BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

Listen to edition #208 at the following link:  The Big 20 #208

The Big 20 is hosted by Bill Smith and “The Musicman” James Rogers and produced by “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, featuring picks of the week from Bill and Big Daddy.  Follow us on Facebook @TheBig20 @HaltonHillsOnline 

Complete playlist:

ALESSO, NATE SMITH, I Like It
MORGAN WALLEN, Love Somebody
COLDPLAY, LITTLE SIMZ, BURNA BOY, ELYANNA, TINI, We Pray
ROSḖ, BRUNO MARS, APT.
HIGH VALLEY, Buy A Boy A Baseball
POST MALONE, LUKE COMBS, Guy For That
MEGHAN PATRICK, Golden Child
CROWN LANDS, Lady Of The Lamp
DEXTER & THE MOONROCKS, Sad In Carolina
BREAKING BENJAMIN, Awaken
THE BLUE STONES, Your Master
BEACH WEATHER, High In Low Places
BALU BRIGADA, So Cold
ROYEL OTIS, Sofa King
REEVE CARNEY, America
BILL’s New Music Pick of the Week:
BERRI, Overthinking
SUNNY FODERA, JAZZY, D.O.D., Somedays
FAKE DAD, Touch Me
THE KEYMAKERS, Separate
CAPITAL CITIES, ALEX RZYAN, She Flows Like H20
MEGHAN TRAINOR, Criminals
LADY GAGA, Disease
HALSEY, Ego
THE TRAGICALLY HIP, Wait So Long
THE OFFSPRING, OK But This Is The Last Time
MICHAEL KIWANUKA, Lowdown
GINGER ROOT, Giddy Up
DURAN DURAN, Evil Woman
BIG DADDY’s Record of the Week:
MARIANAS TRENCH, Nights Like These
AUTOPILOT, Here Comes The Pressure

 

 

I’ll be travelling for the next week, hence the early publication of Monday’s BILLCS Top 30!  During my vacation there will be no BILLCS New Music Report, which will return on Wednesday, November 27. I expect to publish a post for The Big 20 on Monday providing I have sufficient wifi to do so!

Check out my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS below as they are now 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.

Sam Feldt’s “Heart Like Mine”, with Rosa Linn providing vocals, handily gets a second appearance at #1, while some changes start to brew further into the Top 10, although I expect “Heart Like Mine” will continue at the top into December.

I’m looking forward to seeing the crazy antics of Two Friends in concert in January in my city. In the meantime, “Wrong Way”, with Toronto’s Alexander Stewart, has become their highest ranking entry on the chart so far, advancing 7-4.

It’s“Feel Love” (above) by PLS&TY and Georgi Kay continues on the rise, climbing 10-6.  You can check out PLS&TY’s latest single, “Breakaway” featuring David Frank, below.

“It’s Over Love” by Todd Terry and Shannon has been revived in a slick Janika Tenn remix, which moves up 11-7. It’s Todd’s second Top 10 entry this year following “What You Do” (#3) earlier this year.

TELYKast are making short work of the chart climbing 15-8 with their second collaboration with Sam Gray, “Surrender Your Love”. It’s TELYKast’s fourth Top 10 entry.

In another time and space, “Worthy” by Mavis Staples would be a chart smash. Instead it’s a niche hit all of its own and a wonderful showcase for the legendary singer. It climbs 12-9.

Swedish producers NOTD obtain their second consecutive Top 10 entry on the chart with “Panic”, featuring Why Don’t We’s Corbyn Besson, which jumps 17-10.

“All The Time/Tout le temps” has The Knocks outside the Top 10 door again, not long after “Lover” peaked at #5. The bright, bilingual pop/dance release features French duo YELLE and climbs 16-11.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is “Finally” by Swedish House Mafia and Alicia Keys, which soars 25-13. It’s one of Alicia’s best vocals in years and the song is a deserved national dance radio smash.

“Intergalactic Highway” (above) by Bud Cahill, a lively violin-soaked instrumental, has wasted no time getting more than halfway up the chart in the face of a lot of competition, and it climbs 20-14. Bud has already followed it up with another single called “Whispers” which you can check out below.

There are several remixes out of “Evil Woman” by Duran Duran to support their fab version of this Electric Light Orchestra hit. It moves up 22-17. You can listen to the remixes at the following link: Remixes.

“Overthinking” by British singer Berri (produced and written by Bright Light Bright Light) rises 26-21. If you’re in England, Berri is performing a number of shows for those into retro 90’s fun, so be sure to follow her on your socials for details!

The first of four new arrivals is the latest by Miami’s GT_ofice, the affecting and relatable pop/dance treat “Someone Else”, which arrives at #27.  It’s his fifth chart entry.

Next at #28 is “mine” by Canadian singer/songwriter Dan Talevski. It’s a resoundingly different but utterly striking song that is Dan’s fifth entry on the chart and first since 2017. Spotify link is above rather than You Tube.

While her collaboration with Kygo, the former #1 “Without You”,  is still hanging in the chart at #15, British singer/songwriter Hayla is back with a solo release called “Only I”. It’s culled from her new album Dusk, in which the singer showcases her talents in a variety of styles within the dance genre, including on her recent BILLCS Top 30 #1 “Embers”. You’ll also find a few singles from a couple of years ago that got overshadowed by her collaborations with John Summit and Kx5 that are well worth hearing such as “Treading Water”.

At #30 is the first appearance for Canadian singer Ryland James with a luscious ballad called “Heart Of Me”. Ryland has released both solo and collaboration with dance producers over the past few years but “Heart Of Me” is one of his first slices of new music in two years.

#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. You can hear recent episodes of The Big 20 at the following link: The Big 20.

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 now 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”, now powered by both www.xstreamrockradio.com and Lil Rawkers  with “The Musicman” James Rogers. I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments.  You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at the following link: 3D Variety Show. The show repeats on Alberta’s www.katpowerhit.ca on Wednesdays at 6pm EST.

Party Dog Radio  **NEW**

Canada’s Party Dog Radio now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Saturdays at 6pm EST, which airs my New Music Pick of the Week. You can hear past episodes of “Modern Hype” at the following link:  DJ Hunter.  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 currently being updated.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s vacation time again, as I get to extend the good weather through a trip to the warmer temperatures of the Caribbean during the next week.  While I’m away of course there will be no blog posts, but an advantage to a vacation is that I get to listen to submissions and discoveries throughout it. My next BILLCS Top 30 chart blog will be early too – watch for it on Friday November 15!  This edition of the Report marks a return of some artist notables to the fray, and I think you’ll particularly enjoy the diverse selection of songs this week.

If you have any suggestions for changes to this blog for the new year, don’t hesitate to hit me up on one of my socials at the following Linktree link www.linktr.ee/billcs777, or email me directly bill@billcsmusic.blog.

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  “The Musicman” James Rogers’ Classic Five selections transport us back to the years 1973 through 1975. You’ll also enjoy a BILLCS Top 30 Flashback Chart to this week in 2009, which not only debuts a much revered pop classic, but also introduced me to an artist who became a blog regular for the next decade.

MELANIE FIONA, “Say Yes”

Toronto R&B/pop singer Melanie Fiona returns after a rather protracted absence, with her last album released more than 10 years ago now, though she intermittently released some singles during that time. “Give It To Me Right” was a breakthrough Canadian radio hit in 2009, also peaking at #12 on my chart the BILLCS Top 30. But then you’ll recall that she briefly became the toast of the R&B genre, winning two Grammy Awards (with three other nominations) and a Juno Award (with one other nomination) at home, all in 2012. Yet even with a Top 10 Billboard album, The MF Life, it wasn’t enough to sustain a career, and during her time away from the music scene she married and had a child. But “Say Yes” is a comeback single fueled with an arsenal of power.  Her voice, what’s called a “dramatic soprano”, has never sounded better, mixing in influences from Lauryn Hill and Alicia Keys, and “Say Yes” reunites her with producer Andre “Dre” Harris, who created some of her best songs with her. The song’s a co-write with concert favourite SIR, who also provides background vocals. There’s terrific guitar work to flesh it all out, making “Say Yes” a diverse and refreshing release. It’s time for radio to welcome back Melanie Fiona, especially in Canada.

DEEP CHILLS, DREW SCHUELER, “My Dearest Love”

“My Dearest Love” is a gentle ode to being in love that’s brought to you in a touching, warm arrangement by Italian producer Deep Chills and new Nashville singer/songwriter Drew Schueler. The song marks a change of pace for Deep Chills, who has given us many an electronic danceable bop these past few years, as well as a number of sunny instrumentals. “My Dearest Love” is straight up pop that has loads of radio potential, more likely to be ushered in through dance radio though than other formats. After hearing the song, you’ll find it no surprise Drew Schueler won a huge international song contest, by the 2023 Nashville Songwriters Association. He was also initiated into K-Pop success through the song “Somebody”, which he wrote for the artist D.O. of the group EXO. Thanks to his eloquent vocal and this spot-on collaboration with Deep Chills, “My Dearest Love” is the kind of versatile, genuine pop song that will endure.

WALTER THE PRODUCER, “Bad Bad Man”

Walter The Producer is a Brooklyn-based indie bedroom talent (real name Walter Reid) whose songs fuse psychedelic pop/rock with R&B. “Bad Bad Man” follows up two albums, No Substance Mixtape and the more recent Please Help Me I’m Scared. It’s an offbeat but engaging track that seems to have good intentions for a friend or maybe former lover, who has now hooked up with the title character. Walter’s vocal sounds like a fusion of Mike Posner with Steve Lacy. Alternative and college radio stations will enjoy his tight and somewhat unique style, and the neighing horse sounds play into its western-themed video. “Bad Bad Man” is an apt introduction to the prolific talents of Walter The Producer.

McEWEN, “Licorice”

I’m glad to see multi-talent McEwen (aka Adam Tyler) back in solid form with the punchy danceable pop bop of “Licorice”. I like any kind of licorice except for the black stuff, and “Licorice” is of my favourite colourful kind!  It’s harder-hitting than most of McEwen’s repertoire, with the exception of a few more recent songs like “Throat” and “Words”. It’s got a late 80’s, early 90’s pop vibe – think “Wild Wild West” by The Escape Club meets “Monkey” by George Michael – loaded with vibrant synths. You also get an incredibly infectious singalong chorus as well as two hooks in a row, one basically a vocal drop, that are head-turners. The new era of McEwen is upon us and “Licorice” is a fab start!!

COLOR THEORY, “Punching Shadows”

I’ve written periodically about the music of veteran California-based synth pop artist Color Theory (aka Brian Hazard) since the inception of this blog. Occasionally, he’s landed on the BILLCS Top 30, such as with the #1 “Headphones” and the reverent cover of The Blue Nile’s gorgeous “Tinseltown in the Rain”, which got to #2. “Punching Shadows” is about regaining your confidence, whether it’s in approaching falling in love or some other important life event, despite the fact that some people, even those closest to you, may not understand. This is an admirable viewpoint to choose in these days of mental health self-awareness. The melody is carefree and uplifting with Color Theory’s vocal determined to see it all through. Self-resilience is so important and Color Theory’s vehicle by addressing it through song is a winner.

SID SETH, “Wave”

The sound of NYC-based, India-born Sid Seth continues to evolve, as evidenced by his latest single “Wave”.  He’s been a student of the Manhattan School of Music and has also been playing some live shows lately, all of which must be influences for the upbeat nature of “Wave”. What’s impressive is that Sid not only turns to his own culture but to the current Afrobeats trend to enhance the melody and musicality in “Wave”. It would be a perfect mix into or out of Tyla’s “Water”, and Sid also now reminds me of one of my own country’s domestic new talents, Juno Award winner Preston Pablo. “Wave” is about not being afraid to be the best version of yourself. It’s a quick but tight release with a chorus that keeps you humming after the song is over. 

ST HUMAIN, “first”

It’s great to hear more new music from Australia-based, Singapore-born multi-talent St Humain, whose songs from his early 2023 EP Metadramatic I wrote about regularly, culminating in a personal favourite “Memento” which reached #8 on the BILLCS Top 30. Those songs portrayed the image of what I would label a “true romantic”, and the song “first”, from his new EP titled baby continues as an outlet for that expression. “first” is uncomplicated and is guaranteed to please women (and even in a role reversal, men) who want to know that their affection is being taken seriously and that their partner wants to put them first. It’s such an important part of a relationship and could lead to its downfall if there is an imbalance of love, affection and even sex. So who better to give great advice in song than a romantic like St Humain?

CHRIS CAULFIELD, “Black and Blue”

Chris Caulfield is a new alternative rock singer/songwriter from Toronto whose music I first heard when he opened up recently for regular blog visitor MELØ at a club show. “Black and Blue” is an original with a strong sense of melody and mystery, with apparent inspiration coming from a variety of 80’s and 90’s modern rock performers – Richard Butler of Psychedelic Furs comes to mind at times. What makes the song though is Chris’ strong, expressive vocal delivery. The edgy, raspy tones to his voice strike natural dramatic notes, and we hear him seethe at all of the right moments. For an indie release, “Black and Blue” is well-produced, effectively using layers to compound the atmosphere. But this is a restrained version of what Chris Caulfield sounds like in concert. The brief performance I saw commanded your attention, with his voice sounding much more raw and aggressive. “Black and Blue” though is a solid introduction and I’m certain we’ll be seeing more of Chris on the Toronto music scene.

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. 

New Zealand’s Will Swinton brings us the poignant urgency of “Flames”

“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”.

Dance music meets country in “I Like It” by Alesso and Nate Smith

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 newly anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week.

Nashville-based Berklee School of Music grad Katie Lynne Sharbaugh with “Little Fortune”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show, which is  heard Tuesdays at 6pm EST, where you can also now 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.

Loggins & Messina – Your Mama Don’t Dance (1973)
Abraham’s Children – Gypsy (1973)
Paul McCartney & Wings – Hi Hi Hi (1973)
Austin Roberts – Rocky (1975)
Janis Ian – At Seventeen (1975)

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 Top 40 Timeline was a repeat, but this pick aired on Tuesday on the “3D Variety Show”.

Ike & Tina Turner’s 1966 classic “River Deep Mountain High” – a hit all over the world except North America! 

BILLCS TOP 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2009

There are a number of interesting tidbits on this Top 30 Flashback chart!  “Pink Cadillac”, by Canadian producer 100 Akres and vocalist Roz Bell, became the first free download to reach #1, and it stayed up top for a month. A 15 year old Calvin Harris song? Why yes!  There’s an appearance by LMFAO two years before “Party Rock Anthem”.  Lady Gaga’s now seminal hit “Bad Romance” is the highest debut. And “Delusional” introduces us to singer/songwriter Simon Curtis, on whose now classic free download mixtape 8bit Heart it appears.

01 01 PINK CADILLAC 100 Akres featuring Roz Bell
05 02 ALONE Dan Black
07 03 BLAME IT ON THE GIRLS Mika
06 04 READY FOR THE WEEKEND Calvin Harris
08 05 DAYLIGHT Matt & Kim
02 06 SYMPHONIES Dan Black
03 07 WE ARE GOLDEN Mika
11 08 SHOOTING STAR (Party Rock remix) David Rush featuring LMFAO, Kevin Rudolf & Pitbull
12 09 I LIKE TO DANCE Hot Chelle Rae
13 10 WE ARE OKAY Joshua Radin
22 11 PUMP MY PUMPS Dan Black
14 12 HEART ATTACK Roz Bell
16 13 HAVEN’T MET YOU YET Michael Buble
04 14 WONDERFUL Gary Go
25 15 EMPIRE STATE OF MIND Jay-Z featuring Alicia Keys
18 16 CELEBRATION Madonna
17 17 RUN THIS TOWN Jay-Z featuring Rihanna & Kanye West
09 18 BOY MEETS GIRL Evan Taubenfeld
24 19 BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE Pet Shop Boys
10 20 U + ME Dan Black
23 21 CHA-CHING Hedley
New 22 BAD ROMANCE Lady Gaga
15 23 REWIND Mans Zelmerlow
New 24 WAITING Dash Berlin featuring Emma Hewitt
New 25 DELUSIONAL Simon Curtis
New 26 SOMEONE ELSE’S Mitchell Hunter
19 27 BANG BANG K’Naan featuring Adam Levine
20 28 RABBIT HEART (RAISE IT UP) Florence & The Machine
New 29 RADAR Luigi Masi
26 30 TALK YOU DOWN The Script

 

Listen to edition #207 at the following link:  The Big 20 #207

The Big 20 is hosted by Bill Smith and “The Musicman” James Rogers and produced by “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, featuring picks of the week from Bill and Big Daddy.  Follow us on Facebook @TheBig20 @HaltonHillsOnline 

Complete playlist:

MEGHAN TRAINOR, Criminals
LADY GAGA, Disease
HALSEY, Ego
NATE HALLER, Race To The Bottom
HAILEY BENEDICT, Things My Mama Says
ZACH McPHEE, Who Knew
THE FUNERAL PORTRAIT, SPENCER CHARNAS, Suffocate City
THE TRAGICALLY HIP, Wait So Long
THE OFFSPRING, OK But This Is The Last Time
MICHAEL KIWANUKA, Lowdown
GINGER ROOT, Giddy Up
ARCHI, R U Blue
DURAN DURAN, Evil Woman
WIN & WOO, JANE NEUMAR, Reload
MARIANAS TRENCH, Nights Like These
MEDUZA, HAYLA, Another World
BILL’s New Music Pick of the Week:
TELYKAST, SAM GRAY, Surrender Your Love
LATCHMERE, Leave
AUTOPILOT, Here Comes The Pressure
JVKE, NICK JONAS, This Is What Forever Feels Like
CHARLIE HOUSTON, Slut For Excel
FRANK WALKER, TYLER SHAW, Gravity
GWEN STEFANI, Somebody Else’s
IMAGINE DRAGONS, Wake Up
DOROTHY, Mud
BIG DADDY’s Record of the Week: DAVID KUSHNER, Darkside
JJ WILDE, Mess To Make
WALTER THE PRODUCER, Bad Bad Man
PRESTON PABLO, One Last Song
DIAMOND CAFÉ, Sweet Cherry
JAMES CLARK INSTITUTE, Black Licorice Red Lips
JOHN SURGE & THE HAYMAKERS, Marisol

 

 

While this week’s report provides its usual diverse selection of new tunes, the music of three British women of varying pop styles is highlighted amid a lot of fine choices. And all of the reviews are of independent releases.

If you have any suggestions for changes to this blog for the new year, don’t hesitate to hit me up on one of my socials at the following Linktree link www.linktr.ee/billcs777, or email me directly bill@billcsmusic.blog.

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  “The Musicman” James Rogers’ Classic Five selections treat us to a sample of some of the late Quincy Jones’ finest productions, as played on this week’s “3D Variety Show”. If you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the latest BILLCS Top 30.

HAYLA, “Only I”

“Only I” leads off the debut album Dusk by British singer Hayla, who has been for me the talent to watch all year long since I first heard “Shiver” (with John Summit) and saw her perform a brief set in Miami. You may know her even better though for her vocal on John’s “Where You Are” and Kx5’s “Escape” or even the recent “Without You”with Kygo. Common themes throughout the album (including its cover photo) are mystery and extremes. “Only I” by another artist could have been a belter, but Hayla shows beautiful restraint in this brief “what if?” story of losing love. The lyrics are short and to the point and producer Blanke – who himself I saw perform in NYC a few years back – allows us to revel in that vocal for most of the latter part of the song. I’ll say it again – Hayla is the Annie Lennox for the current generation, and I’m in it for the ride to listen and watch it all happen. Dusk contains all of Hayla’s recent solo singles,  “Embers” (a BILLCS #1 this year, along with both “Shiver” and “Without You”!) and “Freefall”, as well as a few older songs. I’m also digging “Treading Water”, which I hadn’t heard before and was originally released two years ago. Check it out here: Treading.

EURIELLE, “Terrified”

It’s been a while since I wrote about a track by British singer/songwriter Eurielle. She had previously released music I enjoyed to which at times I compared it to songs by Enya and Amy Lee of Evanescence, as well as some beautiful, classical-influenced songs which would be perfect fits in movies or videos with gothic or ancient themes. She’s also a trained soprano, which really rises to the fore in “Terrified”. The singer you’re going to think of most with “Terrified” is Kate Bush. While Kate may be preparing her first new music in years, in the meantime Eurielle nails that comparison but more so makes it a showcase for her impeccable range, which I believe is quite a bit wider than Kate’s, as well as a heavier rock-flavoured sound. That makes “Terrified” everything it should be, a compelling listen guaranteed to give you a jolt or two, once again co-written and produced by Ryan Louder with a fresh sound overall that you wouldn’t hear elsewhere. Check out the video above as well.

GT_OFICE, “Someone Else”

Miami dance producer GT_Ofice is on a real roll with his recent releases, with “”Feels Like Us” becoming a national Top 30 dance radio hit earlier this year, and both it and “Ecstasy” reaching the BILLCS Top 10 (#3 and #8 respectively). “Someone Else” though is really quite a beautiful, highly relatable song with an outstanding melody and a fantastic uncredited male vocal that dance music fans will immediately recognize. Dreamy melodic early 2010’s-inspired songs like this never gets old, and while the original mix above is just dandy, GT_Ofice’s VIP mix (which you can listen to at this link: VIP) takes the song up a couple of levels with some well-placed euphoric synths. “Someone Else” is a natural fit for dance music radio, so I’ll wait for those chart numbers to happen.

HARRIET, “I’d Really Love To See You Tonight”

British pop singer Harriet returns with a new album, mostly of cover versions of songs by men from the 1970’s and 1980’s called Trying To Get The Feeling Again. Her warm and expressive voice puts a new spin on many of them, while ace producer Steve Anderson has provided pristine arrangements that retain the appeal of the originals. I’m enjoying “I’d Really Love To See You Tonight”, the timeless 1976 release originally by England Dan & John Ford Coley. It’s more upbeat than many of the song choices and Harriet’s vocal captures the essence of the song. I’ve remarked before how much Harriet sounds like Karen Carpenter at times. Another song to check out on the album is her cover of The Carpenters’ “Yesterday Once More” at this link: Yesterday. It’s not my favourite song by the duo but the vocal comparison is pretty unreal. She also covers a lesser known Carpenters song, “I Need To Be In Love”. I’d recommend checking out “Sailing” (Christopher Cross), “You’ve Got A Friend” (James Taylor, but written by Carole King), and “Old and Wise” (a cool choice of an Alan Parsons Project song) too.

sacha, “Broken Love”

Paris-based multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter Sacha Arnaud until recently released music and performed under the name Johnny Longlegs, but has switched direction from soulful pop to acoustic balladeer with “Broken Love”. It’s a delightful composition that asks us all to look within and find the love that might be deeper inside than what we think. The initial lyrics of the song take a special viewpoint in media res as it were, where no introduction is needed, you’re already here within the story because it’s all about us. sacha’s vocal is very old school, possibly taking inspiration from the likes of Jim Croce, James Taylor, Paul Simon, and Cat Stevens who are all expert in acoustic pop. And that’s hardly a bad thing – “Broken Love” is one of those gentle but sparkly baubles waiting for you to discover it.

FLYGHT CLUB, “Nobody Else Knows”

Flyght Club is the project of India-born, L.A. based multi-talent Shauvik Sharan, who grew up setting his foundation with the classic rock guitar sounds of Eric Clapton and Led Zeppelin. His latest release “Nobody Else Knows” gives you a taste of his razzle-dazzle guitar work within, but there’s much more to Shauvik than his fine guitar sounds. “Nobody Else Knows” is about attraction to a woman who has the gal-next-door exterior but seeks different kinds of excitement in private. There’s a focused, jaunty melody and sharp synth work to keep your attention, and Shauvik’s smooth vocal has you locked in from his first few words (which – surprise! – reference a classic rock song. Flyght Club has loads of potential and “Nobody Else Knows” is an inspiring showcase for Shauvik’s talents.

PAULA FONG, “Chestnut Mare”

As readers of this blog know, country and folk are not genres about which I am accustomed to writing about. Simply, I don’t care much for country music and I’m not overly knowledgeable about folk. But when I hear a voice that saaangs, well I’m all ears. Paula Fong is a folk singer from L.A. who has explored a diverse range of styles, from Classical to Chinese Opera to acappella, and anyone who is highlighted for their acappella work gets points in my book. “Chestnut Mare” is a fascinating ode inspired by a poem by Paula’s mother where an adventure unfolds while she’s riding, and apparently under the protection of, her uncle’s chestnut mare in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Paula’s gorgeous voice gets you into the song, but as the story unfolds, its uniqueness keeps you listening, making you reassured at its end. “Chestnut Mare” is just lovely and the title of Paula Fong’s recently released six song EP.

teepee, “mindless”

teepee is a duo from the Czech Republic consisting of Tereza Lavičková and Miroslav Patočka, who put their songs in the growing “dream pop” sub-genre. Their overall sound melds electronics you might hear in the music of Rüfüs Du Sol with soulful Coldplay-flavoured pop. They’ve already acquired attention in Europe (particularly in Berlin) for their live performances, so I’m happy to introduce teepee to you via their recent song and video “mindless” from their new eight-song release Blue Moon Rising. After numerous listens, the lyrics of “mindless” haven’t quite sunk in, but that’s okay, Miroslav’s graceful vocal and the duo’s penchant for a clever melody and fanciful arrangement is more than enough. Take a listen to Rüfüs’s Rose Avenue signee Paraleven or Boston’s Tall Heights (both previously featured in this blog) and you can slide teepee’s “mindless” into a cool mix with their songs.

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. 

2024 marks the return of British pop/dance vocalist Berri with “Overthinking”

“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”. Russ’ record of the week can also be heard each week on “The Big 20”.

From their sixth album Haven, it’s Marianas Trench with the album track “Nights Like These”

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 newly anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week.

It’s Nashville-based, Montana-bred quartet Tophouse with “Airport!”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show, which is  heard Tuesdays at 6pm EST, where you can also now 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.

Lesley Gore – It’s My Party (1963)
Frank Sinatra – Fly Me To The Moon (1964)
Michael Jackson – Off The Wall (1980)
George Benson – Give Me The Night (1980)
Quincy Jones featuring James Ingram – Just Once (1981)

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.

A classic from Chicago, 1971’s “Colour My World” (the B-side to “Beginnings”, and earlier, “Make Me Smile”)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

It’s another #1 this year for Dutch dance producer Sam Feldt with “Heart Like Mine” featuring vocalist Rosa Linn

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

TELYKast and Sam Gray have another winner together with “Surrender Your Love” (24-15)

 

 

 

As we sail into November, the chart starts with a new #1 by an artist who was recently at #1 and also got to #2 with another collaboration in the Spring. There are also a few big movers out of the debuts from the last chart. And speaking of debuts, I have four of them for you to check out.

Check out my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS below as they are now 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.

Dutch dance producer Sam Feldt is having a tremendous year that got a whole lot better with “Heart Like Mine”, his collaboration with Rosa Linn, which advances 5-1 to displace his friends Kygo and Kayla. It’s a beautiful song that surrounds the classic piano hook from Coldplay’s “Clocks”, which it beats out, having peaked at #2 in 2003 (I was very fond of Gabriel & Dresden’s remix too).

This means that Jude Cole’s “Monaco” gets stuck at #2, but hardly a bad thing given that it’s the talented Aussie’s first dance single for a major dance label (Spinnin’). And guess what? He’s just released a follow up in the form of a dance version of “Those Were The Days”, which is a cover of the Russian folk song that was translated into English and popularized by Beatles protégé Mary Hopkin in 1968.  Check it out below!

Fly By Midnight have now climbed from the bottom of the chart all the way to #3 with the hook-filled “SuperFine”.

Currently the #1 dance song in the world, “I Adore You” by Hugel, Topic, Arash and Daecolm advances 8-5.

Another song that had a slow burn but has now become North America’s most popular dance single is “Wrong Way” by L.A.’s Two Friends with Toronto’s Alexander Stewart. It climbs 10-7 to become Two Friends’ highest entry to date. Meanwhile Alexander Stewart is playing his home town, and I’ll be seeing that show on Friday, November 29 at Danforth Music Hall! Opening for Alexander are two other singers brimming with talent, Billieanne and Alex Sampson!

BTS’ JIMIN gets his third Top 10 entry as “Who” climbs 11-9. It follows last year’s #1 song of the year, “Like Crazy”, and “Angel”, which got to #6.

It’s been a six year wait, but L.A.-based dance producer PLS&TY obtains his second Top 10 entry with “Feel Love”. His first one was the Morgan Page extended remix of “Down For Me”, which reached #6. This new collaboration with Aussie singer/songwriter Georgi Kay rises 13-10.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is “Surrender Your Love” by TELYKast and Sam Gray, which soars 24-15. TELYKast was recently in the Top 10 with “Without Your Love”, which topped out at #9.

Swedish producers NOTD look like they’re headed for a second consecutive Top 10 entry as “Panic”, with Why Don’t We’s Corbyn Besson, climbs 22-17.

Bud Cahill’s hypnotic instrumental “Intergalactic Highway” has already started to make short work of the chart as it rises 28-20.

Phoenix dance producer Ekonovah’s latest burst of energetic dance music with some disco flavours, “Take Me Home”, moves up 29-23.

The four debuts begin with the first chart entry for 80’s favourites Duran Duran since 2011’s “All You Need Is Now” (#8) with their sparkling cover of the Electric Light Orchestra’s 1976 smash “Evil Woman”. I’ve never seen Duran Duran in concert but did see their recent Austin City Limits performance on TV, and it was terrific. If you saw it too then you know that Simon LeBon’s voice still sounds wonderful and is definitely at its best on “Evil Woman”.

Next up at #25 is Swedish House Mafia with their third chart entry, “Finally”. It also happens to have a brilliant vocal by Alicia Keys, who has been MIA on this chart since 2009, becoming her ninth chart entry.

Then at #26 is the comeback solo single by British singer Berri called “Overthinking”. Berri’s big smash in the UK and dance charts worldwide was a cover of Ellie Greenwich’s “The Sunshine After The Rain” in 1995. The return of Berri is aided immensely by Rod Thomas, aka Bright Light Bright Light, on whose single “Snap” she was recently featured.

The fourth new entry is “Flames” by New Zealand alternative singer/songwriter Will Swinton at #27. Given Will’s other top notch recent singles “Fall Apart” and “Where I Belong”, it was a hard choice to make but “Flames” is that much more larger-than-life and it would be a treat to see him sing it in concert. In fact he’s currently on tour opening for Baby Jake at select US cities.

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. You can hear recent episodes of The Big 20 at this link.

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 here. 

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 now 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”, now powered by both www.xstreamrockradio.com and Lil Rawkers  with “The Musicman” James Rogers. I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments.  You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at the following link: 3D Variety Show. The show repeats on Alberta’s www.katpowerhit.ca on Wednesdays at 6pm EST.

Party Dog Radio  **NEW**

Canada’s Party Dog Radio now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Saturdays at 6pm EST, which airs my New Music Pick of the Week. You can hear past episodes of “Modern Hype” at the following link:  DJ Hunter.  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 currently being updated.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As we get closer to the end of the year, I’m interested in your opinions and suggestions on how to improve the BILLCS New Music Report. I do plan on making changes for the new year, but I value your thoughts, particularly if you’re a regular reader. Don’t hesitate to hit me up on one of my socials at the following Linktree link www.linktr.ee/billcs777, or email me directly bill@billcsmusic.blog.

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  “The Musicman” James Rogers’ Classic Five selections transport us back to the years 1976-77. Plus you’ll find out what the BILLCS Top 30 looked like this week in 2005!

CAPITAL CITIES, ALEX RZYAN, “She Flows Like H20”

“She Flows Like H20” continues the evolution of L.A.-based duo Capital Cities, whose 2013 sophisticated, anthemic smash “Safe and Sound” has taken on a life of its own in the annals of pop music. This release emphasizes the sophistication of their talents, and the song it reminds me of is the 2002 release “Breathe” by Telepopmusik. It’s danceable pop for their core audience, which is now 10 years older. Fellow L.A. talent Alex Rzyan’s refined vocal provides a nice contrast to Ryan Merchant’s on-point classic tones, and reminds me a bit of Halsey at times. “She Flows Like H20” is another delight from Capital Cities, and I hope all of the pop flavours find their way beyond their fans.

WILL SWINTON, “Flames” and “Where I Belong”

In trying to keep up with the extraordinarily fast pace of today’s music scene, New Zealand alternative singer/songwriter Will Swinton gets the benefit of a write up about his two most recent releases, “Flames” (above) and “Where I Belong” (below). If you missed one of my favourites of the year, last Spring’s “Harmless”,  Will Swinton has a gravelly, ages-old, authentic sound for what I would call the start of being one of the new troubadours of rock music. “Flames” is a poignant song about being robbed of your love for someone when it evaporates at the end of a relationship. You do what you need to do to get away from it all but it is never the same. Similarly, “Where I Belong” is about being caught up in your head, trying to be satisfied with what’s left after a breakup, trying not to be bitter, but it’s something we all can’t help. Will’s conviction and unique phrasing are part of what attracts me to his songs. 

Will Swinton performs live opening for Baby Jake on tour in November, you can visit his website for details at www.willswinton.com. 

RYLAND JAMES, “Heart Of Me”

Belleville, Ontario native Ryland James has established himself in Canada as a powerhouse balladeer thanks to his gold 2020 single “In My Head” and his more recent radio hit, a 2022 cover of Joni Mitchell’s seminal “River”. There’s always room for talent who can saaang, and with “Heart of Me” Ryland’s vocal is set against a classic power ballad arrangement, starting off with some tender verses before unleashing its anthemic chorus. Audiences will always swoon for a singer with a naturally invested presence on his records that comes from a genuine place.  Though “Heart Of Me” doesn’t really offer anything new, often being familiar but surrounded with obvious high quality and a big sound will work out just fine too. I’m hoping that “Heart Of Me” will find some new friends outside of Canada for Ryland James.

SAN HOLO, BIPOLAR SUNSHINE, “what is life?”

“what is life?” is a return collaboration for Dutch producer San Holo and UK-born, L.A. based singer/songwriter Bipolar Sunshine (aka Adio Marchant), who together recorded the joyous “Better Days” from San’s breakthrough debut, 2017’s album1. This release, which is also the title of San’s latest 7 song EP, is pretty straight-forward and thought-provoking lyrically, but the two talents mesh once again and make it special. I’ve seen both in concert, but separately. San Holo is a masterful musician who is a rock star in the guise of a progressive electronic producer – seeing his show would convince and surprise anyone. Bipolar Sunshine also brings the goods in concert with a voice that’s as good as on his recordings. I’m hoping that San Holo’s next album is at least a partial return to the songs of album1 after a lot of experimentation over the years, and “what is life?” is pointing in that direction.

KACEY FIFIELD, “Right Past Me”

After a couple of rock-oriented recent singles, “Dream Girl” and “Never Reply”, NYC-based singer/songwriter/musician Kacey Fifield returns with a touching but multi-layered ballad with “Right Past Me”. Working once again with co-writer and producer Robbie Rosen, the song shows a vulnerable side as Kacey sings about the loss of a relationship which gets revisited when she sees her ex has already moved on with someone else. Kacey’s interesting take on a ballad finds her blaming herself for the breakup and coping with a sea of emotions as she wonders why she hasn’t moved on as quickly. “Right Past Me” is a beautifully sung coming-of-age song for someone still in her teens, featuring an ear-catching synth backdrop, that puts Kacey’s versatility out there for her many fans (and new ones) to enjoy.

VASSY, “Mr. Loverman” (chill version)

With nearly 10 number ones to her credit on the North American dance charts, Australia’s VASSY is back with a release that shows another side of her that many of us haven’t heard, and it’s from her pre “We Are Young” days.  “Mr. Loverman” is a chill revival of “Loverman”, featured on VASSY’s 2005 album My Affection. It’s been updated here with an arrangement that should get the approval of dance clubs and supper clubs for early evening play, or even at late closing time when folks are getting hungry for breakfast!  What makes this release even better is that VASSY doesn’t really sound like the VASSY of the last decade, with an arresting Nina Simone-meets-Carol Channing Broadway-style vocal. “Mr. Loverman” also shows why VASSY has moved away from dance bangers, focusing on more pop-flavoured dance releases like “Krazy” and “Off Switch” lately that show off her more well-rounded vocal and songwriting talents.

LYRA, “The Ending”

Award-winning Cork, Ireland-born Lyra is back with a new track that’s been added to the deluxe edition of her debut self-titled album, and ironically “The Ending” is now the opening song. It’s representative of a new beginning for the singer as she can to terms with the moment a relationship ended, and how to focus better on her rather than let it consume her. This verse says it all: “You called it love, I called it a lesson”. “The Ending” also happens to be an unexpected anthemic bop, featuring a stunning vocal by Lyra that shows shades of Kelly Clarkson and Ariana Grande. So the song leaps right out of the speakers at you, and you’ll find its chorus will be stuck in your head.

MARTIN IKIN, “Everybody’s Got To Learn Sometime”

British tech house DJ/producer/musician Martin Ikin has been a man of many pseudonyms over the years, most notably Soul Purpose and Mayhem, remixing countless major talents like Mariah Carey and Jamiroquai, while also being a noted jazz pianist. Now recording under his own name, Martin’s latest release is a cover of The Korgis’ 1980 pop hit “Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime”, a weirdly appealing one hit wonder that’s becoming lost in the sands of time.  Martin’s version is tidy but not flashy, sampling the vocals from the original, but is a pleasing rewrite for dance music fans and club goers, many of whom will likely scratch their heads and wonder where they’ve heard it before. Those of you who know it will find “Everybody’s Got To Learn Sometime” to be one of those immediate calls to the dance floor.  The release hits all the right buttons in terms of hooks, so club DJ’s shouldn’t let it go unnoticed.

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. 

Reteaming after 2022’s #1 “Unbreakable”, TELYKast and Sam Gray have another winner with “Surrender Your Love”

“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”. Russ’ record of the week can also be heard each week on “The Big 20”.

Following up his massive 2023 hit “Daylight”, it’s Chicago’s David Kushner with “Darkerside”

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 newly anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week.

From Norway, it’s newcomer Hanna Andréa with “Past Midnight”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show, which is  heard Tuesdays at 6pm EST, where you can also now 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.

Electric Light Orchestra – Strange Magic
Gary Wright – Love Is Alive
Dorothy Moore – Misty Blue
Rita Coolidge – (Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher And Higher
Supertramp – Give A Little Bit

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.

Pop/R&B singer Jerry Butler was all over North American radio in 1969 with songs like “Moody Woman”

BILLCS TOP 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2005

I was digging the re-formed version of INXS, as a result of TV’s “INXS:Rock Star” show, where Canadian J.D. Fortune was selected as their new singer for their album Switch.

01 01 PRETTY VEGAS  INXS 
06 02 GOLD DIGGER Kanye West featuring Jamie Foxx
09 03 PRECIOUS Depeche Mode
02 04 THE WORLD IS MINE David Guetta featuring J.D. Davis
12 05 DO WHAT U WANT jASeFOs featuring Claire Van Der Boom
03 06 ONLY YOU Josh Kelley
08 07 TRIPPING Robbie Williams
04 08 END OF TIME The Bitch Hotel
11 09 INSIDE AND OUT Feist
05 10 SHE SAYS Howie Day
18 11 LOVE ON MY MIND Freemasons featuring Amanda Wilson
13 12 LET YOURSELF GO Smujji
07 13 WATCH THE SUNRISE Axwell featuring Steve Edwards
15 14 CLOCKWATCHING Jason Mraz
19 15 AVALON Juliet
17 16 SO BEAUTIFUL Darren Hayes
22 17 NIGHT OF MY LIFE (Junior’s Roxy Anthem) Barbra Streisand
23 18 WHO DID YOU THINK I WAS John Mayer Trio
10 19 SHINE ON Ryan Cabrera
26 20 CRAZY Andy Bell
27 21 LAY YOUR HANDS Simon Webbe
28 22 DROP IT ON ME Ricky Martin featuring Daddy Yankee
NEW 23 I’VE GOT A LIFE Eurythmics
14 24 YOU’RE BEAUTIFUL James Blunt
29 25 SOFT ONE Matthew Barber
16 26 WAKE ME UP WHEN SEPTEMBER ENDS Green Day
20 27 THIS IS HOW A HEART BREAKS Rob Thomas
NEW 28 WANNA LOVE YOU GIRL Robin Thicke featuring Pharrell
21 29 SEE YOU FALL David Usher
NEW 30 KING OF THE MOUNTAIN Kate Bush

 

 

 

 

With having been unable to publish a report last week due to other plans, I’ll let the music speak for itself this week, without further adieu.

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  “The Musicman” James Rogers’ Classic Five selections come from that great year of music 1978. If you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30.

The BILLCS New Music Report is always a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me at through my social media links right here.

BERRI, “Overthinking”

If you heard Bright Light Bright Light’s latest album, his fifth release Enjoy Youth, then you already know “Snap”, recently released as a single featuring a comeback for British singer Berri. She’s responsible for the British #4 1995 smash “Sunshine After The Rain” (actually an Ellie Greenwich cover), one of the most memorable and beautifully sung mid-90’s pop/dance releases – I must admit I actually fell in love with the original mix with producers New Atlantic/U4EA, my #3 song of 1995! Rod Thomas (aka Bright Light Bright Light) wrote and produced “Overthinking” for Berri, and it’s a match made in heaven, featuring a delightful vocal and all of the elements you need for the basis of a classic 90’s dance record, married with mid 2020’s flavours. “Overthinking” is a grand pop-dance release and I’m so glad Berri and Rod extended their collaboration because it means one other thing: I want to hear more!!

DAN TALEVSKI, “mine”

Toronto area singer/songwriter Dan Talevski scored a number of Canadian pop radio hits in the late 2010’s, most of which are documented in this blog, such as “Guilty As Sin”, “My Religion”, and “Birthday Suit”, which all reached the Top 5 on the BILLCS Top 30. Although he’s released music sporadically since the last decade, he pretty much stepped away from the biz to start a family. His new single “mine” signals the opportunity for a completely unexpected, contemporary sound. So what you won’t find in “mine” is the soft, soulful head voice that was similar to singers like Justin Timberlake.  Dan uses a deeper chest voice for “mine”, so it’s not really recognizable as a Dan Talevski record, but that’s hardly a bad thing. “mine” is a gorgeous and passionate song. There’s a muddied quality to Dan’s voice that suits the song, and I’m not sure if that was achieved with the help of some production effects. Regardless, “mine” is challenging and different, but boy does it work well. Spotify link is above rather than You Tube.

LILY LANE, “All Of Your Love”

“All Of Your Love” is another track from Boston-born Lily Lane’s recent EP called Love, Lily Lane. It’s hard not to like the five songs all about love and being in love, but “All Of Your Love” may just be the best of the bunch, with a sensational vocal performance that showcases what an in-concert Lily Lane performance would sound like. There’s one special extra-long note in the song that completely seals the deal. So if you’re especially madly in love or just want to listen to a number of top notch performances by a singer whose songs need to be heard by more people, then check out Love, Lily Lane.

MELØ, “Want You To See”

Windsor, Ontario’s MELØ returns with a slice of 80’s flavoured alt.rock from his album Songs From The Spirit Box called “Want You To See”. It’s one of the best tracks from the album too, which features songs I’ve written about like “Only The Lonely”, “King Of Nothing”, and his splendid cover of R.E.M.’s “The One I Love”. “Want You To See” has an unforgettable rhythmic hook, and you can hear similar ones in early 80’s songs by The B-52’s, Devo and more. MELØ’s influences are wide-spread though and not confined to the 80’s. Great musicianship and singing make “Want You To See” well-rounded and more than just about the catchy hook.

MELØ performs in Toronto at The Horseshoe on Thursday, October 24. Tickets are $15 at the door.

PAUL HETHERINGTON, “The Thrill Of The Chase” (7th Heaven remix)

I wrote about the original version of “The Thrill Of The Chase” a while back, but Australian talent Paul Hetherington’s latest single deserves additional attention thanks to a package of remixes which includes a driving, vibrant one by British producers 7th Heaven. Current technology aside, 7th Heaven aim right for a captivating mid-to-late 80’s classic synth pop sound, and surpass expectations – to me this remix also beats the original mix. 7th Heaven have seemingly remixed just about everyone under the sun during the past 20 years or so, including songs by Cher, Kylie, Anastacia, Pet Shop Boys, Diana Ross… it’s a wild list. Dance club DJ’s whose audience has a passion for synthpop should invest in the extended 7th Heaven mix.

MAX SARRE, “operate”

London-based indie pop singer/songwriter Max Sarre returns with his latest single “operate”. I wrote a while back about his touching single “Brother”, and this time Max tackles a “surreal” love affair that isn’t going as planned. He equates it to the need for his partner to operate on him to heal him – but we all know in these kinds of cases that by now it’s too late, hence there’s a crossroads of emotions. I enjoy the urgency of the song which plays into inner confusion that many of us face. Max provides a good, every-guy kind of vocal, and “operate” is well-produced with effects that are well-placed and don’t overpower the song.

PETER HOWARD, “Country”

Peter Howard is an L.A.-based singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and sound engineer who has recently released a handful of singles. One of those is “Country”, which has a jaunty piano-led Beatles-eque rhythm alongside lyrics containing a few stories about real life scenarios, direct and not sugar-coated, which lead to an important message about “home”, which in this case is in the “Country”, where you can escape from reality for a while. People often make changes in their life which can take them far away from home for their own benefit, but there’s always a fear that something can happen and they’ll be gone forever. I think what Peter is trying to say is that “home” is wherever you make it, because it will always be the comfort zone to which you return. Peter has an appealing voice and “Country” sometimes sounds like a song from a theatrical play. 

JORDAN DUFFY, “Nights Like These”

Hailing from Worcester, Massachusetts just outside of Boston, Jordan Duffy follows up her EP No Big Deal with “Nights Like These”. Produced by fellow singer and songwriter Party Nails, “Nights Like These” is about finding oneself lost in a sea of emotions on a night that just seems to go on forever, even though you know it will soon be over. It’s set to an electronic backdrop but led by some luscious sax breaks by Trey Magnifique. What’s most noteworthy about the song though is Jordan’s fluid, powerful voice. She’s got a four octave range, which she discovered while studying opera. She’s also a trained audio engineer, so the sound of “Nights Like These” overall is quite pristine. What you hear is what you get, and Jordan Duffy’s got it!  Check out the horror-themed video for “Nights Like These” just in time for Hallowe’en, by clicking the photo above.

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. 

Swedish producers NOTD team up with Why Don’t We’s Corbyn Besson for “Panic”

“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”. Russ’ record of the week can also be heard each week on “The Big 20”.

He’s from Pleasantville, NY but this song broke out of England, where it reached the Top 10 – Mark Ambor with “Belong Together”

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 Energy 885, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week.

It’s “HOT TO GO!”, by one of the year’s hottest new stars, Chappell Roan

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show, which is  heard Tuesdays at 6pm EST, where you can also now 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.

Meat Loaf – Paradise By The Dashboard Light
Barry Manilow – Ready To Take A Chance Again
Trooper – Round Round We Go
Bob Seger – Hollywood Nights
Steely Dan – Josie

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.

From the psychedelic sounding 1968, it’s “Itchycoo Park” by The Small Faces

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Kygo and Hayla climb to #1 with “Without You” from Kygo’s self-titled album

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

“Heart Like Mine” by Sam Feldt and Rosa Linn soars 20-5

 

 

 

The new BILLCS Top 30 is turned inside out this week with a lot of shakin’ goin’ on!  Half of the Top 10 changes and plenty of songs make big moves, including the Fastest Riser. The songs bubbling under the chart have more competition than ever now, which makes it difficult to choose every two weeks, and in this chart, there are four new entries.

Remember – my blog posts are all about DISCOVERY, so let the music in!!

Check out my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS below as they are now 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.

There’s no denying the power of “Without You” by Kygo and British vocalist Hayla, and it lands at the top of the chart! It’s the first time for Kygo, and the third time this year for Hayla.  She’s the only artist to have three consecutive number ones (though not as a lead act on two of them), and no other entries to date as of yet. Up until now, British singer Jai had his only two charting songs, “I Believe” and “Heaven”, reach #1 in 1998, and back-to-back at that. I’m confident that Hayla will have other charting releases, but three consecutive #1’s is pretty impressive since no one else has achieved this feat so far!!

Jude Cole’s riveting dance release “Monaco” has now found its way to #2!  It’s another triumph for this otherwise indie artist who also wrote and produced “Monaco” and got it released through Spinnin’ Records.

Fly By Midnight’s pop bop “SuperFine” continues its rise into the Top 5, up 6-4.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is the irresistible “Heart Like Mine” by Sam Feldt and Rosa Linn, which soars 20-5 with immediate sights set on giving Sam two back-to-back #1’s!

Zedd’s “Out Of Time”, with vocalist Bea Miller, climbs 11-7, giving him 5 Top 10 entries. His last was the #6 “Stay” with Alessia Cara in 2017.

The production collaboration of France’s Hugel, Germany’s Topic and Sweden’s Arash, along with South African vocalist Daecolm, move up 17-8 with their worldwide dance smash “I Adore You”.  Hugel was also recently named #5 DJ in the world by 1001 Tracklists!

The Killers get their sixth Top 10 entry and first since 2009 with their huge-sounding rocker “Bright Lights”.

Two Friends arrive in the Top 10 for their second time with “Wrong Way” (18-10), with Canadian singer Alexander Stewart, whose first time it is with his second chart entry.

L.A.-based dance producer PLS&TY and Australian singer Georgi Kay make short work of the chart as their collaboration “Feel Love” climbs 25-13.

The middle of the chart has “retro power” carrying a handful of songs up the chart. Janika Tenn’s luscious remix of Todd Terry & Shannon’s 1998 release “It’s Over Love” (above) climbs 23-14. 85 year old Mavis Staples sounds as fresh as ever with the inspiring “Worthy” (22-15, also above).  And K.C. & The Sunshine Band finds leader Harry Wayne Casey collaborating with DJ Martinee (aka producer Lewis Martinee) for “I Get To Love You” (below). The Eric Kupper remix rises 21-16.

Swedish production duo NOTD’s second entry on the chart, “Panic”, is a collaboration with Why Don’t We’s singer/guitarist Corbyn Besson, and it moves up 28-22.

Back on the chart with their fourth entry are L.A. producers TELYKast, once again collaborating with vocalist Sam Gray for “Surrender Your Love”, which debuts at #24. Their first collaboration, “Unbreakable”, got to #1 at the top of 2022.  TELYKast were also recently in the Top 10 with “Without Your Love” with Deorro and Catello.

Next at #26 is NYC soulful pop/electronic duo Great Good Fine OK, also with their fourth entry, with “Better Without You” bowing at #26.

Instrumentals don’t often end up on my chart but NYC producer and violinist Bud Cahill joins others like Martin Garrix with his enthralling trance-flavoured release “Intergalactic Highway” at #28. It’s an impressive and unique track that dance music fans will love.

Rounding out the debuts is Phoenix dance producer Ekonovah with his second chart entry this year “Take Me Home” at #29. This fun disco-splashed release follows up his #4 entry “Find My Flow”.

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. You can hear recent episodes of The Big 20 at this link.

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 here. 

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.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

I’m now 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”, now powered by both www.xstreamrockradio.com and Lil Rawkers  with “The Musicman” James Rogers. I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments.  You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at the following link: 3D Variety Show. The show repeats on Alberta’s www.katpowerhit.ca on Wednesdays at 6pm EST.

Energy885   

Energy885 in Miramichi, New Brunswick’s Energy885  now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Fridays at 6pm EST, which airs my New Music Pick of the Week. You can hear past episodes of “Modern Hype” at the following link:  DJ Hunter.

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 currently being updated.

 

 

 

I’ve been stumbling across reboots of 1990’s dance club hits lately, and there are three fine examples of the best of them in this week’s roundup of recent releases. 

I also want to wish my producer and owner of Halton Hills Radio Online, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton a very happy birthday!! Russ puts my voice together with the music in “The Big 20” and “Your Weekend New Music Mix” shows, and makes it all sound special for you!

In the Report, you can also check out my pick 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 takes us back to the pop sounds of 1971. If you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30.

The BILLCS New Music Report is always a work-in-progress and I welcome your suggestions so feel free to contact me at through my social media links right here.

Reminder: Click on the photo to watch the video or listen to the song.

REEVE CARNEY, “America”

Since I last wrote about Reeve Carney and his music in 2017, when I first saw him perform in support of his album Youth Is Wasted, his star has risen significantly. Until earlier this year, he was the star of the Tony Award and Grammy Award-winning “Hadestown” in NYC for five years, and also had a role in the film “House of Gucci”. When not on stage, TV or in film, Reeve performs solo cabaret-styled shows which started in NYC but have recently been in L.A. too. I was fortunate to catch one of his shows again in NYC last year in a dinner theatre setting, which was thoroughly enjoyable. So I’m glad to see some new original music in the form of “America”, which I’m hoping will hit home with many of his fellow Americans in this election year. The heartfelt message in “America” seems to come from the perspective of the average person who has noticed the change in the country over the last 10 years in particular. The song fortunately does not mess around with politics, and others who feel the same way about their country will relate. One of Reeve’s cabaret shows has showcased the music of Queen, and I must say that in “America” he borrows some of Freddie Mercury’s swagger and passion to get across his message. “America” is captivating and beautifully sung, and you won’t forget it once you’ve heard it. You can also check out a live performance of the song at the following link:  America.

WH0, SAM FRANDISCO, YOMANDA, “Synth and Strings”

The prolific UK duo WH0 are back with their own take on Northern Ireland producer Yomanda’s 1999 Top 10 UK hit “Synth and Strings”. They have already had two chart toppers on the BILLCS Top 30, last year’s “What You Need” (with Steve Angello) and “Rock The Party” earlier this year. Working with mystery protégé Sam Frandisco – whose name conjures up a punchline to a joke I heard as a teenager during disco years, “I left my heart in Sam Fran’s Disco”, but is more likely a play on Dom Dolla’s song “San Frandisco” – their version of “Synth and Strings” doesn’t sound a whole lot like the original, which can be a good thing, in its playful mix of 90’s dance music styles, including house and techno. The original “Synth and Strings” itself sampled disco classics “Dance Yourself Dizzy” by Liquid Gold and “Keep On Jumpin'” by Musique (a glorious Patrick Adams production) as well as the unmistakable 90’s European hit “Meet Her At The Love Parade” by Da Hool, so the disco vibes are huge and the flavour is entirely European. WH0 and Sam Frandisco have created a new “Synth and Strings” that’s fresh and vibrant that will more than hold its own on the dance floor. 

COBI, “Music Is Healing”

“Music Is Healing” is an ideal song for today’s busy social media and politics-filled world. It’s an ode to music itself as something that you can always turn to when you want to laugh, cry, or even as a mood-changer. L.A.-based Cobi provides a sparse, atmospheric and bluesy setting with some thoughtful and touching lyrics set to a twinkling piano melody. The arrangement is gradually set aglow and the resulting good vibes are sure to make you never take music for granted. “Music Is Healing” is sure to be a crowd-pleaser in concert. Cobi has been touring France and Switzerland recently, and I’m hoping at some point he’ll be able to showcase his large repertoire to North American audiences.

PINK PANDA, MARTHA WASH, “Catch The Light”

UK producer Pink Panda has concocted a frenetic take on Martha Wash’s 1998 dance club #1 “Catch The Light”. Pink Panda has transformed the elegant and uplifting original house track into a bouncing banger that beautifully showcases one of dance music’s seminal vocalists of the last 40+ years (The Weather Girls, Sylvester and Two Tons O’Fun, C+C Music Factory’s “Gonna Make You Sweat”, Black Box’s “Everybody Everybody”). Pink Panda is well-established through Asia and Europe for his live shows, so perhaps “Catch The Light” will attract North American audiences similarly. Club DJ’s looking to kick some major butt into the high points in their sets need look no further than this rework of “Catch The Light”.

HOT SINCE 82, RON CARROLL, “Preach”

UK dance producer Hot Since 82 (aka Daley Padley) has carved out his own unique path over nearly the last 25 years, beginning with long after party sets which caught the attention of festival organizers, and by 2006 he was playing Ibiza. He’s translated that into radio programs and tours in both Europe and North America. “Preach” is a revamp of a 2005 release by house music favourite Shawn Christopher called “You Can Make It” (with both records being released by the Defected label) which she wrote with fellow Chicago house legend Ron Carroll.  Hot Since 82’s version removes Shawn’s vocal and focuses on Ron’s additional vocal in which he delivers a timeless message. You’ve heard his commanding vocal lately in Mercer’s “Disco Sermon” and his distinct tone along with the message will cause club goers to flock to the dancefloor. “Preach” is a great, fun idea whose execution surpasses expectations.

N i G H T S, “Drowning”

I’m thoroughly enjoying a new era of N i G H T S songs that are vulnerable and relatable, and “Drowning” is one that includes these qualities, following up “Hopeless”, which reached #6 on the BILLCS Top 30. Both songs are included on Corey and Evan’s debut album It’s Personal, along with a handful of other previous singles, including the oldest of the bunch, “Boyband” and “Basic”, and a bunch of new songs too. The guys recently reported that “Drowning” has caught some attention in China in that rather unpredictable market, which is pretty cool.  If like me you’ve found some of  their songs to be thought-provoking and their minimalist hip hop style both confounding and affecting, then “Drowning” may become one of your favourites. The song appears to be about being smothered by a controlling relationship, and as is the way of N i G H T S songs, its vocal and arrangement are entirely unconventional which somehow helps “Drowning” get under your skin. “Drowning” was originally released in 2019 and has been revived with a new video for you to check out above.

HUGO JOYCE, “False Hope”

British singer/songwriter Hugo Joyce has a voice very similar to James Bay, but instead of guitar being his instrument of choice, it’s piano. “False Hope” is a breakup song about self-realization, but also filled with hope after a relationship is over and the door opens up again for another one, if you want it. The song also has fantastic perspective that could actually help someone through a breakup. Hugo has opened up on tour for Benedict Cork, whose songs are pretty much regulars in this blog, and he has a similar calibre of quality and earnestness that pop music fans will enjoy.

OWBY, “Closer”

I’m not usually too keen on artists who choose to remain anonymous because their time is either short-lived in their current guise, or they end up revealing themselves before others in social media do that for them. But the latest mystery artist, and all in white, is OWBY, and “Closer” is a pretty damn catchy song that deserves attention. The arrangement and production by Swiss producer Otis Birdy is sublime, particularly for an independent release. OWBY’s narrative vocal itself to me is not the strongest part of the record, but it’s surrounded with a choir of soulful voices at times, and the wall of synths generates a soothing and compelling melody. “Closer” is about lovers trying to find a path to a future together. It’s infused with traits of most pop genres, and the overall result is danceable and inspiring. It signals a potentially bright future for OWBY, who has only released less than 10 singles in 5 years, and I’ll wait for the big reveal at some point.

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. 

“Heart Like Mine” by Sam Feldt and Rosa Linn is driven by the melodic hook from Coldplay’s 2003 hit “Clocks”

“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”. Russ’ record of the week can also be heard each week on “The Big 20”.

It’s the hook-filled “Bones” by Cornwall, England alternative artist Dylan & The Moon

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 Energy 885, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week.

UK-born Norwegian dance/electronic producer Alan Walker joins forces with Pritam and Vishal Mishra for “Children Of The Sun”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show, which is  heard Tuesdays at 6pm EST, where you can also now 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.

Stephen Stills – Love The One You’re With
Mike Curb Congregation – Burning Bridges
Dave Edmunds – I Hear You Knocking
Wadsworth Mansion – Sweet Mary
Gordon Lightfoot – If You Could Read My Mind

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 Dan Fogelberg’s biggest hit, the beautiful ballad “Longer” (1980) from the album Phoenix

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Swedish dance production duos Jubel and NOTD get a second appearance at #1 with “Chocolate”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

The Janika Tenn remix of “It’s Over Love”, the 1998 club smash by Todd Terry and Shannon, moves up 30-23