Monthly Archives: November 2025

Forgive me while I editorialize a bit. For now, I’m done with club culture as it is. Having been to dance clubs in Las Vegas, Miami, New York and Toronto post-pandemic, I can tell you that many of the biggest DJ/producers who play the largest club venues in those cities are now being heavily influenced by streaming for their sets. It’s just too easy, and it’s a cash grab.

Pre-pandemic sets were much more original, featuring ID’s or excerpts of songs which caused immediate reaction and some of which are still used today. But post-pandemic, ID’s and excerpts of dance tracks from yore now dominate these sets. No matter the DJ/producer, you WILL hear them anywhere you go. You know the songs – “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)”, “Sandstorm”, “Take Over Control”, “Rather Be”, and others. You’ll hear new and older songs by the DJ/producers in their own sets. Unless they are big buddies with the DJ/producers, there isn’t much in the way of music played by new artists. And we’re paying even more money to see these shows which are often augmented by effects, lasers and such.

So unless these DJ/producers start reinventing themselves and become less lazy – Tiësto, at age 56, returning to the trance style that broke him out worldwide more than 20 years ago is a good sign – I’ll only go to clubs to see unique shows by artists who have carved out their own lane to attact music fans who want to be there – John Summit and Gareth Emery are good examples – rather than casual streaming listeners attending with equally disinterested friends just for the experience of hearing remixes of too-familiar songs. Armin van Buuren making millions from touring over the years and recently saying EDM is dead instead of doing something about it is not helpful. And I feel bad too for those just coming of age to attend clubs for the first time.

**********

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my new music and retro picks of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers’ Classic Five choices are lit up with a selection of songs released between 1979 and 1986. Since the Report didn’t publish last week, I’ve also added last week’s new music and retro picks, as well as the songs that are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30. And to cap it off, I have a BILLCS Top 30 Flashback Chart to 2019!

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

DIMENSION, KAREN HARDING, “Guardian Angel”

About the artists:  Dimension is British dance producer Robert Etheridge, who has been releasing music for the last 13 years and has worked with such artists as Chase & Status, Sub-Focus, Poppy Baskcomb, and Alison Wonderland. Karen Harding is the Queen of British House Music about whom I’ve written many times, noted for her hits “Say Something”, “Undo My Heart” (with Digital Farm Animals) and “Need Your Love” (with Felix Cartal).

About the record: “Guardian Angel” is an uplifting anthem bop that is sure to make dance festival goers stop in their tracks. Dimension has revved up drum ‘n bass beats for this one, and Karen works her vocal magic to elevate the song into something special. “Guardian Angel” can’t miss for club DJ’s or dance music radio stations. Fans of recent dance music tracks with vocalists Hayla and Clementine Douglas will revel in this one.

Other comments: Dimension and Karen Harding have also collaborated with British producers/songwriters Billen Ted (Nathan Evans, MNEK, Joel Corry, Becky Hill) for this one for Ministry of Sound.

PARTY PUPILS, little luna, “Little Lies”

About the artists: Party Pupils is the dance production project of L.A.-based Ryan Siegel, which originated with singer/songwriter MAX back in 2016, with whom several songs and an EP have been released, most notably 2020’s “Set Me Free” with Oliver Heldens. little luna is a rising singer/songwriter who has been releasing her own music for the last five years, and has been opening for such performers as 5 Seconds of Summer and the Steve Miller Band.

About the record: Reimagining Fleetwood Mac’s classic “Little Lies” as a pop/dance track and having it work as well as it does is a major coup for Party Pupils and little luna. It’s instantly likeable thanks to little luna’s reverence to the original vocal by the late Christine McVie without being a direct copycat – without that, it simply wouldn’t work. Musically, it all works well too, with production and effects that do not overwhelm or weigh down the song, while adding in welcome harmonies to make “Little Lies” a treat all over again.

Other comments: While dance music fans will enjoy it, I’m happy to also pitch this cover of “Little Lies” to fans of Christine and Fleetwood Mac, who may even get the most out of it.

JORDAN ANTHONY, “Hurt Me Sooner”

About the artist: 20 year old Singer/songwriter/pianist Jordan Anthony is based in L.A. but hails from Perth, Australia, where he was a contestant as a teenager on his country’s versions of The Voice and American Idol, as well as its representative at EuroVision Junior.

About the record: I’ve written about Jordan’s most recent singles, but “Hurt Me Sooner” may yet be the best to date. His powerful vocal here has soulful edges in a compelling retrospective “what if” breakup story. Jordan says, “Sometimes the worst thing we can do is try to deny how we feel. I hope this song helps someone sit with their emotions instead of running from them, to feel the feels and start to heal.” He’s particularly inspired by Ed Sheeran and Lewis Capaldi, but could easily find fans who enjoy newer artists like Alexander Stewart too.

Other comments: Part of Jordan’s success in Australia had to do with exposure and visibility, so let’s hope he can continue to gain momentum to perform live shows in North America and the rest of the world.

PAUL HETHERINGTON, “Cruel” (7th Heaven radio edit)

About the artist: Based in Melbourne, Australia, Paul Hetherington is a singer/songwriter who hit his stride in 2024, after spending years trying to find his niche, with the Dave Audé remix of “Dirty Mind” and the 7th Heaven remix of “The Thrill of the Chase”. Both songs acquired dance music chart numbers in the UK as well as attention in Australia.

About the record: While Paul didn’t write “Cruel” – it’s a cover of a New Zealand hit by Dane Rumble – it’s a brilliant song that shows off his solid interpretation into the 80’s-flavoured pop/dance style that he is achieving. The slick production is by Jon Dixon of 7th Heaven, and over the years 7th Heaven have worked with just about every major pop name under the sun – Cher, Donna Summer, Kylie Minogue, Ariana Grande, Take That, which is only the start. Overall it’s flushed with a Europop sound that never gets stale.

Other comments: An extended version of “Cruel” and remix EP are coming soon.

JORGE WILSON, “Gemini”

About the artist:  Jorge Wilson is an independent pop/rock artist from Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, England. Since launching as a solo artist in 2023 after being part of a band, Jorge is only three singles deep.

About the record: There’s no doubt that Jorge Wilson has a flair for writing a punchy, groove-heavy song with “Gemini”. You’re sold within the first 20 seconds, which gives you the benefit of listening for a wicked guitar solo and to a story about self-discovery. “Gemini” has multiple meanings, some of which are explored in the song, but the focus is on duality – at different stages in our lives, when faced with different situations and decisions, we sometimes discover another “person” within ourselves that we never knew existed. Jorge has a fine voice and “Gemini” is a great song by which to get to know him.

Other comments: “Gemini” at times bears a passing resemblance melody-wise to Bryan Adams’ “Run to You”. It’s very promising and this Gemini certainly want to hear more.

GLASSIO, “When The Beat Carries On”

About the artist:  Glassio (aka Sam Radseresht) is an American DIY talent based out of London who has been releasing music for nearly 10 years and has over 10 million streams thus far.

About the record: “When The Beat Carries On” is a gentle slice of dreamy, authentic, alternative pop that uses the idea of a continuous beat throughout all stages of discovery and rediscovery in our lives. Certain things will always be constants, and all of us would be lost if they changed. So instead, through all of our ups and downs and reinventions, there will always beats and music. Glassio doesn’t rush the process, he lets the whimsical, sometimes anthemic earworm of a melody play out underneath the story. The song is positive solace to which you can turn when you need to get your head into a different space.

Other comments: Glassio’s next album, The Imposter, arrives on February 25, 2026.

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, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online. 

This week’s pick:

“Flip the Record” is a blues-flavoured rock track by Greyson Chance

Last week’s pick:

“Find a Way” by tall, gravelly-voiced New Zealand-born alternative rock singer Will Swinton

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, including those mentioned above. It debuts Saturdays on Russ Horton’s Top 40 Timeline on UK National Radio at 1pm EST.

This week’s pick:

The Gene Pitney-penned “He’s a Rebel” by The Crystals – or rather Darlene Love & The Blossoms – from 1962

Last week’s pick:

Bobby Darin’s classic “Mack the Knife”, which was #1 for 9 weeks in 1959

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online station Halton Hills Radio Online. You can hear my Retro Pick of the Week  which debuts every week on the “Top 40 Timeline”. Big Daddy’s record of the week can also be heard each week on “The Big 20”.

Big Daddy thinks that Justin Jesso’s hook-filled “Stuck in the Middle” would be a Top 10 hit in another time and place

DJ HUNTER’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, and has now moved to Chicago-based Lake Radio Online where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter is also on air Fridays on “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it too broadcasts the New Music Pick. Check the schedule for my New Music Pick of the Week on the blog home page near the bottom.

It’s Jacob Collier’s rendition of The Beatles’ “Norwegian Wood”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show  (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays) where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Tuesdays after 7pm EST.  The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

Fine Young Cannibals – Johnny Come Home (1986)
Falco – Vienna Calling (1986)
Bee Gees – Love You Inside Out (1979)
Pretenders – Middle Of The Road (1983)
John Mellencamp – Pink Houses (1983)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

No surprise – “Friends Don’t” by Alexander Stewart and Lauren Spencer Smith grabbed the top spot this week

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

It’s “Super Powers” by TELYKast and Oaks (19-9), a recent national dance radio #1 release

BILLCS TOP 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2019

So much has happened in six years, yet a lot of these songs still seem quite fresh!

07 01 LIGHTS UP Harry Styles
02 02 LIKE LIKE (OKJAMES remix) Lostchild
01 03 DREAMER Throttle
05 04 BREAKING HEARTS Benedict Cork
06 05 DREAMLAND Pet Shop Boys, Years & Years
09 06 FLICKER Anden
08 07 DON’T BREAK MY HEART AGAIN (Stormby Edit) Peter Wilson
11 08 WHO’S GONNA LOVE U Ryan Shepherd, Heather Janssen
12 09 FAMILY AFFAIR The Disco Fries
13 10 FAITH Galantis,Dolly Parton, Mr. Probz
03 11 I’M NOT ALRIGHT Loud Luxury, Bryce Vine
15 12 BROKEN ONES Illenium, Anna Clendening
16 13 PUNCHING IN THE DARK Hellberg, Aloe Blacc
19 14 MAD Brandon Colbein
17 15 ACID DREAMS  MAX, Felly
18 16 WALK ALONE The Him
22 17 I FEEL LOVE Sam Smith
04 18 ON THE WAY UP 2.0  Apollo LTD
27 19 TOXIC WORLD Peter Foldy
23 20 WILL WE TALK Sam Fender
NEW 21 SHIVOHUM Tritonal, Henry Dark
10 22 PUSH Kazaky, Gaspar
14 23 THOSE WERE THE DAYS Midnight Kids, Jared Lee
NEW 24 DON’T GIVE UP Gramatik, Ryan Shaw, Probcause
20 25 RITUAL Tiesto, Jonas Blue, Rita Ora
21 26 POOLSIDE VIBE Pretty Sister, MarcLo
NEW 27 IF WE NEVER MET John.k
NEW 28 TAKE OFF Retrovision
24 29 HERE U R Win & Woo, Sara Skinner
25 30 TOUGH LOVE Avicii, Agnes, Vargas & Lagola

 

Two of my fellow Canadians – one from my city – score their first #1’s on the BILLCS Top 30, and are also the first Canadians to reach the top in over a year!

REMINDER: I’ll be travelling to Las Vegas this week, so there is no BILLCS New Music Report on Wednesday.

Check out information about my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS after the chart commentary below as they are directly tied in with this blog.  As most of you know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded. The Big 20 and the picks of the week are happily being syndicated and you can find the current schedule for all at the bottom of the home page of this blog.

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

Toronto’s Alexander Stewart and Nanaimo’s Lauren Spencer Smith reach the summit this week with their incredible duet “Friends Don’t”. I won’t mind if Alexander sings it solo when I see his show again in March, but maybe we’ll get a duet! The song comes from his top notch album What If. It’s so rare that a singer from my city gets to the top of my chart, so I’m quite delighted about this. The last Canadian #1 on the chart was “feel less” by Felix Cartal and Lights in mid-2024, and the last act from Toronto to reach #1 was Frank Walker with Loud Luxury (who are from London, Ontario, though Toronto often calls them its own) and “Like Gold” in early 2021. You can also check out another stunning album track from Alexander’s What If, the heart-wrenching “The Boy I Almost Was”, below.

DJ Martinee and France Joli’s powerhouse disco track, 2025 style, “My Everlasting Love”, continues to rise, moving up 5-3.

Although “Vodka Cranberry” leaves #1 after a month at the top (2 appearances), the exhilarating album track from Wishbone, “Eleven Eleven” by Conan Gray, zips into the Top 5, up 11-4. Might we find Conan at the top of the chart again sometime soon?

Greyson Chance has now completed his 6 week South East Asia tour, and added on “Summertrain ’25” (above, which climbs 10-5) to a limited vinyl release of his 2019 album Portraits. It’s his first Top 5 entry since 2022’s “Black Mascara”. He also gets a second concurrent chart entry with his bluesy and emotional “Flip The Record” (below), which arrives at #27.

L.A. producers TELYKast have the Fastest Riser on the chart with their North American dance radio #1, “Super Powers” (19-9), with Swedish singer/songwriter Oaks. It’s their 5th Top 10 entry.

The third new entry to the Top 10 is “Zombie” by Yungblud, which climbs 12-10. Best wishes to Yungblud while he takes care of his well-being after having to cancel some North American tour dates. He also just received 3 Grammy nominations, including one for “Zombie”.

Madrid-based American singer/songwriter Reigen’s festive Spanish language track “Quiero Bailar” is making short work of the chart, up 20-11 this week.

“Summer Rain” advances 17-12 and looks to be yet another Top 10 entry in the making for Juno Award winning Canadian dance producer Felix Cartal, with vocal by American singer Reo Cragun.

The bright and friendly pop sounds of Toronto-based multi-talent Creighton Doane’s “Need a Friend” (23-18) is yours to check out and listen to a relatable song about a lonely individual who gets helped out through the kindness of others.

The hook and verse from Baltimora’s “Tarzan Boy” are hard to resist in The Magician’s wonderful new track “Night to Night”, which rises 26-19.

“RUDEBOI” is the fun drum ‘n bass track by new L.A. dance producer HISSTERIA, and climbs 24-20. It’s a bit more of a novelty, but his new single “SNOBS” will certainly make you smile, so give it a listen below.

L.A.-based, New Zealand-born Will Swinton is back with his second chart entry of 2025, “Find a Way” at #26.  It’s his third overall, following “Harmless” (#2 in 2024) and this year’s “Flames” (#8).

And the final debut is “Addicted” by the Philadelphia indie duo with the distinct lo-fi hip hop flavoured sound, N i G H T S. It bows at #28 and is their 5th chart entry, following last year’s “Hopeless” (#6).

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Halton Hills Radio Online

Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs.  The show also repeats on Saturday evening at 6 pm EST. 

My New Music Pick of the Week debuts each week on The Big 20. It airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking at the following link: Schedule. 

On Saturdays and Sundays from 8pm to Midnight EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix”, four hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

My Retro Pick of the Week airs each week on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline”, Saturdays at 4pm EST. You can view its schedule by going to the lower right corner of the home page of this blog. 

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada 

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my Retro Pick of the Week on the live online radio show “The 3D Variety Show”, powered by www.xstreamrockradio.com with “The Musicman” James Rogers. I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments.  The show repeats on Alberta’s www.katpowerhit.ca on Wednesdays at 6pm EST. 

Lake Radio Online

Chicago’s Lake Radio Online now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Sundays at Midnight EST, which airs my New Music Pick of the Week. You can also hear the new music pick on Hunter’s other show Fridays at 8pm EST on “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio.

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! Schedules are updated regularly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you love new music but don’t know any of the artists about whom I’ve written today, that’s all the more reason to check out today’s selections in the Report, which range from contemporary disco to edgy alternative rock. I will be vacationing in Las Vegas next week, so there will be no Report, and it will return on Thursday November 27.

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my new music and retro picks of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers’ Classic Five choices all come from the early 80’s. You’ll also find out what songs were in the Top 5 of the BILLCS Top 30 5-10-15-20-25 years ago!

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

PACIFICA, “Indie Boyz”

About the artist:  Pacifica is the Buenos Aires, Argentina alternative rock duo of Inés Adam and Martina Nintzel, who were internet friends before a further in-person meeting in New York City led to them releasing music together. 

About the record: “Indie Boyz” displays its 90’s and 00’s roots in grunge and garage rock proudly. From the memorable, crunchy bass work through to the swaggery, droll vocal, Pacifica has crafted a light-hearted, vibey song that stands out and will hold your attention. The duo aptly calls it an “ode to late-night indie sleaze”, and you’ll want to hear more.

Other comments: “Indie Boyz” comes from Pacifica’s third album called In Your Face.

JAVI, “Carnivore”

About the artist: Javi is an L.A.-based multi-talent of Puerto Rican and Latin heritage whose pop/R&B/dance songs have appeared a bunch of times in these blog pages through both originals and covers like Sade’s “Cherish The Day”.

About the record: “Carnivore” might just be Javi’s most striking release yet. It’s an immersive and haunting story about vampirism, full of seductive rhythms, catchy wordplay, and a compelling vocal from the singer. The best way to check out this enticing song may just be to set aside 6 minutes for its video story to unfold. It’s beautifully shot and features some fine choreography, and a magnetic screen presence by Javi, using his tall, imposing figure to full effect, at the following link:  Carnivore

Other comments: Javi releases a handful of songs every year and perhaps “Carnivore” will help make them be more frequent.

MGR. MIKE, “Heaven” and “Light It Up (Soul Fire)”

About the artist: Nashville-based MGR.MIKE creates new iterations of 70’s disco as well as similarly inspired events to make people want to dance. He’s already appeared on the BILLCS Top 30, peaking at #4 earlier this year with the unique and inspiring “The Message” (with Mexican producer Milton V).

About the records: “Heaven” and “Light It Up (Soul Fire)” have been released in quick succession, and I couldn’t decide which one to write about, so they both win!  “Heaven” is hugely reminiscent of classic 70’s instrumentals like “The Hustle” with an invested hook and melody that will keep you grooving though there are no vocals or words. “Light It Up (Soul Fire)” captures the essence of energetic, anthemic 70’s R&B-flavoured releases led by (uncredited) female vocals through such artists as Chic, The Pointer Sisters, and First Choice. Both are well-defined and there’s enough contemporary disco flavour for those music fans looking for something fresh. Check ’em both out and see if you like one better than the other.

Other comments: MGR. MIKE is performing in Toronto on Saturday, November 15 at Spaghetti Disco, 1166 Dundas Street West (doors are at 11pm).

KACEY FIFIELD, “Out of Mind”

About the artist: Kacey Fifield is a NYC-based, L.A.-raised singer/songwriter/guitarist whose songs have appeared many times in these blog pages – can it be five years already?? This has allowed me to watch her progress from teenage collaborator to a confident adult solo artist who likes to take risks, moving from electronic pop and ballads to dramatic-sounding rock.

About the record: “Out of Mind” is her most cutting and edgy release to date in all departments – vocally, musically and lyrically. Producer Riley Aki pushes all boundaries here, opting for a sometimes deliberately muddy sound, in turn acting as an effect for Kacey’s vocal. There’s plenty of shredded guitar work happening in the song about being “metaphorically haunted by an ex”. It’s a cathartic and exciting release, certainly one of Kacey’s best ones to date, and shows a lot of obvious recent growth.

Other comments: Next up is a horror-themed video for “Out of Mind” (since it was released on Hallowe’en), and a new EP in 2026.

THE GOLD NEEDLES, “Turns to Gold”

About the artist:  The Gold Needles are a pop/rock quintet from Kingston-upon-Hull in East Yorkshire, England that was formed in 2015 featuring the lead vocals of guitarist Simon Dowson, and has released three albums to date. The band’s style samples a bevy of influences, from 70’s punk rock through to 80’s west coast new wave era rock.

About the record:  “Turns to Gold” follows up “Supernature”, which I wrote about earlier this year, and has a jaunty, carefree melody that could have easily stepped out of 1979 or 1980. Simon’s vocal remind me of a mix of Glenn Tilbrook and Chris Difford of Squeeze, Andy Partridge of XTC, and Ric Ocasek of The Cars. The focus of this track is on electric guitar, courtesy of splendid work by member Dave Burbidge, with particular inspiration from Thin Lizzy. The song is about what I call “playing the music industry biz game” – getting burned along the way, developing a strong sense of cynisism, and learning from it all. They make a heavy topic for musicians light, enjoyable, and refreshing for listeners to soak in.

Other comments: The Gold Needles’ fourth album and first in four years, Mood Elevator, arrives on December 12.

GEORGIA BLACK, “Kicks”

About the artist:  Georgia Black is an alternative pop singer from London who infuses her songs with R&B and jazz flavours and has been releasing music for about 7 years. She is also an actor, having performed in Punchdrunk’s acclaimed theatre production “The Drowned Man”.

About the song: While she is in good company with other contemporary jazz/pop vocalists like Norah Jones, Samara Joy and Madeleine Peyroux, Georgia Black has her own flair through which she spins her own love stories like “Kicks”. Her style is dreamy and escapist but not without a bit of punch and edge. She’s clearly a versatile talent and “Kicks” is only one glimpse of that.

Other comments: “Kicks” is culled from Georgia’s debut album Rope, which you can explore to find out more, and you can check out the video for “Kicks” at the following link:  Kicks

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, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online. 

The Magician samples Baltimora’s “Tarzan Boy” in “Night to Night”

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, including those mentioned above. It debuts Saturdays on Russ Horton’s Top 40 Timeline on UK National Radio at 1pm EST.

It’s the Oscar-winning “Theme From ‘Shaft'” by Isaac Hayes (1971)

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online station Halton Hills Radio Online. You can hear my Retro Pick of the Week  which debuts every week on the “Top 40 Timeline”. Big Daddy’s record of the week can also be heard each week on “The Big 20”.

It’s Eagle-Eye Cherry with “Chasing Down a Dream”

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, and has now moved to Chicago-based Lake Radio Online where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter is also on air Fridays on “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it too broadcasts the New Music Pick. Check the schedule for my New Music Pick of the Week on the blog home page near the bottom.

DJ Hunter wishes us all a belated 11:11:11 through Conan Gray’s “Eleven Eleven”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show  (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays, returning on November 18) where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Tuesdays after 7pm EST.  The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

Lionel Richie – You Are (1983)
Christopher Cross – All Right (1983)
Doug & The Slugs – Who Knows How (1983)
Billy Joel – You May Be Right (1983)
BB Gabor – Jealous Girl (1981) (You Tube link)

THE 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…

2020

01  HOUSE IS HAPPINESS, Stan Sax

02  UNDO MY HEART, Karen Harding, Digital Farm Animals

03  TYPE LIKE THAT, Pawl, Discrete

04  ONE LAST SONG, Benedict Cork

05  DIAMONDS, Sam Smith

2015

01  HELLO, Adele

02  LET YOU GO, River Tiber

03  LIFE’S A BEACH, Brandyn Burnette

04  CAKE BY THE OCEAN, DNCE

05  MY RELIGION, Dan Talevski

2010

01  RESURRECTION (Penguin Prison remix), The Temper Trap

02  LOVE PART II, Bright Light Bright Light

03  WHITE KNUCKLE RIDE (Penguin Prison remix), Jamiroquai

04  PRETENDER, Elouise

05  START A FIRE, Ryan Star

2005

01  PRETTY VEGAS, INXS

02  DO WHAT U WANT, jASeFOs, Claire van der Boom

03  PRECIOUS, Depeche Mode

04  GOLD DIGGER, Kanye West, Jamie Foxx

05  TRIPPING, Robbie Williams

2000

01  HERE WITH ME, Dido

02  SHE BANGS, Ricky Martin

03  TWISTED TENDERNESS, Electronic

04  CASE OF THE EX (WHATCHA GONNA DO), Mya

05  NO MORE, Ruff Endz

 

I have nothing else to add to this week’s Report, so I’ll let the music speak for itself!

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers’ Classic Five song choices are some memorable ones from 1989. In case you missed them on Monday, you’ll also 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.

MOONWOOD, “Where Are The Kids?”

About the artist:  Moonwood is a rock band based in Sydney, Australia consisting of members who are Australian, American and Canadian. Although I’ve been writing about their music since 2021, the band’s music really caught fire with 2023’s EP Curfew Hours, from which “Curfew” reached #5 on the BILLCS Top 30.

About the record: “Where Are The Kids?” is the first new music from Moonwood in more than a year. It marks a significant change up for them, bringing us an urgent and emotional anthem that captures the essence of early adulthood, and the realization that it comes and goes a little too quickly before the reality of every day life catches up with us. Also new in the song is a bit more focus on synths, which adds another layer to Moonwood’s already tight sound. Jake McCullough’s vocal alternates between powerful and semi-sung, the latter of which makes the song highly relatable. It’s a touch long at almost 5 minutes but fans of My Chemical Romance and Fall Out Boy will enjoy this fresh spin on early 2000’s rock.

Other comments: I was pleased to meet up with Jake when I was in Sydney earlier this year, where we got a chance to talk music! You can watch for more great music from Moonwood, and lucky Aussies will get to see them again at some point soon in concert.

KRADRIFF, BUD CAHILL, “Shadows”

About the artists: Kradriff is a British electronic producer, and Bud Cahill is a NYC-based electronic producer AND violinist whose songs have appeared in these blog pages. Bud’s “Intergalactic Journey” reached #5 on the BILLCS Top 30 at the top of the year.

About the record: “Shadows” is a huge and unexpected 90’s flashback for me, production-wise. It captures the ambiance of early 90’s releases by Enigma (Michael Cretu), while providing a mix of progressive and techno flavours. Best of all, Kradriff makes Bud Cahill’s violin shine, and there’s even a bar in the melody that recalls Jam & Spoon’s “Right in the Night” for me. It’s always great to hear real instruments mixed in with synths, and “Shadows” is a stellar example of how to do it.

Other comments: I’d be down for another collaboration between these two artists!

JUSTIN JESSO, “Stuck in the Middle”

About the artist: Justin Jesso is the energetic Chicago-based singer/songwriter who many of us saw on Kygo’s world tour during the last year. Despite being a go-to vocalist for several dance producers, he also continues to release solo music independently.

About the record:  In “Stuck in the Middle”, Justin’s vocal really sparkles as he relates back a story of where none of us want to be found in a relationship – coasting along where nothing is happening. That doesn’t mean that being “in the middle” is without its good times. But it’s unsatisfying as a whole, and usually leads to a breakup. It’s an enjoyable release that gives hope for us all that being in the middle is just a temporary setback.

Other comments: As much as music fans connect some vocalists with their favourite producers, songs like “Stuck in the Middle” let the singer shine on their own terms. So be sure to check out your favourite dance music vocalist’s solo repertoire too and you’ll be rewarded!

SHAWN HOOK, “Dear Mr. Brown”

About the artist: Shawn Hook is a multi-talent originally from Castlegar, British Columbia who has scored hits in Canada and the US at Top 40 and Adult Contemporary radio, as well as on North American dance charts.

About the record: Following up more lyrically cutting songs like “Lie” and “Miss Me Too”, Shawn treads into darker territory with “Dear Mr. Brown”. By the time you hear more about “Mr. Brown” in the song, you’re gonna have to agree that karma’s gotta get this guy whoever he is. It’s a welcome change of pace from love songs for Shawn. His vocal is top notch and the vibe of the song is suitably creepy.

Other comments: “Dear Mr. Brown” is part of Shawn’s new EP, appropriately titled Rebuild, given his recovery from cancer these past few years.

MELØ, “New Way of Missing You”

About the artist: MELØ is Windsor, Ontario artist Carmen Rivolta, who has recently been releasing new music and performing in southern Ontario in follow up to his 2024 album Songs from the Spirit Box.

About the record: “New Way of Missing You” has several elements which make it somewhat of an 80’s throwback for me. It’s got a terrific jazzy guitar hook that reminds me a lot of late 70’s, early 80’s Steely Dan, Doobie Brothers or Toto, and a melody that recalls David Bowie’s 80’s work. MELØ’s vocal has a welcome bit of rasp, and as usual the production is high-calibre. Despite all of the older references, the overall sound is fresh and spirited for 2025.

Other comments: “New Way of Missing You” serves as the title of MELØ’s new four song EP, which includes “I Don’t Speak French”, which reached #7 on the BILLCS Top 30 earlier this year.

MERGUI, ZEVIA, “Nothing Gold Can Stay”

About the artists:  Mergui is an Israel-born singer/songwriter now based in L.A. whose songs have been featured a few times this year in these blog pages. Not too much is known about Zevia, a Florida-based singer/songwriter whose songs are inspired by artists like Lana Del Rey and Lorde. She was named as one of People’s emerging artists of 2023.

About the song: “Nothing Gold Can Stay” is a refreshing song in a number of ways. It’s a softer pop song fully targeting the adult market, with strong vocal interplay by the two singers. What’s special is that it’s an unusually lyrical piece, which talks about all of our comforts – memories, happy places, being with someone you adore. I thought the title was unusual until I found that it is in fact borrowed from the title of a famous poem by Robert Frost. So enjoy who and what please you because even gold, in time, will fade.

Other comments: Be sure to add “Nothing Gold Can Stay” to a playlist of songs that keep you happy in your comfort zone.

GABE JAMES, “Electric Woman”

About the artist: Originally from Colorado, singer/guitarist Gabe James moved to L.A. a few years ago to hone his sound, which alternates between classic-inspired rock and country-flavoured rock. 

About the record: “Electric Woman” is about finding that right person for you who makes you comfortable enough to move out of the notorious “friend zone”. You can’t fault Gabe for his choice in words or vocals which warmly and convincingly cross the t’s and dot the i’s that anyone’s object of affection would so appreciate. “Electric Woman” goes down easy and leaves you smiling, just as any song with a happy ending should do.

Other comments: Gabe occasionally performs live in L.A. in small club settings, so it’s a good idea to check out his Instagram posts.

N i G H T S, “Bad”

About the artist: N i G H T S is the lo-fi Philadelphia indie electronic duo of Corey and Evan, who straddle pop, rock, R&B and hip hop with their distinct sound. They’ve also been rather prolific lately, with “Bad” following up the very catchy “Addicted”, which I wrote about a few weeks back.

About the record: “Bad” shows how much N i G H T S likes to switch things up lyrically and vocally, while keeping the integrity of their signature fusion of styles. The lyrics in “Bad” come across almost like stream of consciousness, punctuated by an equally fragmented rap. So you’re left to some sleuthing while the story of someone who is bad for the protagonist plays out. The mystery is alluring, with another infectious melody, and the guys entice you back for multiple listens while you try to figure it all out.

Other comments: Why make it another single release? “Bad” is actually the title track from N i G H T S’ latest four song EP.

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, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online. 

It’s “Elevate” by British singer/songwriter and dance music performer Kelli-Leigh

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, including those mentioned above. It debuts Saturdays on Russ Horton’s Top 40 Timeline on UK National Radio at 1pm EST.

The Supremes got their first #1 song in 1964 with the classic “Where Did Our Love Go?”

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online station Halton Hills Radio Online. You can hear my Retro Pick of the Week  which debuts every week on the “Top 40 Timeline”. Big Daddy’s record of the week can also be heard each week on “The Big 20”.

It’s “Lemonade” by Louis Tomlinson from his album How Did I Get Here?

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, and has now moved to Chicago-based Lake Radio Online where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter is also on air Fridays on “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it too broadcasts the New Music Pick. Check the schedule for my New Music Pick of the Week on the blog home page near the bottom.

Retro rocker DownTown Mystic with “Somebody’s Always Doin;’ Something to Somebody”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show  (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays, now on hiatus till mid-November) where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Tuesdays after 7pm EST.  The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

Madonna – Like A Prayer
The Bangles – Eternal Flame
Roxette – The Look
The B-52s – Love Shack
Paula Abdul – Straight Up

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Conan Gray gets a second appearance at #1 with “Vodka Cranberry”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Conan also has the Fastest Riser with a highlight from his album Wishbone, “Eleven Eleven”, which appropriately rises 18-11!

 

 

I’m looking forward to travelling to Las Vegas in two weeks, where I’ll see Zedd for the first time, performing at Omnia Nightclub. Zedd is also performing earlier the same day as part of the kick off for Formula 1 Heineken Race Weekend, which is a bit out of my price range, so I’m glad to be seeing his show in a club. I also plan to check out some of the music and food celebration downtown, tne Neon City Festival. Fingers crossed for decent weather!

Check out information about my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS after the chart commentary below as they are directly tied in with this blog.  As most of you know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded. The Big 20 and the picks of the week are happily being syndicated and you can find the current schedule for all at the bottom of the home page of this blog.

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

And yes, I did get my ticket to see Conan Gray perform in Toronto on February 23, 2026! I thoroughly enjoyed his last show in September 2024, and look forward to hearing the songs from Wishbone performed live. In the meantime, from that album, “Vodka Cranberry” (above) gets a second appearance at #1, while “Eleven Eleven” (below) is the Fastest Riser on the chart, climbing (guess what!!) 18-11!

I’m also seeing Alexander Stewart perform again on March 13, 2026, and you need to check out his terrific new album What If, particularly if you like songs that come from the heart. “Friends Don’t” is the outstanding track however, with Alexander in a duet with fellow Canadian Lauren Spencer Smith, and it looks to steal #1 away from Conan Gray in two weeks, rising 5-2. Alexander’s “His Problem Instead” also got to #2 at the top of this year.

When disco artists from that era start to make refined disco 2025-style, then you know it’s going to be good. DJ Martinee and France Joli’s “An Everlasting Love” is a benchmark on how to do it right, and it rises 9-5.

Don’t stop playing “The Dead Dance” just because Hallowe’en has passed!  Another enjoyable release from Lady Gaga, it moves up 10-8.

American producers/DJs Polar Bears get their first Top 10 entry with the intense and emotional “Fake It”, with vocals by Dutch singer/songwriter Jay Mason, climbing 12-9.

Greyson Chance returns to the Top 10 for a 7th time with “Summertrain ’25”, a song he recorded in 2011, now refitted for his adult voice and his life journey to date. It leaps 16-10.

UK singer/songwriter Yungblud is selling out his scheduled tours for 2026, and his collaboration with Aerosmith, “My Only Angel”, is one of the hottest songs at Mainstream Rock Radio. The Hansa Studios recording of “Zombie” moves up 15-12.

There’s a log jam of songs on the rise that are waiting for others to peak and fall as early as two weeks from now. That leaves the biggest remaining move to be made by L.A. producer HISSTERIA with his fun and energetic drum ‘n bass track “RUDEBOI”, which rises 30-24. And if you’re an older listener, you might find that some of its melody reminds you of the theme to the 60’s TV show “The Munsters”.

The Highest Debut on the chart belongs to British singer/songwriter Kelli-Leigh with her banger “Elevate” from her debut album Legacy at #25. Kelli-Leigh has had a previous appearance on the chart, reaching #12 in 2020 with US production duo Halogen on “The Reason”.

Quickly entering the chart at #26 is “Night To Night” by Belgian producer The Magician, whose lyrics revolve around the chorus and hooks from Baltimora’s mid-80’s worldwide smash “Tarzan Boy”. It works like a charm, and becomes The Magician’s second chart entry, following his scintillating 2016 #1 “Shy” with Brayton Bowman.

The third debut at #27 is the 7th chart entry for Miami producer GT_Ofice, bringing along fellow producer Matthew Topper on the chart for a third time and another producer as well, Martial Simon, for “Two Hands”. GT_Ofice’s “Feels Like Us” (with ALWZ SNNY and Robbie Rosen) is currently his personal best, reaching #3 in 2023. And to no surprise, it’s also currently breaking out at North American Dance Music Radio!!

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

Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs.  The show also repeats on Saturday evening at 6 pm EST. 

My New Music Pick of the Week debuts each week on The Big 20. It airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking at the following link: Schedule. 

On Saturdays and Sundays from 8pm to Midnight EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix”, four hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

My Retro Pick of the Week airs each week on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline”, Saturdays at 4pm EST. You can view its schedule by going to the lower right corner of the home page of this blog. 

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada 

The 3D Variety Show is currently on a brief hiatus and will return in mid-November.

Lake Radio Online

Chicago’s Lake Radio Online now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Sundays at Midnight EST, which airs my New Music Pick of the Week. You can also hear the new music pick on Hunter’s other show Fridays at 8pm EST on “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio.

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! Schedules are updated regularly.