BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

#BILLCSTop30 #695 – July 1/24

Two weeks later and there is more turnover than usual on the new chart. Like the last chart, there are five debuts, and as I’ve mentioned before, songs are spending less time on the chart than usual. In fact since November, only 5 songs have “gone the distance” on the chart to a maximum of 10 chart appearances (20 weeks), with the 6th going deservedly to John Summit & Hayla’s former #1 “Shivers” this week. That of course means the song will depart the chart (unless it reverses course, which is not likely).

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.

Here’s the link to the online version of the chart: BILLCS Top 30

Here’s the link to my Spotify playlist of the chart: BILLCS Top 30 Chart Playlist

The BILLCS Top 30 Archive: BILLCS Top 30 Archive (recently updated along with its Artist tab)

There’s also a new #1 as Canadians Felix Cartal and Lights get their first one on this chart with the stunning live string version of “feel less” (above). You can also check out Felix’s latest, “idwtwya”, below.

It’s hard to say at this point if “feel less” will be #1 in two weeks, but two songs making a case for succeeding it are Hayla’s solo release “Embers” (7-4, above) and JVKE’s “This Is What Slow Dancing Feels Like” (9-5, below).

Three of the catchiest songs on the chart also arrive in the Top 10. Ekonovah’s “Feel My Flow” (above) jumps 11-6, while Kiesza’s national dance radio hit “I Go Dance” (below) leaps 13-7, and Washington’s Dreamer Boy (aka presidential namesake Zach Taylor) climbs 12-9 with “Heartbreaker” (also below)

TheFatRat’s “Myself and I” (17-12) is proving to be one of his most enduring releases, with great thanks to a superb vocal by Canada’s RIELL.

Vanessa Williams’ “Legs (Keep Dancing)” continues to work its magic and find new listeners who just adore it, and it rises 20-14.

All but one of the five debuts from last chart gets stuck in a tough place in this week’s chart, and “For Life” by Kygo, Zak Abel and Nile Rodgers ends up being the Fastest Riser, soaring 25-18.

While “Cry” climbs 10-8, Benson Boone’s official follow up single to “Beautiful Things”, “Slow It Down”, has grown on me more, and is the Highest Debut at #26.

At #27, after his “Rest Of My Life” departed the chart recently after peaking at #2, Dutch dance producer Sam Feldt returns, this time with JVKE and Brazilian star Anitta accompanying him, on the ultra-summery “Mi Amor” at #27. It’s also JVKE’s 6th chart entry.

“Honey Boy” is a pretty irresistible slice of funky dance pop as created by Germany’s Purple Disco Machine, Swedish vocalist Benjamin Ingrosso, rising star and Jamaican vocalist Shenseea, and Nile “he’s everywhere” Rodgers, and it arrives at #28. It’s Purple Disco Machine’s second entry, following last year’s “Substitution” (with Kungs, #8), Benjamin’s first (he’s the cousin of Swedish House Mafia’s Sebastian Ingrosso), Shenseea’s 1st, and Nile’s 5th (where he is billed).

Arriving at #29 is another single from Bright Light Bright Light’s Enjoy Youth album, the fun and infectious “Heartslap”, with Mykal Kilgore. It’s BLx2’s 26th chart entry, and Mykal previously appeared with him on “Feel It” (#5, 2012).

British singer/songwriter Florrie has rebooted her career with a new album called The Lost Ones, and from that we have “Kissing In The Cold” arriving at #30.

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.

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 plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” which airs Saturdays at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada (currently on vacation, returning July 16)

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my New Music Pick of the Week which debuts every week on the live online radio show “The 3D Variety Show”, now powered by both www.xstreamrockradio.com and Lil Rawkers with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. My pick of the week airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at 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, and his new show “Pyjama Party” on Saturdays at 5pm EST, which both air my New Music Pick of the Week. Energy885 is also airing my Retro Pick Of The Week as well on Wednesday and Friday mornings at 9:30 AM EST. You can hear past episodes of “Modern Hype” and “Pyjama Party” 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!

BILLCS New Music Report – June 26/24 with new songs by @AlexSampson, @Boogie_Hill, @JoyceMunizmusic & Sara Bluma, @JonMullane, Louis Pax, @OlivLouise, @Laurentiusmusic x AUGUSTKID x @JeffreyJames, and Latchmere

I have no commentary or anything additional to add this week, so I’ll let the new music and our other features speak for themselves!!

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 from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five picks which will keep you grooving to songs from 1977-79. You’ll also find out what songs were in the Top 5 of the BILLCS Top 30 5-10-15-20-25 years ago!

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.

ALEX SAMPSON, “Pretty Baby”

Singer/songwriter Alex Sampson shows what a diverse performer he is becoming with his latest single “Pretty Baby”. The Canadian with the handsome California beach boy looks brought us the fun Marianas Trench-esque “WANT YOU!” last year, so we’re hearing Alex take a deep dive into territory already well-scoped out by contemporaries JVKE, Stephen Sanchez and a few others. “Pretty Baby” is an engaging but gentle 1960’s inspired ballad, produced beautifully by co-writer John Nathaniel. While Alex may be conquering the Instagram/Tik Tok worlds, radio hasn’t fully embraced his music yet, and “Pretty Baby” could be the song that gets there for him. It’s highly recommended for Top 40 and AC Top 40 stations to let their audiences get to know the music of Alex Sampson.

BOOGIE HILL FADERS, “Yeah Oh Yeah”

Canadian dance producers Boogie Hill Faders, who regularly work with blog faves The Disco Fries, have a winner with the highly recognizable “Yeah Oh Yeah”. While stylistically different, think of those European masters of nonsense, Yello, who unleashed “Oh Yeah” into the world in 1985, only to have it synced famously in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” a year later. “Yeah Oh Yeah” has that same basic anthemic grab along with its big synths and beats, and you could easily envision it in TV commercials, at sports events, or in DJ ID’s in clubs or at festivals. “Yeah Oh Yeah” is brief but engaging and you’ll have it stuck in your head for days.

JOYCE MUNIZ, SARA BLUMA, “Beats and Lines”

These days, the world of music seems awfully small when you can hear music from just about anywhere at any place that plays good music. I’m big on Shazaming songs that I hear in different places, and I heard “Beats and Lines” recently at John Summit’s show in my city (courtesy of opening act, DJ/producer Nala). It pairs veteran Brazil-born, Vienna-based DJ/producer Joyce Muniz with Algerian DJ/producer on-the-rise Sara Bluma. Full disclosure – I’ve never heard of either of these talented women before because their music is better exposed in European countries, so hearing it at a concert helps bring down those global divides. “Beats and Lines” sounds best over huge speakers, but you can shake your own stereo system with its bold bass synths. It’s got a seductive, sultry disco rhythm that pairs well with something like Imany’s “The Good, The Bad and The Crazy”. Sara’s vocal, with its droll and carefree attitude, provides yet another dimension of a song that’s a complete, fun package.

JON MULLANE, “The Sun In Summertime”

If you’re looking for a straight-forward, solid song to kick off the summer months, then Halifax native Jon Mullane’s “The Sun In Summertime” could fit the bill for you. It’s an earnest song with a tight instrumentation and arrangement, no bells and whistles here. And it’s simply not easy to write without complexities, the idea and its root must happen organically, and Jon’s lifelong passion for singing and writing songs shines through. Jon had some success on AC radio some years back with the song “My New American Girl”, and has numerous fans of his music throughout Europe and Asia. While summer has arrived in the western part of the world, “The Sun In Summertime” is for summer when it happens anywhere in the world, and it’s sure to help keep you smiling during all those days of sunshine. “The Sun In Summertime” also now has a remix by producer John Green which you can check out at the following link: Wave Remix.

LOUIS PAX, “slip gun”

Swedish pop/rock trio Louis Pax returns with “slip gun” in advance of their next EP called in case i don’t see ya part ii. While the song overall is an easy sell with its singalong chorus and another top notch vocal by Oscar Reingsdahl, the song does require repeated plays to digest its story of being part of a tumultuous relationship, hence the reference to the title object, which is what you get when you disconnect the trigger from the hammer. It’s nice to hear a brighter sounding song after some of the more introspective ones on their previous EP, and be sure to check the humorous video for “slip gun”, which keeps you guessing with its camera work and editing, by clicking on the photo above.

OLIVE LOUISE, “No Medicine”

New York native Olive Louise has created an interesting mix of sound and style in her short but intriguing new release “No Medicine”. It’s a lushly produced song that takes pride in being unconventional, which is something that takes a few listens to grow on you. “No Medicine” doesn’t fit into one sub-genre, call it a mix of dream pop and chamber pop, criss-crossing Billie Eilish with 60’s pop legend Lesley Gore (of “It’s My Party” fame, and latterly, of her cover of “Misty”, which has been gracing social media as well as TV through an Amazon Prime commercial). The topic and lyrics are a bit downbeat as Olive weaves her story – there are indeed not enough cures for the diseases and conditions that lead to so many people dying every day. So somehow we have to take comfort in the solace of living the life we choose, ultimately leaving our best imprints in life, small as they may be in the big scheme of things.

LAURENTIUS, AUGUST KID, JEFFREY JAMES, “Floating On Forever”

“Floating On Forever” is the kind of pop-dance release that transports you back about 10 years when Avicii was soaring to the top of the EDM world with his escapist dance releases. It’s brought to you by a well matched collaboration of three. Dutch producer Laurentius is no stranger to this blog for his variety of releases including the jubilant BILLCS Top 30 #3 single “Celebrate” in 2022. He has teamed up with Italian producer AUGUSTKID, still relatively new to the scene after releasing music since early 2022, and seasoned Nashville singer/songwriter Jeffrey James, who appeared as a contestant on TV’s “Songland”, also in 2022. His streetwise-sounding vocal alternately sounds gruff and polished against the producers’ dreamy mid-tempo EDM backdrop, and then before you know it, “Floating On Forever” quickly comes to an end and leaves you wanting more.

LATCHMERE, “Moonlight”

Australia’s Latchmere is back after his 2023 EP release Fire In The Sky with a five song instrumental dance EP called You First. Latchmere (Shaun Galvin) has released commercial-oriented deep house (which resulted in a BILLCS Top 30 #1, “Need Your Heart”, from his EP Lovedrunk) and more progressive, sometimes experimental (and often quite personal) electronic music such as with the songs in Fire In The Sky. What he’s put together in You First kind of falls half-way between, with the extremely catchy “Moonlight” standing out. It brought me back to another Australian release from 2010, which has become a worldwide wedding song, and that’s Yolanda Be Cool & DCup’s “We No Speak Americano”. And while “Moonlight” certainly does not have or need the novelty appeal of that song, its hook and its wacky-sounding instrumentation and synth work, which are unveiled within the first 40 seconds, are similarly infectious. “Moonlight” is one of those happy deeper cuts that I wrote about last week, and I encourage electronic and dance music lovers to lend an ear to Latchmere’s You First EP to see what song most appeals to you.

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 debuts each Tuesday at 6pm EST on The 3D Variety Show on Xstreamrockradio and also now on Lil Rawkers out of California! Note: The 3D Variety Show is on vacation and returns July 16. For the next three weeks, the New Music Pick of the Week will debut Wednesdays at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online.

Kygo is back with new music with “For Life” featuring singer/songwriter Zak Abel and legend Nile Rodgers!

“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 every week on the “Top 40 Timeline”. Russ’ record of the week can also be heard each week on “The Big 20”.

Previously one of my picks of the week, Big Daddy is also loving”Myself & I” by TheFatRat & RIELL!

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and “Pyjama Party”, with both shows anchored at Energy 885. Hunter can also be heard weekdays at 2pm EST on Party Dog Radio. Hunter’s bop of the week can now be heard each week on “The Big 20”.

It’s “Ten (Get Back Up)” by Nathan Dawe and MNEK!

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show heard Tuesdays at 6pm EST (currently on vacation till July 16). 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.

Boney M – Rasputin (1979)
ABBA – Knowing Me, Knowing You (1977)
Village People – Y.M.C.A (1979)
Donna Summer – Last Dance (1978)
The Raes – A Little Lovin’ (Keeps The Doctor Away) (1979) (You Tube link)

THE BILLCS TOP 30 – 5-10-15-20-25…

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

2019

1 GOOD THINGS FALL APART Illenium, Jon Bellion

2 WHITE LIES M-22

3 GOOD THINGS Cedric Gervais, Just Kiddin’, Kyan

4 LOVE ME LESS MAX, Quinn XCII

5 KISS AND TELL, Mokita

2014

1 STAY WITH ME, Sam Smith

2 TIDAL WAVE, Tristan Thompson

3 PROXY, Martin Garrix

4 TELL IT TO MY HEART, Jason Walker, Bimbo Jones

5 ELECTRIFY THE NIGHT, House Rockerz, Davis Redfield, Carl Man

2009

1 THE GIRL AND THE ROBOT, Royksöpp, Robyn

2 YOU FOUND ME (Lenny B mix), The Fray

3 LOVE STORY (Victor Franco radio mix), Nadia Ali

4 IF I KNOW YOU, Presets

5 MANNEQUIN (Overthrill remix), Noah

2004

1 ROCK U, Laurent Konrad

2 AMAZING, George Michael

3 THIS LOVE, Maroon 5

4 MOVE YA BODY, Nina Sky

5 HEY MAMA, Black Eyed Peas

1999

1 LIVIN’ LA VIDA LOCA, Ricky Martin

2 MILLENNIUM, Robbie Williams

3 U DON’T KNOW ME, Armand Van Helden, Duane Harden

4 GIVE IT TO YOU, Jordan Knight

5 SHE’S SO HIGH, Tal Bachman

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

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

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

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

MORGIN MADISON, RYAN LUCIAN, “Stimulate”

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

ZAC POOR, “Catapult”

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

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

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

AIRPORTS, “Need U Here”

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

FEATURING

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

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

MR! MOURAY, “Who’s Paying Now”

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

ROWAN FLACK, “Tipsy on the Tongue”

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

JON MULLANE, “The Sun in the Summertime”

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

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

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

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

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

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

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

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

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

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

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

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

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

“Like Crazy” (English version) by JIMIN

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

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

BILLCS New Music Report – June 19/24 with new songs by @Syenceofficial & @Dea__Magna, @BrightLightx2 & Beth Hirsch, @BenedictCork, @this_is_Noanne, @MattHoltbymusic, @SerenaIttoo, @MarkusRiva & Myszkovski, and @MRVLZmusic & Nico Crespo

While I haven’t reviewed albums in my blog posts for years now, that doesn’t mean that I don’t listen to them – I suppose though, like most frequent music listeners, I don’t listen to as many full albums as I used to. Since I was a kid, I’ve always been a song-by-song person. But during the past few weeks I’ve dove into several albums and today’s Report features a few of those “deeper” selections. Rarely does a major label go back and select an album track for promotion at radio unless it’s by a huge artist or a remix with a featured artist, so a lot of very good albums are now left to fend for themselves with no extra push from the label after one single or emphasis track.

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 from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five picks which happen to be ballads from the 1977-1981 era. And in case you missed them, 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.

SYENCE, DEA MAGNA, “lose my mind”

“lose my mind” is one of those tracks you need to hear in a club to help elevate a set as a late night of music and dancing begins. L.A. production duo Syence are no strangers to this blog, but “lose my mind” and its dark, deep house vibes aren’t what I would normally associate with them, and the track works beautifully. It’s enhanced by the presence of fellow L.A.-based talent Dea Magna, who adds a rich atmosphere with her driven vocal. She’s also a producer/DJ, so I’m not sure if she contributed to the technical side, but another set of accomplished ears on the overall sound would only be an asset if she did. “lose my mind” is one of those musical delights to keep you dancing into the wee hours.

BRIGHT LIGHT BRIGHT LIGHT, BETH HIRSCH, “Enjoy Youth”

It’s easy to dig deeper into Bright Light Bright Light’s Enjoy Youth album. His fifth release overall is one of his very best and chock full of talent, such as those we have seen on singles preceding the album’s release in the form of Mykal Kilgore and Ultra Naté. In surveying the remaining album tracks, the title track is a standout for its lyrics and delightful vocal interplay between BLx2 and American singer Beth Hirsch, who electronic music fans will know as the vocalist on French group Air’s seminal 90’s album Moon Safari, and who BLx2 previously worked with on the song “Grace”. “Enjoy Youth” is one of those gems that you’ll only find if you listen beyond the singles for your own musical benefit.

BENEDICT CORK, “Into The Arms Of Another Love”

Benedict’s recent singles “Reasons I Loved You”, “Beauty Queen” and “Nice Guy” all made me want to hear more from him in his third album release Notes On A Hopeless Romance. Going further into the album, you hear more emotion and personality that has been on display through the singles, though songs like “Reasons” and “Nice Guy” do unveil some darker and stirring layers. “Into The Arms Of Another Love” though is chic and sophisticated, tearing a few songwriting and vocal cues from the Burt Bacharach-Hal David book of songs often recorded by Dionne Warwick while meeting Lana Del Rey halfway. The song starts off with a gentle Benedict vocal that comes more alive as he describes “the new blood” of today – not waiting around for someone’s affection before they move on to someone else. “Into The Arms Of Another Love” is one unique track and shouldn’t be overlooked.

NOANNE, “Careless”

Following up recent singles “Goodwill” (with its stunning video) and “Forgiveness” is Prague-based artist Noanne, with sometimes harrowing but ultimately inviting and captivating “Careless”. She mixes contemporary styles you might associate with Florence & The Machine and Lady Gaga with more classic and dramatic theatrical ones. What I enjoy about Noanne’s songs is that she doesn’t hold back, she articulates her perspectives well and then unleashes herself with the help of a compelling arrangement and a fierce melody, making them highly memorable. “Careless”, through its story of obsession and rejection, ultimately wants you to reflect on your own value as a person and what you hope to achieve in life and love.

MATTHEW HOLTBY, “Reading This Now”

In his latest release, Warkworth, Ontario indie singer/songwriter Matthew Holtby offers up a relatable story in “Reading This Now”, which follows up “Goodbye Song” from earlier this year. It’s about a guy who is reflecting on his decision to say goodbye to a previous relationship through a note that he left, and while things won’t be the same as he takes away the memories with him, he’s ultimately content with his decision. It’s a mid-tempo track that straddles pop, folk and country, and is set against sturdy guitar work as well as drums/percussion. Sounding a bit like Steven Page (ex-Barenaked Ladies, currently in the Trans-Canada Highwaymen), Matthew’s earnest and convincing vocal goes a long way to make “Reading This Now” a gentle and affable pleasure. You can also check out the song in its acoustic version at the following link: Acoustic

SERENA ITTOO, “Another World”

British singer/songwriter Serena Ittoo is on a roll with “Another World”, another sparkling slice of vocal pop that follows up recent releases “My Heart Is Yours” and “Nature Foreseen”. It’s set against an unintrusive backdrop of synths and percussion, an arrangement that helps make Serena’s vocal shine more. “Another World” wants you to look at the world through someone else’s eyes, where you see not only what attracted you to them, but their flaws as well. Serena often doesn’t sound like anyone in particular, which is not a bad thing. The songs I’ve heard by Serena have jazz and R&B undertones, making them warm and alluring rather than trying to compete with the Adeles and Kelly Clarksons and their powerhouse voices. I’d pitch “Another World” to fans of singers like Cat Burns and Arlo Parks, with whom Serena Ittoo would be in quite good company.

MARKUS RIVA, MYSZKOVSKI,”Too Late For Love”

It was nice to discover a new song by Latvian star Markus Riva recently, and it’s a bright pop/dance track in collaboration with Polish producer Myszkovski called “Too Late For Love”. Markus is a DJ, radio presenter and model, known mainly in eastern Europe. He made a bit of a splash back in 2012 with two fine songs that landed on the BILLCS Top 30, “What It Takes To Be A Man” (#7) and “We Dance 4 Reason” (#9). A few years later, one of his songs was vying for a place at EuroVision for Latvia. Although it’s years later, Markus continues to regularly release music in English and Latvian. “Too Late For Love” is equally universal and radio friendly, and shouldn’t be isolated to eastern European listeners. Markus sounds great and Myszkovski has built a solid foundation to support the catchy melody. Join me in my discovery of “Too Late For Love” and enjoy.

MRVLZ, NICO CRESPO, “All Around Me”

“All Around Me” by California production duo MRVLZ and producer Nico Crespo is part of Jay Bird’s Birdhouse Project, which is a showcase throws the spotlight on emerging electronic dance music talents, and this is the second song from the collective that I’ve written about. In fact MRVLZ and Nico Crespo are known more for their live shows than their recordings, well-established in the Bay area for their own shows as well as supporting major talent that comes through the area. “All Around Me” is a slick house track with an uncredited, expressive R&B/hip hop flavoured vocal. The melodic arrangement focuses on a guitar and drums/percussion mix with some well-rounded synths fleshing it out. Club DJ’s who drop “All Around Me” into a set should prepare for immediate reaction from their dancefloor denizens.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter beat me to it but this week it’s “Space Party” by Spain’s The Boy From The South

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

Canadian country singer Tebey has put his own spin on The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

It’s the country crossover hit “Austin” by Dasha

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Peter Pringle – You Really Got Me Needing You Now (1977) (You Tube link)
Fred Knoblock – Why Not Me (1980) (You Tube link)
Michael Johnson – The Very First Time (1979)
Dan Fogelberg – Same Old Lang Syne (1981)
Dan Hill – Sometimes When We Touch (1977)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Darin’s “Electric” remains on top!

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

“Myself & I” by TheFatRat and RIELL moves up 27-17

#BILLCSTop30 #694 – June 17/24

A bit of turnover freshens up the BILLCS Top 30 this week, as five songs debut. I’ve also got some extras within the blog post, including links to newer releases by some of the artists as well as links to a few new remixes.

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

Here’s the link to the online version of the chart: BILLCS Top 30

Here’s the link to my Spotify playlist of the chart: BILLCS Top 30 Chart Playlist

The BILLCS Top 30 Archive: BILLCS Top 30 Archive (recently updated along with its Artist tab)

Sweden’s Darin continues at the top with his fourth #1 on this chart with “Electric”. Swedish fans are getting ready for what sounds like an exciting summer tour! Darin and other Swedish artists need to make a trek over to North America sometime where, with the right show package and promotion, they would likely make a killing. You can also check out “Electric” in its acoustic ballad version at the following Spotify link: Acoustic.

Zipping up from 6-2 is the live string version of “feel less” by my fellow Canadians Felix Cartal and Lights. This becomes a personal best on the chart for Felix and ties Lights’ previous peak with Manila Killa on “Dusk” from two years ago.

I’ll admit it: At the time of Melodifestivalen back in March, I liked Medina’s “Que Será” better than Marcus & Martinus’ winner “Unforgettable”. But as time went on, I found I was playing “Unforgettable” a lot more, and now it has risen 5-3 on the chart.

“Hopeless” (above), the emotional slice of alternative hip hop/pop from Philadelphia duo N i G H T S, climbs 8-6. They’ve recently released a 3 song EP called Vacay, from which you can listen to “Palm Tree” below.

Bounding into the Top 10 to no surprise and joining her huge track with John Summit, “Shiver” (currently #5), is British sensation Hayla with her solo release “Embers”, rising 12-7. After last night’s performance at the John Summit show in Toronto, it is clear that big things are in store for Hayla in the next few years. Fun fact: Her real name is Hayley Williams! Maybe the Paramore star will join Hayla sometime on stage!

JVKE makes it four-for-four Top 10 entries on this chart as the engaging “This Is What Slow Dancing Feels Like” (above) climbs 15-9. Also landing in the Top 10 for a fourth time is Benson Boone with “Cry” (13-10, below) from his fabulous album Fireworks and Rollerblades. Let’s hope it follows “Slow It Down” as the next single promoted to radio. JVKE and Benson have each had two #1’s on the chart.

Ekanovah’s brisk and fun “Find My Flow” (above) is making short work of the chart as it jumps 18-11. You can check out his latest release “Vibrant” below.

Kiesza’s “I Go Dance” (above) is becoming her biggest release in 10 years, currently in the national dance radio Top 30. The song leaps 20-13 on the chart, and you can check out its trance-flavoured Leena Punks & Shay de Castro remix at the following link: Remix

Teddy Swims’ Motown-flavoured “The Door” continues to make moves everywhere and it climbs 23-15.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is “Myself & I” by German electronic producer TheFatRat and Canadian singer/songwriter RIELL, which soars 27-17.

Vanessa Williams’ first new music in 15 years, “Legs (Keep Dancing)” (above), is off to a fine start, up 26-20. You can also check out John “J.C.” Carr and Bill Coleman’s 808 Beach Mix of the song at the following link: Remix

Nemo’s EuroVision winner for Switzerland, the highly infectious “The Code” (above) rises 28-21. You also can find it in a sometimes bouncy, trance-flavoured Felix Jaehn remix at the following link: Remix

The Highest Debut at #23 belongs to Greyson Chance who has released “Rearview Mirror” independently in advance of his next album. It’s Greyson’s 7th entry on the chart.

Next at #24 is The Chainsmokers, with Canadian singer/songwriter ELIO on what I think is the best track from their new EP No Hard Feelings called “Bad Advice”. This one is for fans of “Closer” and “Paris”! It’s Alex and Drew’s 14th chart entry, hard to believe their first was in 2015, and even that was preceded by what everyone thought would be a one-off, “#Selfie”, the year before!

He did amazing things with Whitney Houston’s version of “Higher Love” back in 2019 and it got to #2 on this chart. After many other cover versions, Kygo is back with original music and “For Life” arrives at #25. It’s in collaboration with vocalist/songwriter Zak Abel and the legend Nile Rodgers, who is everywhere these days. “For Life” does use the melody of the hook of Modjo’s dance classic “Lady (Hear Me Tonight)”, and it does grab you. And I like how Kygo uses it briefly enough for the original song and Zak’s great vocal to surround it. Zak also has appeared previously on the chart, on GATTÜSO’s “I’ll Be There” (#14, 2022).

At #26, Spain’s The Boy from the South is back with his third entry, the unique bop “Space Party”. It follows last year’s two Top 10 entries, “Amazing-Man” (#3) and “Man Down” (#6).

And totally out of left field at #27 is “Ur So Good (Everything I Need)” by Australia’s De Facto!! and DJ Fruit Salad. You can find out more about these producers on either Tik Tok or Soundcloud. DJ Fruit Salad kindly revealed to me that the predominant sample is from an obscure 70’s R&B track by Lorzine Wright called “You’re So Good”, which was produced by disco legend Patrick Adams. It’s so cheesy but I guarantee you won’t be able to get it out of your head!

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

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 plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” which airs Saturdays at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

Energy885

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!

BILLCS New Music Report – June 13/24 with songs by JENNA Nation, Sharon’SISTER (@LeesonMaureen and Jaimie Vernon @bullseyecanada), @JerinJamesmusic, Benjamin Russell @mtl_bar & Greg Fraser, @Aiobahn & @DanSoleilmusic, @MRKOmusic, @SocialAnimals and @callmeJavi

One thing about constantly discovering new music every day in establishing my criteria after more than 40 years of listening critically to music is that I enjoy the element of surprise. It’s vitally important when listening to so many releases in a week that I can distinguish between songs and allow what’s memorable to stand out. Some songs surely stand out for all the wrong reasons, usually if they have too many effects or a poor vocal. But others dazzle because the creators have decided to make their songs unique. Whether it’s a simple production focusing on the vocal, highlighting a song with a set of different or special effects, or accentuating an emotional side through melody or vocal that gets under your skin, the songs that stand out ultimately attempt to make a difference to those who listen to them. If your songs make me smile or sad, quietly go “wow”, admire the quality of work that’s gone in to them, or have got me singing along to their choruses after one listen, then you’ve probably won me over.

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 from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his memorable Classic Five picks from the late 60’s. You’ll also find out what the BILLCS Top 30 looked like this week in 2008!!

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.

JENNA Nation, “Bittersweet”

Last Fall I introduced you to the Berklee School of Music-educated, Ottawa-based singer JENNA Nation, who released her first new music in a few years with the jazzy R&B pop track “All I Need”. “Bittersweet” is her latest release, and once again the showcase is on her stunning voice, which at times recalls other current singers like Christina Aguilera and Gwen Stefani, as well as voices of the past like Peggy Lee or Julie London, though the singer indicates specific inspiration from talent like Jill Scott and Jazmine Sullivan Her taut and deliberate phrasing sets the place for a lovely song about being there in the moment for someone, whether it’s a bitter or sweet one. “Bittersweet” is warm and inviting and should easily draw in more fans for JENNA Nation.

Sharon’SISTER, MAUREEN LEESON, JAIMIE VERNON, “Running To Stand Still”

I’m writing about this track in celebration of it appearing on streaming services for the first time in hopes that more people get to hear one of the best covers of a U2 song available. Sharon’SISTER was a pseudonymous project for the Durham, Ontario-based quartet Spare Parts, fronted by Maureen Leeson and including her brother-in-law, pop music guru Jaimie Vernon, on bass and harmonies, which toured the southern Ontario bar circuit and continues to pop up for reunions now and then. Maureen has a tireless, powerful voice that should really be heard by more people, and fortunately she is a highly regarded music teacher who shares her numerous skills with her students. “Running To Stand Still” is a U2 song from The Joshua Tree album that was recorded by Sharon’SISTER on their 1996 8 song release of otherwise original songs called Steeped. It’s one of those songs, when sung by the right person, that can make you stop in your tracks to listen, and U2 fans will love this rendition of the song. The potent vocal by Maureen with lovely harmonies from Jaimie drive it home, and you’ll want to put “Running To Stand Still” on repeat. If a 2024 revival is due for a rather obscure cover of a song, then this is it.

JERIN JAMES, “Blue Night”

As a part of his recent EP The Wanderers Pt. 2, southern California-based dance producer Jerin James has included one of his best songs, the atmospheric “Blue Night”. Set to a deep house backdrop and led by some ideal string-synth effects, “Blue Night” is rich and sultry with a compelling uncredited male vocal which adds the personality needed to grab club-goers’ ears as well as their feet. “Blue Night” should find its way easily into club DJ’s sets and it’s also quite radio friendly for dance radio to consider. As much as I enjoy this version, I think some remixes could help lift Jerin’s opportunity for more success with “Blue Night”.

BENJAMIN RUSSELL, GREG FRASER, “Sirens Calling”

“Sirens Calling” is part of a four song tribute to the well-remembered Toronto songwriter and musician, Rude Van Steenes (Arson, GLAMATRON!, Vis-A-Vis – who recorded an 80’s dance music fave of mine “Shadow Play”), who passed away in 2021. The project was started by Toronto synthesizer player Greg Fraser with Rude, based on Rude’s poems, but sadly he died before it was completed. Greg and Rude’s wife Michele O’Neail, recruited the prolific Montreal artist Benjamin Russell to finish the project, which as a fond remembrance is called Ghost Particles (messages from Rude Van Steenes). “Sirens Calling” is the outstanding lead off track from the EP, with Benjamin’s forthright vocal embracing the song’s theme of control, almost a cautionary tale that tells us to be careful what we wish for. The song is augmented by delightful saxophone sounds in an overall tight and memorable production. “Sirens Calling” will be much appreciated by alternative and college radio stations, who were also big champions of the music of Rude Van Steenes during his lifetime.

AIOBAHN, DAN SOLEIL, “On Repeat”

“On Repeat” is warm and dreamy electronic pop from South Korean producer Aiobahn and Dutch vocalist Dan Soleil. The song aims to transport you back to the peak ’10’s era of electronic music. And while the emotional side of the song does that, it’s set against a subtle and carefully crafted melody, and inviting but uplifting vocals by Dan. I’d pitch “On Repeat” to fans of producers like Chet Porter and Helloworld, wanting something familiar and pretty but a little more off the mainstream.

MRKO, “Fall”

Rising L.A.-based dance producer MRKO returns with a captivating ode to love called “Fall”. Since I wrote about his music a few years back, MRKO has already supported Benny Benassi and Robin Schulz in concert and has released music on labels helmed by Austin Kramer and The Disco Fries. With a stellar, ages-old-sounding vocal by an uncredited male vocalist, “Fall” takes you through the self-doubts and other thoughts that occur when you might be falling in love, often forgetting to just let it all happen organically. The deep house rhythm and MRKO’s fluid synth work all compliment “Fall”, making it a standout keeper that club DJ’s should invest in, and there are extended remixes Simon Sinfield and Gilbert Lezana & Shemsu to help take care of that.

SOCIAL ANIMALS, “Blacking Out”

Social Animals are a Nashville-based quartet originally from Duluth, Minnesota led by vocalist/songwriter Dedric Clark. Although I see releases in Spotify back to 2021, they seem to have been around longer, perhaps as a touring band. They are also faced with the challenge that many other rock bands have in bringing back guitar-oriented rock to the current genre of listeners. “Blacking Out” is full of solid guitar work in a tight mix with an affecting vocal by Dedric, who ruminates to a former lover after crashing his car about trying to put everything behind him by “staying in and blacking out”. The overall sound mixes classic Bruce Springsteen and John Mellencamp vibes with 90’s flavours represented by bands like Live and Collective Soul. Fans of Cage The Elephant and The Black Keys would be sure to embrace a Social Animals song like “Blacking Out”.

JAVI, “Only Lover”

Javi is an American singer/songwriter of Puerto Rican and Latin heritage, who doesn’t release music too often, but when he does it certainly stands out from the crowd. He’s a gifted interpreter too, as witnessed by his recent covers of Steve Lacy’s “Bad Habit” and especially Sade’s “Cherish The Day”, which reached #6 on the BILLCS Top 30 in 2022. “Only Lover” marks the return of producer Patrick Breen as a collaborator, and it’s a slick and soulful original that exudes George Michael vibes. Javi’s vocal comes from a natural place with warm and sophisticated tones that completely suit the song. “Only Lover” is provided to you on a three song EP, where you can check out the Steak Frites mix, which amps up the playful groove, and the Palgz demo, tearing a few pages out of the Parliament/Funkadelic songbook, which slows down the pace and emphasizes the funk.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

Greyson Chance has returned with new music and his indie release is the poignant “Rearview Mirror”

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

Ohio’s Michael Marcagi has his first big hit with “Scared to Start”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Vancouver’s Marianas Trench are finally back with new music including “Lightning and Thunder”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show heard Tuesdays at 6pm 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.

Joe South – Walk A Mile In My Shoes (1970)
Glen Campbell -Wichita Lineman (1969)
Bobby Darin – If I Were A Carpenter (1966)
Young Rascals – Groovin’ (1967)
The Box Tops – The Letter (1967)

BILLCS Top 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2008

It’s hard for some people to believe that 2008 is 16 years ago, until you start to bask into some of the nostalgia that some of these songs offer. The highlight for me is a 20 year old Justin Nozuka with his biggest song to date, “After Tonight”. It’s also cool seeing Canadian producer John Nathaniel back to back on the chart with One Republic, since he later went on to produce that group!

03 01 GOING WRONG Armin Van Buuren featuring Chris Jones
01 02 AMERICAN BOY Estelle featuring Kanye West
02 03 MERCY Duffy
09 04 LET GO (Vandit remix) Paul Van Dyk featuring Rea Garvey
20 05 AFTER TONIGHT Justin Nozuka
07 06 ALL OVER YOU The Spill Canvas
05 07 LEAVIN’ Jesse McCartney
06 08 CALI CRY Roz Bell
04 09 4 MINUTES Madonna & Justin Timberlake featuring Timbaland
10 10 POCKETFUL OF SUNSHINE Natasha Bedingfield
13 11 CLOSER Ne-Yo
15 12 DANGEROUS (remix) Kardinal Offishall featuring Akon & Sean Paul
11 13 COLD SHOULDER Adele
16 14 ONLY FOOLING MYSELF Kate Voegele
19 15 YOU ME US WE Nelson Clemente
22 16 WARWICK AVENUE Duffy
12 17 NO AIR Jordin Sparks featuring Chris Brown
08 18 YOU WANT ME DON’T YOU Nelson Clemente
New 19 BLACK AND GOLD Sam Sparro
24 20 IF I NEVER SEE YOUR FACE AGAIN Maroon 5 featuring Rihanna
26 21 ANTHEM Filo & Peri featuring Eric Lumiere
14 22 SILVER LINING Rilo Kiley
New 23 WHAT YOU GOT Colby O’Donis featuring Akon
30 24 TIME OF MY LIFE David Cook
25 25 SAY (ALL I NEED) One Republic
New 26 REALIZE John Nathaniel
New 27 FOREVER Chris Brown
17 28 SUPERNATURAL SUPERSERIOUS R.E.M.
21 29 WITH YOU Chris Brown
23 30 LAST TRAIN HOME Ryan Star

BILLCS New Music Report – June 5/24 with new songs by @TheThe, @RiverTiber & @JustinNozuka, @AndyxSuzuki @AndTheMethod, @bandAutopilot and @RumJungleband

Yep, it’s one of those weeks where a bit of writer’s block sets in and makes it difficult and frustrating to write about just about anything. Anyone who knows it knows you can’t make words appear when they’re not there. But I still wracked my brain to convey my thoughts about six new songs this week to dazzle your ears, and what I’ve come up with I think has turned out well. Fortunately writer’s block is short lived and I should have more for you next week!

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 from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five take us back to a handful of hits from 1970. And in case 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.

THE THE, “Cognitive Dissident”

Back in 2017, the legendary 80’s UK rock group The The – really singer/songwriter Matt Johnson and his collective musicians of the day – released a documentary and a single, “We Can’t Stop What’s Coming”, and toured for the first time in many years. Anything that came next got put quickly on hold due to some life threating health issues that Matt was facing. In the interim, fans got a live album of concert favourites called The Comeback Special, whose title envisioned more to come. A few more years later, Matt has recovered and surfaced with the new single “Cognitive Dissident” along with a series of worldwide concert dates, and with the first new The The album since 2000’s Naked Self called Ensoulment coming in September. It’s a testament to perseverance in the craft you cherish, and “Cognitive Dissident” is classic The The, containing sharply worded lines and verses that want you to question everything, and understand that the decisions being made around us are reminiscent of a “1984” kind of society that we all hoped would never happen. With his deep, memorable voice sounding not too much different from The The’s halcyon years in “Cognitive Dissident”, it’s great to have Matt Johnson back. The The’s unique music has also acquired a number of new fans over the years, which has led to multi-millions of streams, and Ensoulment will be of particular interest to them.

RIVER TIBER, JUSTIN NOZUKA, “Tell Her” and “Stranger”

During the last decade, I was pleased to attend a number of Justin Nozuka shows in Toronto where he was supported on guitar and vocal harmonies by River Tiber, aka Tommy Paxton-Beesley, who was also developing his own following and sound that even got Drake’s attention when the River Tiber track “No Talk” was sampled by the rapper. Some of those were intimate shows at smaller venues, and then there were River Tiber’s own shows too, playing a number of the same venues, with Tommy eventually supporting Justin as part of his band on at least one worldwide tour. The two talents have natural chemistry together in achieving beautiful, sometimes experimental sounds, and a few years later their collaborative work has come full circle on two new songs, “Tell Her” (above) and “Stranger”. Both songs are pretty soulful and mellow, with “Tell Her” pondering life and existence which in the lyrics seems to be weighted on something that is being held back and unsaid, while “Stranger” is two short verses with one word changed in the second verse. Some songs by both artists have often been left vague for the listener to interpret and experience. If this is the start of a new project to follow up River Tiber’s 2022 album Dreaming Eyes and Justin Nozuka’s 2023 album Daydreams & Endless Nights, which were both more artistic departures than previous releases, then these two new songs have sufficiently whet our curiosity for more.

ANDY SUZUKI & THE METHOD, “Hardly Human”

It’s hard to believe that I’ve been writing about the music of NYC’s Andy Suzuki & The Method for more than a decade. Time and time again they deliver great songs which often sound even better in concert. They’ve only released a handful of songs since their last album, 2019’s Alibi, since both Andy and drummer/percussionist Kozza became dads, and the hard-rocking “Hardly Human” kicks off whatever is coming next. Andy Suzuki & The Method have continued performing though, as I witnessed last summer in NYC, which keeps them sounding tight. Andy could be another Dan Reynolds with the power in his eminent vocal on “Hardly Human”, which is full of luminous guitar work and appropriately thunderous beats and percussion by Kozza.

AUTOPILOT, “Yesterday”

Saskatchewan rock trio Autopilot return with another edgy single, “Yesterday”. This one is about embracing some memories, while knowing what ones you need to leave in the past. Autopilot has a solid live-off-the-floor sound led by Marlon Harder’s gritty but friendly vocal. “Yesterday” has enough bounce to pick you up and get you ready for your night out. Autopilot is known for its live shows both at home and in the US, and are playing a few shows during Canadian Music Week in Toronto, including at The Cave on Thursday June 6. Hopefully “Yesterday” is a sign of what’s to come on Autopilot’s next album too.

RUM JUNGLE, “Did The Morning Let You Down”

Australian indie quartet Rum Jungle give us some pause for thought as we begin our days with “Did The Morning Let You Down”. The song’s brimming with a great melody, some ferocious guitar work and a crisp vocal that gets showcased in the way that you would hear Keane’s Tom Chaplin or even fellow Aussie indie band Moonwood’s Jake McCullough. “Did The Morning Let You Down” understands that there are just some mornings that we all look forward to, and the resulting day usually flies by, but that there are also some that we dread, and sometimes the day doesn’t go by too badly anyway. Rum Jungle has recently finished a tour of the UK and Germany to sell out dates, and are about to embark on a winter tour of Australia (i.e. in the western world’s summer). “Did The Morning Let You Down” is the kind of song that would resonate with alternative and college radio stations.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

“Myself & I” is by German electronic producer TheFatRat and Canadian singer RIELL

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

The Chainsmokers team up with Canadian singer ELIO for “Bad Advice”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Spain’s The Boy From The South’s latest release is the infectious “Space Party”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Badfinger – Come and Get It
Kenny Rogers & The First Edition – Something’s Burning
Chicago – Make Me Smile
Ray Stevens – Everything Is Beautiful
Diana Ross – Ain’t No Mountain High Enough

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Darin’s “Electric” becomes his 4th number one on the chart

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Phoenix dance producer Ekonovah’s infectious “Find My Flow” (28-18)

#BILLCSTop30 #693 – June 3/24

It looks like it’s time to fight for our Canadian identities in music again. Singer Bryan Adams – long a favourite of mine, I’ve seen him three or four times in concert – has long been outspoken about how music by Canadian artists is identified by our government in terms of radio play and about our antiquated copyright laws. He posted a video message, to which our Heritage Minister replied, and to which Bryan added a post on X below. And he’s absolutely right. He fought 30 years ago for a change in the Canadian Content (Cancon) rules, as his huge song “Everything I Do (I Do it For You)” was not considered to qualify as Canadian Content because the only criteria that it met was that Bryan, as the artist, was a Canadian! Now frankly it’s even worse, with multiple collaborations between Canadians and others, but often not enough to satisfy the four criteria which were revamped in 1991 and you can find at the following link: Cancon. So let’s keep an eye on this and see if Bryan can continue to champion our Canadian music scene.

Here’s the link to the online version of the chart: BILLCS Top 30

Here’s the link to my Spotify playlist of the chart: BILLCS Top 30 Chart Playlist

The BILLCS Top 30 Archive: BILLCS Top 30 Archive

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

He’s now in a rather elite class in terms of my chart’s history, and Darin gets his 4th #1 with the propulsive summery pop jam “Electric”, which climbs 5-1 in a sudden takeover from two months of “Shiver”. Darin joins Justin Timberlake and Sam Smith, who also have 4 #1’s, Darren Hayes who has 5, Simon Curtis who has 6 plus another one as a featured vocalist, and Bright Light Bright Light who has 7! Darin has also followed up “Electric” with a new one, “Moonlight”, which you can check out below.

I still can’t get enough of the Euphoric Alternative remix of David Archuleta’s “Afraid To Love” (above), which also became a collaboration with keyboardist/producer Willy Beaman, and climbs 4-3. David’s latest is the quite different “Hell Together”, which you can hear below.

Making a splash in the Top 10 is the stunning live string version of “feel less” by Felix Cartal and Lights (11-6), recorded at The Warehouse in Vancouver. It becomes the 4th Top 10 entry for both artists. Felix just released a new “double A” single, which these days is being called an EP, called “i”, which includes “dive/stay/” and “cuz of you”, and you can check out at the following Spotify link: Felix Cartal EP.

Getting her second Top 10 entry just over 8 years after the last one is dance music queen Rozalla with her timeless take on Nicolette Larson’s hit version of “Lotta Love”, which climbs 14-10.

I’m looking forward to seeing her again perform, this time in my city in September, as she opens for Kygo and Sam Feldt. Hayla rises 19-12 with her smashing solo release “Embers” (above). And about Kygo – well he and Hayla just released their own collaboration “Without You”, which you can check out below.

Never underestimate the power of a fantastic hook, which will have you singing Washington-based artist Dreamer Boy’s “Heartbreaker” long after it’s over. The song jumps 23-16.

L.A.’s TELYKast seems to have no shortage of great songs up their sleeves lately, and their collaboration with fellow producer Deorro and vocalist Catello, “Without Your Love”, rises 25-17.

The Fastest Riser on the chart belongs to one of the catchiest songs around. It’s “Find My Flow” by Phoenix dance producer Ekonovah, which soars 28-18.

Right behind is the bonafide national dance radio hit for Kiesza called “I Go Dance”, which moves up 29-20 from her newly released EP which you can listen to at the following Spotify link: Dancing And Crying Vol. 1.

For those of you who are tired of “Lose Control”, you can enjoy Teddy Swims’ top-notch Motown-flavoured follow-up “The Door”, which rises 30-23.

The Highest Debut belongs to an artist who would have appeared on my chart had there been one before 1998. Vanessa Williams sparkles on “Legs (Keep Dancing)” having just turned 61, an independent release very deserving of your attention, which arrives at #26. It’s her first release in 15 years. Other artists on the chart age 60+ are Rozalla and Pet Shop Boys.

Debuting on the chart after more than 10 years as an electronic dance producer is TheFatRat, who has a huge following on You Tube thanks to his involvement with the gaming world, and “Myself & I”, featuring Canadian singer RIELL at #27. It’s chapter six of a series of story-songs, full of layered top-notch production and an excellent vocal by RIELL.

The third debut belongs to Swiss EuroVision winner Nemo with the fascinating and riveting “The Code”, which arrives at #28.

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

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 plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” which airs Saturdays at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my New Music Pick of the Week which debuts every week on “The 3D Variety Show” at www.planetradio.ca, now powered by www.xstreamrockradio.com with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. My pick of the week airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at the following link: 3D Variety Show. The show repeats on Alberta’s www.katpowerhit.ca on Wednesdays at 6pm EST.

Energy885

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!

BILLCS New Music Report – May 29/24 with new songs by @JayB1rdmusic & TEGI, DE FACTO!! & DJ Fruit Salad, @TELYKast & @x_o_anne, @NatalieShay_, Ben Ellis, @TylerGarrettusa, @ColinMansn, and Ryan Wright @rywrightmusic

The variety of music in this week’s Report speaks for itself, from pop/folk through to electronic dance music, with two picks of the week from the country genre.

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with one 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 from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five take us back to a handful of pop ballads released between 1981 and 1986. Plus, you’ll find out what songs sat atop the BILLCS Top 30 during the last 26 years! And there are at least six artists with songs currently on the BILLCS Top 30 who were NOT born when my chart began!!

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.

JAY BIRD, TEGI, “Dancing”

“Dancing” is a fresh sounding, fast-paced new house track by San Jose’s Jay Bird, frequently featured in this blog, along with newcomer TEGI, and it’s the first release on Jay’s label The Birdhouse Recordings. The label is intended to showcase music from Jay’s collective of new producers and artists also called The Birdhouse. “Dancing” has a clean sound which is quite European in nature, with a quirky rhythm that takes the basics from Daft Punk’s melodies and revs them up a bit. “Dancing” is a calling card for DJ’s to get their evening started with something clever, and Jay Bird and TEGI deliver the goods and more.

DE FACTO!!, DJ FRUIT SALAD, “Ur So Good (Everything I Need)”

Out of Australia, two producer/DJ’s, De Facto!! and DJ Fruit Salad, will give your day a lift with the relentlessly perky “Ur So Good (Everything I Need)”. It’s a catchy and not overly complicated pop-house mix. I normally wouldn’t care for this kind of track because of its altered vocal, but it’s an almost-cheesy dance floor filler with a contagious, happy vibe. De Facto!! and DJ Fruit Salad seem to be keeping themselves off of the major social media platforms while “Ur So Good” – which sounds like it’s based on a sample that I can’t place – has been given major props on Tik Tok by Australian radio station TripleJ. “Ur So Good” is too good not to be at least a worldwide dance hit, reminiscent in some ways of LF System’s “Afraid To Feel”, so perhaps the talent behind the record will come out of hiding to promote it. The songwriting credit is given to Harvey Miller, who is half of Australian duo Client Liaison, so that may be part of the puzzle too.

TELYKast, x.o.anne, “Free”

L.A. dance producers TELYKast keep the hits flowing with “Free” which features London-based, California-born singer/songwriter x.o.anne (aka Anne Tello), who has written for Dillon Francis among others. TELYKast frequently mixes it up with their releases, sometimes with progressive deep house flavours and at other times more on the pop/dance tip. “Free” is one for the latter category, featuring a brisk rhythm and a vocal by Anne that will appeal to fans of Florence Welch and Annie Lennox and that you can put next to rising star Hayla. “Free” is relatable ear candy that should have no problem pleasing club and festival goers.

NATALIE SHAY, “Love Me Too”

For the last few years, UK singer/songwriter Natalie Shay has covered a lot of ground in her songs, largely based on personal experiences with others, often sitting comfortably on that pop-country line that Taylor Swift decided to cross many years ago. With songs on Natalie’s new EP Champagne now making that transition, its lone previously unreleased track “Love Me Too” is one of her best to date. With lyrics full of conviction and confidence, the song is about understanding that you must love yourself completely before you decide to share your love with someone else. Natalie’s expressive vocal is bubbly and sincere while the arrangement and melody flow naturally. Other songs on the EP like “The Edge” and “Love You Boy” have received some worthy attention, but “Love Me Too” is one song that Natalie Shay’s fans as well as those of Taylor Swift, Kacey Musgraves or Kelsea Ballerini will wholeheartedly enjoy.

BEN ELLIS, “No One Sleeps In Hollywood”

Indie Welsh singer/songwriter Ben Ellis seems to have a lot of gems up his sleeve, and one of them is “No One Sleeps In Hollywood”, which follows up his fine EP from last year, Ed’s House, whose title track and “Guys That Look Like Me” both landed on the BILLCS Top 30, with “Ed’s House” reaching #8. “No One Sleeps In Hollywood” has a steady, ear-catching and unpretentious melody set against lyrics which seem to second-guess the kind of success that might be in store for indie artists like Ben, with the fear that a bigger taste of success might not be all that it’s cut out to be. Ben’s earthy guy-next-door approach goes a long way, and while there might be a modicum of truth to the lyrics in terms of the social media attention that Ben gets these days, let’s hope that Ben might be able to look back upon the thoughts expressed in “No One Sleeps In Hollywood” someday and say that they never actually happened.

TYLER GARRETT, “Lean On Me”

For once, a song called “Lean On Me” has nothing to do with Bill Withers’ 70’s pop classic, and L.A.-based singer/songwriter/producer Tyler Garrett has released a compelling follow-up to the gorgeous “Holding On” from earlier this year. The production is very layered, with a riveting bass synth line throughout, and lots going on to draw you in to unleash a veritable sea of emotions. Like with “Holding On”, Tyler’s vocal performance here is a passionate one, which you can see in his in-studio take of “Lean On Me”, which you can watch by clicking the cover art above. And like a lot of Tyler’s songs, it’s a bit longer than the usual pop/dance confection at just over 5 minutes, but “Lean On Me” is sure to hold your interest.

COLIN MANSON, “Sea Son”

If the music of Scottish singer Colin Manson sounds more like Irish folk than anything else, it’s because Colin was raised on the west coast of Scotland, hence the strong Gaelic influence that you hear in “Sea Son”. It’s a dreamy, easy-going slice of folk pop that I would describe as early Hozier meets Duncan Sheik, but the soft and deliberate tone of the song makes me think other influences could come from as far back as Nick Drake, as well as of course Irish and Scottish traditional folk. Colin’s vocal goes down easily and helps tease you into listening, and you’ll hear sounds of stand up bass and violin to flesh out the melody as well as ethereal female vocal harmonies. The theme of “Sea Son” is that there is the whole world waiting out there for you, but he doesn’t try to persuade you to act on that opportunity, leaving it up to the individual to take everything in before making a decision.

RYAN WRIGHT, “Quarter Life Crisis”

Ryan Wright is an indie artist from Virginia who shifts gears into edgier, punk-influenced pop/rock on her new single “Quarter Life Crisis”. Having heard some of her previous work, but not writing about it, I think this is a solid and positive new direction for her. “Quarter Life Crisis” is about rationalizing those moments in your 20’s where you’re leaving behind youth and faced with 30’s adulthood. Her vocal puts her alongside Olivia Rodrigo, Mitski, and Blondshell, with a dash of Chrissie Hynde, and there’s some deft guitar work that happily pervades the sometimes tongue-in-cheek song. “Quarter Life Crisis” is a great introduction to Ryan and moves along at a nice clip given its five minutes + length too.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

Calgary’s Kiesza is back and dance music’s got her again with the fun and wacky “I Go Dance”

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

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

“Rockstar” is by award-winning Nashville-based country singer/songwriter HARDY.

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and “Pyjama Party”, with both shows anchored at Energy 885. Hunter can also be heard weekdays at 2pm EST on Party Dog Radio. Hunter also has a Bop of The Week which can now be heard each week on “The Big 20”, but for now it may not necessarily be the same one featured below.

It’s Nashville-based country rockers Eddie & The Getaway with “Wake Up Without Me”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Partland Brothers – Soul City (1986)
Dan Fogelberg – Make Love Stay (1983)
Jim Photoglo – Fool In Love With You (1981)
Bertie Higgins – Key Largo (1982)
Chicago – You’re The Inspiration (1985)

26 YEARS OF BILLCS TOP 30 #1’s

Songs that rocked my personal chart at this time during the last 26 years. All of the following artists currently with songs on the BILLCS Top 30 were NOT yet born when my chart began: Conan Gray (two #1’s so far), Diamond Cafe (1 #1 previously as Tristan Thompson), Benson Boone (2 #1’s so far), JVKE (2 #1’s so far), Will Swinton and Marcus & Martinus!!

2023 LIKE CRAZY (English version), JIMIN

2022 ARETHA, Mercer

2021 NO MORE LOOKING BACK, Idris Elba, Inner City, Steffanie Christi’an

2020 GET YOUR WISH, Porter Robinson

2019 WHITE LIES, M-22

2018 SATISFY, Mercer, Ron Carroll

2017 FILL ME IN (SOMETHING TO SAY), Loud Luxury, Ryan Shepherd

2016 LOST (Young Bombs remix), Connor Phillips

2015 CHASING STARS, Corey Niles, Alex Lacasse

2014 STAY WITH ME, Sam Smith

2013 BLUE ELECTRIC ROSES, Travis Garland

2012 WAITING FOR THE FEELING, Bright Light Bright Light

2011 POPULAR, Eric Saade

2010 THE WORSE IT GETS, Penguin Prison

2009 YOU FOUND ME (Lenny B mix), The Fray

2008 AMERICAN BOY, Estelle, Kanye West

2007 MAKES ME WONDER, Maroon 5

2006 OVER MY HEAD (CABLE CAR), The Fray

2005 JERK IT OUT, The Caesars

2004 AMAZING, George Michael

2003 BRING ME TO LIFE, Evanescence, Paul McCoy

2002 THE MIDDLE, Jimmy Eat World

2001 DREAM ON, Depeche Mode

2000 BENT, Matchbox Twenty

1999 LIVIN’ LA VIDA LOCA, Ricky Martin

1998 TOO CLOSE, Next

BILLCS New Music Report – May 22/24 with new songs by @GreysonChance, Nemo, @thefatrat & RIELL, The Boy From The South, Baby Lasagna, Eric Rivero & @RobbieRosenlive, @TravisGarland and Peter Wilson

While I was glad to get away on a wonderful New England cruise, I wasn’t happy about coming down with the flu a few days after my return, which has kept me sidelined with next to no voice up till a few days ago. But I’ve still been listening to the new songs, though I admit to being a tad behind with some submissions. Nevertheless, I’ve cobbled together my thoughts about 10 new songs for you this week, including the top two songs at EuroVision. One of those songs is even “Big Daddy” Russ Horton’s pick of the week, and both will be played on this week’s edition of my online radio show “The Big 20”. So there’s plenty to check out – enjoy!

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with one 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 from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five take us back to songs from 1982-85, including two written by Canadian favourite Ian Thomas. If you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what song 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.

GREYSON CHANCE, “Rearview Mirror”

Greyson Chance’s first new music of 2024 is an indie release that ponders the ages old question – “What if I had the power to go back in time?” That’s an elusive and emotional ask, and one that he tackles in his usual sincere and thoughtful way in “Rearview Mirror”. It’s an awful question to wrestle with because it leads to so many other ‘what if’s’ that would have happened had things been different. A more mature Greyson knows the answer to the question and doesn’t want to drag the listener through his and their painful memories. “Rearview Mirror” deserves attention from college and alternative radio as an indie release, and I think it will become a crowd singalong favourite in concert. It also starts an intriguing path for what’s to come from Greyson in the next while.

NEMO, “The Code”

I was travelling this year when EuroVision happened, and though I haven’t hear the breadth of entries like usual, “The Code” by non-binary contestant Nemo is a deserving winner for Switzerland. The 24 year old singer, who also plays violin, piano and drums, dominates an aggressive electronic production that stands out when pitted against the riveting visuals of the EuroVision performance (click on the photo above). One moment they sound like Mika, and in the next they’re rapping a smooth flow that fits so well in the song. EuroVision audiences seem to like flamboyance that comes from an earnest place, and “The Code” and Nemo have all that and more. Even better, Nemo co-wrote and co-produced the record – we’ll be hearing more from them.

TheFatRat, RIELL, “Myself and I”

TheFatRat is a German progressive electronic producer whose recent songs of “chapters” look like they are leading to a new album, which would be his first since 2021. Tied directly into gaming, his works are shining examples of how to meld electronic music with the gaming and video mediums. “Myself and I” is the sixth chapter, featuring go-to dance music vocalist RIELL, whose voice is stunningly showcased. The song features many familiar elements that align traditional classical music with progressive electronics, and its pacing and transitions are enticing. TheFatRat is one producer who is at the top of his game with what he is uniquely achieving and it will be intriguing to hear all of his chapters together when they’re all ready.

THE BOY FROM THE SOUTH, “Space Party”

Spain’s The Boy From The South returns with “Space Party”, an exceptional and melodic pop track about a voyage into outer space. The boy is aimable vocalist and guitarist Pedro Balañá, whose descriptive songwriting is delivered in his British accent with a rap-like flow that here immediately reminds me of Will Smith’s “Gettin’ Jiggy With It” with a dash of Eminem and Beatles-esque whimsy aboard. The catchy keyboard hook gets immediately stuck in your head, but to get the full impact of the song, be sure to check out its video by clicking the photo above. Let’s just say the outcome of the voyage isn’t as much of a party as you might think. The Boy From The South has already appeared twice on the BILLCS Top 30 with the light-hearted tracks “Amazing-Man” (#3) and “Man Down” (#6), and “Space Party” is another unique showcase of his talents. Folks who were in Times Square in NYC in early May got to see a sneak preview of the video in Times Square! Big things are coming for The Boy From The South.

BABY LASAGNA, “Rim Tim Tagi Dim”

Baby Lasagna is a Croatian rock singer whose real name is Marko Purišić, and his song “Rim Tim Tagi Dim” (which has no English translation) finished second in EuroVision this year. Even in recent years, EuroVision audiences have a taste for rock on the harder side, such as Maneskin, and Baby Lasagna delivers an infectious track with a powerful vocal against a backdrop of turmoil and stress in his home country. Again, the strong performance (click on the photo above) on the EuroVision stage had a lot to do with the high finish for “Rim Tim Tagi Dim”. European rock isn’t straight forward like North American rock, there are always surprises, and Baby Lasagna has delivered a strong release to make him someone worth watching.

STEVIE HOWIE, “vampiress”

Stevie Howie is a rising L.A.-based indie singer/songwriter originally from Tennessee who only emerged a few years back on social media, and has already won a dedicated following with his originals as well as covers of “Seven Nation Army” and “Smells Like Teen Spirit”, which have ultimately led to live shows in the US and the UK. He’s got one of those brash Eddie Vedder-esque voices which can stand out among the noise, and “vampiress” is an impressive and fun original for you to get to know his edgy sound better. In the song, the singer has fallen under the spell of the title persona so much that he doesn’t come out till after midnight and can no longer see himself in the mirror. Those are great ideas of course that allude to finding the right person for yourself, except you don’t have to become undead in the process. But it will make you want to watch for the next Stevie Howie release.

CAROL MEDINA, “Rules”

It’s a big welcome back to Toronto-based, Australia-born R&B/pop singer Carol Medina, who was all over Canadian pop radio in the 90’s with the Juno Award-nominated “And The Song Goes”, “Secret Fantasy”, “You Don’t Know (Where My Lips Have Been)” and “Tell Me You Love Me”. “Rules” is her first new music in about 10 years, and it’s a slice of elegant jazz pop that will appeal to fans of Sade, Norah Jones, and Toni Braxton. The production is silky-smooth and laid back, and Carol’s vocal is warm and assured. Canadian AC radio stations looking for something new and inviting should look no further than “Rules”.

ERIC RIVERO, ROBBIE ROSEN, “The Other Side”

Chicago-born, L.A.-based dance producer Eric Rivero and NYC singer/songwriter Robbie Rosen team up once again after the beautiful, recent “Lost In Love” for the deep house track “The Other Side”. It’s a reassuring song about looking for hope and possibility before giving up. There have been many songs written about ‘the other side’ but Eric and Robbie commit to it with zest and polish, and it will be a happy find for dance music fans looking for substance and sparkle. I hope Eric and Robbie continue to collaborate because these kinds of repeat performances are worth the wait.

TRAVIS GARLAND, “Tumbleweeds”

L.A.’s Travis Garland recently promised on social media to be releasing more music more frequently after a protracted absence, and that began with “Playing With Fire” a few weeks back. “Tumbleweeds” is a sultry and atmospheric track accompanied by some nice electric rock guitar. And while Travis’ invested vocal and the ear-catching production linger with me more than the actual song and subject matter, those of us who were wondering about what was next for Travis will be getting sated by these new songs. It’s great to have Travis back.

PETER WILSON, “Heard It In A Heartbeat”

Australian singer Peter Wilson, about whom you’ve read several times in this blog, is a reliable source for effortless 80’s flavoured electropop, for which there continues to be demand throughout the world. “Heard It In A Heartbeat” reminds me particularly of early 80’s Eurohouse, so fans of songs by Erasure, Alphaville and Modern Talking will be right at home. “Heard It” also benefits from a dramatic arrangement that allows Peter’s vocal power to be unleashed. Sometimes diving into new Eurohouse can be refreshing, and “Heard It In A Heartbeat” will appeal to even casual fans of the genre.

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.

Phoenix dance producer Ekonovah brings you his catchy house track “Find My Flow”

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

It’s “Rim Tim Tagi Dim” by Baby Lasagna in its official video!

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and “Pyjama Party”, with both shows anchored at Energy 885.

“Secret” by Australian singer/songwriter Peach PRC

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

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

Frankie Goes To Hollywood -Relax (1984)
Nik Kershaw – I Won’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me (1984)
Prince – Raspberry Beret (1985)
Manfred Mann’s Earth Band – Runner (1984)
Santana – Hold On (1982)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

It hasn’t changed yet! John Summit and Hayla are #1 again with “Shiver”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Marcus & Martinus make the most of their 9th place Eurovision finish with “Unforgettable” (13-7)