BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

While I might be immersing myself more in Canadian music than in the recent past through my current online radio show The MAPL Tapes, 2026 is turning out to be a great year for Canadian music if you’re in discovery mode. I’m certainly writing about more Canadian talent this year, but my blog and the radio show have more of a chicken and egg relationship. Although I’m coming off of two “all request” shows of favourites, Canadian songs new and old have a fight each week for several remaining song spots to fill an hour, once I’ve featured “Canada’s Gold” (songs 30 years old or less) and “Canada’s Pop Music Heritage” (songs more than 30 years old). In any event, I’m thrilled to be bringing you a unique mix every week which premieres Mondays at 6pm ET on its home base, Halton Hills Radio Online.

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 “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  “The Musicman” James Rogers’ Classic Five this week picks up where last week’s choices left off, in early 1971. Please do peruse the playlist for “All Request Hour #2” featuring songs by featured artist Rush. If you missed them on Monday, you’ll also find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the the BILLCS Top 30.

Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.

DIAMOND CAFE, “Gon’Be”

About the artist: Diamond Café is a 28 year old pop/soul singer and multi-instrumentalist from Victoria, B.C. who I’ve written about several times over the last 10 years, long before he signed a major label deal with Warner Music Canada in 2024.

About the record: “Gon’Be” is a gripping, R&B ballad that continues to take vocal and stylistic cues from legends like Prince and George Michael, and this particular song exudes a timeless quality about it. He has written and produced the song entirely, and it’s his third single release of 2026, following his acclaimed 2025 EP Fantasy Real. What I’ve always enjoyed about his music is that he expresses his innate talents in an authentic way, which also translates into live performances. Diamond Café may not be all over the radio with his special blend of pop and soul, but you can expect him to be around a long, long time with a brand that will always have an audience. “Gon’Be” is destined to become a favourite in his repertoire.

Other comments: In 2025, Diamond Café benefitted from touring with Teddy Swims throughout North America, as well as solo in Europe and the UK.

KENTUCKY, “In Kingston Tonight”

About the artist: Kentucky is the artist name for Jordan Holman, a DIY indie talent who hails from outside of Ottawa, Ontario. He has released two albums to date, Second Chance Music and Wordless Love, an instumental album, after a near fatal battle with drugs gave him a new lease on life. His songs a mix of rock, folk and blues.

About the record: “In Kingston Tonight” is a poignant record that is especially touching for fans of The Tragically Hip, recapturing the night of August 20, 2016, when The Tragically Hip played their final show in Kingston and an entire nation gathered around screens and in public squares to witness it together. Not only is the song a tribute to The Hip, but it’s an emotional statement about Canadian unity. You’ll not only think of The Hip while listening, but influential and inspiring talent like Neil Young, Gordon Lightfoot and Leonard Cohen. The song is also gritty and rough around the edges, just the way we Canadians like many things.

Other comments: It’s too bad Canadian radio stations can’t look past major label branding because “In Kingston Tonight” deserves to be heard nation-wide.

BEATMARTHz, “Layla” (extended version)

About the artist: BeatmartHz is Italian dance producer Martino Tatalo, about some of whose songs I have written about during the last decade.

About the record: “Layla” – which has nothing to do with the Derek & The Dominoes classic – is an infectious, tribal sounding Afrohouse track that is perfect for any summery dance playlists you might have on the go. It’s essentially an instrumental with a wordless female vocal, but its rhythmic arrangement which fuses lush synths with a variety of percussive sounds just might be the tonic that dance music fans need, a few steps away from pop-flavoured quasi-remakes or big festival anthems. It’s an ideal song with which to imagine a beach party as the sun begins to set which keeps the unbridled crowd dancing.

Other comments: The extended version is just under 3 minutes long, so be sure to immerse yourself in this version rather than the too-brief radio edit.

ANIQO, “The Turn”

About the artist: Anita Goß, otherwise known as ANIQO, is a German singer/songwriter who has released a number of adventures alternative pop songs which I have written about, most recently in 2025 with “The Call”. Her songs are almost always accompanied by thought-provoking videos, which show off Anita’s talent as a film-maker.

About the record: “The Turn”, from ANIQO’s forthcoming second album, is about making the right choices for you, even if it means taking risks and working your way through fear. Here ANIQO’S vocal reminds me a lot of Sinéad O’Connor, and conveys the kind of determination you would find in her songs as well. Musically, the song is alternately lush and robust, with sweeping strings and handsome guitar work standing out. “The Turn” is produced and arranged by Bill Ryder-Jones, with impressive guitar work by Torsten Füchsel. It’s another unique and progressive effort from ANIQO.

Other comments: Be sure to check out the video for “The Turn” at the link that follows. It was shot in the Atlantic off the coast of Portugal, and visualizes the singer on a sailboat and headed to places unknown with wild abandon and delight. Video: The Turn

ABBIDANO, “More for Me”

About the artist: Abbidano is the project of two Canadian teens of Sicilian heritage, who are vocalist, producer, co-writer and multi-instrumentalist Leo Abbinante, and co-writer and creative force Nic Sudano. The duo released their self-titled EP in June 2025.

About the record: With their reverence for the classic rock sounds from the 1970’s to the 1990’s, and their professional sensibilities, you’d never know Abbidano are teenagers by listening to songs like “More for Me”. Their grasp on what they want to achieve is both natural and intentional. “More for Me” takes its cues musically and vocally from arena-rock artists like Bon Jovi, Triumph, Journey, and Bryan Adams. It features some terrific guitar work that is built around a key hook in the song. It follows up the equally fine and inspiring “Give Me a Reason” from earlier this year, and begs to be played in concert.

Other comments: “More for Me” is co-produced with Nic’s father, veteran producer and musician Vito Sudano, at his facility Echo Studios.

FRANKIE JUNE, “make it through june”

About the artist: Frankie June is the artist name for Indiana-raised, L.A.-based multi-talent Frankie J. Mitchell, who has divided her formative years between music and film. She is university-trained in vocal performance, and studied acting at Chicago’s Gately Poole Conservatory. She has appeared in the Netflix limited series “American Primeval” and the 2025 Bollywood film “Banjara”.

About the record: “make it through june” fuses pop, jazz and folk styles into a dreamy-sounding, uplifting release which suggests that you finish up matters that are pressing, and then pack up your troubles and move on to something that’s important for you. Frankie has a carefree but carefully honed voice, which takes cues from old Hollywood musicals and their stars, like Julie Andrews and Judy Garland, but absorbs influences of other contemporary artists like Laufey and Olivia Dean. It all gels together nicely, standing distinctly and apart from other pop songs which are on the lighter side of the spectrum.

Other comments: Frankie often sings live on Tik Tok for her growing online community, which she is creating as a safe space.

YASMINA CHERELLE, “Liberate Me”

About the artist: Yasmina Cherelle is an Irish pop singer/songwriter who has been acclaimed in the UK for her live performances with a band. She is also an actor and dancer, and has previously worked with such artists as Drake and The Stereophonics.

About the record: From what I can tell, “Liberate Me” is Yasmina Cherelle’s debut single, and with it she is batting .1000 out of the gate to get it on your radar. It’s a positive and motivating song about “returning to your own power and stepping into a new chapter with clarity and confidence.” Rediscovering your own strength through the healing process after a difficult time in your life is so important, and music is a great vessel through which it can be expressed and reach many others. She’s got a beautiful voice through which to convey her message, and her engaging tone actually forms one of the hooks of the song. “Liberate Me” is produced by Grammy nominee Wayne Wilkins, who is noted for his work with Beyoncé. 

Other comments: Yasmina says,  “I want people to feel seen, heard and inspired“.

NYTE, “Human Nature”

About the artist: NYTE is Italy-born DIY talent Antonio Capodivento.

About the record: “Human Nature” is a seductive, bass-synth-driven, down-tempo original electronic track that features a charismatic and passionate performance by NYTE. It’s the kind of song that you hear in a club late at night and wonder where it came from. NYTE has only released two singles to date but “Human Nature” shows that there are lots of possibilities ahead.

Other comments: “Human Nature” is one of those small happy online discoveries that turn up once in a while, so I hope we’ll hear more from NYTE.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week  is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world.

Will Swinton has another winner with “Hate My Guts”

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that currently airs on The Musicman James Rogers’ “The 3D Variety Show” (Tuesdays between 7 and 8pm ET) and KPHR Kat Power Radio (Tuesdays at 12:25 pm ET).

It’s classic garage rock from 1966, “96 Tears” by Question Mark & The Mysterians

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner and program director of online station Halton Hills Radio Online.

It’s “Delicate” by New Jersey artist Bike Routes featuring Jake Clemons, saxophonist for Bruce Springsteen and nephew of Clarence Clemons

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK 

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, including 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.

Toronto’s Frank Walker is another dance producer wrapped up in the trendy country/EDM mix on “Remember Us” with Dustin Lynch

“THE MUSICMAN”JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show  (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays).  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. Note: The 3D Variety Show is on vacation and returns on August 4.

George Harrison – Isn’t It A Pity
Neil Diamond – Do It
Redeye – Games (You Tube link)
Chairmen Of The Board – Pay It To The Piper
Liz Damon’s Orient Express – 1900 Yesterday

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Conan Gray gets his 5th chart-topper with “Door”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

It’s “My Body Isn’t Ready” by Sombr (23-7)

There is so much music sitting in record company vaults and on artists’ and producers’ computers, that one wonders if and when some of it may see the light of day. I know many artists have pride and sometimes don’t want to release something that they themselves can no longer appreciate. But these days music is all about fandom, so I say let us have it at some point, warts and all, swallow that pride, and enjoy our undying appreciation for it.

The chart this week has a log-jam in the teens, but I expect it to shake loose in two weeks.

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 all-Canadian The MAPL Tapes, and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce The MAPL Tapes and 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded. The MAPL Tapes, 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.

I’m soooo glad that a deluxe edition of Conan Gray’s Wishbone album was released, because we got a real gem that otherwise would have gathered dust in “Door”. As well, all of the songs offered some closure to the theme of the album. That makes it an amazing 5 #1’s on the chart for Conan! The other four: “Yours”, “Never Ending Song”, “Vodka Cranberry” and “Eleven Eleven”.

Alexander Stewart’s “Temporary” charges into the Top 10, up 12-5 – will another chart-topper be in store for him? It’s his 6th Top 10 entry.

Sombr gets two back-to-back songs in the Top 10, as “Potential” (above) climbs 8-6 and “My Body Isn’t Ready” (below) is the Fastest Riser, soaring 23-7, and also looking like a future #1. This marks 7 consecutive Top 10’s for Sombr – that’s his entire chart history in the span of just over a year!!

The third newcomer to the Top 10 is the bubbly but edgy “Charlotte” by Johnny Orlando, up 11-9 from his latest album Songs for Young Lovers. I’m so glad to hear Johnny recording what he wants now that he is no longer signed to a major label (though his new one is distributed ironically through a label owned by his former label).

Though it seems the unlikeliest of collaborations, “Repeat It” by Martin Garrix and Ed Sheeran looks to be headed into the Top 10 as it climbs 18-13.

Nick Fiorucci and Joée’s brilliant all-Canadian redo of When in Rome’s 80’s classic “The Promise” jumps 25-20 this week.

“Just Play the Music” by Canadian singer/songwriter Kinga and Swedish production legend StoneBridge is also off to a fine start, climbing 28-22.

The Highest Debut of three belongs to transplanted New Zealander Will Swinton, as his thoughtful but direct “Hate My Guts” arrives at #26. It immediately follows Will’s first #1 on the chart, “Better Off”, which departs the chart after the maximum 10 appearances (20 weeks). And, yes “Hate My Guts” has the potential to follow “Better Off” to the top, so keep your eyes on it amid strong competition!  It’s Will’s fifth chart entry.

Next at #27 is a heavy-hitting dance collaboration. Sonny Fodera and Hayla bow with “Only Thing That Matters”, which joins Hayla’s solo release “Heal” (#8) on the chart. It’s culled from Sonny’s new album, can we do it all again?, which also serves as a compilation for Sonny’s singles released over the past few years. “Only Thing” is Sonny’s 4th entry, and two of those have reached #1. For Hayla, it’s her 7th entry, and 4 have been chart-toppers.

And at #29 is the first entry for 21 year old Toronto indie talent Siobhan Bodrug with “Monster”. Rarely are there such strong hooks which are entirely because of the vocal performance, and this one’s got one! Siobhan (pronounced “Shi-von”) is performing a lot this year in Canada, so watch out for a show near you. 

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Halton Hills Radio Online

The MAPL Tapes offers the best of Canadian music past and present, and can be heard Mondays at 6pm EST as well as on six other stations between Monday and Sunday.

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 New Music Pick of the Week is played both days at 10pm ET, and airs several times during the week on other stations. You can view its schedule by clicking at the following link: Schedule. 

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada 

Note that The 3D Variety Show is on vacation after its July 14 show, and will be back on August 4.

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. 

KPHR Kat Power Radio

The Retro Pick of the Week also airs on at 12:25 pm ET on Tuesdays on KPHR.

Lake Online Radio

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 now 20 online radio shows deep with my all-Canadian hour, The MAPL Tapes, with the latest being “all request hours”. It’s also given me time to think about the format of the show, which is intended to focus on new music while staying true to Canada’s past, and to continue to showcase familiar and not-so-familiar songs new and old. And since I’ve been following them closely through Mediabase, my biggest beef is that, like a naïve teenage me, I began the show wholeheartedly supporting the Canadian pop radio charts. That was a mistake.

The playlists for Canadian pop radio stations are in their own vacuum.

On The MAPL Tapes, I have already played 80% of the Canadian songs on the pop charts, some of them twice, in 60 minutes that intends to cover a lot of ground. Canadian radio plays less than 20 Canadian hits to any significant extent in any of the pop formats. The stations are usually owned by Bell Media or Corus Entertainment – you can instantly tell on the Mediabase charts when a chain adds or drops a Canadian song when they plunge down a chart – and they have been focused on the same four hits for the past two months!! Most of the rest of Canadian songs get less than 200 spins a week across formats, and the top hits are all major label signed or distributed. So if you’re an indie pop/rock/alternative Canadian performer, DO NOT invest in a radio “go-between” to promote your single, because it’s not going to get airplay. And that’s a real tragedy that there is so little support for Canadian independent music at terrestrial radio. I cannot sit back and support charts that move like watching paint peel in terms of so-called “support” for Canadian artists.

So to continue to rally for independent music in Canada, my “Pop Charts” segment on The MAPL Tapes is no more effective with show #22, and instead the remaining song spaces I have outside of songs in the “Canada’s Gold” and “Canada’s Pop Music Heritage” segments will be a mix of new and old, whether on the pop charts (achievements which I am still happy to mention, for the benefit of the artist and their fans), major label releases or not.

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my new music and retro picks of the week (for last week and this week, since there was no Report last week) along with a record of the week from “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  “The Musicman” James Rogers’s Classic Five is a fab mix of songs from that great year for pop music, 1970. Please do peruse the playlists for shows 19 and 20 of my all-Canadian hour, The MAPL Tapes, featuring songs by Alexander Stewart (show #19) and the all-request hour featuring songs by The Spoons (show #20). If you missed them, you’ll also find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the latest edition of the BILLCS Top 30.

Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.

WILL SWINTON, “Hate My Guts”

About the artist: Will Swinton is the New Zealand-born, L.A. based singer/songwriter who I’ve been writing about a lot lately. He recently finished an Australia/New Zealand tour with his mentor and cheerleader, MGK. Will’s heart-wrenching song “Better Off” also recently became his first #1 on my chart, the BILLCS Top 30.

About the record: Will is on a roll with some fine, introspective songs. Like “Better Off”, the release of “Hate My Guts” came about as part of a poll to Will’s Instagram followers, where the song was among the favourites. The lyrics reflect something you don’t hear often in songs – the art of being selfless and moving on. “Better Off” focused on a romance where his partner would be better off with someone else. “Hate My Guts” is a post-relationship reflection, one that many of us have gone through where you wonder how what seemed like love turned abruptly into a full hate-on. Will’s affecting, gravelly tone continues to go down easy, and the performance will leave you immersed in his confusion knowing that the next step is to step away entirely from what has happened.

Other comments: Will embarks on a U.S. big cities tour that starts with Lollapalooza in Chicago on July 30 and ends in Brooklyn on August 26. Hopefully more to come later in the year!

JUDE YORK, “Almost Me, Almost You”

About the artist: Jude York is the Brisbane, Australia-born DIY talent who has developed a loyal social media following over the years which has resulted in enough popularity for him to tour small venues in Australia, the UK and Europe. I’ve written about him several times, with his breakout song being 2024’s “Monaco”, which also kicked off his record label deal with Spinnin’ Records.

About the record: Jude takes a break from dance-oriented releases for a delightful laidback song, “Almost Me, Almost You”. What has always drawn me to his music is his ability to sing beautifully for and with his audience, and not at them. His stories are inclusive and relatable, and this one is about being at the short end of the stick during a breakup, and not being able to let go just yet. The song takes us on an emotional journey, which sadly with life’s imperfections, does not have a happy ending, this time. 

Other comments:  Jude will be opening for Niall Horan on his “Dinner Party Live On Tour” in Australia in 2027.

MIKE DEMERO, BETTA LEMME, “Dance with the Sun (Olé Olé)”

About the artists: Mike Demero is a Quebec-based dance producer who quickly broke out through Tik Tok at the turn of the decade, and garnered support from some of the world’s biggest DJ’s (such as David Guetta and Kygo). He has had three Canadian radio hits thus far – “Nights Like This” (with Aloe Blacc), “Take Me Away (My Love)”, and most recently, the surprise Top 10 showing for “Calling” (with UK producer Dynoro and Dutch superstar producer Sam Feldt). Betta Lemme is a Quebec-born singer/songwriter whose debut release “Bambola” became a Top 40 gold record in Europe. She released two EP’s for a major dance music label, and co-wrote the early Sofi Tukker single “Awoo”.

About the record: I can see why Canadian pop radio stations have jumped on “Dance with the Sun (Olé Olé)” out of the box. It’s an exuberant, festive, Latin-flavoured song for the summer months. It’s a fine follow-up for “Calling” for Mike Demero because it’s absolutely nothing like it. Betta Lemme’s commanding vocal combined with ferocious rhythms are just the kind of tonic to lift up your day. Your summer beach days are calling with “Dance with the Sun”.

Other comments: “Dance with the Sun (Olé Olé)” quickly needs a big name remix and a push for dance radio, clubs and festivals.

FAMILY STEREO, “DLR”

About the artist: Family Stereo is alternately a studio project and a live performing band led by UK talent Blake Watt, the 25 year old son of Tracey Thorn and Ben Watt of Everything But The Girl. He has already played several well-received live dates in the UK.

About the record: “DLR” is melodic rock with folk elements that takes us away from Blake’s earlier more acoustic work in Family Stereo in favour of a band sound with plenty of intricate instrumentation. I’m not sure what “DLR” actually stands for, but the song to me is a rumination on leaving our teen and younger adult years behind with the realization that moving on and getting a bit older isn’t a bad thing, full of unopened doors and opportunities. Blake, like his parents, has exceptional talent and a great ear for melody. Let’s hope he will cross oceans to showcase his music to international audiences in 2027.

Other comments: Family Stereo’s debut album called The Thread is coming on July 31.

MIIA, “Necessary Evil”

About the artist: MIIA is Norwegian singer/songwriter Mia Virik Brubakken, who initially broke out virally as a teenager with 2015’s “Dynasty”, which has amassed an incredible over-400 million plays on Spotify, and that’s not including remixes, which alone are about 20 million. MIIA has regularly released singles over the years as well as an EP, Inner Voices Speaking.

About the record: “Necessary Evil” embraces a change of style to which MIIA’s powerful voice has always been suited – emotionally-charged dance music. The song “explores the courage it takes to choose honesty over comfort”. This passionate approach is found in so many of the best lyrical dance/EDM tracks, and the complex and riveting production brings its surroundings to life. The result is suitably cinematic with loads of sync possibilities for horror/thriller movies, video games, and TV shows.

Other comments: After so many years, Summer ’26 unveils MIIA’s debut album called Huldra, named after a mystical Scandanavian forest spirit. “Necessary Evil” is co-produced by longtime collaborator Joachim Rygg and is co-written by US talent Brandon Colbein, who also provides harmonies and whose music has been featured in this blog over the years (“So Bad” was a BILLCS Top 30 #1 and “Mad” reached #4).

MYSTERY ROMANCE, “Losing You”

About the artist: Mystery Romance is a Calgary-based collective which currently revolves around producer and multi-instrumentalist Mike Scullion. It has been a full band over the years, initially releasing the album Human Sexuality in 1989 and the Canadian hit single “So Far Away”. The band went through a couple of iterations before releasing new music again in 2023, which has yielded two albums to date.

About the record: “Losing You” doesn’t sound much like the Mystery Romance of recent albums Electric Love and Flying Thru the Moon, but sometimes change is for the better. Mike Scullion has brought aboard UK vocalist Nicole McMahon, whose voice lends a carefree Sheryl Crow/KT Tunstall tone to the proceedings, as well as Argentinian bassist Hector Ruano and Mike’s own son Caiden on guitar to flesh out the overall sound. “Losing You” has a sad but resolute story which is countered by a breezy, summery melody, featuring a guitar riff written by original member Richard Crooks. Pop and Adult Contemporary radio stations should make room for this one on their playlists.

Other comments: Part of the melody of “Losing You” has me humming 60’s hit “Spooky” by The Classics IV – anyone else?

THE RALLIES, “I Believe”

About the artist: The Rallies is a power-pop quartet which has roots in Washington state (Seattle, Tacoma) formed 15 years ago, consisting of Steve Davis (vocals, guitar), Lee Brown (drums, vocals), Ben Heege (bass, vocals), and Brian Chase (guitar, vocals). They have released four albums to date. Their third album, It Must Be Love, was voted Best Power Pop Album of 2023 by Power Pop News.

About the record: “I Believe” to me captures the essence of what The Rallies are about. It’s tight-knit, bright and hopeful music made for days when you want to kick back and do nothing. Their sound is anchored in late 60’s, early 70’s pop/rock (think The Turtles meets The Raspberries) but with a friendly, jangly guitar sound that has permeated power pop records since the 90’s.  The result is familiar-sounding and catchy, and “I Believe” is especially memorable because of its upbeat message.

Other comments: “I Believe” is culled from The Rallies’ fourth album, No Better Time, which is also available on vinyl and CD through their Bandcamp page.

CHRIS URRIOLA, “Rules”

About the artist: NYC bassist/vocalist Chris Urriola branches out on his own after being a member of rock quartet Hollis Brown, with an edgy, 80’s-peppered post-punk alternative rock sound.

About the record: Taking a cue from what I heard on his debut album Solar, Chris’ heart and influences are drawn from the mid-1980’s alternative rock scene. Because he is a bassist, I chose “Rules” to focus on, and you will immediately think of Peter Hook’s work with New Order on albums like Low-life and Brotherhood. The overall sound is gritty but fluid, the kind of songs that will translate into club performances well. Fleshed out with guitar, drums and female vocal harmonies, “Rules” also shows his strength as a songwriter with some thought-provoking lyrics.

Other comments: I’m surprised more artists are not drawing from the mid-80’s alternative rock period where groups like New Order, Sisters of Mercy and Echo & The Bunnymen were at their peaks artistically. This helps make “Rules” stand out in a crowded playing field.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week  is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world.

This week:

From his debut EP JPW, it’s UK pop/rock singer/songwriter Jorge Wilson with “This Means Nothing (To Me)”

Last week:

It’s “The Promise”, a cover of the 1987 When In Rome hit, by Canada’s Nick Fiorucci and Joée

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that currently airs on The Musicman James Rogers’ “The 3D Variety Show” (Tuesdays between 7 and 8pm ET) and KPHR Kat Power Radio (Tuesdays at 12:25 pm ET).

This week:

From 1978, it’s John Paul Young’s ever-uplifting “Love Is in the Air”

Last week:

Gorillaz was not the first animated act to score hits. The #1 single of the year worldwide in 1969 was “Sugar Sugar” by The Archies!

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner and program director of online station Halton Hills Radio Online.

“Heart Stop” is by veteran New Orleans rockers The Revivalists

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK and

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, including 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.

Recently a featured artist on The MAPL Tapes (see below), it’s Alexander Stewart with “Temporary”, which moves up 21-12 on the BILLCS Top 30

“THE MUSICMAN”JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show  (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays).  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.

The Guess Who – No Sugar Tonight/New Mother Nature
Ray Stevens – Everything Is Beautiful
Kenny Rogers and the First Edition – Something’s Burning
Marmalade – Reflections Of My Life
The Originals – The Bells

Show #20 “All Request Hour #1” with featured artist The Spoons:

Show #19 with songs by featured artist Alexander Stewart:

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

After debuting on the BILLCS Top 30 in 2004, Tiësto gets his first #1 22 years later with “Beautiful Places” with vocalist/songwriter Brieanna Grace

 

 

Today’s chart stats rely heavily on streaming plays the same way they used to rely exclusively on radio station spins. It’s not really a fair system, because back before about 15 years ago, we had to purchase a record in some format for it to count along with the radio spins. And while there is heavier weight on the purchase of a copy, when you can pay $150 a year for access to almost every song in the world, why would you want to buy a vinyl copy at around $50 – nothing more than a keepsake now really – since three copies of one record cost the same as using a streaming service for a year. Somewhat disproportionate, no? Imagine if there was a way years ago for all of our spins on our stereos at home to have been counted – the charts would have looked quite different!

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 all-Canadian The MAPL Tapes, 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 MAPL Tapes, 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.

Two weeks ago, Tiësto got his highest charting entry with “Beautiful Places” in collaboration with singer/songwriter Brieanna Grace. And now, they’ve got a #1 – my first dance/EDM chart-topper since Dimension & Karen Harding’s “Guardian Angel” earlier this year.

Closing in right behind though is frequent chart leader Conan Gray with “Door” from the deluxe edition of Wishbone, which climbs 5-2.

Texas dance producer MashBit is back in the Top 5 with the tantalyzing, bilingual (French/Farsi) “Embrasse-moi (Mara Beboos)” with vocals by Canadian singer Navan, which moves up 6-4. MashBit’s “Holding On” (with Luke Alexander and sunsett.) also reached #4 earlier in the year.

Bay area dance producer Jay Bird lands in the Top 5 for the third time with the slick and sophisticated “No Exception” rising 7-5.

Sombr is back in the Top 10 for his sixth time in just over a year with “Potential” (above) advancing 14-8. However good that song is, it’s about to be overshadowed by the debut of the stunning “My Body Isn’t Ready” (below), which bows at #23. The song, about male body image, is striking a huge emotional cord with many fans. His show in my city in November can’t come soon enough!

While it didn’t make the cut for his new album When the Lights Turn On, Mico’s “Without Me” (above) climbs 11-9, making it two Top 10’s in a row for the Toronto-area singer/songwriter. You can listen to his latest single “Do it all again”, below.

Hayla gets her sixth Top 10 entry with the gorgeous “Heal” (above) moving up 12-10. You can check out her latest release, “Easier”, below.

To absolutely no surprise, Alexander Stewart’s “Temporary” is the Fastest Riser on the chart, advancing 21-12. Alexander is also my featured artist on this week’s edition of my online all-Canadian radio show, The MAPL Tapes.

The entire EP Love Is Kind is really a solid work by The Chainsmokers and Oaks, but it is “Echo” that is the standout, as it rises 22-17.

One of the unexpected delights of 2026, and more in the pop vein than dance/EDM, is “Repeat It” (above) by Martin Garrix & Ed Sheeran, which climbs 25-18. You can also listen to the previously unreleased 2015 version of the song – held back due to Ed Sheeran’s record contract, which has now ended – below.

Also making swift moves right out of the gate are “lie to me” by UK singer/songwriter HRVY (28-21, above)) and Canadian singer Alex Sampson with his domestic radio hit “Misery” (29-22, below).

Veteran Canadian dance producer and label owner Nick Fiorucci gets his chart debut with “The Promise” at #25, bringing by long-time fave Joée DeSimone after many years without a release. The Canadian singer had six entries on my chart, with “Angel” being #1 on my very first chart dated January 19, 1998! Coincidentally, it’s also Joée’s first chart entry since this very week in 2002!!  The record for longest gap between entries is currently 25 years, held by producer Mousse T.

Toronto dance music artist Kinga makes his chart debut along with his veteran collaborator, Sweden’s Stonebridge, with “Just Play the Music” at #28. The song has done well, reaching the Top 10 of the UK dance charts. Its vibrant energy is an ideal tonic for dancing the nights away during the summer months. Kinga recently returned to making music after over 30 years, which you can read about in my blog posts about “Just Play the Music”, “Giorgio” and his other releases.

Rounding out the debuts is another chart returnee, Irish rock group The Script, with the incredibly catchy “Man in the Arena” at #29. It’s the group’s sixth chart entry, and previous songs all charted between 2009 and 2014, their highest charting one being their first, “Before the Worst” (#3).

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Halton Hills Radio Online

The MAPL Tapes offers the best of Canadian music past and present, and can be heard Mondays at 6pm EST as well as on six other stations between Monday and Sunday.

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 New Music Pick of the Week is played both days at 10pm ET, and airs several times during the week on other stations. You can view its schedule by clicking at the following link: Schedule. 

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. 

KPHR Kat Power Radio

The Retro Pick of the Week also airs on at 12:25 pm ET on Tuesdays on KPHR.

Lake Online Radio

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.

 

 

Authenticity abounds these days in music, and many of my reviews in this edition of the Report continue to be about songs that are written from a deeply personal perspective. While occasionally these kinds of songs creep onto the radio and big streaming playlists, as with songs lately by Olivia Rodrigo, Olivia Dean, Sam Fender, and Noah Kahan, for the most part pop hits are meant to be consumed quickly for entertainment value, rather than to linger inside and maybe touch a few nerves, and I fear a lot of the big hits of the 2020’s are going to be forgotten rather than embedded in popular culture. I am still waiting for a mid 2010’s return, so don’t say I didn’t warn you!

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 “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  “The Musicman” James Rogers’s Classic Five is a mix of some of the more unconventional pop songs of 1979. Please do peruse the playlist for show 18 of my all-Canadian hour, The MAPL Tapes, featuring the music of Canadian dance music hitmaker Carol Medina, and I have some words below about a recently unearthed remix of her 90’s hit “And The Song Goes”. You’ll also find out what songs were in the Top 5 of the BILLCS Top 30 5-10-15-20-25 years ago – note particularly the 2011 Top 5 with two great songs by Simon Curtis!

Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.

CADDY CALLAGHAN, “Sweet Fool”

About the artist: Caddy Callaghan is a veteran singer/songwriter and pianist from Melbourne, Australia who has written for many others but only recently started releasing her own music. I wrote about her beautiful song “Wait a minute” earlier this year.

About the record: “Sweet Fool” is about holding on to what might seem to others like idealistic dreams as well as hope because one never knows when opportunity may strike. Caddy relates it to when she worked as a school teacher and says, “I could see where my heart wanted to be, but I also knew I had to walk back into the classroom when the bell rang. It was about holding onto that vision, even when it felt far away.” Like in “Wait a minute”, Caddy’s vocal is exquisite with soulful touches, and the song was produced again with Rick Price in Nashville, adding harmonies and background vocals later when back at home. We are the creators of our own lives and destiny, and Caddy’s inspiring story comes from the heart and will captivate your attention.

Other comments: Coming soon is Caddy Callaghan’s debut solo album, There You Are.

GREYSON CHANCE, “Jock Porn”

About the artist: Greyson Chance is the 28 year old former child piano prodigy who carves out a new path with “Jock Porn” and an upcoming fifth album, after a series of solid but disconnected singles, such as “Flip the Record”, that likely won’t appear on the album.

About the record: “Jock Porn” is a bold and uncompromising rumination on masculinity, queerness, and identity. It’s like being in the midst of a playful, torrid fantasy affair that you don’t want to end. Greyson says in his recent Substack post about it:  “My song JOCK PORN is about the ways in which porn has influenced my own identity and relationships…For straight people, porn is often a way of discovering what they like. For queer people, porn can become a way of discovering who they are.” Having seen him perform in concert, I’ve always thought of Greyson as a confident artist on stage, but it seemed like behind-the-scenes self-doubt and a focus on pleasing others was getting in the way, hence he is now independent and self-managed. Here his vocal is captivating, edgy and cathartic, with requisite beautiful piano playing as a backdrop acting as a subtle foil for the vocal and lyrics. “Jock Porn” is unabashedly different and expressive. It’s also a damn good song.

Other comments: As revealed on Instagram, Greyson’s fifth album is titled Boystown. He has had nine entries on the BILLCS Top 30, including three #2’s, which began with “Dancing Next to Me” in 2019.

MELØ, “Falling Through Eternity”

About the artist: MELØ is talented Windsor, Ontario indie alternative rock performer and producer Carmen Rivolta, whose songs I’ve written about several times over the past few years, including “I Don’t Speak French”, which got to #7 on the BILLCS Top 30 last year.

About the record: What’s instantly most notable about “Falling Through Eternity” is MELØ’s risky shift from his usual tenor vocal to bass-baritone at the start of the song and in the chorus, which is highly reminiscent of both Brad Roberts of Crash Test Dummies and Brandon Flowers of The Killers. MELØ is also a fine storyteller, and it all makes “Falling Through Eternity” instantly memorable as a song about undying love. Top it off with his usual solid production and instrumentation, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this one again and again.

Other comments: MELØ’s next album, his sophomore release, is titled Architects of Revolution.

CAROL MEDINA, “And The Song Goes” (Hit Radio House mix)

About the artist: Carol Medina is a Toronto-based, Australia-born pop/dance singer who had several Canadian hits in the 90’s, which includes “And The Song Goes”. Her most recent new music is the pop/R&B-flavoured “Rules”, which I wrote about in 2024.

About the record: In the 2020’s streaming-focused music world, anything old can be new again if there is the proper interest. The Hit Radio House mix of “And The Song Goes” was previously unreleased and has attracted recent attention due to interest from house DJ’s. I’ve always enjoyed Carol’s playful and exuberant vocal on this track and fortunately the production is timeless-sounding and fits in well with today’s current house music.

Other comments:  “And The Song Goes” has been re-released on a same named EP, which also included the extended House Mix for DJ’s and dance music fans. Carol is also the featured artist this week on my online all-Canadian show, The MAPL Tapes (see playlist below).

LILY LANE, “So Long, California”

About the artist: Lily Lane is a NYC-based former model turned soulful singer/songwriter, who is also the sister of Tucker Halpern of Sofi Tukker. I most recently wrote about her release “Don’t Stop”, which is a part of her EP Domesticated.

About the record: “So Long, California” is Lily’s love note of goodbye with mixed blessings to her five years spent in Los Angeles. “When sun shines all of the time / It feels good but doesn’t feel right” captures the essence of the song, with L.A. having its advantages and perks, but it wasn’t the best fit for Lily. It’s one of Lily’s softer and more personal songs to date, showing another side of her music, which is often big, powerful and outwardly expressive. Her vocal here is delightfully restrained and touching. For others, the song could also be a metaphor about a past relationship that had an amicable ending.

Other comments: In concert, Lily has opened for the likes of Madison Beer and JoJo, and has performed at Madison Square Garden for The Knicks. She maintains her connection to fashion, and performed at New York Fashion Week for the Harper’s Bazaar x Crystal Waters Cover Party, as well as an inclusive lingerie runway show.

COOPER BENAIAH, “1000”

About the artist: Toronto-based DIY talent and guitarist Cooper Benaiah recently won the 2026 Canadian High School Songwriter of the Year award and released his debut album called Crush. And he’s only 16.

About the record: Listen to “1000” blindfolded and you wouldn’t think Cooper is 16. He’s got a real flair for more mature-sounding songwriting, and the results on this song and other tracks like the more pop-flavoured single “Falling” set out to convince you that he has a big future ahead of him. I gravitate towards “1000” because its biting rock sound and pointed lyrics set it apart from his other songs. But it’s obvious that Cooper has innate talent, and he could soon find himself with a lineup of labels courting him.

Other comments: Cooper also is the singer in a band called KASK. The children of the 2010’s are here 😮 !

MATTHEW HOLTBY, “Here in My Heart”

About the artist: Matthew Holtby is an indie singer, songwriter and producer based in the small town of Warkworth in north-eastern Ontario and whose songs I have written about a number of times. It follows up his recent EP Yesterday.

About the record: “Here in My Heart” is about holding onto the past in a personal way, in this case someone who is gone or no longer in your life. Its simple but catchy chorus hits home alongside Matthew’s resolute vocal and tidy electric guitar work. The record is co-produced by Matthew with Blinker the Star’s Jordan Zadorozny, who also contributes to the warm synth work, with Rob DeBoer on piano. Matthew’s gentle vocal style in his full-band rock songs like this goes down easy.

Other comments: Matthew frequently performs in southern Ontario, and residents of Kingston, Guelph, and Port Sydney can look for upcoming shows this summer.

MIGHTY CICERO, “Wildfire”

About the artist: Many artists you read about in my blog pages often lead dual lives. Mighty Cicero is the new project and persona for prolific screenwriter and songwriter Christopher Rogers, who is based in Halton Hills, Ontario. He is also the self-described architect of “Jo-tronic”, a mix of banjo and electronics.

About the record: The “Jo-tronic” sound is quite striking and refreshing to hear in “Wildfire”. It’s a song that starts off rather inauspiciously but builds in both style and theatricality as it progresses. Mighty Cicero’s vocal power ignites the song at key moments, recalling fellow Canadian singer Gowan to my ears at times. His songs are often loaded and profound, which reminds me of Pete Townshend’s songwriting with The Who, so you will find yourself revisiting them for multiple listeners to figure them out. Mighty Cicero is also a multi-instrumentalist and a producer, and in “Wildfire” you can hear the intricacy and attention to detail.

Other comments: Mighty Cicero has recently released his debut album called Damn, yo, which includes “Wildfire”.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week  is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world.

“lie to me” is the catchy recent single by British singer HRVY

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that currently airs on The Musicman James Rogers’ “The 3D Variety Show” (Tuesdays between 7 and 8pm ET) and KPHR Kat Power Radio (Tuesdays at 12:25 pm ET).

It’s a fun disco classic from 1975, “Shame Shame Shame” by Shirley & Company

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner and program director of online station Halton Hills Radio Online.

Jack Antonoff’s band Bleachers is back with “we should talk”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, including 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 “Run Run River (Angels Above Me)” by dance producers David Guetta and Alok with vocals by Stick Figure

“THE MUSICMAN”JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show  (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays).  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.

Frank Mills – Music Box Dancer
Melissa Manchester – Don’t Cry Out Loud
Suzi Quatro & Chris Norman – Stumblin’ In
Billy Joel – Big Shot
Bobby Caldwell – What You Won’t Do For Love

Show # 18 featuring guest artist Carol Medina

THE BILLCS TOP 30 – 5-10-15-20-25…

The Top 5 songs from the BILLCS Top 30 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years ago…

2021

01  GOT THAT LOVE, Mahalo

02  MYSELF IN YOU, Lordnox, Victor Perry

03  PLEASE, Jessie Ware

04  LEAVE THE DOOR OPEN, Silk Sonic

05  ONE AND ONE, Peter Wilson, Sean Smith

2016

01  SO BAD (Edwynn & Tikal and Spirix remix), Brandon Skeie [now Brandon Colbein]

02  LOST (Young Bombs remix), Connor Phillips

03  DREAMIN’, Embody, Camden Cox

04  CLOSER, Elephante, BISHØP

05  CARE FOR ME, Dzeko & Torres, Hellberg

2011

01  FLESH, Simon Curtis

02  DO IT IN THE A.M., Frankmusik, Far East Movement

03  POPULAR, Eric Saade

04  SUPERHERO, Simon Curtis

05  STUPID (Brad Walsh remix), DATABOY

2006

01  FLAWED DESIGN, Stabilo

02  JUST ANOTHER DAY (George Acosta remix), Jon Secada

03  OVER MY HEAD (CABLE CAR), The Fray

04  TURN ON THE MUSIC, Roger Sanchez, GTO

05  I WANT YOU TO WANT ME, Chris Isaak

2001

01  POP, *N Sync

02  CALIFORNIA, Rufus Wainwright

03  DREAM ON, Depeche Mode

04  ASTOUNDED, Bran Van 3000, Curtis Mayfield

05  IMITATION OF LIFE, R.E.M.

Except for the forthcoming chart domination of Olivia Rodrigo, it’s been a rather quiet music week, so my reviews and the regular features can carry this edition of the Report along.

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 “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  “The Musicman” James Rogers’s Classic Five this week takes us on a musical trip back to 1971. Please do peruse the playlist for show 17 of my all-Canadian hour, The MAPL Tapes, featuring the music of Hamilton’s Gene Champagne (whose new single “Gimme Ammunition” is also reviewed below). In case you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser in the latest edition of the BILLCS Top 30.

Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.

WESLEY DAVID, “Stop Sign”

About the artist: Wesley David is a New Jersey indie singer/songwriter guitarist/pianist who has been releasing his own music during this decade. 

About the record: You’ll find that the acoustic guitar-driven “Stop Sign” immediately commands your full attention. Wesley establishes a comforting, personalized lyrical style drawing upon influences from the likes of Coldplay and Elliott Smith – early 2000’s singer-songwriter era pop but with a 2020’s viewpoint. “Stop Sign” flows beautifully, from a humble, quiet rumination about growing older and being restless, to a bolder, more resolute second half which uses the imagery of driving through a stop sign as an out-of-character act of defiance. Wesley has some unique ways of phrasing and holding notes which might be more borne out of folk music. It all gels together and attracts instant repeat listens.

Other comments: Wesley has toured and performed at the best piano bars across the United States but is out to set his own mark as a top indie pop talent.

GENE CHAMPAGNE, “Gimme Ammunition”

About the artist: Gene Champagne is the current drummer for Teenage Head. He was also the drummer in 90’s Hamilton greats The Killjoys, and has been releasing his own solo songs since 2024.

About the record: “Gimme Ammunition” is probably Gene’s most Teenage Head-era single to date – I can say this because I lived through that era – and it’s certainly my favourite thus far. It’s just over 2 minutes of unbridled rock that faithfully recreates a raw, unfettered sound we don’t hear too often these days. The fuzzy guitar work and harmonies are straight out of the post-punk era, and Gene’s vocal is the fitting conduit for a great party song. Alternative and college radio stations need to get on it STAT!

Other comments: Gene is the Featured Artist on this week’s edition of The MAPL Tapes (see playlist below). “Gimme Ammunition” is also featured in this week’s edition of our affiliate all-indie, all-Canadian show “A Slice of Canada” on Maple Music Cafe on Thursday June 18 at 9pm ET.

JIMMIE ALLEN, “Shaking in My Boots”

About the artist: Nashville-based, Delaware-born Jimmie Allen received a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist in 2022, becoming the first male country artist to receive a nomination in that category. He had three #1’s at country radio, and collaborated with Brad Paisley, Nelly, Noah Cyrus and Cheat Codes. Jimmie returns in 2026 though as an R&B/soul artist with his first new music in over three years.

About the record: “Shaking in My Boots” is an authentic and warm song in what’s now being labelled as “New American Soul” (which like “Americana” doesn’t really help the rest of us in the world outside of the U.S.). Using his prowess as a country music storyteller, he transfers those skills to a gentle story about the need to hold on to a relationship. If you’ve ever had to do whatever it takes to maintain a relationship, then “Shaking in Your Boots” will resonate with you. Jimmie’s voice is smooth and knowing and this one could easily win over new fans.

Other comments: Jimmie had a few troubling years, which included accusations which were later dropped. They ultimately cost him his record deal and his ability to tour. This song is a great restart as an indie performer looking for a chance to rebuild.

SHERRI HARDING, “Down in the Shoals”

About the artist: Ottawa-born Sherri Harding is a veteran singer who has toured the world in a variety of bands, but is best known in Canada as a member of The Cooper Brothers band. Like many of us, Sherri has toiled away in government offices during the day, but outside of office hours shows her performing skills as a bluesy rock vocalist.

About the record: Through all of Sherri’s musical connections over the years, “Down in the Shoals” bears a deep connection to the still-thriving music scene in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. And she’s in great company, already being compared to Bonnie Raitt and Susan Tedeschi, while in fine stead with award-winning fellow Canadian blues women Rita Chiarelli, Crystal Shawanda, and Sue Foley. She’s got an undeliably powerful voice, and the song’s familiar rhythm is given the golden touch by the Muscle Shoals Horns and renown guitarist Kelvin Holly. Bluesy rock rarely sounds this good and you’d never know that a bunch of Canadians are behind it.

Other comments: Sherri’s just-released album Storyland was written and produced by Richard Cooper of The Cooper Brothers, who have been performing for about 50 years, noted for their 70’s Canadian pop radio hits “The Dream Never Dies”, “Rock & Roll Cowboys”, and “I’ll Know Her When I See Her”.

I FIORUCCI, “Giorgio Is My Boyfriend”

About the artist: I Fiorucci is a trio of Toronto sisters of Italian heritage – Eva, Viva and Baby Jane. While this is their debut as I Fiorucci, they are hardly newcomers to performing. They’ve performed at countless local cultural festivals and events, and sing in English, French and Italian. I Fiorucci is the project where they can finally perform new music.

About the record: “Giorgio Is My Boyfriend” will have you basking in retro dance music flavours, a good dose of 70’s disco meeting 80’s Europop – think Baccara (of “Yes Sir, I Can Boogie” fame) teaming up with Stacey Q (“Two of Hearts”) and that ear-grabbing syn drum sound. Written and produced by Richard Citroen, you will know that it is indeed a sweet production that shows off that gals’ fine voices in what turns out to be the second Giorgio Moroder tribute song I’ve written about in the last two weeks (the other being Kinga & Stonebridge’s “Giorgio”). Let your mind drift away and your body let loose and a fun three minutes will be had by all!

Other comments: Following Lola Dutronic’s “Stardom & Death” (reviewed last week), this is the second release for Richard’s new label Miracle Digital Music. And that’s two-for-two!

COOPER PHILLIP, “Love Me Not”

About the artist: Cooper Phillip is an L.A.-based, Russia-born indie singer/songwriter who has been releasing her own music for more than a decade. She has worked with countless singers as a vocal teacher, producer and coach. Her songs have thus far amassed over 15 million streams on the various platforms.

About the record: Cooper Phillip’s style is universal with a soulful touch, as I discovered when I first reviewed one of her songs back in 2021. “Love Me Not” is a breezy pop record which she says is about “the feeling of connecting to someone in your mind before anything has actually happened in real life”. The song’s story is intended to let you revel in your own imagination and the feelings that go with it. “Love Me Not” has a hopeful message that perhaps those feelings can be manifested eventually into something real. “Love Me Not” will appeal to fans of singers like Ariana Grande and Madison Beer.

Other comments: Cooper won numerous competitions as a teenager, which led her to the U.S. at age 17 through a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. 

MUSTARD SERVICE, “Who Knew Your Body”

About the artist: Mustard Service is a Miami-based trio led by singer/rhythm guitarist Marco Rivero Ochoa (though yes, there are five guys in the above photo). The group is known for their live performances, where they often incorporate lyrics sung in Spanish as well as vibrant Latin rhythms, and they have released four albums to date.

About the record: “Who Knew Your Body” is an introduction to what’s coming on album five, following up last year’s Vice City Magic, which features a rocker I previously wrote about called “Big Time”. Like with “Big Time”, I still don’t hear much in the way of Latin culture in the shimmering rhythm or sunny melody of “Who Knew Your Body”. It’s an 80’s-flavoured pop release which unfolds a darker tale of obsessive love and the need for someone to complete you. Like with “Big Time”, “Who Knew Your Body” is produced by Chad Copelin (Avril Lavigne, Wildorado). It’s got a slick backdrop that highlights Marco’s rich tenor.

Other comments: Mustard Service’s last album received well over a million streams on Spotify alone. I’m glad that “Who Knew Your Body” takes a few more risks as a step into their new era.

CHROME AGNON, “Ion You”

About the artist: Chrome Agnon is a solo project from Dw. Dunphy, lead singer of American rock group Orbis Max, whose song “Don’t Lose Me Now” I reviewed back in April.

About the record: “Ion You” could easily be added to a playlist of late 70’s, early 80’s power pop and you wouldn’t even blink. Dw. Dunphy here channels Ric Ocasek of The Cars (or is it Benjamin Orr?), and the song will have melodies from other bands like The Plimsouls, The Greg Kihn Band and Eddie & The Hot Rods dancing in your head. The song itself is a catchy piece of business that simply has no reason to be so catchy, but here we are.

Other comments: “Ion You” is a perfect example of the streaming era’s “expect the unexpected”.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week  is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world.

Alexander Stewart is back with another epic ballad, “Temporary”

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that currently airs on The Musicman James Rogers’ “The 3D Variety Show” (Tuesdays between 7 and 8pm ET) and KPHR Kat Power Radio (Tuesdays at 12:25 pm ET).

The Jam’s only worldwide hit “Town Called Malice” (1982)

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner and program director of online station Halton Hills Radio Online.

It’s Montana duo Buffalo Traffic Jam with “Pictures of You”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK and

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, including 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 Toronto’s Johnny Orlando with the uncharacteric pop sound of “Charlotte” (22-15)

“THE MUSICMAN”JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show  (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays).  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.

Alice Cooper – Eighteen
John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band – Power To The People
The Carpenters – For All We Know
Cat Stevens – Wild World
Stevie Wonder – We Can Work It Out

Show #17 featuring songs and introductions from Gene Champagne, current drummer for Teenage Head

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Zayn continues at #1 for a 2nd appearance with “Sideways”

 

 

 

I feel much better about this new edition of the BILLCS Top 30 than I did a few weeks back, when I thought the songs were too idle, making for a rather boring chart albeit of terrific songs. The chart has since shook loose. Zayn still holds at #1 but there are four debuts with a high-flying one from a current favourite!

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 all-Canadian The MAPL Tapes, 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 MAPL Tapes, 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.

You can go several songs deep into Zayn’s KONNAKOL album, including into the songs on the recent deluxe edition, and not be disappointed. He has come a long way in the last 10 years artistically. “Sideways” grabs a second appearance at #1.

“Beautiful Places” by Tiësto and Brieanna Grace makes a surprise jump 5-2, to contend for #1 in two weeks. Even better, the song is a personal best on the chart for Tiësto, displacing 2007’s “In the Dark”, which peaked at #3.

Conan Gray’s “Door” (above) rises 7-5, and it’s also within striking distance from #1, while “The Best” (below) now gives him concurrent songs in the Top 10 and continues to move up 11-8.

The other new entry to the Top 10 is courtesy of some slick dance grooves by SoCal producer Jay Bird and “No Exception”, which bolts 13-7. It’s his fourth Top 10 entry.

Mico’s “Without Me” has taken its time to reach the upper part of the chart and climbs 16-11. His new album When the Lights Turn On is due before my next chart on June 26.

You can just soak in the emotional energy of Hayla’s electronic ballad “Heal”, which rises 18-12.

For some people it’s taken a little longer to warm up to Sombr’s “Potential”, which climbs 19-14, but like his past releases, it’s well worth it and the song will also get stuck in your head.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is so different for its singer and I love that for it and him. It’s “Charlotte” by Johnny Orlando, and it soars 22-15 as the opening track from his brand new fourth album Songs for Young Lovers.

Jorge Wilson’s “This Means Nothing (To Me)” bounds into the Top 20, rising 23-17 from his debut EP called JPW.

Aussie rockers Moonwood have another stellar composition with “Casanova” climbing 25-19.

Leading the four-pack of debuts is “Temporary”, another gut-wrenching ballad by Alexander Stewart, which arrives at #21. I can’t wait to hear this one in concert. It’s Alexander’s 6th chart entry as “Every Lifetime” (which peaked at #6) wraps up its chart run at #26.

Fresh off his joyous stadium concert which I saw on May 31 in Toronto, Martin Garrix returns this time with Ed Sheeran on their long-awaited pop track “Repeat It”, which bows at #25. Ed has only visited the chart twice before, with “Bad Habits” reaching #5, but it’s Martin’s 17th chart entry. And I was pleased to hear most of those at the concert!

Debuting on the chart is UK singer/songwriter HRVY with a straight-up no-nonsense indie pop track called “Lie to Me” at #28, which is picking up interest from several musicphiles that I know. HRVY has been a go-to vocalist in the dance music world so it’s inspiring to hear such a refreshing and immediately catchy pop track from him.

Canadian singer Alex Sampson returns to the chart for the third time with “Misery” at #29, and it’s turning out to be a bonafide radio hit in Canada at Top 40 and Hot Adult Contemporary formats. His signature song, “Pretty Baby”, reached #10 in 2024. I’ve seen him perform in concert twice and he has a natural rapport with his audience which makes for an entertaining show. “Misery” appears on Alex’s new EP called Growing Pains.

 

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Halton Hills Radio Online

The MAPL Tapes offers the best of Canadian music past and present, and can be heard Mondays at 6pm EST as well as on six other stations between Monday and Sunday.

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 New Music Pick of the Week is played both days at 10pm ET, and airs several times during the week on other stations. You can view its schedule by clicking at the following link: Schedule. 

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. 

KPHR Kat Power Radio

The Retro Pick of the Week also airs on at 12:25 pm ET on Tuesdays on KPHR.

Lake Online Radio

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 have no commentary to lead off this week’s Report, but it’s loaded with several new, dynamic tunes for you to check out, along with my regular features.

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 “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  “The Musicman” James Rogers is back and his Classic Five this week offers a rocking quintet of tunes from 1979. Please do peruse the playlist for show 16 of my all-Canadian hour, The MAPL Tapes, featuring the music of Toronto’s Kinga (whose new single “Giorgio” is also reviewed below). And with a Flashback chart, I’ll take you back to the BILLCS Top 30 from this week in 2019!

Reminder: Click on the photos to listen to the songs on Spotify.

HAYLA, “Enough”

About the artist: Hayla is the UK dance/electronic pop singer/songwriter whose star has been on the rise since her collaborations with Kx5 (Deadmau5 and Kaskade) and John Summit made her epic voice a sensation in clubs and at festivals. She’s a gifted performer in concert as has been proven on her brief tours thus far, as well as her concert appearances with Kygo and John Summit.

About the record: Following her urgent plea in previous single “Heal” (currently rising up the BILLCS Top 30), “Enough” finds Hayla writing and singing about an unrequited love where the subject of the song doesn’t feel if she’s good enough for her partner. At this stage, she is also unwilling to create a confrontation, submerging herself unfairly in feelings of inadequacy. Like “Heal”, “Enough” is not an electronic banger like “Shiver” or “Where You Are”, but a pensive composition full of throbbing emotions led by Hayla’s beautiful but angst-ridden vocal. For other talented women working in the electronic dance genre, look no further to Hayla as your template to follow.

Other comments: Hayla’s North American tour sets sail on August 6 through early September, with stops in most major big cities, including Toronto and Montreal in Canada. If you get the opportunity, she is not to be missed (I’ve already seen her perform three times).

KINGA, STONEBRIDGE, “Giorgio” (StoneBridge block party mix)

About the artists: Kinga is a Toronto-based electronic pop singer who is kick-starting his career again after emerging first in the 1980’s. Following up the fun and fresh “Just Play the Music”, currently charting in the UK dance charts, he once again collaborates with legendary Swedish producer StoneBridge, who has worked with almost everyone under the sun but is best known for his remix of Robin S’ “Show Me Love” which made it a hit in 1992.

About the record: “Giorgio” is a downtempo but bright-sounding electronic pop track that on the surface salutes the celebrated and innovative dance producer Giorgio Moroder, a personal favourite of mine too for his work with Donna Summer among others. But really, the character of Giorgio in the song could represent anyone you admire for whatever qualities attract you to them. Kinga’s enthusiastic vocal brims alongside StoneBridge’s beautiful wash of synths making it a cheery and memorable 3+ minutes.

Other comments: Kinga is my featured artist this week in Show #16 of my all-Canadian radio program The MAPL Tapes. You can check out the playlist further down the page.

DADI FREYR, “Feel It”

About the artist: I first wrote about Dadi Freyr (often stylized as Daði Freyr) a few weeks ago with his exhilarating track “I’m Out and I Wanna Go Home” from his third album, Too Much Not Enough. He is an Icelandic pop electronic singer and songwriter who has competed in EuroVision for his country.

About the record: By contrast, “Feel It” is a warm and thoughtful track which finds the protagonist in the throes of the end of a relationship, though he still has an unrealistic hope that things will change and be what they were before. Sadly, that’s not often how life goes, and with his vocal shifts to a lower register you can hear Dadi wrestling with the emotions in the story. What makes the song even better though is the lovely melody he’s crafted against a downbeat topic which makes you really want to root for the character he has presented. It’s very reminiscent of Sam Smith’s songs on his debut album.

Other comments:  Dadi Freyr begins a North American big city tour – including Montreal and Toronto for Canada – throughout October on October 3. He performs alone on stage, playing instruments he built himself, with visuals he made entirely by hand.

ADAM RODWAY, “Matter of Fact”

About the artist: Adam Rodway is a Toronto-based indie singer/songwriter whose Canadian hit “Runaround” has had a slow-burn rise into the Top 10 at Top 40 radio after being released last December.

About the record: As “Runaround” continues to hit its stride, “Matter of Fact” is a snappy follow-up that should do as well, though it may find more friends with its alternative rock flavour that has worked for Sombr and Sam Fender. He and his songwriting partners have a flair for compacting a lot into just over two minutes that make songs like “Matter of Fact” memorable.

Other comments: Adam performs as part of NXNE in Toronto on Saturday June 13 at The Dance Cave (above Lee’s Palace). He has clearly grown significantly since I saw him perform about a year ago. Adam is also a graduate of Metalworks Institute of Sound in production.

LOLA DUTRONIC, “Stardom & Death”

About the artist: Veteran electronic pop project Lola Dutronic returns after a few years with synth whiz and producer Richard Citroen continuing on with new vocalist Astrid K as a 100% Canadian outfit on Richard’s new indie label, Miracle Digital Music.

About the record: Dry humour, a droll vocal and an irresistible melody highlight Lola Dutronic’s return with “Stardom and Death”. It’s a song full of cynical glee and mirth that will have you hooked early on with some clever lyrical references and imagery, all courtesy of the mind of Richard Citroen. Astrid K’s delivery is so well-suited for the song that I wouldn’t be surprised if “Stardom and Death” finds interest through the Canadian dance community, as well as in Europe and Japan where Lola Dutronic previously achieved some success.

Other comments: Lola Dutronic’s “Everybody Loves You When You’re Dead” reached #1 in Japan in the early 2010’s. In its last incarnation, the fun “Let’s All Dance (Our Last Summer)” got to #9 on the BILLCS Top 30 in 2022.

THE GREENBERRY WOODS, “Summer Song”

About the artist: The Greenberry Woods met an unfortunate premature demise in the late 90’s after record company changes and politics led to the loss of their recording contract. The Baltimore-based band, whose style veers between alt.rock and power pop, recorded two acclaimed albums for Sire Records, and 30 years later have released their third called It’s All Good, Sugar…

About the record: I know we haven’t even started summer but yet here is a downbeat end-of-summer record for you to enjoy and contemplate. I never got to hear The Greenberry Woods’ earlier work but “Summer Song” is as good a starting point as ever to experience their flair for choruses, hooks, and harmonies. The song is a flashback to that point in a relationship where everything was working, and then the common dream came to a halt. Despite a melancholy backdrop, the song is peppered with shining guitar work and a catchy midtempo rhythm.

Other comments: The Greenberry Woods share a similar story with Big Stir Records label mates Splitsville, who also returned to music last year. In fact, they even share one member, multi-instrumentalist Paul Krysiak.

LIA LEFAY, “Champagne Trouble”

About the artist: Lia LeFay is the singer in a new musical project for Italian electronic dance producer DJ Mirko B, about whose songs I’ve written several times in these blog pages.

About the record: “Champagne Trouble” allows us to listen to another side of Mirko Boroni that we have had yet to hear. It falls into the sub-genre of “electro swing”, which fuses elements of swing and jazz to provide an elegant and sophisticated side of dance music that we don’t hear often today. The result with “Champagne Trouble” is a fun and creative track that will take dance music fans on a ride back as far as the 70’s chic Dr. Buzzard’s Original “Savannah” Band, though there have been others who have also infused dance music with retro horns along with keyboards/synths. Lia’s sassy and expressive vocal evokes the big band era, and the song is certain to give you a huge lift.

Other comments: I’d certainly like to hear more of what Mirko and Lia LeFay have to offer together.

ST. CATHERINE’S CHILD, “Fly Me to the Moon”

About the artist:  St. Catherine’s Child is the artist name for Connecticut-based, England-born Ilana Zsigmond, a singer-songwriter on the rise in the Folk-Americana genre.

About the record: “Fly Me to the Moon” is an intriguing take on a pop classic most closely associated with Frank Sinatra, whose 1964 recording was arranged by Quincy Jones. St. Catherine’s Child’s version is subtle and deliberate, reminiscent of the late Julee Cruise’s 1990’s retro take on contemporary pop with her music for the TV show “Twin Peaks”. This rendition is dreamy, with Ilana’s vocal almost sounding disembodied at times, but it’s also warm and luscious and could easily have fit in with the late 1960’s lounge pop led by artists like Herb Alpert and Burt Bacharach at the time. It’s guaranteed to be one of the most unique interpretations you will hear lately!

Other comments: St. Catherine’s Child has released “Fly Me to the Moon” as a “Double A” sided single along with a cover of T-Rex’s “Cosmic Dancer”, which follows up her 2025 album This Might Affect You. “Fly Me to the Moon” was originally written as “In Other Words” by Bart Howard. Its original version was recorded by talented singer, actress and comedian Kaye Ballard in 1954.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week  is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world.

“Body Talk” by John Roberts is a fun and infectious pop/dance track to check out

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that currently airs on The Musicman James Rogers’ “The 3D Variety Show” (Tuesdays between 7 and 8pm ET) and KPHR Kat Power Radio (Tuesdays at 12:25 pm ET).

My throwback is to 1996 or 1997 (depending on what country you’re in) for “Return of the Mack” by Mark Morrison

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner and program director of online station Halton Hills Radio Online.

It’s British electronic collective Jungle with “The Wave”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, including 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 British singer/songwriter Rose Betts with “Goodbye California”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show  (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays).  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.

Night – Hot Summer Nights
Bob Dylan – Gotta Serve Somebody
Triumph – Hold On
John Stewart – Gold (You Tube link)
Long John Baldry featuring Kathi McDonald – Come And Get Your Love (You Tube link)

Show #16 featuring songs and insight from Kinga

BILLCS TOP 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2019

Mark my words, the feel good vibes and energy of 2019’s dance music will get its due, but probably not for a few more years. This chart in particular takes me back to a great time for music that mostly was not on the charts. In fact you can read about what I had to say at the time at the following link:  June 10 2019

01 01 WHITE LIES M-22
02 02 GOOD THINGS Cedric Gervais, Just Kiddin, Kyan
03 03 ENLIGHTEN ME Dubvision, Syzz
07 04 LOVE ME LESS MAX, Quinn XCII
05 05 SUCKER Jonas Brothers
09 06 KISS AND TELL Mokita
11 07 DO YOU MEAN The Chainsmokers, Ty Dolla $Ign, Bülow
10 08 WILD Final DJS, Bright Light Bright Light
20 09 GOOD THINGS FALL APART Illenium, Jon Bellion
12 10 RECOGNISE Lost Frequencies, Flynn
17 11 COYOTE Mako
19 12 SWEAR TO GOD Famba
04 13 GO AHEAD Mahalo, MOZ
16 14 SLEEPING PILLS Kidswaste, Kole
23 15 WORLD AT YOUR FEET Timmy Trumpet
06 16 BLACK GASOLINE Mark Mendy, The Beamish Brothers
22 17 ADORE YOU Jessie Ware
26 18 WE FOUND LOVE Sultan + Shepard, Showtek
25 19 ATYPICAL Manila Killa, GiGi
08 20 I’M SO TIRED Lauv, Troye Sivan
24 21 FIGURE IT OUT Flight School, CVBZ
28 22 LISTEN TO YOUR MOMMA (A-Trak remix) Showtek, Leon Sherman
NEW 23 DON’T LEAVE ME LONELY Mark Ronson, YEBBA
13 24 CRASHING Illenium, Bahari
NEW 25 SHE GOT ME Luca Hänni
14 26 LET’S GO DANCING Horse Meat Disco, Amy Douglas
NEW 27 WHERE DID YOU GO Nick Peters, Jamie Grey
15 28 LONDON Mokita
18 29 WEEKEND Saxity
21 30 PERFECT STRANGERS Krono, Piotr

 

 

I’m quite convinced now that the music industry only cares about two things in terms of streaming:  Fandom and passive listeners. They are their target audiences. And everyone else in the middle – well that’s nice. Never have we had more variety and volume, now challenged by the proliferation of all-AI tracks, yet music still remains compartmentalized particularly in terms of radio play. Top 40 and Hot Adult Contemporary formats essentially play the same songs, with some differences when an artist or song might appeal to an older demographic. Regular AC radio lives two years behind, while Rock, Alternative, and Dance formats rarely cross over to the first two. Exceptions have been made – Sombr being the most obvious for Rock and Alternative, while David Guetta and Tiësto seem to be the sole safe bets for Dance artists. In Canada, we have some leeway because of Canadian content rules, and because we have no official Dance radio format, songs by Canadians Pineo & Loeb x JRDN , Mike Demero & Dynoro with Sam Feldt, and Nelly Furtado & Boi-1Da are at Top 40 and/or Hot AC. But you won’t find the hottest Rock and Alternative songs by Nickelback or Metric crossing over. Online radio is going to get more organized in the next few years and eventually will be competition for terrestrial radio. So what kind of radio will you want to listen to then – one that preprograms the same songs over and over, or one that listens to you and plays songs you really want to hear?

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 “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  “The Musicman” James Rogers is still on vacation this week, but has given me Classic Five for you to enjoy with songs from 1972. Please do peruse the playlist for show 15 of my all-Canadian hour, The MAPL Tapes, featuring the music of Canadian-Persian multilingual artist Navan, with songs from his new album Kisses on the Moon. 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.

HRVY, “lie to me”

About the artist: HRVY (aka Harvey Cantwell) is a British singer/songwriter who arrived as a teen in the biz in the 2010’s (he’s now 27). While releasing solo music, he also became a go-to voice for dance music producers including Matoma, Steve Aoki, R3HAB and Topic. “lie to me” is self-released.

About the record: It’s been quite a while since I last wrote about HRVY, but “lie to me” is a sweet pop delight that has hit potential written all over it. The song came to my attention from members of the message board that I co-administer who thought highly of it. That it’s a solo track also shows what magic can happen with the right producer and the right vocal. There’s nothing too deep about “lie to me”, making it a simple and clean cut song that can easily find its way to willing listeners.

Other comments: In 2020, HRVY came second on the UK dance competition Strictly Come Dancing with his pro partner Janette Manrara.

NICK FIORUCCI, JOEE, “The Promise”

About the artists: Nick Fiorucci is a renown Juno Award winning Canadian dance producer and remixer who released numerous 90’s domestic dance hits on his influential Hi-Bias Records label. He also remixed some of the biggest hits by Whitney Houston, Céline Dion, and Britney Spears. Joée had several pop/dance hits in Canada in the late 90’s and early 00’s, initially breaking out as lead singer of Intonation. You know these songs – his cover of “(I Just) Died in Your Arms”, “Angel”, “Arriba”, and more.

About the record: “The Promise” is a solid cover of one of my favourite 80’s songs released by UK group When In Rome, which became  a worldwide pop hit in 1987/1988. Nick and Joée faithfully capture the essence of the timeless original, which is now once again radio-ready 38 years later. I’ve always loved the tone in Joée’s voice and the dreamy lyrics and Nick’s arrangement suit his vocal in “The Promise” so well. It’s a real throwback that deserves to be a hit all over again.

Other comments: “The Promise” is the latest release on Nick’s Hi-Bias label. Nick’s Juno win came in 2018 for Best Dancing Recording with “Closer” featuring Laurell. Joée has had six entries on the BILLCS Top 30, and “Angel” was the very first #1 on my published bi-weekly chart – now at edition 745 – for three appearances beginning on January 19, 1998!

GRAHAM PARKER & THE GOLDTOPS, “Black Lincoln Continental” (live)

About the artist: Graham Parker is an acclaimed British rock artist who broke into the music scene in the mid-70’s during the punk scene, while staying on the periphery of it and the new wave era that followed. This is likely due to a more accessible but edgy style which attracted fans worldwide, with Graham winning praise from fellow artists like Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan in the process. 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of his first album, Howlin’ Wind.

About the record: Full disclosure, I’m not familiar with a lot of Graham Parker’s work. This live recording of “Black Lincoln Continental”, originally included in his 80’s heyday on the album Steady Nerves, features a stellar performance from Graham and his latest quintet configuration, The Goldtops. Today’s technology has increased the potency of a well-recorded song in concert, and “Black Lincoln Continental” (recorded in the UK in 2023) provides the dynamic to give you the same rush as seeing the band perform it in person.

Other comments: Graham Parker has kept his fans well fed over 50 years with numerous recordings, with his upcoming still-untitled live album his first release since 2023. Pop music fans would know him from his 1985 Top 40 hit “Wake Up (Next to You)”, which benefited from being a part of the early MTV era. More hardcore fans know him best for his albums Squeezing Out Sparks and The Up Escalator, and songs like “Protection”, “Passion is No Ordinary Word”, “Stupefaction”, and “Temporary Beauty’.

DALEY, “Lavender”

About the artist: It’s nice to have Gareth Daley back making music. The Manchester-born singer/songwriter/keyboardist briefly caused a sensation in the early 2010’s with his distinct and soulful voice, which allowed him to release two albums through Universal. He has also collaborated with the likes of Gorillaz, Pharrell Williams, Jill Scott, and Marsha Ambrosius, the latter two with which he recorded duets which received substantial US R&B radio airplay.

About the record: “Lavender” is Daley’s first release since 2017.. His soft and mellifluous voice is once again the highlight in a gorgeous slice of soul-pop. Unlike his earlier work, which was edgier and more offbeat, “Lavender” recalls the heyday of fellow UK artists like Simply Red but has its roots more planted in old school American R&B like Stevie Wonder, Anita Baker, and Luther Vandross. His voice soars at the right times and the song settles into a comfortable groove which is easy to enjoy.

Other comments: Daley is back thanks to signing with The SRG/ILS Group with distribution through Universal.

SIOBHAN BODRUG, “Monster”

About the artist: Siobhan Bodrug (first name pronounced “Shivon”) is a 21 year old pop singer/songwriter from Toronto who has received praise for her live performances and soulful tone and range. She’s a graduate of Seneca College’s  Independent Songwriting and Performance program, and has performed in several cities including New York City, Toronto, Milwaukee, and Winnipeg, alongside artists like Stars and Joel Plaskett. She has recently been nominated for a 2026 Canadian Screen Award for Original Music in a film.

About the record: Siobhan has been releasing music since her mid-teens but with the R&B-flavoured “Monster” leading the way, it all seems to be coming together to fruition for her. She has a stunning voice – you’ll be listening for that high note over and over again – while the song unfolds the topical story of a toxic relationship in which no one should be. While the story ultimately finishes with a question mark, it an inspiring enough song to reassure you that the protagonist will rise above it and be okay in the end.

Other comments: Siobhan’s debut album is due later in 2026.

EMPIRE CHILD, “Cut Those Ties”

About the artist: I’ve written about two of UK artist Empire Child’s songs thus far, “Trace the Race” and “Negativity Be Gone”. Ruth Rothwell, former record company executive and manager, goes back to her own music roots with her deeply personal and moving R&B/pop songs.

About the record: “Cut Those Ties” is about ending relationships and taking control about who is in your life. And with it, Ruth creates a genuinely bright and uplifting song about it all, focusing on your well-being rather than dwelling on how it affects the other person. It’s never easy, and often full of emotion, but Ruth’s outlook on it all, sung gracefully and effortlessly in her upper register, needs to be heard, given all of her life and professional experience working in an often unforgiving industry.

Other comments: “Cut Those Ties”, as well as her other singles, are a part of her new album called The Empire Child.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week  is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world.

The Chainsmokers team up with Sweden’s Oaks for “Echo” from their collaborative EP Love Is Kind

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that currently airs on The Musicman James Rogers’ “The 3D Variety Show” (Tuesdays between 7 and 8pm ET) and KPHR Kat Power Radio (Tuesdays at 12:25 pm ET).

With the 3D Variety Show on vacation for another week, there is no new retro pick. But KPHR played my segment on “Beds Are Burning” by Midnight Oil this week.

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner and program director of online station Halton Hills Radio Online.

It’s The MAPL Tapes previously featured artist, Ottawa’s Church of Trees with “Stuck on Me”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, including 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 Sweden’s Cimberly with her Melodifestivalen fourth place entry “Eternity”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show  (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays, currently on vacation, returning Tuesday June 9).  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.

Bobby Vinton – Sealed With A Kiss
Stevie Wonder – Superwoman (Where Were You When I Needed You)
The Osmonds – Hold Her Tight
Buffy Sainte-Marie – He’s An Indian Cowboy In The Rodeo
Nilsson – Coconut

Show #15 featuring songs by Navan

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

From his fifth album KONNAKOL, it’s Zayn with “Sideways”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Conan Gray has it for a second chart in a row with “Door” (18-7)

 

It’s a rather fluid edition #745 of the BILLCS Top 30 this week, as half of the Top 10 turns over, and some songs break loose of a log jam that has kept them lower on the chart than I would like. There’s also a new #1 and three debuts.

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 all-Canadian The MAPL Tapes, 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 MAPL Tapes, 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.

Zayn gets his first solo #1 with “Sideways” (above) from his fifth album KONNAKOL. I love the storytelling and his vocal particularly on this one. He also previously reached #1 in 2020 providing vocals on “Flames” by dance producers R3HAB and Jungleboi. Zayn fans I’m sure were happy when he recently released the deluxe edition of KONNAKOL featuring three super new songs. My favourite is “Bad for You”, which you can check out below.

Zayn’s got a lock on #1, which means that Nicola Nicoletti’s gorgeous “Perfect’s Overrated” (above) and Lights’ fun bop with the emotional plea “Come and Get Your Girl” (below) will have to settle for #2 and #3.

Tiësto and Brieanna Grace’s massive dance hit “Beautiful Places” cuts through the Top 10, zipping up the chart 11-5, which was the peak position for his last two entries, “Bring Me to Life” and “Hold Me”. Fans are so happy to hear old-school trance influences in his recent songs, but yet DJ’s are now asking for something else, so go figure!

The James Clark Institute put on a fine set at The Pilot in Toronto a few weeks back, and their early 80’s flavoured “Reluctantly in Love” moves up 10-6.

The Fastest Riser on the chart for a second time is the album track “Door” (above) by Conan Gray, from the deluxe edition of Wishbone, which soars 18-7. Conan has been touring the UK and Europe for the last month. His recent single “The Best” (below) also continues to move up 15-11.

Sung in French and Farsi, “Embrasse-moi (Mara Beboos)” by American-Persian dance producer MashBit and Canadian-Persian singer/songwriter Navan leaps 17-8. For anyone looking for something beautiful but different, then “Embrasse-moi” is the ticket. Navan is the Featured Artist this week on The MAPL Tapes and you’ll hear this song on the show. He has just released his new album Kisses on the Moon.

Tyler Hilton gets his 8th Top 10 entry and first since 2012’s “Prince of Nothing Charming” with “Texas” climbing 12-9.  Tyler and Kate Voegele continue to tour, and they are hitting Canadian cities this month, including several on the east coast.

“Heart on Fire” by Midnight Til Morning moves up 13-10. The group recently postponed their UK and Europe summer tour dates, which have been rescheduled for the fall.

“No Exception” by San Jose dance producer Jay Bird is as slick as disco-house gets these days and climbs 20-13.

The mysterious rocker “For Those Who Play the Game” (above)  by Georgetown, Ontario band Mountain Head rises 20-15. You can check out their recent single “Bayonet” below.

Toronto area singer Mico climbs 21-16 with “Without Me” (above). He has a new album coming on June 26 called When the Lights Turn On, but neither “Without You” nor previous single “Ever After” appear to be on it. Sales for Mico’s upcoming tour are going well, with one sellout date in Toronto on November 6 and a second show added November 7.  You can check out his recent single “Dreamboy” below.

Jessie Ware’s sensuous pop/dance track “Sauna” rises 27-20 from her latest album Superbloom.

Arriving as the Highest Debut at #28 is “Echo” by The Chainsmokers and Oaks, from their collaborative EP Love Is Kind. It’s The Chainsmokers’ 15th chart entry and Oaks’ 3rd – she was previously featured on “Carry You” by Martin Garrix and Third Party (#8) – which I was glad to hear at Martin’s Toronto show last night – and TELYKast’s “Super Powers” (#3).

Next at #29 is the debut entry for John Roberts with the fun pop/dance indie track “Body Talk”. John is best known to you as the voice of Linda on the animated TV show “Bob’s Burgers”, but has a side gig as a singer/songwriter. Even better, this one is produced and co-written with Chris Wallace, of BILLCS Top 30 #1 fame “Remember When (Push Rewind)”.

Rounding out the chart at #30 is Langley, British Columbia indie pop/rock singer/songwriter Danny Baylen with “Say you need me”. This one sounds a lot like Sombr at times, but Danny’s falsetto soars and he clearly has his own style, which you can hear on his other singles. He’s someone to watch for in the coming months.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Halton Hills Radio Online

The MAPL Tapes offers the best of Canadian music past and present, and can be heard Mondays at 6pm EST as well as on six other stations between Monday and Sunday.

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 New Music Pick of the Week is played both days at 10pm ET, and airs several times during the week on other stations. You can view its schedule by clicking at the following link: Schedule. 

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada (on vacation but returning June 9)

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. 

KPHR Kat Power Radio

The Retro Pick of the Week also airs on at 12:25 pm ET on Tuesdays on KPHR.

Lake Online Radio

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.