local musicians Simon Bedford-James and my long time friend and fellow music historian Jaimie Vernon (author of the indispensable The Canadian Pop Music Encyclopedia). Simon’s vocals give a nod to early Elvis Costello while the song’s vibrant, edgy melody transports us through the 90’s, reminiscent of bands like Toad The Wet Sprocket and the Gin Blossoms. I was pleased to see Mr! Mouray acquit themselves quite well in concert recently at a small downtown venue in Toronto, so if you have a chance to see their show do check them out.

ROWAN FLACK, “Tipsy on the Tongue”

“Tipsy on the Tongue” is another way of looking at how words get in the way when lovers have their differences. Rowan Flack is a British singer professionally trained and educated in jazz, but “Tipsy” is a pop/soul/jazz effort that will curry favour with fans of Norah Jones and Jessie Ware. It’s sophisticated but earthy, rooted in the realities of relationships. The mellow backdrop makes the topic go down easy, and allows Rowan’s style and personality to move up front. “Tipsy on the Tongue” is only Rowan’s third release following an EP and a single, but I’m sure we’ll be hearing more of her cool and appealing talent in ’23.

JON MULLANE, “The Sun in the Summertime”

It’s great to hear a new pop song that revels in the summer season, and “The Sun in the Summertime” is brought to you by Halifax native,, singer/songwriter Jon Mullane, who you may know from his Billboard-charting single from a few years back, “My New American Girl”. “The Sun in the Summertime” eschews bells and whistles in favour of a feel-good singalong that takes its cues from The Beach Boys and The Raspberries/Eric Carmen, and would go over well in concert. A solid arrangement and a lot of enthusiasm go a long way, and “The Sun in the Summertime” is a solid add for your Summer of ’23 playlist.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 20 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

Norway’s Matoma returns with American vocalist James Droll for the banger “Won’t Follow You Home”.

“BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S PICK OF THE WEEK

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

Added to the “Complete” version of the Dance Fever album is “Mermaids” by Florence & The Machine.

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Hunter J. Wilbur is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype” and “Addictive Energy” which can be heard on several online stations including Classic Hits Canada.

“My City” is the collaboration between 24KGoldn, Kane Brown and G. Herbo from the film “Fast X”.

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Neil Diamond – Cracklin’ Rosie
Three Dog Night – Joy To The World
Temptations – Just My Imagination
Smokey Robinson & The Miracles – The Tears Of A Clown
The Honey Cone – Want Ads

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

“Like Crazy” (English version) by JIMIN

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

EuroVision winner “Tattoo” by Loreen (14-4)

#BILLCSTop30 #666 – May 22/23

Because the last chart had six new entries, this new edition has only two, and there is a long lineup of songs right behind them. With EDC Las Vegas, summer EDM festival season is officially on. I’m not a festival goer, so do advocate for an influx of new blood into the lineups. I see so many of the same names for almost every EDM festival, and while I’m happy for some of my favourite performers to be getting those gigs, they leave a lot of fine new talent stranded trying to get to the next level.

REMINDER: As with the BILLCS New Music Report, I’m now embedding the video link in the artwork for the song or the artist, which hopefully will allow the blog page to load faster and smoothly. So you now have to click on the photos above the write up to hear the song or watch the video. Let me know how it works for you! I am also using Alt Text where possible to assist readers with visual impairments.

The best places to communicate with me continue to be Twitter @billcs or Instagram @thebillcs or Facebook @BILLCSMusicProjects. Follow this blog using the “Follow” button at the bottom of the home page.

Check out my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS below too as they are increasingly tied in with this blog. As most of you know by 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 top of the chart changes guard, and that means JIMIN’s gorgeous “Like Crazy” (English version) moves up 2-1. If you haven’t listened to it carefully, this is about someone getting caught up the possibility of romance in a wild night life and loving it, and hoping that it lasts forever, but feeling empty when it ends. It’s one of my favourite songs of the year. And it could have been a HUGE pop radio hit.

The Fastest Riser on the chart, coincidentally just post-EuroVision, is my favourite song from that competition, “Tattoo” by Sweden’s Loreen, which soars 14-4.

“City of Love” by Surf Mesa featuring Selah Sol climbs 10-5 and is a dance song similar to “Like Crazy”, with its affecting lyrics about feeling lost in a big city after a breakup.

Climbing 9-6 is a fine one for trance music lovers, “Never Temporary” by NYC producer Greg Oakland and singer/co-writer Tara Louise.

James Bay’s “Brilliant Still” (above) from his album Leap rises 12-9, and Australia-based singer/songwriter St. Humain is right behind with “Memento” (13-10, below) from his EP Metadramatic. Also below, you can check out St. Human’s redux of his recent single “Dial Tones”, which I wrote about a while back, with South Korean singer SOIN.

A number of debuts from the last chart make substantial moves. Jonas Blue and RANI’s “Finally” (above) moves up 25-16, while “Give Me Your Soul” by The Disco Fries and Eche Palante climbs 24-18 (below) and Cobi’s “Telepathic Powers” (also below), from his new top notch album Love In The Wildwood, rises 26-20. You can also check out The Disco Fries’ recent collaboration with LODATO, “Call Me Crazy”, below.

Following up his song “The Power”, which was his personal best to date on my chart, reaching #3 earlier in the year, Norway’s Matoma teams up with US vocalist James Droll for the stunning, techno-flavoured “Won’t Follow You Home”, which bows as the Highest Debut at #25. It’s Matoma’s 6th visit to the chart.

And the Toronto powerhouse dance music trio of DLMT, Luis Torres and Rico 56 arrive on the chart at #27 with their slick deep house collaboration “Wildfire”. DLMT previously got to #11 with Party Shirt with “Goin’ Down” earlier this year. And Luis Torres had a #1 back in 2016 as a part of Dzeko & Torres with Swedish producer Hellberg and an emotional melodic house track, “Care For Me”. The song was a free download at the time and totally blew me away, becoming my #2 favourite of its year. You can still listen to it on Soundcloud and You Tube. It’s not available on streaming platforms or for purchase.

View the full BILLCS Top 30 right here! Click on the hyperlink on the song titles to hear the songs or watch the videos!

Listen to the BILLCS Top 30 Songs on Spotify! You can also follow me on Spotify at the following link: BILLCS Top 30 Songs.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

You can hear me and many of my blog choices on this growing list of online radio stations and features!

Radio GTA

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 mornings at 10 a.m. EST and Sunday mornings at 2:00 AM EST. You can hear recent episodes of The Big 20 at this link.

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my new “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my “Retro Pick of the Week” plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my New Music Pick of the Week which debuts every week on “The 3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. A repeat of “The 3D Variety Show” airs on Wednesdays at 7pm EST on Radio GTA. My pick of the week airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Addictive Energy

This is a weekly show hosted by Hunter Wilbur that airs on several online stations but is anchored at Mix88.ca on Saturdays beginning at 8pm EST. You can hear recent episodes of Addictive Energy at this link.

For other details about the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules have been updated.

FM 108

You can also listen to my “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – May 17/23 spotlighting songs by #LouisPax @BensonBoone @Frankmusik @FrancescoYates @Gustaphmusic @ForrerRemo

My current music discoveries, including submissions to the blog, are on overload, which is hardly a bad thing, but it may prevent me from writing about songs that I like that stand out a little less than those that do appear in this weekly report. This week I’ve got 10 songs, with 6 in the spotlight, including two from this past weekend’s highly enjoyable EuroVision contest.

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, featuring songs from 1975. What was I listening to 20 years ago in the early days of the BILLCS Top 30? You’ll find out below as I flash back to my chart from 2003 – so hard to believe what was number one!

The BILLCS New Music Report is a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me @billcs on Twitter @thebillcs on Instagram or @BILLCSMusicProjects on Facebook.

REMINDER: Click the photo above the artist’s name and song title to hear the song or watch the video.

SPOTLIGHTING

LOUIS PAX, “The Road Back”

Hailing from Malmō, Sweden, pop/rock trio Louis Pax return with their own take on 80’s inspired songs with the longing of “The Road Back”. Last year, Louis Pax soared right to #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 with the irresistible pop confection “Bad Things”, which also placed #5 on my year end list, and was followed by a few additional singles, including “Ophelia” which reached #9 on my chart. “The Road Back” has the band back in tight form with a song about finding your way back to love again after a relationship ended where the other person felt love was “synthetic”. Singer/guitarist Oscar Reingsdahl’s gentle and earnest vocal style continues to score big time, and even though the band draws from a myriad of influences, the sound of Louis Pax is refreshing and commands your attention. Louis Pax’s EP In Case I Don’t See Ya (Part 1) arrives on June 1.

BENSON BOONE, “Coffee Cake”

Like his previous BILLCS Top 30 chart entries “In The Stars” (which got to #2) and “Before You”, Washington singer/songwriter Benson Boone continues to be a young balladeer of the moment with a number of similarly touching songs on his new EP Pulse. But with uptempo songs like “Coffee Cake”, he showcases more of his other pop side. “Coffee Cake” immediately stands out for its wonderful lyricism which transports you to the various scenes of the song as you can visualize it unfolding. It’s about someone longing for love or companionship but not yet prepared to make his move, preferring to have fleeting company at the local diner while he people-watches. As a good songwriter does, Benson lets you get into his head so he can get into yours, and by doing so lets you know that at some point or another we’ve all those scenes where he takes you in “Coffee Cake”.

FRANKMUSIK, “Doreen”

I try to keep up with Frankmusik’s aggressive current one song per month schedule, since his releases are of impeccable quality and document the work of an incredibly talented indie artist who continues to take the time to please his many fans. “Doreen” is certainly one of his better releases, a vibrant electronic pop release with a driving rhythm and a top notch vocal. When songs like “Doreen” leap out from your speakers amidst a lot of other new music, then you know it’s a keeper. Like “Remains” and “The Half Moon Came Up In The Sky”, “Doreen” ranks right up there with some of Frankmusik’s best music from the 2010-2014 era.

FRANCESCO YATES, “Chanel”

Toronto’s Francesco Yates has quickly released a third consecutive single, another punchy rocker called “Chanel”. This one’s a steamier release that includes some lines that are song title pop culture references (“that don’t impress me much” and “livin’ la vida loca” for two). It’s accompanied by a video that showcases Francesco and some young lovelies flirting and teasing before the camera, which is obviously all intended to be leading up to … something (that we don’t get to see of course). As might be expected, there are a few raucous Francesco Yates screams and some dandy guitar riffing. With previous splendid songs like “Jimi” and “Thunderbomb”, I’d recommend not sleeping on whatever album or EP release that Francesco has in the cards for us soon.

GUSTAPH, “Because Of You”

REMO FORRER, “Watergun”

This year’s EuroVision song contest yielded a number of entertaining performances and some very good song choices, even though, to me, going into it open-minded, the winner ended up obvious – one of my current favourite songs, “Tattoo” by Loreen. Two completely different songs that I was drawn to have held my attention through repeated listens, and they are the 90’s dance-flavoured “Because of You” by Belgium’s Gustaph, and “Watergun” and its touching call for peace and unity by Switzerland’s Remo Forrer.

“Because of You” is a new queer dance anthem whose roots are in the C+C Music Factory and Crystal Waters releases of the 90’s. It’s all about the freedom to love whoever you want, and Gustaph showed off his fine voice and magnetic stage presence on the EuroVision stage. “Because of You” is deserving of international exposure because of its timely lyrics and because Gustaph is simply meant to be performing in front of a wider audience.

“Watergun” is a softer, poignant anti-war song that will resonate with any listener, thanks to the powerful and versatile tones of 21 year old Remo Forrer. Remo previously won the Voice of Switzerland contest in 2020, and clearly has innate talents that led him to EuroVision. I think the more playful and dramatic competition was a little too fierce for “Watergun”, but like Rosa Linn’s “Snap”, which became a worldwide smash after finishing 20th at last year’s contest, if the public hears something they enjoy, then it will take hold of it and run with it. Thanks to Remo’s beautiful performance, “Watergun” is well-deserving of international exposure.

FEATURING

WINGTIP, BRE KENNEDY, “Down (Exit Song)”

“Down (Exit Song)” is a surprising change of pace for Brooklyn-based producer/DJ Wingtip (aka Nick Perloff-Giles), who usually records electronic pop. It’s a charming and unconventional acoustic duet with Nashville-based singer/songwriter Bre Kennedy which documents a relationship … well sort of … between a couple who don’t really know what they want from each other. There seem to be too many obstacles in the way so perhaps the resolution is to “break your heart over breakfast”. The vocals and melody are instantly memorable, so “Down (Exit Song)” is well worth adding to your favourite alternative pop playlist.

CLOVERDALE, “Lifted”

Halifax producer/DJ Cloverdale returns with a simmering and bold slice of techno-house called “Lifted”. This is an ideal track for club DJ’s to spin at the height of a busy evening and will be sure to keep dancers on the floor. It’s all about the rhythm and the beat under flashing lights and lasers, with some sliced-and-diced repeated female vocals creating additional intensity. Cloverdale has tailor-made “Lifted” for clubs, and his fellow producers and DJ’s should not hesitate to add this one into their mixes.

AMNES, “Otaku”

One thing that electronic and dance music lovers may not realize is that when producers create a full length instrumental track, there is usually a back story behind it. Last month I introduced you to perhaps the most accessible track of Belgian producer AMNES’ new EP Nur called “stamina” featuring L.A. singer artemis orion. The rest of the tracks on Nur are indeed instrumental, but the pervading themes throughout the EP as a back story are reflecting, rebuilding and re-energizing. AMNES apparently spent a long time not interacting with others, and Nur ultimately is about perseverance and being ready to put on your A-game. “Otaku” was previously released as a single and is a future bass-inspired progressive house track which club DJ’s would enjoy when bridging a set between mid-tempo and faster mixes. AMNES is one of the most creative new producers on the scene, which you can also hear in his recent remix of San Holo’s “Don’t Look Down”.

HONEY GENTRY, “Under Taurus”

“Under Taurus” is an electronic pop ballad about growing into adulthood and developing your own ideals and path, instead of choosing to follow what others want you to do. Honey Gentry is a new UK-based singer/songwriter with an EP, Different Water, arriving on May 23. “Under Taurus” is quiet, deliberate and ambitious – its middle section may be a touch too slow – and Honey’s pristine, angelic voice provides an interesting contrast to her song in similar ways to Lana Del Rey and Tori Amos in their songs. So “Under Taurus” is clearly directed at the thinkers among us, particularly those who prefer to act on their thoughts regardless of what others may think, say or do.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 20 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

With its infectious (if borrowed) hook, “Finally” by Jonas Blue featuring RANI is a whole lotta fun!

“BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S PICK OF THE WEEK

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

“Called To Hear Your Voice” by Jesse Clegg, the son of the late and legendary Johnny Clegg

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Hunter J. Wilbur is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype” and “Addictive Energy” which can be heard on several online stations including Classic Hits Canada.

“Soldier, Poet, King” is a contemporary folk/pop tale by NYC’s Vinny Marchi

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Doobie Brothers – Black Water
LaBelle – Lady Marmalade
Hamilton, Joe Frank & Reynolds – Fallin’ In Love
David Bowie – Fame
Silver Convention – Fly Robin Fly

BILLCS Top 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2003

In this chart, you’ll see that I charted Mis-Teeq’s “Scandalous” a year before its North American release. Such were the days before You Tube and streaming! You can see where all the songs peaked and how many charts they appeared on in the BILLCS Top 30 Archive.

08 01 BRING ME TO LIFE Evanescence featuring Paul McCoy

03 02 CLOCKS Coldplay

01 03 THE REMEDY (I WON’T WORRY) Jason Mraz

NEW 04 YET ANOTHER DAY Armin van Buuren featuring Ray Wilson

05 05 GATES OF MIND Sterbinszky & Tranzident featuring Jewls

02 06 AT THE END iio

06 07 ROCK YOUR BODY Justin Timberlake

23 08 DUST.WAV Perpetuous Dreamer [aka Armin van Buuren]

10 09 DREAMS DJ Icey

11 10 MUNDIAN TO BACH KE (Beware of the Boys) Panjabi MC

04 11 JUST THE WAY I’M FEELING Feeder

15 12 SCANDALOUS Mis-Teeq

18 13 GET BUSY Sean Paul

07 14 GIVE YOU LOVE Original 3

29 15 MAKE LUV Room 5 featuring Oliver Cheatham

19 16 LOSING GRIP Avril Lavigne

17 17 AMERICAN LIFE (Felix Da Housecat remix) Madonna

21 18 PEACEKEEPER Fleetwood Mac

22 19 HEAVEN Live

09 20 VENUS (MEANT TO BE YOUR LOVER) Cor Fijneman featuring Jan Johnston

NEW 21 IN DA CLUB Beyoncé

28 22 LIKE A STONE Audioslave

13 23 BEAUTIFUL Snoop Dogg featuring Pharrell Williams and Uncle Charlie Wilson

NEW 24 WHERE IS THE LOVE Black Eyed Peas featuring Justin Timberlake

14 25 BREATHE (remixes) Blu Cantrell featuring Sean Paul

12 26 I DON’T WANNA STOP ATB

NEW 27 PUMP IT UP Joe Budden

NEW 28 BLINDED (WHEN I SEE YOU) Third Eye Blind

20 29 AM I ON YOUR MIND Oxygen featuring Andrea Britton

NEW 30 MR. BARTENDER (IT’S SO EASY) Sugar Ray

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – May 10/23 spotlighting songs by @GarethEmery in a @BenGoldmusic remix, @joegarrattmusic, @ChetPorter & @fknsyd, @Mahalo_dj & Money For Nothing @wearemfn2

Let the new music take control… 🙂

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, which zeroes in on the years 1976-77. If you missed it you’ll also find out what’s on top of the BILLCS Top 30 as well as the Fastest Riser on the chart.

The BILLCS New Music Report is a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me @billcs on Twitter @thebillcs on Instagram or @BILLCSMusicProjects on Facebook.

REMINDER: Click the photo above the artist’s name and song title to hear the song or watch the video.

SPOTLIGHTING

GARETH EMERY, MARIA LYNN, “Missing You” (Ben Gold remix)

Something Gareth Emery always does well is to create an emotional ballad that goes over particularly well at his spectacular laser-laden concerts or at festivals. While the original of “Missing You” is half-ballad and half-rave up, British trance producer and remixer Ben Gold revs up the rhythm in the first half, and creates an even more layered, enhanced second half. While leaving Maria Lynn’s tender vocal in tact, Ben’s remix actually cranks up the euphoria level which turns a very good ballad into a heartfelt and fervid anthem. At the end, a big comforting hug is highly recommended.

joegarratt, “Uncanny”

British electronic alternative pop singer/songwriter joegarratt has an out-of-left-field surprise with “Uncanny”. In the song he zeroes in on the essence of the dream pop sub-genre by creating a song about basking in success while losing sight of what else is important outside of that achievement. The song has a moving, uncharacteristic structure (watch for a false ending along the way), and the melody is moody but rhythmic enough to keep you swaying. joegarratt’s voice at times seems disembodied but still affecting, and I would draw “Uncanny” to the attention of fans of Porter Robinson and James Blake.

CHET PORTER, fknsyd, “Today Tomorrow Forever”

It’s often quite a treat when Canadian progressive electronic whiz Chet Porter drops a new song, and “Today Tomorrow Forever” is his first in about two years. Teaming up with rising electronic star fknsyd (about whom little is known online, though she has already collaborated with the likes of R.L. Grime, Rezz, and Manila Killa), “Today Tomorrow Forever” bursts with energy in a playful mix that uses its effects judiciously. It’s the kind of song that will make your ears perk up and immediately take notice when you hear it at a concert or festival. Experimental and jubilant, if “Today Tomorrow Forever” is a taste of Chet Porter mach-2023, then I can’t wait to hear more.

MAHALO, MONEY FOR NOTHING, “Everlasting”

L.A.-based dance producer Mahalo teams up with British production duo Money For Nothing for the deep house bliss of “Everlasting”. That uncredited female vocal sounds awfully familiar – perhaps co-writer UK singer Gabrielle Aplin – and it’s the focal point of this banger, particularly all those stunning high notes. There’s definitely a lot of chemistry that went into such a tidy but infectious mix, with some dashes of techno, by all of the players. “Everlasting” should have no problem drumming up support at dance music radio and in clubs.

FEATURING

KACEY FIFIELD, NIPPANDAB, “Petty”

“Petty” is a grower that you shouldn’t sleep on, so make sure that it gets your full attention for a couple of spins. Co-written with mentor and frequent blog visitor Robbie Rosen, and produced by India’s Nippandab (who was also at the control’s for Kacey’s house-flavoured “Toxic” from last summer from her album Between The Lines), “Petty” creates its own lane for Kacey among her songs largely for young adults and teens, and she minces no sentiments in calling out a previous friend/lover for their inconsiderate behaviour and actions. “Petty” is a swift turnaround back to dance music after the recent and more acoustic “Selfish”, and Nippandab navigates the course with rich deep house rhythms and synths.

JULIAN CROSS, AFROJACK, “All I Need”

“All I Need” is a perfectly agreeable eurohouse track that goes down easy that partners fresh vocalist Julian Cross with the legend who is Afrojack. It’s a fine showcase for Belgian singer Julian, who had his first big break as a teenager a few years ago and has never looked back through his association with the Armada label. And having the opportunity to team up with Afrojack is no mean feat even with that connection. “All I Need” has a bright, and memorable synth hook and a rhythm that doesn’t let up. Julian’s voice totally suits the song, though I wish it would have had an opportunity to soar at points when the melody does just that, which could have lent it some anthemic qualities. I think more could be brought out in “All I Need” in remixes.

MOONWOOD, “Curfew”

Australia-based rock quintet Moonwood have a great flair for melody within the genre, which carries relatable stories and particularly cool vocals by singer Jake McCullough. Following up the recent single “Lady In Red”, “Curfew” offers a familiar mix of guitars, bass, drums and keyboards and a classic rock song structure, and it’s all tight and spot on. So if your thing is early 2000s’ rock by Lifehouse, Fuel, Powderfinger and others, Moonwood does a fine job of reigniting that appeal and reshaping that sound for the 2020’s.

DEEP CHILLS, TILSEN, “Goodbye”

“Goodbye” is a warm and touching midtempo melodic house track that ruminates over those times where relationships come to an end. Italian producer Deep Chills reteams with Canadian singer/songwriter Tilsen, who offers up an empathetic vocal in her high range as she relates the feelings after the fact while knowing that there is no other solution. Deep Chills delivers his usual classy arrangement which grasps the various moods within the song at the right times along with providing other subtleties in the background.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 20 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

The Disco Fries and Eche Palante team up for “Give Me Your Soul”,

which is also the highest debut on the BILLCS Top 30 at #24.

“BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S PICK OF THE WEEK

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

“Mrs. Hollywood” by Australia’s Go Jo

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Hunter J. Wilbur is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype” and “Addictive Energy” which can be heard on several online stations including Classic Hits Canada.

“perfect” by Finnish singer henri

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Bay City Rollers – Saturday Night
Four Seasons – December 1963 (Oh What A Night)
Leo Sayer – You Make Me Feel Like Dancing
Daryl Hall & John Oates – Rich Girl
ABBA – Dancing Queen

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

“Enchanté” by Lewis Thompson featuring Clementine Douglas

BILLCS Top30 FASTEST RISER

Atlanta dance producer Niko The Kid with vocalist MAYLYN and “Only One” (27-17)

#BILLCSTop30 #665 – May 8/23

It likely only happens once, maybe twice a year, but the new chart features SIX new entries, as some older ones depart. Don’t forget, since the chart is bi-weekly, that the amount of weeks that a song is on the chart is actually double what is listed on the chart itself, which is the column for chart appearances. This chart reminds me of the early days of this chart in the 2000’s, when there were a lot of songs that came and went quickly. Over the years, I’ve found that the more staying power that a song has, the better it will be for it in the face of so many releases these days. As I’ve mentioned before, when I add a song to the chart, the intention is that it has potential to get to the Top 10, and if it doesn’t, well then there is just too much competition at the time. And I love all of the songs that I add to the chart, even though some do wear on me over time.

The top of the chart has settled down a bit but there are several vying for their shot at the top.

Lewis Thompson and Clementine Douglas, though, succeed for another chart as the brilliant 90’s flavoured house track “Enchanté” is on top for a second appearance.

Rising 5-2 is BTS member JIMIN’s song about being caught up in the wild night life, and that is the English version of “Like Crazy” (above). It’s a beautiful song with a fantastic vocal which I am still hoping radio will play, simply because it’s such a smash. You can check out the video for the original version of the song below.

“Amazing-Man”, the whimsical alternative pop song by Spain’s The Boy From The South, keeps climbing and moves up 7-4.

Dabin and Kai Wachi’s “Hollow”, with an alternately touching and ferocious vocal by Atlanta’s Lø Spirit, rises 6-5, and matches Dabin’s personal best, which was previously with Illenium and Lights with 2021’s “Hearts on Fire”.

Two songs join the Top 10. Rising NYC trance producer Greg Oakland climbs 12-9 with “Never Temporary” (above) featuring a vocal by co-writer Tara Louise. And Seattle’s Surf Mesa moves up 11-10 with “City of Love” (below) featuring the voice of co-writer Selah Sol.

EuroVision is Saturday May 13 and Sweden and a lot of fans worldwide will be rooting for a second win for Loreen with “Tattoo”, which moves up 19-14. Loreen won the contest for Sweden in 2012 with “Euphoria”.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is the riveting dance track “Only One” by Niko the Kid and MAYLYN, which soars 27-17.

The Highest of six debuts is the collaboration of NYC’s The Disco Fries with Miami’s Eche Palante with “Give Me Your Soul” at #24. It’s The Disco Fries’ 5th chart entry and is culled from their upcoming album Another World. They went to #1 in early 2021 with “Give It Back” with fellow producers GIIANTS and vocalist Allison Park.

Also not new to the chart but back for his 6th entry is British producer Jonas Blue and vocalist RANI with “Finally” at #25. This song takes the hook of Gusto’s “Disco’s Revenge” (which was in turn taken from a 70’s R&B track by Harvey Mason) and builds a new song around it that is just irresistible. Jonas Blue was last on the chart in early 2022 with “Don’t Wake Me Up” (#5) with Why Don’t We.

He’s been a frequent visitor to my blog over the years but L.A. based singer/songwriter Cobi makes his first chart appearance since 2016 with the gorgeous “Telepathic Powers” from his upcoming album Love In The Wildwood. Cobi has shifted he sound over the years to embrace bluesy guitar melodies more, and that’s something very few people are doing right now aside from say Steve Lacy and Lenny Kravitz and a few others. He’s just coming off of a tour in France where he opened for Imelda May. His Facebook page is full of live clips where you can get a read on what I’m talking about. Cobi was previously a member of the band Gentleman Hall, who reached the Top 10 on my chart twice in the early 2010’s.

Arriving as an indie solo artist on the chart for the first time is Canadian singer/songwriter Daniel Richter with “Forget You” at #27. Daniel was previously the lead singer of the band Eleven Past One, who reached the Top 10 on my chart with “There’s Nothing Wrong” in early 2015, but are best known for the radio hit “The World Is Ours”. While the lyrics of “Forget You” can be adapted to many different circumstances, if you want to find out the true inspiration of the song, check out Daniel’s socials.

At #28 is Welsh newcomer Ben Ellis with “Ed’s House”, which is a fun indie romp that uses the song title “Teenage Dirtbag” as a reference point in its catchy chorus.

And returning to the chart at #29 is L.A. dance production trio TELYKast with singer/songwriter Georgia Ku and “You Got Me”. TELYKast reached #1 on the chart in early 2022 with their massive national dance radio hit “Unbreakable”.

View the full BILLCS Top 30 right here! Click on the hyperlink on the song titles to hear the songs or watch the videos!

Listen to the BILLCS Top 30 Songs on Spotify! You can also follow me on Spotify at the following link: BILLCS Top 30 Songs.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

You can hear me and many of my blog choices on this growing list of online radio stations and features!

Radio GTA

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my new “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my “Retro Pick of the Week” plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

Addictive Energy

For other details about the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules have been updated.

FM 108

You can also listen to my “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – May 3/23 spotlighting songs by @DLMTmusic & #LuisTorres & @officialRico56 @Revelriesmusic @PurpleDiscoM & @Kungsmusic @Kastramusic & @SarahdeWarren

I’ve got nothing to add to this week’s Report other than to keep on checking out new music, because you never know what treasure you might find! And never let anyone tell you that there is no good new music to check out anymore – they’re just wrong.

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Among the other features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, which offers another selection of hits from the 1980’s. I’ll also take you back through 5-10-15-20 years of BILLCS Top 30 Top 5’s from 2003, 2008, 2013 and 2018!

The BILLCS New Music Report is a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me @billcs on Twitter @thebillcs on Instagram or @BILLCSMusicProjects on Facebook.

REMINDER: Click the photo above the artist’s name and song title to hear the song or watch the video.

SPOTLIGHTING

DLMT, LUIS TORRES, RICO 56, “Wildfire”

“Wildfire” is indeed one fiery deep house tracks that’s set to ignite clubs and festivals this summer. And it’s 100% Canadian, from my fellow Canucks, dance producers DLMT, Luis Torres and Rico 56. It’s a splendid collaboration with big beats and some fantastic synth sounds that resonate right through your body. Rico 56 is a new name to me, but DLMT recently got to #11 on the BILLCS Top 30 with “Goin’ Down”, and Luis Torres – who I saw play an impressive set in advance of a Tiesto show last summer in Las Vegas – is ex- of duo Dzeko & Torres, who I also saw play a memorable set back in the day. The uncredited vocal sounds a lot like Chris Martin of Coldplay which helps broaden the appeal of “Wildfire”. Maybe “Wildfire” will be remembered come Juno Awards (Canada’s Grammy-equivalent) time next year!

REVELRIES, “Down On You”

Frequent visitors to this blog, Emirati dance production duo Revelries are back with one of their best recent house tracks, “Down On You”. Post-break up songs often make the best kind of dance records, and “Down on You” postulates about troubled times ahead for the person in question who simply can’t handle what’s coming. The road-weary male vocal works well as a sympathetic narrator watching the inevitable unfold. Best of all, the riveting rhythm is perfect for blasting the car stereo when out for a late night drive. “Down on You” is another song that signals that summer is coming and is highly recommended to club DJ’s for the wee hours.

PURPLE DISCO MACHINE, KUNGS, “Substitution”

Veteran German dance producer Purple Disco Machine won the Grammy for best remixed recording of Lizzo’s “About Damn Time” last year, and forges ahead with the infectious “Substitution” in collaboration with French producer Kungs, whose 2016 worldwide smash “This Girl” is still played everywhere and who reached #2 on the BILLCS Top 30 in 2021 with “Never Going Home”. It’s an 80’s Eurodisco flavoured track featuring some fine bass synth, a zesty rhythm, and a supremely catchy chorus, along with a sly sample of Alphaville’s “Big In Japan”. Purple Disco Machine and Kungs definitely have chemistry with their production together and should plan on repeating it again soon.

KASTRA, SARAH DE WARREN, “Landslide”

New Jersey dance producer Kastra has been no stranger to the national dance music charts in recent years with songs like “U & Me” and “Wassup” (with Timmy Trumpet), as well with recent work with talent such as The Disco Fries and Borgeous. “Landslide” is a gentle melodic house gem about trying to save a relationship from crumbling apart, co-written with singer Sarah de Warren, who has also worked with Paul Oakenfold, Gareth Emery and Tritonal. The song goes down really easy thanks to a wonderful vocal and a memorable melody, making it tailor-made for national dance radio and for club DJ’s who want to add some sparkle to their sets.

FEATURING

FRED AGAIN.., THE STREETS, DERMOT KENNEDY, “Mike (desert island duvet)”

British producer Fred Again.. is always full of surprises, and his latest single “Mike (desert island duvet)” is kind of disjointed but is entirely brought together by the light deep house melody which contains some drum ‘n bass elements. I like to think of this song as a tribute to British alternative rock group The Streets, who had their time in the sun in the UK in the 2000’s and didn’t start to release music again until recently. The spoken word interludes by The Streets’ Mike Skinner give the song some authenticity, though I really can’t connect with what he’s talking about. Fred Again.. has lifted Dermot Kennedy’s vocal from his own “Berwyn (all that I got is you)” from his Actual Life 3 (January 1 – September 9 2022) album and its affecting quality works in contrast to what else is going on. Fred Again..’s new album Secret Life is out on Friday May 5.

NIKITA, THE WICKED, “don’t look”

Nikita, The Wicked is a 24 year old San Francisco-based producer whose unconventional approach manages to successfully combine melodic house with future bass rhythms and elements. “don’t look” is full of bright synths while creating a bouncy rhythm with unexpected pauses. The uncredited female vocal also acts as an instrument, singing lyrics that really don’t have connection with each other. “don’t look” comes from Nikita’s four track EP called not me, the internet. He’s a producer who has an identity on Tik Tok which now needs to spread over the rest of social media where progressive-minded dance music enthusiasts can embrace his songs.

GABE JAMES, “College”

It’s nice to hear new music from 21 year old Gabe James, whose impressive song “Gracie” captivated me at the beginning of last year and ended up reaching #13 on the BILLCS Top 30. “College” is an entertaining romp in which the protagonist knows better to stay away from a gal he’s attracted to because of all of the crazy things that she does to people. It’s a kiss off to our young and foolish years, leaving them behind and perhaps finding something more at “College”. Gabe’s playful vocal and the song’s cheery production aren’t taking things too seriously, though there’s clearly some happy truths underneath that fun exterior.

REYA, “kinda like it”

London-based Norwegian singer/songwriter of Chilean heritage, Reya, follows up the sultry “attention” with “kinda like it”. The song is an ode to taking back control when you become disrespected for too long. It puts the protagonist of the song in the position where she’s enjoying that power, and the song as a result has a mischievous wink-wink kind of unexpectedly playful tone. As with “attention”, Reya also sings a verse or two in Spanish, and there’s plenty to listen to in “kinda like it” even in its short 2:15 duration.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 20 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

Audien & Codeko with J.T. Roach with “Antidote”

“BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S PICK OF THE WEEK

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

L.A. quintet Grouplove returns with “Hello”

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Hunter J. Wilbur is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype” and “Addictive Energy” which can be heard on several online stations including Classic Hits Canada.

Matchbox Twenty is back with “Wild Dogs (Running in a Slow Dream)”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Robert John – Sad Eyes
Olivia Newton-John – Magic
Diana Ross – Upside Down
Kenny Rogers – Lady
Air Supply – The One That You Love

THE BILLCS TOP 30 – 5-10-15-20…

The Top 5 songs from the BILLCS Top 30 5, 10, 15, and 20 years ago…

2018

01 SMILE Dyrisk featuring Nik Ernst

02 SICK BOY The Chainsmokers

03 I WANT YOU Robotaki & Manila Killa featuring Matthew John Kurz

04 17 MK

05 SATISFY Mercer featuring Ron Carroll

2013

01 MAP Frankmusik

02 LIFTED Kwik Fiks & Bongiovanni

03 SAIL INTO THE SUN Gentlemen Hall

04 CAPTAIN Frankmusik

05 MY GIRL Willy Moon

2008

01 MERCY Duffy

02 AMERICAN BOY Estelle featuring Kanye West

03 YOU WANT ME DON’T YOU Nelson Clemente

04 4 MINUTES Madonna & Justin Timberlake featuring Timbaland

05 NO AIR Jordin Sparks featuring Chris Brown

2003

01 THE REMEDY (I WON’T WORRY) Jason Mraz

02 JUST THE WAY I’M FEELING Feeder

03 ROCK YOUR BODY Justin Timberlake

04 AT THE END iio

05 GIVE YOU LOVE Original 3

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – April 26/23 spotlighting songs by @Matoma & @JamesDroll @GreysonChance @Jesse_Clegg @DiamondCafe01 @GRAYTheBandd

I enjoy weeks like this, where there is an abundance of fine music that will carry me over to next week’s Report, however when it comes to whittling choices down for my next chart, that’s an entirely different story. Just call it new music blogger problems 😛 So there are five songs spotlighted in this Report instead of the usual four.

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Among the other features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, which this week runs the gamut through the 1980’s. In case you missed it, you’ll find out what’s #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 and the Fastest Riser on my chart too.

The BILLCS New Music Report is a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me @billcs on Twitter @thebillcs on Instagram or @BILLCSMusicProjects on Facebook.

REMINDER: Click the photo above the artist’s name and song title to hear the song or watch the video.

SPOTLIGHTING

MATOMA, JAMES DROLL, “Won’t Follow You Home”

“Won’t Follow You Home” is one of Matoma’s more unconventional and dramatic productions, and I’m absolutely loving it as a new favourite! After releasing several well-received but more pop-oriented tracks in 2021-22, Matoma has come full circle and returned to making the most amazing dance music of his career. It started with “The Power” earlier this year (reaching #3 on the BILLCS Top 30), which was recently followed up with “Deeper” (featuring H. Kenneth). “Home” finds Matoma working with another American vocalist, Nashville-based, Ohio-born James Droll, who has recorded not only solo but with folks like Justin Caruso, Trove, and even a pre-“ABCDEFU” Gayle. And James delivers one of the most unique, memorable vocals I’ve heard this year, acting as a guide to the subject of the song to provide sage advice on how to keep moving forward.

GREYSON CHANCE, “Sex & Other Drugs”

“Sex & Other Drugs” is a new addition to Greyson Chance’s album Palladium in its recently released deluxe edition, which also features another new song “Herringbone”. I can only perceive how writing a song like “Sex & Other Drugs” must have been. It, like other songs in Palladium, are taken from a particularly rough patch in Greyson’s life from which he has moved on. It’s clearly about a relationship whose ultimate dependance boiled down to the need for sex and drugs, and from which it must have been tough to leave and put behind him. Like my favourites on Palladium which have graced the BILLCS Top 30 like “Black Mascara” and “My Dying Spirit” (which both reached #2), “Sex & Other Drugs” overflows with honesty and catharsis, making it both poignant and enthralling.

JESSE CLEGG, “Called To Hear Your Voice”

South African pop singer Jesse Clegg has created a thoughtful and comforting song in “Called to Hear Your Voice” that could only have come about as a result of significant loss. Of course, Jesse is the son of the late and legendary Johnny Clegg, who I was fortunate to see perform three times in concert, but Jesse also lost his wife shortly after his father’s passing. So if you peel away the vibrant melody, “Called to Hear Your Voice” is a song about healing and making sure that you live in the moment with those close to you. But when you put it all together and take the song in broad strokes, “Voice” is an uplifting release that celebrates life and love. Jesse has had several hits in South Africa and the rest of the world needs to discover “Voice”.

DIAMOND CAFE, “Body Weak”

I’ve been writing on and off over the years about Diamond Cafe, otherwise known as British Columbia singer/songwriter/producer Tristan Thompson. His latest release, “Body Weak”, is easily one of his best to date. It fully embraces his Prince/Michael Jackson/George Michael influences that can be heard on just about every one of his songs, but “Body Weak” veers into a danceable, funky, sensual territory that’s quite impressive and positively irresistible. At times it reminds me of some of Teena Marie’s records, with the bass sounds highly reminiscent of Motown’s best work of the early 80’s, with splashes of the Jam & Lewis style that made Janet Jackson’s Control and Rhythm Nation successful. “Body Weak” should not be missed and R&B-friendly radio stations would be wise to find a place for it on their playlists.

GRAYTheBand, “All Done”

A new name to get to know on the Canadian music scene is Edmonton’s Gray Ford, who leads an alternative neo-soul R&B collective called GRAYTheBand. I use “collective” because its band members are a cast of rotating artists who fit into Gray’s vision. “All Done” is the title track from a forthcoming album, and it’s an introduction to GRAYTheBand that packs a wallop and which you will find yourself listening to over and over. While its arrangement and melody recall a piano and percussion-led R&B ballad that you’d envision hearing at a jazz club, the song and the vocal offer a juxtaposition. “All Done” is about closing the door on a difficult chapter in one’s life. And while Gray’s vocal instills the emotion and uncertainty about closing that door, it also, through sheer dynamics and power, elicits hope, particularly through the surprising finale. “All Done” is a must for alternative and college radio stations, and for fans of songs that aren’t always easy to listen to, but offer many rewards in the end.

FEATURING

MARTIN JENSEN, KAREN HARDING, “Worship You”

“Worship You” features the intriguing pairing of Danish producer Martin Jensen – known throughout Europe for his 2017 smash “Solo Dance”, and for working with other artists like Ed Sheeran, Katy Perry, and James Arthur – and the reigning British queen of house music, Karen Harding. The results are nothing short of splendid featuring one of Karen’s most compelling vocals. The hook will remind you – probably deliberately – of Acraze’s “Do It To It”. But all in all “Worship You” is spiffy deep house that deserves play at clubs and dance music radio through the spring and summer months.

M. BYRD, “Only A Feeling”

German singer/songwriter M. Byrd consistently produces high quality music, which is culminating in the release of his Nettwerk Records album The Seed this coming June. “Only A Feeling” finds him in fine voice singing authentic lyrics set to a brisk melody. He clearly has a loyal following as he’s embarking on a European tour which will see him perform in the UK, France, and Amsterdam, among others, this year. Top notch songs like “Only A Feeling” need to attract the rest of the world, and I think a bigger promotion and social media campaign on behalf of team M. Byrd needs to happen so that perhaps he can perform outside of Europe and tap into other audiences in future.

MARLOW, “Over”

Essex, England rock quintet Marlow return with the encouraging and uplifting “Over”. Led by the mellifluous voice of Freddie Marlow, “Over” is about wanting something so badly – a relationship, or something else entirely – that you’re hoping the other person doesn’t let go or stop wanting as much as you. The lyrics want you to make the right decision for yourself and stand by it, but at the same time the protagonist doesn’t want “you to fall through my hands again”. The instrumentation is crisp, focusing on drums and bright synths to maintain the melody, which signal resilience and positivity when faced with a difficult decision. “Over” is culled from the upcoming EP Home, and we’ll be hearing a lot more of Marlow throughout the year.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 20 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

From her upcoming album Heavy Lifting, it’s Amanda Marshall with “I Hope She Cheats”, previously a Big Daddy pick of the week!

“BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S PICK OF THE WEEK

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

French electronic pop group Phoenix with American vocalist Clairo on “After Midnight”

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Hunter J. Wilbur is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype” and “Addictive Energy” which can be heard on several online stations including Classic Hits Canada.

Charlie Puth teams up with Dan + Shay for “That’s Not The Way This Works”

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

“Enchanté” by Lewis Thompson featuring Clementine Douglas

BILLCS Top30 FASTEST RISER

JIMIN’s gorgeous and emotional “Like Crazy” (English version) (22-5)

#BILLCSTop30 #664 – April 24/23

They say that Spring is a season of change, and the new edition of my chart certainly speaks to that. In fact, half of the Top 5 is replaced by songs on the rise, there’s a new #1, and four songs make their debuts.

Classic-90’s house peppers the new #1 song on the chart! UK producer Lewis Thompson and singer/songwriter Clementine Douglas grab the pole position with the divine “Enchanté”. Lewis has been to #2 before as part of Just Kiddin’ (“Good Things”, with Cedric Gervais, in 2019) and Clementine’s voice was heard on her co-write with Matoma earlier this year called “The Power”, which reached #3.

After being parked at #4, “I Go Dancing” by Toronto’s Frank Walker and UK singer Ella Henderson climbs to #2, making it one of several challengers for “Enchanté” in the coming weeks.

His album Mystical Magical Rhythmical Radical Ride is still on the way, but Jason Mraz’s funky ‘n fun “I Feel Like Dancing” rises 5-3.

The Fastest Riser on the chart, whether or not radio ever embraces it, is JIMIN’s gorgeous English language version of “Like Crazy”, from his album Hope, which soars 22-5 with all eyes on #1. Not being played on radio is just an epic fail by program directors to embrace a song that to me has “hit” written all over it.

Also moving up the chart briskly is Barcelona’s The Boy From The South’s first chart entry “Amazing-Man”, which bolts 13-7.

N i G H T S’ “Boyband” was actually recorded back in 2018, which was the last time they appeared in the Top 10 too with “Eyes”. “Boyband” moves up comfortably 12-8.

Kx5 (Kaskade and Deadmau5) and Sofi Tukker rise 11-9 with “Sacrifice”. It’s Sofi Tukker’s 5th visit to the Top 10, while for veterans Kaskade and Deadmau5 it’s their first.

Toronto duo Boy Aries climb 15-10 with “Drive”. Singer Jordan Radics was previously singer with the group BLAJK which got to #6 in 2017 with “Lethal”.

Eyeing the Top 10 in two weeks are the forlorn pop/dance track “City of Love” (above) by Seattle producer Surf Mesa with singer Selah Sol (18-11), and the spicy trance of “Never Temporary” (below) by NYC producer Greg Oakland with singer Tara Louise (19-12).

James Bay’s album track “Brilliant Still” from his third album Leap rises 24-16, and it’s definitely a song you need to check out.

As we get closer to the EuroVision contest, Loreen’s “Tattoo”, Sweden’s entry, rises 27-19.

Jay Bird’s deep house party track “All Night Long” wastes no time with lift off, climbing 29-22.

Toronto’s Amanda Marshall makes a big splash onto my chart for the first time with “I Hope She Cheats”, her new single from her upcoming album Heavy Lifting, as the Highest Debut at #25.

Also making their debuts on the chart are Connecticut dance producer Audien and British producer Codeko with their collaboration “Antidote” at #26. The song features prominent vocalist and songwriter J.T. Roach, and is already charting at dance radio nation-wide.

Although he’s had many releases since, Atlanta’s Niko The Kid returns to the chart as a lead artist with vocalist/songwriter MAYLYN on “Only One” at #27. Niko was previously featured on one of his first releases, DATABOY’s “When It Rains, It Pours”, which peaked at #7 in 2015.

Italy’s DJ Mirko B also returns to the chart for the first time since 2019 with his third entry, the intense dark house of “Sun Freezes Cold”, at #28. His last entry, “Even In Confusion” with producer Eric Zava and vocalist Daniel Gorash, reached #10.

View the full BILLCS Top 30 right here! Click on the hyperlink on the song titles to hear the songs or watch the videos!

Listen to the BILLCS Top 30 Songs on Spotify! You can also follow me on Spotify at the following link: BILLCS Top 30 Songs.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

You can hear me and many of my blog choices on this growing list of online radio stations and features!

Radio GTA

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my new “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my “Retro Pick of the Week” plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

Addictive Energy

For other details about the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules have been updated.

FM 108

You can also listen to my “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – April 19/23 spotlighting songs by @JonasBlue & RANI, Sophia Habib & The Cloud Orchestra, @Meduzamusic & @PoppyBask @FrancescoYates

On the topic of AI (artificial intelligence) in the music industry…

In the coming weeks, there will be a lot of discussion in the music industry about AI and how it is currently being used. Right now there are no boundaries, so some producers are using it as an opportunity to flood streaming platforms with prefab releases by fake artists in their attempts to make big bucks.

I think this will soon all come crashing down, as platforms add in checks and balances. I do wonder about You Tube, because this clearly doesn’t violate their current policies and could soon affect them greater than they imagined. I think if AI is used properly and some governance is established, then it will undoubtedly be amazingly useful. But to take advantage of it like a new toy is not what the better-than-average music listener wants or needs.

I urge the music industry and all of the platforms to move swiftly with those checks and balances, and leave the toying around to those bedroom producers that have the time for it. Humans for the win!

*********************

Among the other features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, which this week runs the gamut through the 1980’s. And you’ll also see what songs debuted on the BILLCS Top 30 from 2018 to 2022 too!

The BILLCS New Music Report is a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me @billcs on Twitter @thebillcs on Instagram or @BILLCSMusicProjects on Facebook.

REMINDER: Click the photo above the artist’s name and song title to hear the song or watch the video.

SPOTLIGHTING

JONAS BLUE, RANI, “Finally”

As is becoming more frequent these days, “Finally” is a new original by UK dance producer Jonas Blue that is written around a familiar song excerpt from the past. The original source is from American singer Harvey Mason’s 1979 R&B/dance release “Groovin’ You”, but the dance community and most of the pop world will recognize it as the hook from Gusto’s 1996 smash – except in the US – “Disco’s Revenge”. But as is the case with exceptional production, that hook is just the icing on the cake as the original song beautifully sung by Rani can easily stand on its own. “Finally” should have no problem finding its way up the national dance radio charts and getting it on in clubs for the rest of the year.

SOPHIA HABIB, THE CLOUD ORCHESTRA, “Lifeline” (live)

If you enjoy your contemporary electronic pop mixed with a real orchestra, then lend your ears to Sophia Habib’s original song “Lifeline”. Yes, this is a live recording which you can witness in its video above, and you know when a singer sounds this good that she can pretty well write her own ticket for whatever kind of record she wants to record. Sophia is a Netherlands-based vocalist who studied at the Rotterdam Conservatory of Music. Her off-the-floor vocal here is pristine, and the first song to pop into my head for a comparison was Beyoncé’s “Dangerously In Love” and her ballads from that era. Then along came thoughts of Kelly Clarkson, Tori Kelly and others who have a lot of power in their voices, but can easily switch to softer and sometimes suspenseful singing. “Lifeline” is an unapologetic story about looking for love and not needing anyone’s approval. Its candor is very inviting and Sophia Habib clearly has much more to offer.

MEDUZA, POPPY BASKCOMB, “Upside Down”

Italy’s Grammy-nominated production trio Meduza steers away from their pop-house revelations for “Upside Down” in partnership with UK singer/songwriter Poppy Baskcomb, who has recently worked with Tiësto, Joel Corry, and Jess Bays among others. “Upside Down” is vibrant and fresh techno-house whose sharp and infectious synths will vibrate right through you. Poppy’s vocal basks in the confusion of the moment, and it will all work together marvelously late at night under the bright dance floor lights.

FRANCESCO YATES, “Thunderbomb”

With guitar ablaze again after the immensely enjoyable “Jimi”, one of my 10 faves of 2022, Toronto’s uber-talented Francesco Yates returns with another edgier song than previous releases, the appropriately and ferociously titled “Thunderbomb”. This new one will certainly sound fab in concert as Francesco rips through his impressive guitar work, and fans who enjoy anyone from The Jonas Brothers through to Bryan Adams will get a kick out of it. It’s obviously inspired by the likes of Prince, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin and of course Mr. Hendrix, so be sure to crank “Thunderbomb” up to 11.

FEATURING

ALOK, SOLARDO, “Over Again”

Following up his recent high-powered collaboration with James Arthur, “Work With My Love”, Brazil’s Alok continues with a subtler house track, “Over Again”, in collaboration with UK producers Solardo, fresh off of their fan favourite from last year with Tiēsto, “I Can’t Wait”. Although “Over Again” isn’t a long song, I enjoy how it takes its time to get where it needs to go. The uncredited male vocal is supremely showcased in the first part of the song to help momentum build, and in the second part, it provides a much darker edge to “Over Again” which will simply slay club goers in the middle of a set.

BENJAMIN RUSSELL, “Frontier”

Because the video is available, you’re getting an advance taste of Montreal multi-talent Benjamin Russell’s new album Frontier, due on April 26 in the form of the title track. Frontier follows up his first release of 2023, Something In F Minor with fellow producer and musician Rob Stuart. And while electronics form the backdrop of “Frontier”, its fanciful story-telling vocal style will appeal to folk music fans too. “Frontier” actually revisits a song Benjamin released in 1996, and what’s appealing lyrically is the wonder in the protagonist’s “quest” for friendship and love. “Frontier” is ultimately a song that makes you feel good about yourself, and that your hopes, dreams and visions should not be ignored, particularly if eventually you wish to act on them.

MARK LEE, “Love To Be Loved”

Formerly of the Grammy Award winning band Third Day, Georgia’s Mark Lee is back with a gentle new original called “Love To Be Loved”, which might give you all kinds of misplaced déjà vu. I say “misplaced” because if it was released in the early 1980’s, the song would be keeping some great company in similar sounding smashes of the day by the likes of Dan Fogelberg, Paul Davis, or Christopher Cross. And that’s not a bad thing at all because Mark recovers a somewhat lost but successful pop sound and updates it in a solid new song. You’ll appreciate the genuine lyrics in “Love To Be Loved” about never ending love which fit like a glove over a chord progression which Mark says was waiting years for the right lyric.

K3SS, SALLY OH, “Please Don’t Lie”

“Please Don’t Lie” is an atmospheric, often taut mix of deep house and trance, which is the latest release for up-and-coming San Diego producer K3SS. American-Asian singer Sally Oh provides a versatile vocal that starts as a simple request of the title words, but as the song develops the tone becomes more directive – as in “if you keep lying, you’ll lose me”. The arrangement is full of stop and go that totally works, and deep house fans will be mighty happy with all of the big bassy beats.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 20 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

Melodifestivalen winner and EuroVision entry “Tattoo” by Sweden’s Loreen

“BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S PICK OF THE WEEK

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

Scooby-Doo fans rejoice! San Diego alternative performer Scoobert Doobert with “Gonna Go To Japan”

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Hunter J. Wilbur is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype” and “Addictive Energy” which can be heard on several online stations including Classic Hits Canada.

20 year old Australian-Thai singer/songwriter Gabe Watkins with “choose u everytime”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

George Harrison – I Got My Mind Set On You
Pet Shop Boys – Domino Dancing
The Police – Don’t Stand So Close To Me
Glass Tiger – Someday
Duran Duran – The Reflex

BILLCS TOP 30 CHART DEBUTS 2018-2022

2022:

27 PUNCHING BAG Victor Perry

28 don’t you wanna know Syence featuring Britt Lari

2021:

23 LEAVE THE DOOR OPEN Silk Sonic

25 I WANT LOVE (Cat Dealers remix) Gryffin

27 MOON Chris Blue

2020:

16 ALL ON YOU Super Duper

24 SO READY (The Brothers Macklovitch remix) Raphael Saddiq

26 BUMMED Chet Porter & Alison Wonderland

2019:

25 RECOGNISE Lost Frequencies featuring Flynn

26 KISS AND TELL Mokita

27 WEEKEND Saxity

28 WILD Final DJs featuring Bright Light Bright Light

2018:

22 BUTTERSCOTCH Robotaki featuring Jamie Fine & FALCXNE

25 BETTER WITH YOU Jesse McCartney

26 LOST IN JAPAN Shawn Mendes

27 BE LIKE YOU Whethan featuring Broods

28 HURT YOU The Weeknd featuring Gesaffelstein

29 CAUTIOUS (Famba remix) Tyler Shaw