2025 – Page 3 – BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

BILLCS Top 30 #727 – September 22/25

It’s a rarity when we have to say goodbye to an artist that has appeared on my chart. But yesterday we lost Chicago house legend Ron Carroll at the too young age of 57. I wasn’t familiar with Ron or his impact on the dance music community until about 10 years ago, but his 30 years in the business is full of great songs and performances which have been sampled numerous times. Ron in fact had just appeared on this chart with his collaboration with producer Provi called “Celebration” which peaked at #5. In 2018, he got to #1 on the chart with another French producer, Mercer, with “Satisfy”. So let’s honour him by spinning those songs over the next few days, Spotify links are below.

Celebration

Satisfy

Online version of the chart at the following link: BILLCS Top 30

Spotify playlist of the chart at the following link: Spotify playlist

As a standing item about my daughter VXTORIA‘s progress with her music, her debut EP Dreamstate is now out! It features three new songs, “Awaken”, “U&Me”, and “TMRW”, in addition to singles Back To You, changes, and Lost in Your Love. I’d like to thank anyone who has found out about her music through my blog page for supporting the songs. New music on its way!

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.

sombr continues his third reign at #1 this year with the danceable and incredibly catchy “12 to 12” (above), while “we never dated” (below) moves up 6-4.

Conan Gray is the second artist who has two songs in the Top 10, from his stunning album Wishbone! You can expect “Vodka Cranberry” (above) to challenge “12 to 12” for #1 within the next month, while “This Song” (below) leaps 14-7.

UK retro-styled singer/songwriter Elliot James Reay rises 9-5 with his first chart entry “Daydreaming”, which I’m sure Benson Boone fans are now familiar with from Elliot opening for him on tour.

The second new entry into the Top 10 is also now the second Top 10 release for Ireland’s Four Nights with his charming and relatable “all night long” (12-10) from his EP in my mind i’m safe. “Want You Always” peaked at #8 in 2021.

Closing in on the Top 10 is the dynamic collaboration between UK dance producer MXTR and L.A.-based multi-talent Tyler Garrett with the uplifting “Won’t Give Up” climbing 16-11.

The “Disco 3000” remix of SIRPAUL’s “Dopamine”, the title release of his latest album, rises 17-12 for the veteran talented New York indie dance artist.

The beautiful lyrics of Damiano David’s “The First Time” shine through on every listen, and the track from his debut album Funny Little Fears climbs 21-15.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is a worldly, gentle reminder to all of us called “Bigger Than All of Us” by Above & Beyond with their go-to vocalist Justine Suissa, and it soars 24-16.

SLANDER’s update of their 2019 release “Love Is Gone” is well on its way, climbing 26-20, with a gorgeous vocal by JOSHUA of KPOP group SEVENTEEN. SLANDER plays Budweiser Stage in Toronto on Friday, September 26.

“The Dead Dance” by Lady Gaga will likely climb further in the coming weeks, but for now it’s up 28-22. Expect to hear it everywhere as we approach Hallowe’en!

The Highest Debut belongs to DJ Martinee and France Joli with “My Everlasting Love” at #26. Lewis Martinee has been producing for the last 40 years and his resume is a laundry list of major name talent. He actually produced this song for France 30 years ago, but for whatever reason their project was shelved. Now he’s taken her vocal and provided it with a smashing disco production, 2025 style! Montreal-based France is a legend on the dance music charts with songs like “Come To Me”, “Heart To Break The Heart”, and “Gonna Get Over You” that were huge in the disco era. Lewis charted with K.C. & The Sunshine Band on their revival “I Get To Love You” last year, which reached #12.

Rounding out the debuts at #27 is Yorkshire, England born Yungblud (aka Dominic Harrison) with his debut chart appearance, “Zombie”. I prefer the mix on the version that was recorded at Hansa Studios, but the fine original appears on his album Idols, his third album to go to #1 in the UK. After collaborations with artists like Halsey, Marshmello, MGK and Bring Me The Horizon, the powerfully-voiced singer has now broken out bigger worldwide after his MTV VMA’s performance with Aerosmith and Nuno Bettencourt. Expect to hear much, much more about Yungblud over the coming months. He is in the midst of a North American tour and played Toronto last night. He plays the Fallsview Casino in Niagara Falls tomorrow (September 23).

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. New episodes are coming soon!

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.

Party Dog Radio

Canada’s Party Dog Radio anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Saturdays at 4pm EST, which airs my New Music Pick of the Week. Party Dog Radio also airs “The Big 20”, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week on Sundays after 9pm EST.

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.

BILLCS New Music Report – September 18/25 with new songs by Greyson Chance, Donna Summer x Mousse T x Toby Gad, Felix Cartal & Reo Cragun, Alex Sampson, DLG., The What Four, HISSTERIA, and Black Dahlia

From rock to disco to electronic to alternative to pop, I’ve got it all covered for you with new releases in this week’s edition of the Report.

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week and last, 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 has this week’s Classic Five, which focuses on the diverse talents of five female vocalists who created dance music in the 70’s and 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!

Do check out my daughter VXTORIA‘s six song EP Dreamstate, which follows up her her fantastic house collaboration with Toronto-area producer TEARJVCKKD called “More Love” (at the following link: More Love). Dreamstate includes three more new songs, “Awaken”, “TMRW”, and “U&Me”. It includes the previous recent releases, “Back To You”, the afrobeats-flavoured “Lost In Your Love” and “changes”. You can watch her in the video for her debut single “Back To You” at the following link: Back To You.

Note: To listen to the songs, click on the photos for a Spotify link.

GREYSON CHANCE, “Summertrain ’25”

About the artist: Greyson Chance is the Texas-born, Oklahoma-based former child prodigy who rose to fame through his appearance on TV’s “Ellen”. As an adult, Greyson’s deeply personal songs tend to rest in the alternative pop genre. He’s been to #2 on the BILLCS Top 30 3 times, with “Dancing Next To Me” (see my “5-10-15-20-25” feature below), “My Dying Spirit” and “Black Mascara”.

About the record: Like other artists, most notably Taylor Swift, Greyson has recently decided to re-record some of his past songs which were recorded half his lifetime ago. I’m not familiar with his work from back then, so “Summertrain ’25”, originally recorded in 2011 on his album Hold On ’til The Night, is entirely new to me. It’s a splendid, zen-like song that wasn’t written by him but its upbeat message works as Greyson begins this new era. His vocal gives a shiny resilience to the song these years later. This one’s a delight that you shouldn’t miss.

Other comments: Last year, Greyson decided to go the self-released route after 14 years of record deals, and is now also self-managed. He begins a short tour in Asia later this month.

DONNA SUMMER, MOUSSE T, TOBY GAD, “Run – Disco”

About the artists: Donna Summer is my forever queen of disco music and her record “I Feel Love” helped change the way I listened to music. Mousse T is a veteran German dance producer most noted for his UK hits “Horny” and “Sex Bomb” (with Tom Jones). Toby Gad is a multiple Grammy-nominated German writer/producer, who began in the late 80’s but saw his greatest success with his co-writes for John Legend (“All of Me”), Beyonce (“If I Were A Boy”), Demi Lovato (“Skyscraper”), and many others including Madonna.

About the record: I always greet with some trepidation the posthumous release of unreleased songs by my favourite artists. One that exceeded my expectations was Kygo’s rework of Whitney Houston’s version of “Higher Love” in 2019. “Run – Disco” is an unreleased Donna Summer track from the sessions of her 2008 album Crayons. And with its release, it continues to boggle my mind at how much unreleased fine material there is locked away. I’m so glad that Mousse T and Toby Gad were able to get “Run – Disco” released. They’ve done a great job at elevating a lovely song with a captivating vocal by Donna about following your dream and love into the burgeoning 2025 disco world, right where it belongs.

Other comments: “Stamp Your Feet” is an anthemic track from Donna Summer’s Crayons album that was one of her 18 #1’s on the Billboard Dance Club Play chart during her lifetime. It also got to #4 on the BILLCS Top 30 in 2008.

FELIX CARTAL, REO CRAGUN, “Summer Rain”

About the artists: Felix Cartal is a British Columbia-based, Juno Award winning dance music producer/DJ whose songs have been regularly featured in my blog. L.A.-based Reo Cragun has been a go-to vocalist over the last decade across music genres, but most notably in dance music where he has also collaborated with the likes of R.L. Grime and Flume.

About the record: Despite a title that might make you think it’s a ballad or slower track, “Summer Rain” is actually quite a snappy dance track with a sultry and thoughtful vocal by Reo, and wistful lyrics about fond reminiscences highlighted by summer rain. I’m glad Felix has pivoted to an uptempo, soulful pop/dance sound for this one, which could generate Canadian Top 40 and national dance radio airplay.

Other comments: Felix Cartal releases his fifth album called I, Sabotage on October 17. His track with Lights, the stripped back live studio version of “feel less”, reached #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 in 2024.

ALEX SAMPSON, “There She Goes”

About the artist: Alex Sampson is a 21 year old singer/songwriter from Atitokan, Ontario, near Thunder Bay, who became a semi-finalist in 2024 on TV’s “America’s Got Talent”, which led to a Top 10 Canadian radio airplay hit with his ballad “Pretty Baby”.

About the record: Alex and his team have been tapping into the zeitgeist of people in his age group with a series of well-crafted, tenderly emotional pop releases. “There She Goes” joins that group, where we find the protagonist falling in love with his best friend and muse, and worried about how crossing that line in a relationship will play out. It’s a deft snapshot to take in a song, and Alex’s genuine, likeable performance goes a long way.

Other comments: Could “There She Goes” be the worthy successor to “Pretty Baby” at Canadian pop radio? Alex emerged at the same time as singers like JVKE and Stephen Sanchez, but now seems to have his own niche sound as well as a huge social media following.

DLG., “I Just Want You”

About the artist: DLG. is Texas-born, L.A. based DIY electronic talent Dave de la Garza, who I’ve written about a few times before but not since early 2024.

About the record: “I Just Want You” is a pleasant surprise for me after DLG.’s previous releases, which were much more entrenched in progressive electronic styles, like drum ‘n bass, but sometimes mixed with hip hop. This song sees DLG. broadening his spectrum for a more alternative, authentic rock sound. Sometimes stripped back and later with fuzzy electronics augmenting the chorus, “I Just Want You” might be his best release to date, and DLG. showcases his fine voice much better than before. It’s full of longing and desire, and about that time when you’ve got to know someone and want to take it to the next level. I’d pitch it less to electronic music fans and more to those who have embraced artists like Sombr, Role Model, and Almost Monday.

Other comments: “I Just Want You” is a step in the right direction for DLG. as his streaming audience continues to grow.

THE WHAT FOUR, “Quarter to Midnight”

About the artist: The What Four is a southern California garage-rock quartet highlighting the vocals of Marc Orrell (ex-Dropkick Murphys) and Katie Stratton, the stand up bass of Jeff Roffredo, and multi-instrumentalist Ryan Ratfield.

About the record: “Quarter to Midnight” will transport you back to the early 80’s when rockabilly revival performers like Robert Gordon and The Stray Cats were thriving, and ultimately led to the arrival of another wave of male artists with 60’s influences like Chris Isaak, Dwight Yoakam and Harry Connick Jr. “Quarter to Midnight” is a brisk, energetic rocker with compelling vocals, harmonies, and stand up bass work which adds a refreshing element. The vibrant video for the song adds a post-punk Elvis Costello/B-52’s kind of retro chic and you can check it out at the following link: Midnight.

Other comments: You can find “Quarter to Midnight” as part of The What Four’s debut EP Four (The Record).

HISSTERIA, “RUDEBOI”

About the artist: HISSTERIA is a new L.A. based indie electronic producer/DJ (aka Antonio Mejia) whose focus in dance music is in the future bass sub-genre, and draws inspiration from artists like Zed’s Dead and Reaper.

About the record: “RUDEBOI” is one heck of a pleasant diversion. It’s a bouncy, wacked-out, catchy track that will turn heads and make those bodies move. There’s a huge melodic hook too, one that slightly and perhaps unexpectedly recalls the TV theme from the 60’s show “The Munsters” (captured about a decade ago by Fall Out Boy in “Uma Thurman” too). It’s a great mix of future bass, rock, and drum ‘n bass, not too heavy, and shows promise out of the box, being only among the artist’s first few singles.

Other comments: HISSTERIA has a pet boa constrictor named Javier which you may encounter in his socials.

BLACK DAHLIA, “On The Run”

About the artist: Black Dahlia is an indie Australian alternative rock talent who has attracted attention through her concert appearances throughout Australia as well as in Berlin and other European territories.

About the record: “On The Run” is a dramatic but not over-the-top release with influences might include Lady Gaga, Fiona Apple, and P. J. Harvey, and even 80’s voices like Siouxsie Sioux of Siouxsie & The Banshees and Lene Lovich. Aside from Black Dahlia’s compelling, theatrical performance, what’s most memorable about “On The Run” is its infectious bass synth hook, which sounds great with the volume cranked up. The story behind “On The Run” is intriguing, about a traveller searching for meaning and belonging while dealing with their own dark shadows.

Other comments: “On The Run” is culled from Black Dahlia’s upcoming conceptual album The Imposter, out October 7, which will be followed by short tours in Australia and the UK.

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.

SLANDER’s 2019 hit “Love Is Gone” is given new dimension in a rework with vocals by JOSHUA of KPOP group SEVENTEEN

“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”.

Alanis Morissette revives Carly Simon’s 1986 “Coming Around Again” with the 82 year old singer herself

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 is anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter also has a new show on Fridays at 8pm EST called “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it also includes the New Music Pick.

Previously with the Grammy Award-winning bluegrass group Golden Highway, it’s Molly Tuttle with “That’s Gonna Leave a Mark”

“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.

Tina Charles – I Love To Love (1976)
Donna Summer – Bad Girls (1979)
Blondie – One Way Or Another (1979)
Laura Branigan – Gloria (1982)
Martha & The Muffins – Echo Beach (1980)

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 HEAD & HEART, Joel Corry, MNEK

02 WHAT I DESERVE, Victor Perry

03 DANCING NEXT TO ME, Greyson Chance

04 UNDO MY HEART, Karen Harding, Digital Farm Animals

05 BAD DECISIONS, Francesco Yates

2015

01 SHINE, Years & Years

02 I WANNA BE (FREE), Brandyn Burnette

03 KISS ME QUICK, Nathan Sykes

04 SHOW ME THE WAY, Penguin Prison

05 LET YOU GO (Tiësto remix), The Chainsmokers, Great Good Fine OK

2010

01 LOVE PART II, Bright Light Bright Light (a rare #1 debut)

02 CROSSFIRE, Brandon Flowers

03 HEAD OVER HEELS, Bim

04 A NEW WORD TO SAY, Bright Light Bright Light

05 FRICTION (Ricardo Autobahn edit), Adam Tyler

2005

01 THE WORLD IS MINE, David Guetta, JD Davis

02 END OF TIME, The Bitch Hotel

03 THIS IS HOW A HEART BREAKS, Rob Thomas

04 YOU’RE BEAUTIFUL, James Blunt

05 WAKE ME UP WHEN SEPTEMBER ENDS, Green Day

2000

01 LET ME KNOW, Jake

02 NO MORE, Ruff Endz

03 BETTER LIFE, 3 Doors Down

04 BANG BANG BOOM, The Moffatts

05 ETERNAL LIFE (Live from “Mystery White Boy”), Jeff Buckley

BILLCS New Music Report – September 10/25 with new songs by DJ Martinee & France Joli, N i G H T S, Medii, The Bros. Landreth, Madelline, Noelle Harlow & Pete Cho, Ken Tizzard & Music For Goats, and Lexxi Raine

I mentioned it in Monday’s BILLCS Top 30 post, but the BILLCS Music Blog is now sweet 16 years old! As long as I can enjoy listening to new music and have the drive to write, I will continue to publish my reviews and thoughts about new music. I may opt for a less detailed approach to my reviews in future. If you have any thoughts about how I can continue to approach my writing process, please don’t hesitate to comment on the post or email me bill@billcsmusic.blog. I appreciate anyone who has been there from close to the start and has seen the blog through its evolution.

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week and last, 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 has this week’s Classic Five, a group of songs which includes three from 1968 that you may not have heard in a while. If you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30.

Note: To listen to the songs, click on the photos for a Spotify link.

DJ MARTINEE, FRANCE JOLI, “My Everlasting Love”

About the artists: DJ Martinee is producer Lewis Martineé, known for his stellar work with countless stars, particularly in the 90’s including Exposé, Ricky Martin, Céline Dion, and Enrique Iglesias, but collaborated with new music by K.C. & The Sunshine Band last year. France Joli is the Montreal singer who arrived on the scene age 16 with her international disco hit “Come To Me”. She has performed at disco events and on music-themed cruises for years, and periodically releases new music, last in 2022.

About the record: “My Everlasting Love” is a gorgeous new song that fits snugly in today’s contemporary revival of disco music. You don’t hear many releases that include hand-clap sounds as a hook, but here they work just fine, surrounding France’s still-beautiful, soaring vocal (which I understand from a recent interview was recorded 30 years ago). “My Everlasting Love” is an instantly memorable release that in another time would have had radio programmers curiously all over it. “My Everlasting Love” is for more than disco fans, so if you’ve been enjoying new music by Kristine W, Crystal Waters, and other noted women in dance music, don’t let this one slip by.

Other comments: Club DJ’s who use their gut to choose songs have many remixes to select from for their sets.

N i G H T S, “Addicted”

About the artist: N i G H T S is the prolific Philadelphia duo of Evan and Corey, about whom I’ve written several times over the last nearly 10 years, and who continue to provide a unique electronic lo-fi sound heavily influenced by hip hop and R&B. Their 2024 single “Hopeless” reached #6 on the BILLCS Top 30.

About the record: Featuring a driving mid-tempo rhythm akin to a racing heartbeat, “Addicted” veers away from breakup songs of the past, and focuses instead about being madly infatuated with someone. And it works as one of N i G H T S’ best recent releases, with the vocal still showing vulnerability, yet with lyrics that reflect on a more assured and confident situation. The song zeroes in on the power of attraction and sensuality when everything is working out well.

Other comments: “Addicted” is one of a handful of releases this year to follow up the duo’s 2024 debut album, It’s Personal.

MEDII, “IDNU”

About the artist: Medii is a US/UK dance production duo of Ari Kyle and Adam Lilley, who met on Soundcloud back in the day and are still creating together nearly 10 years later after several releases on both major and indie dance music labels.

About the record: “IDNU” (which stands for “I don’t need you”) is a bit of a switch up for the duo, taking a few pages from late 80’s, early 90’s house music. Medii takes what could be a classic house-styled track with a huge, soulful uncredited vocal, and polishes it up with more progressive production. From the taut 15 second lead up to many well-placed drops and several hooks, Medii has a winner with “IDNU”.

Other comments: “IDNU” is the second release for Neon Owl Records and is another great choice from one of the Neon Owl collective’s longtime collaborators.

THE BROS. LANDRETH, “I’ll Drive”

About the artist: The Bros. Landreth are Winnipeg-born brothers Joey (vocals, guitar) and David Landreth (vocals, bass), whose 2013 debut indie album Let It Lie was a storybook success story, ultimately getting American distribution two years later and winning Canada’s Juno Award for Roots & Traditional Album of the Year.

About the record: “I’ll Drive” is more of a rocking earworm than one might expect, featuring some popping bluesy guitar work. It’s also got some country honky-tonk swagger, with crisp vocals that remind me of Jimmy Buffett, and will likely go down even better in concert. The song is co-written with Grammy-nominated songwriter Jonathan Singleton, best known for his work with countless country singers like Lainey Wilson, Tim McGraw and Luke Combs.

Other comments: The Bros. Landreth will release their first studio album since 2022 in November called Dog Ear, with cameo appearances by Bonnie Raitt and Begonia.

MADELLINE, “Happy As Hell”

About the artist: Brooklyn-based indie singer/songwriter Madelline ushers in a new era of what she calls ‘theatrical pop’, after scoring a national dance radio #1 song in 2024 with “I’m Only Here For The Beat”.

About the record: “Happy As Hell” shows a completely different side of Madelline with a story that you can visualize and relate to, rather than an equally perky follow up to “I’m Only Here For The Beat”, which came out of nowhere last year and beat several major dance music stars to #1. What I enjoy about “Happy As Hell” is its genuine and entertaining side, rather than appearing just to be a performative social media grab. It’s full of mixed emotions, with the protagonist leading her best life but perhaps overthinking about things she feels she could be doing instead. It’s a pinch-yourself kind of moment where you hope nothing goes wrong and can keep uncertainty out of your head.

Other comments: In a bold move, I like the pop direction Madelline is going into with “Happy As Hell”, and with her success in dance music having opened that big door, she can return to that genre anytime.

NOELLE HARLOW, PETE CHO, “xo”

About the artists: Noelle Harlow is a Las Vegas-born pop singer and dance music collaborator who until now has released other songs under another performing name. Pete Cho is a Chicago-born producer of a wide variety of styles, who got to #5 in 2023 on the BILLCS Top 30 with the thoughtful and infectious “Fan of You”.

About the record: “xo” is a real throwback to songs by women pop artists in the 2000’s – Britney Spears, Jessica Simpson, Ashlee Simpson, Hilary Duff all come to mind. It’s a slickly-produced and contemporary pop/dance bop featuring a charming vocal by Noelle. Women in pop have taken a different direction in the last 15 years with the likes of Lady Gaga, Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter and others all carving out their own paths. But there’s always room for a pop confection like this to cut through the rest.

Other comments: “xo” is bound to trigger happy memories for listeners who can also appreciate its updated style.

KEN TIZZARD & MUSIC FOR GOATS, “Other Side of Wrong”

About the artist: Ken Tizzard is a singer, songwriter and bassist, who is a native of St. John’s, Newfoundland. He has been a member of Canadian rock bands The Watchmen and Thornley. Music For Goats is his current project along with bassist Ken Grain and guitarist Neil Lucy.

About the record: Ken says: “”Other Side of Wrong” was inspired after a night of catching up with an old friend”. I’ve had similar conversations with my own friends about how time moves on, and we get together, wondering how we all got here, and retrace our own paths, including the good and the bad, along with amusing anecdotes. Ken’s vocal is world-weary but compelling, and the artistry from the rest of the band in the song is straight-forward and on point. It’s a cohesive fusion of styles you’ll usually find separately in numerous pop, rock, folk, blues and country songs.

Other comments: “Other Side of Wrong” is culled from the 2024 album The Dagg Sessions. The album is so titled in memory of the band’s late drummer Steve Dagg, who played on all of its tracks.

LEXXI RAINE, “Nothing (Acceptance)”

About the artist: Lexxi Raine is a Buffalo, NY born singer/songwriter with four indie albums to her credit, prior to relocating to Manchester, England. Her latest EP, The Grief Case, is her first release in five years.

About the record: Lexxi Raine has recorded releases in the alternative rock and country genres in the past, and her songs in The Grief Case are largely stripped back, minimal acoustic tracks. Continuing with the theme of heartache, but with a twist, “Nothing (Acceptance)” is the most upbeat track, finishing off the sixth and final stage of grief from a breakup. Not to worry, it’s not a difficult listen, but by the time you’ve reached “Nothing (Acceptance)” you’re ready for something a little lighter and more playful, featuring Lexxi’s best vocal on the EP. The songwriting throughout the EP is particularly good, and the interjection of a telephone-like message in the mix adds to the song’s charm.

Other comments: The concept of The Grief Case plays out like a police file on a relationship gone sour. Lexxi says: “With haunting imagery, six distinct “personas, and lyrics sharp enough to draw blood, [I dissect] heartbreak in the form of an open case file. Because
sometimes, the best way to get over him… is to end him.”

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

“Bigger Than All of Us” is by electronic music legends Above & Beyond with vocal by Justine Suissa

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

“Enjoy The Ride” is by San Diego trio Almost Monday

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG and DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

sombr’s “12 to 12” becomes his third BILLCS Top 30 #1 of 2025

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

The Cowsills – Indian Lake (1968)
Peppermint Trolley Co. – Baby You Come Rollin’ Across My Mind (1968)
The Monkees – D. W. Washburn (1968)
The Hollies – He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother (1970)
Lovin’ Spoonful – Do You Believe In Magic (1965)

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

“Won’t Give Up” by MXTR and Tyler Garrett moves up 24-16

BILLCS Top 30 #726 – September 8/25

The MTV VMA’s are not usually my kind of awards show, but last night’s three hour event brought performances by some of my favourites – Lady Gaga, sombr, Conan Gray – amid the usual supply of social media personalities that I haven’t heard of and tributes to Mariah Carey, Busta Rhymes and Ricky Martin. That having been said, there are now so many independent artists in the biz that it could constitute a business within the biz if it was organized as such – and then I think the three major labels, as well as a handful of what I call “major minors”, would have real competition. Maybe someday it will happen, but in the meantime be sure to check out the 14 indie releases on the new BILLCS Top 30!

The BILLCS Music Blog is also now officially sweet 16 years old! I began back in September 2009, but the format of song reviews didn’t start to take shape until about a month later. It was new territory for me and I’m glad I’m still here along with anyone else who has been following since the beginning.

Online version of the chart at the following link: BILLCS Top 30

Spotify playlist of the chart at the following link: Spotify playlist

He hasn’t been away from #1 for long, but sombr is back at the top as “12 to 12” climbs 5-1, becoming his third #1 on the chart this year. Aside from his videos, I was happy to see his performance of this song in a medley with “back to friends” on the VMA’s go down so well, and he also took the trophy for Best Alternative Video for “back to friends”. Be sure to check out his debut album I Barely Know Her as well. Are you singing along to the chorus of “12 to 12” yet??

It’s a shame for “12 to 12” to leap-frog over such a great dance track like “Dior” by MK and Chrystal, which moves up a notch 3-2. Still one of my favourites of the year.

Conan Gray has released his most personal album to date, the cathartic Wishbone, which is chock full of great songs. And the songs are being matched with captivating imagery, like the play on “Romeo + Juliet” in his performance at the VMA’s of “Vodka Cranberry” (above), which zips into the Top 5, rising 9-4. I foresee a chart battle of two VMA performers soon! Conan’s “This Song” (below) also is making good progress, now up 20-14.

It’s been a steady rise, but UK singer/songwriter/pianist Benedict Cork gets his 4th Top 10 entry with “What It Is To Be Loved”, which climbs 11-7. And that means Benedict is now four-for-four in terms of Top 10 songs on this chart!

Elliot James Reay glides into the Top 10 with “Daydreaming” rising 14-9 from his EP All This To Say I Love You.

Retro soul-pop power is in force as Young Gun Silver Fox’s delightful “Stevie and Sly” moves up 12-10 from their album Pleasure.

“still broke” by mid-western US electronic pop duo aibai and vinny rises 19-15. It’s one of the most understated tracks on the chart but comes alive in the way that vinny’s vocal is produced, allowing him to change between chest and head voice, and to let his falsetto soar at all the right moments. Don’t sleep on this one!

The Fastest Riser on the chart is “Won’t Give Up” by UK dance producer MXTR and L.A.-based singer/songwriter Tyler Garrett, which soars 24-16. Add a little inspiring drum ‘n bass to your playlist!

Damiano David’s “The First Time” is an irresistible pop force unto itself and climbs 27-21 from his album Funny Little Fears.

The first of five debuts belongs to electronic dance legends Above & Beyond with the title track of their sixth album Bigger Than All Of Us at #24. For this track, the veteran UK-based production trio have once again used the amazing talent that is Justine Suissa. A&B have only appeared twice on the chart previously. “Almost Home”, reached #4 in 2022. And under the pseudonym of Oceanlab, the trio got to #1 with “Satellite” back in 2004. And the vocalist on both of those tracks is also Justine Suissa, who I saw perform with A&B on their acoustic tour in 2016.

Next at #26 is the debut appearance for L.A. electronic duo SLANDER with a redo of their 2019 release “Love Is Gone” at #26. This time they’ve brought aboard JOSHUA from KPOP band SEVENTEEN, whose voice adds a different dimension to the song, somehow making it even more heartwrenching. SLANDER performs in Toronto at Budweiser Stage on September 26.

At #28, Mother Monster – aka Lady Gaga – showed her fans another sensational performance on the VMA’s, which ended up being a part of her Madison Square Garden show, and she won three awards. She not only performed “Abracadabra” (which reached #1 earlier this year on this chart) but a new add-on to her Mayhem album, “The Dead Dance”, which arrives at #28 as her 19th chart entry. You can check out the imaginative video, directed by no less than Tim Burton, at the following link: Dead Dance.

Lexie is a rising indie singer from the UK currently based in Dubai, and the old-school bluesy soulful charm – think Mavis Staples meets Janis Joplin – of “Plane Jane” is a winner in my books. The song arrives at #29.

The fifth debut belongs to masked electronic dance DJ/producers The Polar Bears – formerly Electric Polar Bears – with Dutch singer/songwriter Jay Mason and their rave up collab called “Fake It” at #30. The Polar Bears previously charted with Katie Sky with “Cold Shoulder” (#13) in 2022.

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.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

Party Dog 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.

BILLCS New Music Report – September 3/25 with new songs by Jamie Woon, Chance Peña, Ben Denny Mo, ANIQO, Jordan Anthony, Sam Harding, Kenton, and Vinny Marchi

After a busy week, which included four concerts in 13 days, things fall back to normal – for now. Another four shows will arrive starting in late September through to mid-October. Then in November, I’ll be heading to Las Vegas for a few days, and I’m sure some shows there will be in the waiting too. In this week’s Report, all my featured songs are by solo artists!

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week and last, 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 has this week’s Classic Five, a set of rockers which all come from the early 70’s. Since the Report didn’t publish last week, I’ll have my picks of the week from both last week and this week, and the #1 song and Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30. You’ll also find out what songs were #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 in this week over the last 27 years!

JAMIE WOON, “When”

About the artist: Jamie Woon is an alternative singer/songwriter from suburban London who broke out in 2011 with his album Mirrorwriting. His memorable, atmospheric track “Night Air” reached #1 on the BILLCS Top 30.

About the record: Jamie recently returned as an independent artist after several years with three singles, and I wrote about his moody and contemplative “The Velvet Rope”. “When” is a deft and catchy electronic track that has an idiosyncratic drum ‘n bass flow at its core, although it’s not far removed from some of the more adventurous and rhythmic tracks on Mirrorwriting either. The lyrics contain some social commentary under Jamie’s soulful, sometimes urgent-sounding, sometimes semi-spoken vocal. “When” is an imaginative track with intriguing production elements such as raa-taa-taa percussion that will get under your skin.

Other comments: Jamie third album, his first since 2015, called 3,10,Why,When – whose title in fact comes from the lyrics of “When” – arrives October 3.

CHANCE PEÑA, “West of Ohio”

About the artist: 25 year old Texas-born Chance Peña landed a deal with Columbia Records, after years in the public eye which began as a contestant on “The Voice” season nine, and released his debut album When I Change My Mind I Don’t Mean It. In the interim he landed a Grammy nomination for co-writing “Conversations In The Dark” with John Legend.

About the record: Towards the end of 2023, Chance found radio and worldwide streaming success with “i am not who i was”, which I wrote about and was likely the defining song he needed to jump to a major label. “West of Ohio” carries on the brooding, folk/pop style similar to other acts like Noah Kahan. Chance wrote it and produced it, which makes him unique in the major label environment like sombr, meaning he doesn’t need a team of people (and the accompanying gratis) to make good music. He’s a natural and genuine storyteller and “West of Ohio” should continue his upward moving ways.

Other comments: Chance will be opening for The Lumineers on their upcoming tour.

BEN DENNY MO, “In The Breakdown”

About the artist: Ben Denny Mo is a British indie rock singer/songwriter born and currently based on the Maltese island of Gozo.

About the record: “In The Breakdown” follows up his recent single “September”, which I wrote about not long ago. This one takes no prisoners with Ben’s ferocious vocal and a blistering rock arrangement, and there aren’t too many indie singers who can do that right. It relies heavily on his Led Zeppelin inspirations and fans of 70’s rock in general will enjoy this release. The song evokes both sympathy and catharsis while you rock out.

Other comments: With two powerful, well-constructed singles in a row, Ben Denny Mo is now on my list of artists to watch for in ’26.

ANIQO, “The Call”

About the artist: It’s been a while since we’ve heard from German singer/songwriter/producer ANIQO (aka Anita Goβ), known for her debut album Birth, which was many years in the making, as well as her progressive, sometimes psychedelic, pop style, and her creative, often fascinating videos.

About the record: “The Call” is atypical to what’s being released today in pop music. It’s a mysterious, nearly 6 minute song about following “The Call” to places unknown, and getting up the courage to leave everything behind. It’s about something more supernatural than merely following your gut, but as with past releases ANIQO keeps you thinking and allows you to draw your own conclusions. I wouldn’t be writing about “The Call” if it were not intriguing enough to stick with it. ANIQO’s compelling vocal is the key to this adventurous release, also aided by impressive guitar, string and piano work.

Other comments: “The Call” is a standalone single, a stop-gap so to speak, en route to ANIQO’s next album.

JORDAN ANTHONY, “Reckless”

About the artist: Jordan Anthony is currently based in L.A. but was born in Perth, Australia. He competed on both the Australian versions of “The Voice” (Top 4) and “American Idol” (Top 14), represented his country at Junior Eurovision, and released an album, One Word. He has also headlined shows in his home city.

About the record: As with other performers, the success emanating from reality competition shows is fleeting, and Jordan has been releasing music independently for about five years. But “Reckless” could be a song to ignite interest for him globally, because the invested vocal and songwriting talent are there, with crisp production by Grammy nominee Emile Ghantous. The song is about giving in to that lover you really want to have, even if it means breaking the rules, being reckless, and basking in the moment. Jordan’s got a marvelous, soulful voice that will attract fans of Bruno Mars, Miguel and Usher, and his performance sounds effortless.

Other comments: Jordan was encouraged to pursue his musical talents by his parents, starting with piano lessons at age 5.

SAM HARDING, “Wildflower”

About the artist: Sam Harding is an L.A.-based indie singer, songwriter, pianist and actor. I wrote about his most recent single, the romantic “Remember”, last year.

About the record: What attracts me the most to “Wildflower” is how its taut arrangement builds to a climactic chorus. It’s a classic songwriting skill that works every time when a story is to be told. “Wildflower” is about someone down on love believing he may have found his soulmate. Sam’s vocal is affecting whether its in its quietest, reflective moments of the song, or belting out the chorus. Once “Wildflower” grabs you in its first minute, you’re sold on the entire song. It’s simply lovely!

Other comments: I look forward to more frequent releases from Sam Harding and more artists like him who can really saang.

KENTON, “Gift of Loneliness”

About the artist: Kenton is a queer singer and actor/voice actor of Taiwanese heritage, who has appeared on the TV shows “Perfect Harmony” and “What The Elf?”, and is a graduate of USC’s prestigious Thornton School of Music. He was born in Irvine, California, and is now based in L.A.

About the record: “Gift of Loneliness” is Kenton’s first new music in two years that was created after a difficult overseas visit with his parents, who relocated to Taiwan several years ago. The jumping off point for the song was something that was said to him as a 10 year old by a girl, who said he had “the gift of loneliness”. Tying that in subsequently with his queerness and reconciling growing up as a child of a pastor, Kenton says he chose love to work towards a brighter future. “Gift of Loneliness” is about strengthening your own true self after embracing what might be considered to be an introverted lifestyle, and using it as your superpower going forward. Kenton’s vocal and performance are assured and forthright. It’s a terrific song overall.

Other comments: After releasing a solo album in 2017 under his full name, Kenton is off to a fresh start with a new one called Sweetmouth arriving this fall.

VINNY MARCHI, “The Let Go”

About the artist: Vinny Marchi is a New York City based indie vocalist and songwriter who cut his teeth in musical theatre. He has released some whimsical songs that I’ve written about, just not recently.

About the record: “The Let Go” is a return to straight up pop with some rock edge for Vinny after dabbling with Irish-oriented folk-styled songs during the past year. It continues to show off his fine voice, this time in alto range with a highly relatable song about moving on from a relationship. It’s easy to tell from his voice that Vinny’s heart is really in “The Let Go” and that plus the upbeat rhythm and well-placed harmonies prevent it from being a weepy downer.

Other comments: I hope his core social media fans like “The Let Go” as much as I do!

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

This week’s pick:

“Won’t Give Up” by British dance producer MXTR and L.A.-based vocalist/songwriter Tyler Garrett

Last week’s pick:

Martin Garrix teams up with Alesso for the first time on a recording with “Inside Our Hearts” with vocalist Shaun Farrugia

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

It’s the return of Alabama Shakes with “Another Life”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

It’s “Love Is Like” by Maroon 5 with Lil Wayne

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show , where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week. 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 – Albert Flasher (1971)
Lighthouse – One Fine Morning (1971)
The Doors – Riders On The Storm (1971)
Bachman Turner Overdrive – Let It Ride (1974)
Paul McCartney – Maybe I’m Amazed (1970)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

“Balenciaga Covered Eyes” by Agnes is her 2nd chart-topper, following 2008’s “Release Me”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

“12 to 12” is sombr’s 4th chart entry, soaring 25-5!

27 YEARS OF BILLCS TOP 30 #1’s

Songs that rocked my personal chart at this time during the last 27 years.

2024 SAM FELDT, JVKE, ANITTA, “Mi Amor”

2023 ALESSO, “Without You”

2022 HARRY STYLES, “Daydreaming”

2021 DARIN, “Can’t Stay Away”

2020 JOEL CORRY, MNEK, “Head & Heart”

2019 KAZAKY, GASPAR, “Push”

2018 THE HIM, PARSON JAMES, “Broken Love”

2017 BRIGHT LIGHT BRIGHT LIGHT, “New York Pretty”

2016 THE MAGICIAN, BRAYTON BOWMAN, “Shy” (club mix)

2015 YEARS & YEARS, “Shine”

2014 BRIGHT LIGHT BRIGHT LIGHT, “I Believe”

2013 KADEN, “Black Light” (Stormby mix)

2012 CHRIS WALLACE, “Remember When (Push Rewind)”

2011 DATABOY, “Just Once”

2010 BRANDON FLOWERS, “Crossfire”

2009 DAN BLACK, “Symphonies”

2008 JON MCLAUGHLIN, “Beating My Heart”

2007 AMY WINEHOUSE, “Tears Dry On Their Own”

2006 JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE, “SexyBack”

2005 ROB THOMAS, “This Is How A Heart Breaks”

2004 GEORGE MICHAEL, “Flawless (Go To The City)”

2003 BT, “Simply Being Loved (Somnambulist)”

2002 DARREN HAYES, “Crush (1980 ME)”

2001 GIGI D’AGOSTINO, “I’ll Fly With You (L’amour toujours)”

2000 JAKE, “Let Me Know”

1999 SANTANA, ROB THOMAS, “Smooth”

1998 RUFUS WAINWRIGHT, “Foolish Love”

BILLCS Top 30 #725 – August 25/25

No one could have been more surprised than me at the superb quality and innovative production of Agnes’ piano house track “Balenciaga Covered Eyes” (above), and it becomes her first #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 since “Release Me” back in 2009.

And not to take any of the glory away from the Swedish star, but sombr released his debut album I Barely Know Her last Friday and sees the immense earworm “12 to 12” (below) soaring 25-5 as the Fastest Riser. Our summer favourites are topping out and the autumn ones are already making their presence known. Will Agnes hang on to #1 in two weeks or yield to one of the rising songs immediately below?

The tropical flavours of “Lonely Tonight” by Sam Feldt, Justin Jesso and Parson James seem bittersweet as summer winds down, but the song holds its own and rises 3-2.

One of the most irresistible releases out there right now is “Dior” by MK and Chrystal, which moves up 4-3. It matches the #3 peak of MK’s previous chart entry, “17” in 2018.

“Foolish Pleasure” by The Knocks and Dragonette climbs 12-8, and becomes The Knocks’ 11th Top 10 entry since 2012. It also matches the #8 peak of “Pick Up The Phone” by Dragonette back in 2010.

Conan Gray’s “Vodka Cranberry” (above) has had a great few weeks as the song continues to crawl under my skin, and vaults up the chart 20-9. It’s his 5th Top 10 entry. “This Song” (below) also jumps 26-20, and his album Wishbone is set to debut at #3 on the Billboard 200 after bowing at #2 on the UK Album Chart last Friday.

And don’t forget about “we never dated”, the other song by sombr on the rise. That’s four consecutive Top 10 entries that he now has in his pocket, and the song moves up 16-10 as his second entry “undressed” reaches its 10th and final appearance at #18.

“Stevie and Sly” is the soulful and laid back retro-flavoured track by Young Gun Silver Fox that you should be checking out, and it rises 15-12.

He’s currently opening up for Benson Boone on tour, and his name is Elliot James Reay. His classic pop sound on “Daydreaming” takes him 18-14.

“Inside Our Hearts” by Martin Garrix, Alesso and Shaun Farrugia climbs 27-23 and looks to be another big dance radio hit, as well as a staple in both producers’ sets.

The drum ‘n bass flavours of “Won’t Give Up” by UK producer MXTR and L.A.-based singer/songwriter Tyler Garrett rises 30-24.

The first of two new entries belongs to Italy’s Damiano David, also of the band Maneskin, with his second chart entry, the poignant but dramatic “The First Time” at #27. “Born With A Broken Heart” topped out at #7 earlier this year.

And returning for a third time to the chart is Phoenix dance producer Ekonovah with another catchy slice of deep house, “Do You Feel Me”. His track “Find My Flow” got to #4 in 2024.

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.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

Party Dog 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.

BILLCS New Music Report – August 20/25 with new songs by SLANDER with JOSHUA of SEVENTEEN, Michael Medrano, The Blow Monkeys, Jay Bird, Rad Cat, MELØ, Ekonovah, and The Flashcubes

My summer concert season is underway after seeing Canadian rockers Moist this past week for the first time in 11 years. Upcoming: Kiesza (August 23), Above & Beyond (August 29) and TELYKast (August 30)! So between those shows and FanExpo next week and friends visiting from out of town, the BILLCS New Music Report will not publish on August 27 and will return on Wednesday, September 3.

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week and last, 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 has this week’s Classic Five, with choices from 1981 and 1985. Years & Years, Brandon Flowers and Rob Thomas had the #1 songs on the BILLCS Top 30 10, 15, and 20 years ago respectively, which means I have another look at the Top 5 on the BILLCS Top 30 from 5-10-15-20-25 years ago. Enjoy!

SLANDER, JOSHUA (of SEVENTEEN), “Love Is Gone”

About the artists: SLANDER is the L.A. based electronic production duo of Derek Andersen and Scott Land, who have been making music for more than 10 years now, mainly in the future bass sub-genre, along with some crossovers to other dance styles as well as acoustic tracks. JOSHUA (aka Joshua Hong) is one of 13 members of the immensely popular K-Pop group SEVENTEEN, which has been releasing music for the last 10 years.

About the record: “Love Is Gone” is a redo of SLANDER’s most successful record to date (it has been certified platinum), which featured co-writer Dylan Matthew’s vocals. The original, which was released in 2019, is a classic taste of emotional electronica with a big future bass hook. This new take is essentially an electronic piano ballad, minus any of SLANDER’s future bass production, but it totally evolves into something special, thanks to an amazing vocal performance by JOSHUA. It captures the emotional essence of the original, and is in somewhat of a low-key mode, which makes you hang on every note. It’s achingly beautiful, and while SLANDER has recorded acoustic tracks (including one of the original), their revision of “Love Is Gone” is a pure pop ballad (or, alternately, a pure K-Pop ballad), and if this was the pre-streaming era, it would be a chart smash.

Other comments: Their record label needs to pitch “Love Is Gone” outside of the K-Pop circles for it to spread its wings. You can also check out another new version of the song that features vocals by both Dylan Matthew and JOSHUA to hear what they sound like in harmony.

MICHAEL MEDRANO, “Animal”

About the artist: Michael Medrano is the L.A.-based “disco dad” multi-talent who specializes in risqué dance music for those who like to flirt on the edge. “Animal” follows up his recent sophomore album, The Penthouse.

About the record: The music of Michael Medrano is never short of fun that occasionally teeters into NSFW territory. “Animal” is a bold mix of techno, house and disco with a gritty vocal that wants you to tap into your raw sensuality inside. It’s a quick (2:04) but enjoyably loaded taste into what’s coming next for Michael as his following continues to grow. Clubs really need an extended version or remix of “Animal” to play so that DJ’s can have additional fun with it.

Other comments: Michael recently signed, according to an Instagram post, “the biggest deal of my career”, so we’ll see what that brings to the table for this talented guy.

THE BLOW MONKEYS, “Long Lost Child”

About the artist: UK group The Blow Monkeys are best known for their worldwide 1986 hit “Digging Your Scene”. Led by vocalist/songwriter Dr. Robert (aka Robert Howard), the band recorded five albums before splitting in 1990. Little did many of us know that they got back together in 2008 and have performing and releasing music – seven albums up to 2024.

About the record: Even though it’s been almost 40 years since “Digging Your Scene”, time sometimes feels like it has stopped when you hear songs like “Long Lost Child”. It takes a few pages out of 80’s UK soul-pop of the likes of The Blue Nile, Simply Red, and Boy George & Culture Club with a warm melody and pensive lyrics. Dr. Robert sounds particularly ageless and in another time and place this song has all the makings of what we would consider a hit to be.

Other comments: The Blow Monkeys are releasing their eighth album since 2008, an indie release called Birdsong. If you only know the group for their hit, you can sample the hard-hitting political commentary (directed at then Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher) in their 1987 release “The Day After You”, featuring vocals by the late great Curtis Mayfield at this link: The Day After You.

JAY BIRD, “True Love”

About the artist: Jay Bird is Bay-area dance producer Jason Brown, whose releases have been regularly featured in these blog pages for the last eight years. He also runs the dance artist networking group “The Birdhouse”, which has branched off into Birdhouse Records. His recent release, the giddy Fisher-like house bop “Do It Like Me”, got to #7 on the BILLCS Top 30.

About the record: In recent months, Jay Bird has been embracing the power of classic disco vibes to fuse with his mixes of house and other dance music styles. “True Love” takes a page right out of disco’s heyday circa 1979 – trust me, because I was there! Jay Bird has used a powerful uncredited female vocal set against a brisk beat and crisp, soulful background vocals, which remind me so much of records from that era like Change’s “A Lover’s Holiday”, Ashford & Simpson’s “Found A Cure”, or Deniece Williams’ “I’ve Got The Next Dance”.

Other comments: The disco revival, melded with house music, is here folks – you just have to know where to look (and listen)!

RAD CAT, “Lose Control”

About the artist: Rad Cat (previously stylized as Radcat) is San Diego-based dance producer Christian Ariza, whom I’ve written about but not recently, so it’s no surprise that “Lose Control” is part of a new era for him. He has also collaborated in the past with artists such as Dylan Matthew and Dutch Melrose.

About the record: “Lose Control” is a record that was made to stand out, for all the right reasons. Its pulsating beginning segues into a well-conceived mélange of techno, progressive house and hip hop, with brief angelic-sounding female vocals halfway through what is otherwise a sharp-edged instrumental. “Lose Control” is an ear-grabber that will have you shuffling along to to the rhythm in no time.

Other comments: With intriguing fusions of dance styles like this, I’m looking forward to hearing what’s next from Rad Cat.

MELØ , “Follow You, Follow Me”

About the artist: MELØ is Windsor, Ontario multi-talent Carmen Rivolta, who is rolling out his mix of pop, new wave era synth pop, and R&B, following up his album Songs From The Spirit Box. His single “I Don’t Speak French” recently reached #7 on the BILLCS Top 30.

About the record: “Follow You, Follow Me” is another fine original with lots of soulful touches. This one has a more sophisticated and laid back flow, with a long instrumental lead-in (recalling some 70’s disco tracks) that works when many do not. Rich production, shimmering synths, and some nice harmonies make “Follow You, Follow Me” go down easily. MELØ calls it “a goodbye wrapped in a memory”.

Other comments: MELØ’s upcoming album is called Architects Of A Revolution. The song’s cinematic and dreamy qualities can be explored further in its video at the following link: Follow You.

EKONOVAH, “Feel The Beat”

About the artist: Ekonovah is Phoenix-based electronic dance producer Stephen Scotti who has made two appearances on the BILLCS Top 30 to date. He continues to play shows around North America, mainly in the south west US.

About the record: “Feel The Beat” is an infectious salute to why we listen to (and dance to) music – to borrow from Dick Clark’s “American Bandstand” TV show, it’s got a great beat and you can dance to it! Ekonovah has crafted this fun tune with a solid beat and memorable hooks, and it works on all levels.

Other comments: Often a simple song can be difficult to create because you have to put aside the excess, and Ekonovah does a great job of making it all sound effortless.

THE FLASHCUBES, “The Sweet Spot”

About the artist: Last month I introduced you to The Flashcubes, a 4-piece Syracuse, New York based power pop band, who had a brief run in the late 1970’s before regrouping in 1993. They are members of the Power Pop Hall of Fame. I’ve already written about “Reminisce”, and the band continues to release their first new music in years.

About the record: “The Sweet Spot” is a delectable power pop bop that recalls the early 80’s sounds of groups like The Romantics and The Plimsouls, with strong melodies and edgy guitar and percussion work. Like with “Reminisce”, there is an affinity to associate this kind of music with the summery, west coast of The Beach Boys and their contemporaries. You can’t go wrong with a song like this where all of the elements just gel together naturally.

Other comments: The Flashcubes have such a following that “The Sweet Spot” will be included alongside covers of their songs in a tribute album coming soon called Make Something Happen! A Tribute To The Flashcubes.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

It’s the collaboration between Martin Garrix and Alesso featuring Shaun Farrugia, “Inside Our Hearts”

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

Big Daddy says this collaboration “sounds like a dessert”, so if you’re sweet on Marshmello and Jelly Roll, check out “Holy Water”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

It’s Morgan Wallen and Tate McRae’s recent #1 collaboration, “What I Want”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Pat Benatar – Sex As A Weapon (1985)
Rush – The Big Money (1985)
Genesis – Abacab (1981)
Goddo – Pretty Bad Boy (1981)
The Police – Spirits In The Material World (1981)

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 RAIN ON ME, Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande

02 NEVER LET ME DOWN, VIZE, Tom Gregory

03 WHAT I DESERVE, Victor Perry

04 DANCING NEXT TO ME, Greyson Chance

05 BAD DECISIONS, Francesco Yates

2015

01 SHINE, Years & Years

02 I WANNA BE (FREE), Brandyn Burnette

03 GUILTY AS SIN, Dan Talevski

04 KISS ME QUICK, Nathan Sykes

05 SHOW ME THE WAY, Penguin Prison

2010

01 CROSSFIRE, Brandon Flowers

02 A NEW WORD TO SAY, Bright Light Bright Light

03 8BIT HEART, Simon Curtis

04 SOMETHING GOOD CAN WORK, Two Door Cinema Club

05 PUMPKIN PIE, Evan Taubenfeld

2005

01 THIS IS HOW A HEART BREAKS, Rob Thomas

02 WORDPLAY, Jason Mraz

03 THE WORLD IS MINE, David Guetta, J.D. Davis

04 ALL THESE THINGS THAT I’VE DONE, Killers

05 END OF TIME, The Bitch Hotel, Rivaz

2000

01 LET ME KNOW, Jake

02 A SONG FOR THE LOVERS, Richard Ashcroft

03 ETERNAL LIFE (Mystery White Boy live version), Jeff Buckley

04 BANG BANG BOOM, The Moffatts

05 THE NEXT EPISODE, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg

BILLCS New Music Report – August 13/25 with new songs by Michael Clifford & Porter Robinson, Lexie, Takis, HarlowBardot, Peter Foldy, Blue Initials, Splitsville, and EFA & Lacey

This week, the songs in my reviews in the Report are all either on independent labels or self-released, so I’ll let them speak for themselves! Enjoy.

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week and last, 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 has this week’s Classic Five, with an assortment of tunes from the early-to-mid 80’s. 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!

MICHAEL CLIFFORD, PORTER ROBINSON, “kill me for always”

About the artists: Michael Clifford is the lead singer and lead guitarist for Australian band 5 Seconds of Summer, who have charted twice on the BILLCS Top 30. Porter Robinson is just about everyone’s favourite eclectic electronic producer who reached #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 with “Get Your Wish”.

About the record: I certainly didn’t have this collaboration on my bingo card. But it’s utterly charming and totally works! “kill me for always” is a gothic tale in disguise with Michael’s amusing imagery as a fortress being torn apart after a breakup. But it’s true, you certainly feel like you’ve been stabbed in the back over and over even well after a breakup, hence the title. His voice blends well with Porter’s and the song’s mix of acoustics with electronics is refreshing. “kill me for always” comes out of left field and scores!

Other comments: 5 Seconds of Summer went off my radar until I saw them open for The Chainsmokers in concert, which completely changed my opinion of the band as performers, and Michael is an excellent lead vocalist. And that got me into “Youngblood” after it had run its course.

LEXIE, “Plane Jane”

About the artist: Lexie is a Leicester, UK-born pop singer/songwriter currently based in Dubai, where she opened for Take That not long ago. She was previously in the group Oh My!, and has released one solo album to date, 2024’s Diaries of a Disastrous Dating Life.

About the record: “Plane Jane” is an immediate earworm that grabs you as soon as Lexie lets her rasp-inflected voice loose. I’ll liken her voice to a hybrid of Joss Stone and Jorja Smith with a dash of Janis Joplin – soulful and genuine. “Plane Jane” is about a spree of non-stop travel – hence the play on words in the title – when all you want in the moment is the feeling of home. Musically, the song takes its cue from The Staple Singers’ “I’ll Take You There”, and you can’t go wrong with retrotastic vibes like that.

Other comments: Lexie clearly knows how to write a hit and “Plane Jane” is a clever and delightful release.

TAKIS, “When You Smile”

About the artist: Takis (aka Peter Takis) is a Winnipeg-born electronic dance producer. He’s seen some action at Canadian Top 40 radio in recent years with songs like “All Time” (with Jamie Fine and Brandyn Burnette), and has collaborated with Andrew Rayel and more recently with Steve Aoki.

About the record: Apparently “When You Smile” has been sitting on a shelf for a few years almost gathering dust while labels hemmed and hawed about releasing it. So Takis believed enough in the song to release it independently once the dust was blown away. I’m so glad he did because it’s a much-needed cheerful song for these times. Its euphoric melody and an uncredited rousing soulful vocal go a long way, making it ideal for festivals and clubs.

Other comments: Don’t get me started about how much great, untapped music gets trampled by process (and therefore not released) in the music biz.

HarlowBardot, “Wednesday Night” (club radio edit)

About the artist: HarlowBardot is a Toronto-based pop/electronic duo of vocalist/songwriter Kinga and keyboard whiz Marc Wonnacott. “Wednesday Night” is their fourth single release.

About the record: The club radio edit of “Wednesday Night” reminds me so much of a soulful 90’s UK club record, which edges out its jazz-flavoured original. This edit has a 70’s-flavoured flute-like break (think Nicolette Larson’s “Lotta Love”) that works wonderfully in the melody. Kinga sounds dashing and sophisticated with a vocal that recalls George Michael’s “FastLove”. The song also has a subtle bounce that will lift your spirits and help you make “Wednesday Night” something to look forward to each week.

Other comments: Club DJ’s should strongly consider playing the extended version of this edit, which has a lot of fresh and familiar elements that will appeal to patrons.

PETER FOLDY, “Sunday Afternoon”

About the artist: These days, Canadian talent Peter Foldy (of 1970’s hit “Bondi Junction” fame) is a film director and producer in Los Angeles, but continues to periodically drop enjoyable and well-produced songs.

About the record: To quote a song by Nat “King” Cole, those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer can’t go without a “Sunday Afternoon” or two to kick back and just enjoy life. It’s a timeless pop song that sets out exactly what Peter wants it to be – a paean to the late Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys. Complete with Peter’s ever-recognizable voice, it faithfully captures the essence of a tune you might even hear on the radio back in the 1960’s, complete with an additional falsetto vocal.

Other comments: In these days where a lot of music has to be big and busy in order to capture our attention, “Sunday Afternoon” shows that less can sometimes mean more.

BLUE INITIALS, “Aube”

About the artist: Blue Initials is a new project for Quebec dance producer Francis Raymond, better known in these blog pages as Kayliox, who reached #9 on the BILLCS Top 30 a few years back with Robbie Rosen on their collaboration “Don’t Want Perfect”.

About the record: “Aube” (which means “dawn” in French) shows a more progressive house style for Francis. It’s an instrumental (with some minor vocals) whose rich melody takes its cues from 70’s masters like Giorgio Moroder and Cerrone but filtered through early 00’s techno and trance, with early Tiësto coming to mind. It benefits from a simple melodic hook that segues into some deep, lush synths.

Other comments: I think club and festival DJ’s will appreciate an extended version of “Aube”, a new song for the late, late night crowd before they head off to breakfast!

SPLITSVILLE, “I Hate Going to Hutzler’s”

About the band: Splitsville is a Baltimore rock quartet which has recently made its comeback after 20 years with their album Mobtown.

About the record: I’ve been enjoying the previous single “A Glorious Lie” and “I Hate Going to Hutzler’s” has a similar 80’s post-new wave sound going for it. The melody to this one sounds awfully familiar, and though sped up, reminds me of Whitney Houston’s “The Greatest Love Of All”. But the jangly guitars and vocals recall The Greg Kihn Band, and for Baltimore denizens, the song is full of local references, such as the titular Hutzler’s, a long-lasting department store that closed in the early 90’s. It’s a time capsule for growing up in the 80’s.

Other comments: The album title Mobtown is also a reference to Baltimore, which at one time was known for its many riots.

EFA, LACEY, “Wilderness”

About the artists: EFA (which stands for “emotions for all”) is an Italian dance producer who specializes in a euphoric style among the various dance sub-genres. Lacey is a mysterious (judging by his Spotify photo) vocalist who has worked with a variety of European producers, including EFA, over the last few years.

About the record: “Wilderness” is an ear-catching mid-tempo dance track with acoustic and tropical elements that give it an end-of-summer feel. Lacey provides an affecting vocal while the breezy melody by EFA transports you to a quiet and warm place of seclusion with your special someone. Sway along, and sing along too!

Other comments: “Wilderness” has Sam Feldt’s stamp of approval as a Heartfeldt label release, so don’t let it slip away without some proper attention.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

sombr’s “12 to 12” becomes his fourth concurrent release on the current BILLCS Top 30 chart

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

It’s everyone’s favourite Australian alternative rock duo Royel Otis with “Say Something”

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 is anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter also has a new show beginning on Fridays at 8pm EST called “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it also includes the New Music Pick.

After duets with Jelly Roll and Koe Wetzel got her on to the charts, Jessie Murph has an even bigger solo hit with “Blue Strips”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show (currently on a brief hiatus), where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week. 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.

Rick Springfield – State Of The Heart (1985)
Depeche Mode – People Are People (1984)
Joe Walsh – A Life Of Illusion (1981)
John Mellencamp – Hurts So Good (1982)
Rod Stewart – Love Touch (1986)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Illenium and Hayla both return the top, together, with “In My Arms”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

It’s “Daydreaming” (25-18) by Elliot James Reay from his EP All This to Say I Love You

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

The retro pick will return at a later date.

BILLCS Top 30 #724 – August 11/25

Three songs that I identified when they debuted as potentially being my three songs of summer are now at the top of the BILLCS Top 30! I’m not sure if any of them can get that title yet because sombr’s “undressed” ended up spending all of July at #1. There are still three more charts left before summer ends, so by mid-September I should know what is the definitive song of summer for me. What’s your song of summer ’25?

Illenium and Hayla both return to #1 – he for the third time, and she for the fourth time – with the majestic “In My Arms” (above). It’s Illenium’s first since 2021’s “Sideways” (with Valerie Broussard and Nurko), while Hayla achieved her three all last year. Illenium’s upcoming album is shaping up to be a fine one with the addition of songs like “Refuge” with vocalist Norma Jean Martine, which you can hear below.

Agnes’ innovative and stunning “Balenciaga Covered Eyes” (above) rises 3-2 to compete with “In My Arms” for #1 in two weeks. Her follow-up single “Milk” hasn’t grabbed me, but you can form your own thoughts by checking it out below.

Who doesn’t love a tropical house love song? Sam Feldt, Justin Jesso and Parson James make the tidiest of presentation in “Lonely Tonight”, which also climbs 4-3. They are also competing with Illenium & Hayla and Agnes for #1.

The surprise factor though is the 9-4 leap for “Dior” by MK and Chrystal, which immediately puts the song into the running for #1 too! What a quandary for me to face in two weeks!!

The Top 10 is loaded with activity as “Celebration” is carried 8-5 by French house producer Provi and Chicago house legend Ron Carroll. “Jump-2-3-4-5-6-7-8″…..

Windsor, Ontario multi-talent MELØ gets a new personal best on the chart as his mix of rock and dance music with 80’s flair, “I Don’t Speak French”, rises 10-7.

John Summit gets his third Top 10 entry teaming up with Brits Gorgon City and rapper rhys from the sticks on “Is Everybody Having Fun?”, which jumps 13-8.

While Marc Cerrone has been a celebrated French disco and dance producer since the 70’s, his new music has also made inroads in the 2020’s with “Catching feelings” (with fellow French musician Christine & The Queens, aka Rahim Redcar) from the EP of the same name climbing 12-9, giving him his second Top 10 entry on this chart.

Rounding out the Top 10 is David Archuleta with his third Top 10 entry, “Crème Brûlée”, inching up 11-10. I’ll look forward to hearing this one in concert when David comes to my city in October!

Benedict Cork’s lovely piano ballad “What It Is To Be Loved” is headed for Top 10 Land as it climbs 19-13.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is “Daydreaming” by new British retro-sounding talent Elliot James Reay, soaring 25-18 out of the gate. It comes from his EP All This To Say I Love You, and I hope we’ll see him perform on North American shores sometime in the near future.

Conan Gray’s fourth album Wishbone arrives on Friday, August 15 with a new single to accompany it called “Caramel”. His poignant “Vodka Cranberry” (above) – which really shows off his range – moves up 26-20. The first single from the album, “This Song” (below), rises 29-26.

Would it surprise you to find that the Highest Debut on this chart belongs to sombr? This is the only week when we will likely see 4 songs on the chart at once by the 20 year old singer otherwise known as Shane Boose. His rocking and danceable torrent of emotions, “12 to 12” (above) arrives at #25 (and yes that is Addison Rae in the video), while “we never dated” also moves up 21-16. Former #1’s “undressed” and “back to friends” are #6 and #28 respectively, and the latter is in its 10th and last appearance on the chart (all songs can last a maximum of 10 appearances on this chart, excluding any re-entries). sombr’s debut album, I Barely Know Her, arrives on August 22! The last time four songs charted by one artist was on the BILLCS Top 30 of April 21, 2014, when Sam Smith had “Money On My Mind”, “Latch” (with Disclosure), “Stay with Me”, and “I’m Not The Only One” all on the chart.

The extremely prolific Martin Garrix is back with another terrific single, “Inside Our Hearts”, a beautiful end-of-summer euphoric piano house track which he’s made with Alesso and Malta-born British vocalist/songwriter Shaun Farrugia. It’s Martin’s 16th entry, following up “Angels For Each Other” (#4), and Alesso’s 4th entry, following up the 2023 #1 “Without You”. By my count, Shaun has sung on four of Martin’s previous releases, and this is the best one yet.

Rounding out the debuts is “Won’t Give Up” by British dance producer MXTR with L.A.-based vocalist Tyler Garrett, who is also noted for several solo releases, many of which I’ve written about in these blog pages. It’s Tyler’s first release of 2025 and it’s got a great next level drum ‘n bass vibe to it.

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.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

The 3D Variety Show is on a short hiatus and will return.

Party Dog Radio

Canada’s Party Dog Radio now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Saturdays at 4pm EST, which airs my New Music Pick of the Week. Party Dog Radio also airs “The Big 20”, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week on Sundays after 9pm EST.

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.

BILLCS New Music Report – August 6/25 with new songs by Said The Sky & Parson James, Two Friends and Corbyn Besson, Corbyn Besson & Jeremih, Jude York, Robbie Rosen & Coffeeshop, Jamie Woon, Harlequin, and Joselyn & Don

I am privileged to always listen to a variety of music in a week that not too many others get to hear, and this week’s Report reflects that, from danceable bops through to moody electronic music to bright folk/pop. Enjoy.

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week and last, 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 has this week’s Classic Five, with his choices released between 1969 and 1973. You’ll also find a BILLCS Top 30 Flashback chart from this week in 2010!

SAID THE SKY, PARSON JAMES, “Heavenly”

About the artists: Said The Sky is Denver electronic producer Trevor Christensen, who is also an erstwhile touring contributor to his pal Illenium’s band. He’s been releasing his own music since 2014. Parson James has been a go-to voice for so many producers during the last decade, latterly on Kygo’s tour and for Sam Feldt on his recent single “Lonely Tonight” (also with Justin Jesso), currently in the Top 5 of the BILLCS Top 30.

About the record: “Heavenly” is a huge head-turner because it sounds nothing like anything Said The Sky has released so far. I like how it steps away from his commanding progressive, sometimes future bass electronic styles for which he has been praised, and how he creates his own lane with big, gospel-inflected choir-like vocals that are fronted by Parson in another dynamic performance. “Heavenly” is an end-of-summer anthem in the waiting, but so bold and disparate that it will need a big push to find more listeners who will be moved by both its upbeat vibe and lyrics. And they’re out there!

Other comments: “Heavenly” is not to be missed!

TWO FRIENDS, CORBYN BESSON, “No One Else”

CORBYN BESSON, JEREMIH, “Summer”

About the artists: Two Friends are L.A. producers Matt Halpern and Eli Sones, gradually becoming better known for their super fun live shows which have taken them to Madison Square Garden and, even more recently, to Lollapolooza. They most reached #3 on the BILLCS Top 30 at the end of last year with “Wrong Way” with Alexander Stewart. Corbyn Besson is the Virginia-raised former member of Why Don’t We, who got to #6 last year on the BILLCS Top 30 with NOTD on “Panic”. Jeremih is the veteran Chicago rapper known for his Hot 100 Top 10 hits “Birthday Sex” and “Down On Me” (with 50 Cent).

About the records: I’ll say right off the bat that Corbyn Besson’s talents suit the dance music world as well as they did as a member of pop/rock group Why Don’t We, which came to fruition last year on NOTD’s “Panic”. And now, with Two Friends he has a national dance radio breakout with “No One Else”. The song has quintessential Two Friends elements about it that will ensure Corbyn’s voice is a part of Big Bootie mixes evermore. It’s a quick and easy fix for when you need to hear a cool dance music bop. “Summer”, with Jeremih’s presence, obviously straddles hip hop and R&B more, but the collaboration is well-produced and has pop and dance radio potential too. Corbyn’s high notes work wonders against a backdrop that can also be gentle and subtle at times, which may attract fans of Justin Bieber, and Jeremih’s rap is memorable and goes down easy.

Other comments: “No One Else” and “Summer” are two great examples of the varied styles that work within dance music in 2025.

JUDE YORK, “That’s Just Love”

About the artist: Australian pop singer Jude York broke out last year, got signed to dance label Spinnin’, and wrote, sang and produced “Monaco”, which reached #2 on the BILLCS Top 30. That led to the release of his recent EP Heartstrings, which is packed with all kinds of variations of danceable pop.

About the record: “That’s Just Love” is an escape for anyone suffering from a breakup who needs a real pick-me-up. Not to discuss any pain that anyone is going through, but Jude engages the listener by encouraging them to turn the situation around, own it, and realize it’s not the end. It’s easier said than done of course but the song is more apt to put a smile on your face and make you jump around than wallow in sadness.

Other comments: What comes after this from an artist who is always full of pleasant surprises?

ROBBIE ROSEN, COFFEESHOP, “All That Matters”

About the artists: For newer readers of the Report, Robbie Rosen is the New York-based multi-talent and former “American Idol” contestant whose songs I’ve written about numerous times in the past four years, and he’s reached #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 twice. Coffeeshop is Italian dance producer Giacomo Alloesio, and this is his second collaboration with Robbie.

About the record: “All That Matters” is your romantic song for the end-of-summer ’25. It grasps the fear and awkwardness of really wanting something (or someone) but hesitating to make it happen for one reason or another, and then, with encouragement and support, going for it and not looking back. Coffeeshop and Robbie Rosen have crafted a dreamy melody to make you sway and affecting lyrics to make you sing along. It’s a delightful song that’s intended to be personal.

Other comments: I can’t get enough of collaborations like this – more please!

JAMIE WOON, “A Velvet Rope”

About the artist: Hit the rewind button back to the early 2010’s of these blog pages, and you’ll remember Jamie Woon as a much-acclaimed DIY talent from London who attracted much attention with his major label albums Mirrorwriting (2011) and the Mercury Prize-nominated Making Time (2015), and he also appeared on Disclosure’s now-classic Settle album. His two singles from Mirrorwriting both charted on the BILLCS Top 30, with the atmospheric and hypnotic “Night Air” reaching #1. Jamie is now releasing his first new music in 10 years independently.

About the record: Like his previous works, “A Velvet Rope” is moody and rooted in UK soul. Jamie’s lyrics will have you wondering if they are a nod to the many people with ADHD who are unable to focus on multiple things, which is a huge hindrance to making commitments and decisions. It’s like waiting in line behind the titular velvet rope for someone to let you through, but you don’t know when it’s going to happen or what’s next. The song is an interesting study of contrast, with its mainly mellow beginning and simmering piano melody offsetting what might be a sense of apprehension and confusion.

Other comments: Welcome back Jamie Woon, I’m looking forward to what’s next!

HARLEQUIN, “Everything We Got”

About the artist: Harlequin is a veteran Winnipeg-based rock band that has been together in many shapes and forms since the mid-1970’s, with the constant being the soaring voice of George Belanger, the only member remaining from previous iterations. They’re most noted for their 1980’s Canadian radio hits “I Did It For Love”, “Superstitious Feeling”, and “Innocence”.

About the record: “Everything We Got” is a crunchy rock record that deserves attention from Canadian Mainstream Rock radio stations. George’s voice is a bit deeper but all the years of singing show off his polished style and power. Harlequin is now a quintet, and the veteran performers he has with him secure an air-tight sound that will go over great in a live setting. It certainly was not on my bingo card for 2025, but “Everything We Got” carries on 1980’s Canadian rock traditions with 2025 technology and artistry.

Other comments: Among the Harlequin members is bassist Chris Burke-Gaffney, best known for his award-winning work with Chantal Kreviazuk and Mackenzie Porter, but whose band roots are with 80’s Canadian groups The Pumps and Orphan.

JOSELYN & DON, “Girl From The Mountain”

About the artists: Joselyn Wilkinson and Don Barrozo are a folk-pop duo originally from Montana but now based in Los Angeles. With influences from country, R&B and classic pop their music stretches the boundaries of what is now part of the Americana genre. “Girl From The Mountain” follows up their 2022 EP Seeds and Bones and their 2020 album Soar.

About the record: Listening to “Girl From The Mountain” is like hearing classic storytelling unfold. The song is about making intentional choices while looking back along the way to wonder how it all happened – think of going on a vacation and then having to return home, which might be something you just can’t choose not to do. It’s personified by the title character who is being wooed back by the inner voices of eventuality. Joselyn’s vocal is stellar and will remind you instantly of Carole King with dashes of Joni Mitchell and Linda Ronstadt in there too, and the harmonies, with help from some other vocalists, are razor sharp.

Other comments: “Girl From The Mountain” comes from Joselyn & Don’s upcoming album Lost & Found Highway. Music aficionados will also appreciate the sound of an upright bass in this song.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

From his upcoming album Wishbone, it’s Conan Gray with “Vodka Cranberry”

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

Alternative rock favourite Matt Maeson returns with “Downstairs”

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 is anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter also has a new show beginning this Friday at 8pm EST called “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it also includes the New Music Pick.

Kesha teams up with T-Pain for “Yippie-Ki-Yay.”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Free Movement – I’ve Found Someone Of My Own (1971)
Bread – Baby I’m-A Want You (1971)
Keith Hampshire – Daytime Nighttime (1973)
Cass Elliot – New World Coming (1970)
Poppy Family – Which Way You Goin’ Billy (1969)

BILLCS TOP 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2010

It was all about My Space and free downloads back in 2010, and Bright Light Bright Light scored the first of his #1’s, SEVEN so far!

02 01 A NEW WORD TO SAY Bright Light Bright Light
07 02 CROSSFIRE Brandon Flowers
01 03 8-BIT HEART Simon Curtis
03 04 BEAT DROP Simon Curtis
05 05 BREATHE Ryan Star
08 06 PUMPKIN PIE Evan Taubenfeld
09 07 GETTIN’ OVER YOU David Guetta, Chris Willis, Fergie, LMFAO
04 08 THE WORSE IT GETS Penguin Prison
12 09 SOMETHING GOOD CAN WORK Two Door Cinema Club
10 10 IT’S LIKE THAT Evan Taubenfeld
15 11 DREAMING Goldfrapp
16 12 YOUR BODY IS A MACHINE (Baby Monster remix) The Good Natured
14 13 BROKEN TONIGHT Armin Van Buuren, Van Velzen
19 14 PLACE FOR US (Will Eastman remix) Reni Lane
20 15 ENDLESS SUMMER NIGHT Roz Bell
21 16 ALL IN Lifehouse
27 17 HEAD OVER HEELS Bim
24 18 FRICTION (Ricardo Autobahn edit) Adam Tyler
23 19 I WANT YOUR SEX Chris Mann
06 20 UNWOKEN DREAM (KING WITH EVERYTHING) Justin Nozuka
26 21 THINKIN’ ‘BOUT SOMETHIN’ Hanson
25 22 THE BEAUTIFUL GAME Billy Franks
18 23 BELIEVE Travis Garland
11 24 NOT MYSELF TONIGHT Christina Aguilera
13 25 COOLER THAN ME (Gigamesh mix) Mike Posner
New 26 GET OUTTA MY WAY Kylie Minogue
New 27 PRETENDER Elouise
New 28 MISERY Maroon 5
17 29 ACAPELLA Kelis
22 30 POP GOES THE WORLD The Gossip

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

The retro pick will return at a later date.