BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

BILLCS New Music Report – March 6/24 with new songs by @Alexander_Olly, Afroki (@Afrojack & @SteveAoki) & @Aviellamusic, Fie Eike, @K3SSmusic & @BrittLari, @Gt_ofice x @MatthewTopper_ x @SarahdeWarren, @BenedictCork, @thisisNoanne, and @SidSethsings

Now that Beyoncé has successfully crossed genres with her two country singles, what’s next in 2024? Everything has gone quiet again. An artist of lesser stature can’t do the same without either a significant label push or a significant social media drive. Artists who are versatile should be able to cross genres, other than to pop, which has been done frequently, but the industry is too fixed on boxing them into one genre, which makes it next to impossible. That also allows radio to exclude artists who don’t record in a genre that suits their programming. I’m not sure if labels try to promote every release at pop radio as they did more than 25 years ago because no one in promotions or at radio is bold enough anymore to try and be a visionary. Anyone got a crystal ball?

In the Report, you can 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 from 1979 that mostly aren’t disco. I also have my “5-10-15-20-25” feature, looking back on the Top 5 songs in five of the last 25 years from the BILLCS Top 30. One of the artists whose new song I wrote about in this Report has a song on one of those charts too!

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.

OLLY ALEXANDER, “Dizzy”

What better way to break away from the Years & Years moniker than for Olly Alexander to lead “Dizzy” into Eurovision for the UK with his new single “Dizzy”. The more you listen to “Dizzy”, the more infectious it becomes, and it’s not a far stretch from some of Years & Years’ best releases, which hard to believe, go back almost a decade now. “Dizzy” has a mass-appeal factor for audiences because of its common theme about falling in love, and Olly offers another engaging performance which shows why he is where he is today. I’ll still reserve judgment about its chances at winning Eurovision until I hear the other songs that it’s up against, but “Dizzy”, like many other songs from past Eurovision contests, is a hit in its own right.

AFROKI, AVIELLA, “Everything You Do”

And the trend continues – like with Kx5 and more recently Endless Summer, Afroki is the new side-project for Steve Aoki and Afrojack, in which they can mesh their formidable production talents. “Everything You Do” is their first release partnered Proximity’s new label Golden Era, and it’s a festival banger that you’ll be hearing a lot of in the coming months. The producers playfully go at the beats and rhythms with all of their know-how. Vocalist/songwriter Aviella has been a go-to talent in dance music for a few years, working solo or with artists like MYRNE, Acraze and Unknown Brain, with several releases also on Monstercat, and her crisp, classy vocal brings the chorus home. “Everything You Do” is an enjoyable listen with big, anthemic qualities that will garner instant reaction.

FIE EIKE, “Sad”

About a month ago, I brought you words about “The Nile” by Danish singer Fie Eike, who in that song brought alternative electronic pop vibes that would appeal to fans of Kate Bush and Tori Amos, but with a more progressive alternative setting. “Sad” shows that there is much more to Fie Eike than that initial impression. “Sad” is a piano ballad that will appeal to fans of Adele and YEBBA for the sheer beauty of Fie Eike’s vocal in a raw setting. It’s a song about embracing sadness when you’re in the moment, and to be present when you need to absorb the changes around us, which can often affect our emotions and sentiments. Fie Eike gives a taut performance and “Sad” is an engrossing song, not as heavy at all despite what its subject matter might convey, so do yourself a favour and add it to your music discovery list.

K3SS, BRITT LARI, “Deeper”

“Deeper” is a tightly-woven, dark, late night deep house track by San Diego dance producer K3SS with collaborator and vocalist Britt Lari. Both are no strangers to this blog, and it’s great to hear their progression with this kind of cutting edge production being released through Dim Mak. Britt’s seductive vocal combined with K3SS’ bounty of synths and sounds make “Deeper” an easy mix for club DJ’s who want songs that will stand out for their patrons.

GT_OFICE, MATTHEW TOPPER, SARAH DE WARREN, “No Tears”

I normally dislike the use of vocal effects in a song, but if you want to hear a judicious use of them to expand on a hook, then “No Tears” is for you. Two gifted dance producers, Miami’s Gt_ofice and New Jersey-born Matthew Topper, enhance the song with effects and their respective styles while still keeping the always lovely voice of collaborator Sarah de Warren intact. It’s an early summer bop that revolves around the phrase “no tears left to cry”, not too long ago a popular song by Ariana Grande, so the sentiment still lingers for listeners. “No Tears” is dance music radio ready, and could very well follow Gt_ofice’s recent Top 30 hit with ALWZ SNNY and Robbie Rosen, “Feels Like Us” (which also reached #3 on the BILLCS Top 30), onto the charts.

BENEDICT CORK, “Nice Guy”

UK singer/songwriter Benedict Cork just completed a North American tour and has more music coming soon, but he breaks his pop-oriented mold a bit for “Nice Guy”. It’s a rock-flavoured track that weaves a story many of us know, about being nice guys who want more out of relationships and continually get passed over for others who more often than not just want one night stands or short-term flings. Classic rock music styles are coming back into vogue, and Benedict sounds great in a more amped up setting that fleshes out the musicality of “Nice Guy”. Check out a live performance of “Nice Guy” by clicking on the photo above.

NOANNE, “Forgiveness”

Prague-based multi-talent Noanne is on a roll with “Forgiveness”, which follows up “Goodwill” and “White Glove”. Like both singles, “Forgiveness” is another powerful and dramatic affair, with Noanne launching into the song like Florence Welch meets Sarah Brightman. There’s no video this time, but story-wise the song is about finding forgiveness despite the path that led there, which often includes numerous unanswered questions. Sometimes we just have to let go and move on, and “Forgiveness” reassures the listener that it is possible. With her gifted vocal prowess, Noanne straddles theatricality with the essence of pop music, and comes through with an alternative take that captures the fine qualities of both.

SID SETH, “I’m Yours”

It’s been a while since I’ve written about NYC-based singer/songwriter Sid Seth, who came to my attention with the easy-going pop flavours of “Simple But True” and “Caffeine High”. Sid strikes me as a genuine and committed talent, continuing with the earnest story-telling of “I’m Yours”, which seems to come naturally to him as he draws from all genres of music. “I’m Yours” has a solid vocal, and though it might be about 30 seconds too long for what it has to say, it’s an absorbing and fresh listen. Check out the VLOG lyric video by clicking on 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.

Young New Zealander Will Swinton is going to go far with songs like “Harmless”

“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. You can hear my Retro Pick of the Week every week on the “Top 40 Timeline”.

Singer, actress and model Heidi Klum covers Corey Hart’s “Sunglasses At Night” with production by Tiësto

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.

“Lift Off” is by French dance producer Dombresky

“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.

Lobo – Where Were You When I Was Falling In Love
The Knack – My Sharona
Ian Gomm – Hold On
Little River Band – Lonesome Loser
Michael Johnson – This Night Won’t Last Forever

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 CLOSURE Steve Void, Andy Marsh

2 i’m so tired… Lauv, Troye Sivan

3 DON’T THINK TWICE Revelries, Sam Smyers, Oktavian

4 IN MY ARMS Mahalo, Le:Blanc

5 PLAY Jax Jones, Years & Years

2013

1 THE CITY River Tiber

2 LIFTED Kwik Fiks & Bongiovanni

3 CLARIFY Zedd, Foxes

4 A WORLD APART Davis Redfield

5 1998 Matthew Koma

2009

1 RUN AWAY Sam Taylor & The BBC Orchestra

2 BROKEN Pierre Lewis

3 RELEASE ME Agnes

4 BREATHING YOUR LOVE Darin, Kat DeLuna

5 RIGHT NOW Ryan Star

2003

1 ROCK YOUR BODY Justin Timberlake

2 THE WAY (PUT YOUR HAND IN MY HAND) Divine Inspiration

3 AM I ON YOUR MIND Oxygen, Andrea Britton

4 JUST THE WAY I’M FEELING Feeder

5 THE SOUND OF VIOLENCE Cassius, Steve Edwards

1999

1 EVERY MORNING Sugar Ray

2 LOST ONES Lauryn Hill

3 EX-FACTOR Lauryn Hill

4 MILLENNIUM Robbie Williams

5 BLUE MONDAY Orgy

BILLCS New Music Report – February 28/24 with new songs by @CheatCodesmusic & @TwoFriendsmusic, @DavidArchie & @WillBeamanmusic, TASBA, @JaredLeemusic, @Z3LLAmusic, @XanTzmusic x Niffer x @RobbieRosenlive, @ChaseCimala, and @Kastramusic & @INViDAmusic

Once again, in this week’s edition of the Report, I’ll let the music speak, since the only thing I want to mention is that I’m looking forward to Miami Music Week in three weeks, for the first time in two years. If you happen to be going, do let me know! The music, heat and change of scenery can’t come soon enough.

In the Report, you can 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 from 1987. And if you missed it on Monday, you’ll find out what songs are at #1 and the Fastest Riser in the latest edition of 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.

CHEAT CODES, TWO FRIENDS, “The Way It Is”

Just when you might be getting tired of interpolations being exploited into new songs that have nothing to do with the original song, the unique collaboration of Cheat Codes and Two Friends presents us with “The Way It Is”, a rewrite of the 1980’s Bruce Hornsby & The Range #1 hit. That song wore on me in its day, but Cheat Codes and Two Friends manage to make it not only fresh but uplifting in a sparkling new arrangement. It’s co-written by Jordan Shaw – you’ll remember him from Boye & Sigvardt’s BILLCS Top 30 #1 “Microdose” – with a charming guy-next-door vocal by Cheat Codes’ Trevor Dahl that beautifully gets across the universal message of the song. Both Cheat Codes and Two Friends have had their fair share of successes with other big name collaborations with artists like Demi Lovato, Loud Luxury, Bebe Rexha and Sam Feldt, but watch for “The Way It Is” to take off in the coming weeks.

DAVID ARCHULETA, WILLY BEAMAN, “Afraid To Love” (Euphoric Alternative Mix)

I actually wrote about the original mix of “Afraid To Love” back in September, a release by David Archuleta that I enjoy for embracing his positive, inspiring switch to pop/dance music. It looks like the song has resonated with his fans, many of whom have stuck with him for the last 15 years since his “American Idol” success, because David enlisted the multi-talented American keyboardist and producer Willy Beaman to help rework it. Willy has countless credits during the last 10 years which include working with Kelly Rowland, Nicki Minaj, Demi Lovato, and also one of my favourites, Greyson Chance, for his Portraits album. This remix of “Afraid To Love” does everything that a solid remix should do, elevating the song to embrace a retro 2010’s euphoric vibe, true to the title of the mix. It’s easily the best of David’s recent releases and a worthwhile remix investment, and club DJ’s with a penchant for creating energetic pop/dance sets should be sure to check out this remix of “Afraid To Love”.

TASBA, “U”

Rising Denver electronic producer TASBA (aka Tanya Barrera) has got a winner with her first release for 2024, “U”. The song is a sea of untapped emotions with straight-up lyrics about someone who has found their ideal but knows they are out of reach, so is looking for someone like them. “U” is full of bright synths in a mid-tempo arrangement and the uncredited, thoughtful male vocal is an ideal fit. But it’s the break that TASBA inserts that you’re going to remember after your first listen, quiet and awash with synth strings sounds, and it will keep you coming back to “U”. Club DJ’s should not sleep on “U” and it should be come a memorable highlight of TASBA’s own sets.

JARED LEE, “Love No More”

American singer/songwriter Jared Lee should really be a superstar, since he keeps releasing fantastic songs like “Love No More”, particularly after representing his home state Massachusetts memorably on TV’s “American Song Contest”. His voice is also heard all over TV through numerous song placements in ads. “Love No More” is a potent anthem to that stage in a break-up when you’re beyond hurt and just want the other person to stop loving you. Jared’s soaring vocal seals the deal early on in the song, which allows it to develop into a mid-tempo ballad that brings out so many feels. “Love No More” might be a tough listen or too tender for those who have recently undergone a break up. But for others, it’s a beautiful and insightful song.

Z3LLA, “Why Should I?”

“Why Should I?” suddenly is the toast of dance music radio for American DJ and vocal duo Z3LLA, which comprises Julia Seeley and Kiana Tebyani. And deservedly so, it’s familiar piano house hook is incredibly infectious, with a playful and engaging vocal by the duo. The independent release also encourages those of you who like to hang out solo and dance alone to perhaps go out and have even a better time. “Why Should I?” has all the trimmings, including tight production, to turn this one into a spring/summer anthem for clubs and festivals too.

XanTz, NIFFER, ROBBIE ROSEN, “Tell You”

“Tell You” is for the lover in all of us. There’s nothing like a passionate pop/dance release to help ignite an evening, and this one’s brought to you by Norwegian producer XanTz, Danish producer Niffer, and NYC’s Robbie Rosen, one of whose specialties continues to be writing great lyrics for this genre – it’s another collaboration with XanTZ, following “Stolen Moments” and the exhilarating “Revived”. “Tell You” is pretty direct and compelling, with appropriately dreamy melodic house production and one of Robbie’s best recent vocals.

CHASE CIMALA, “I’m Not Him”

It’s been a while since I’ve written about Kentucky-based indie singer/songwriter Chase Cimala. But his vocal and the vantage point in “I’m Not Him” are what makes this song so appealing. Chase has a beautiful tone in his voice that makes me think of singers like Michael Bublé and Rick Nelson, and you can hear it in “I’m Not Him”. He takes that point in time when you realize that a woman you might attracted to is not the one for you and provides all of the compelling reasons, I mean just in case she should approach you, right? “I’m Not Him” is written in earnest with a deft performance to match.

KASTRA, INViDA, MONTAGU, “Constellations”

“Constellations” is a fast-paced house track that thrives on some wickedly catchy synth melodies. New Jersey’s Kastra is in fine form with one of his best recent releases, after collaborating with the likes of The Disco Fries, Borgeous and GT_ofice in the last few years. This time his production partner is NYC native INViDA, who appeared on the BILLCS Top 30 a few years back performing with Lauren Mayhew on their fun track “Boys” (#16), while newcomer Montagu brings her fresh and powerful vocal to the track. “Constellations” delivers exactly what dance club patrons are listening for, and is an obvious choice for both dance radio stations and club DJ’s.

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.

“Shiver” is the latest dance music smash from John Summit and Hayla

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

British singer/songwriter Frank Turner returns with “Do One”

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.

It’s Grammy nominee Noah Kahan with “Stick Season”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

John Mellencamp – Cherry Bomb
Pet Shop Boys – It’s A Sin
Fleetwood Mac – Little Lies
Bruce Springsteen – Brilliant Disguise
Tiffany – I Think We’re Alone Now

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

To the surprise of no one, Benson Boone has his second #1 within a month with “Beautiful Things”.

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Conan Gray’s “Lonely Dancers” makes short work of the chart, soaring 25-4.

#BILLCSTop30 #686 – February 26/24

Some of my winter favourites make room for new blood on the chart with five songs debuting. Plus there is a new #1 and that housecleaning also has half of the last chart’s Top 10 exiting the top third of the chart.

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 is now updated to the last chart: 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.

If you follow the chart regularly, then it’s no surprise that Benson Boone gets his second #1 with “Beautiful Things” (3-1). It’s odd that I share #1 with Billboard’s Canadian Chart for a second time. “Beautiful Things” succeeds “Lovin’ On Me” at #1, which was #1 for me at the top of the year for two charts and currently sits at #16, while Benson’s previous #1, “To Love Someone” is at #5. Benson has also now reached positions #1, #2 and #3 on the chart with his songs! Sadly, I like many others could not get tickets to his April 7 show in my city.

Todd Terry, Gene Chandler, "What You Do"

Todd Terry’s “What You Do” climbs 4-3, with vocals by Gene Chandler from his 1966 release “You Can’t Hurt Me No More”, and it sits back to back with the last chart’s #1, WH0’s “Rock The Party”, which samples Todd’s 80’s dance classic “Weekend”.

The Fastest Riser on the chart clearly has sights set on #1, where Conan Gray has already visited twice, with “Yours” and “Never Ending Song”. The 80’s vibes of “Lonely Dancers” hit all the right places and the song soars 25-4.

Matoma’s “Sound of Shadows” (12-6), with vocals by British singer/songwriter JP Cooper, becomes his 5th Top 10 entry, from his album Love For The Beat.

Also no strangers to the Top 10 are The Knocks and Sofi Tukker, who climb 13-8 with their indie release “One On One” (above). It’s the 7th Top 10 for The Knocks and 6th consecutive one for Sofi Tukker. Check out The Knocks’ Mr JPatt (aka James Patterson) in collaboration with Walker & Joyce on their new release “Just Might”, below. And Sofi Tukker also have a new Latin-flavoured one with lots of vibrant drum and percussion sounds called “Veneno” (with &friends, Mari Merenda and Sophia Ardessore), which you can also check out below in its &friends remix.

Dutch producers Showtek land their 4th Top 10 entry with “Shine”, along with duo Sonny Wilson, which climbs 11-9, from Showtek’s album 360 Yellow.

And another huge jump comes from “Rest Of My Life” by Jonas Blue and Sam Feldt in their “superduo” guise as Endless Summer, with American vocalist Sadie Rose Van. It leaps up the chart 28-10. It’s Jonas’ 7th consecutive Top 10 entry.

Itching to get into the Top 10 next week is BTS’ Jung Kook, who climbs 17-11 with is slice of R&B/pop “Standing Next To You” from his album Golden. It passes the #12 peak of last year’s “3D” (with Jack Harlow).

NYC’s electronic duo Years of War (formerly Rico & Miella) continue to rise up the chart with “Used To Be” climbing 19-14.

Sam Dickinson has a new release coming called “F L E X” (the title track of his new album) and there’s also a remix on the way for his cover of Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff”, which rises 24-20.

The Highest Debut belongs to Chicago’s John Summit with British vocalist/co-writer Hayla and “Shiver”, which arrives at #24. It’s the first time on the chart for the colourful producer and his vocalist, who previously collaborated on last year’s “Where You Are”. John (along with producer Silver Panda) has also nailed a slick remix update of “Sweet Disposition” by Australia’s The Temper Trap below. The song was originally released in 2010.

Also debuting on the chart at #25 is New Zealand alternative artist Will Swinton and his engagingly different and emotional track “Harmless”. Here he sounds like a cross between Caleb Followill (of Kings of Leon) and Sam Fender. Be sure to check out the video above, filmed in one take, and be sure to watch until the ending!

At #27 is Vancouver’s Diamond Café with the Michael Jackson-styled R&B/pop of “When You Can’t Resist”. This unconventional track is lengthy but compelling, with a marvelous guitar solo. Diamond Café is the alias for Tristan Thompson, who previously charted under his own name three times as a teenager (including a #1), and has since been signed to Warner Music. And just to show further why he’s got the goods, check out a live performance of the song at the following link: Diamond Café

He’s won a bunch of Grammys and Juno Awards but Quebec’s Kaytranada finally has a great R&B/pop single in “Lover/Friend” with Toronto’s Rochelle Jordan at #28. It’s the first time for both artists on the chart.

The last debut is a first time appearance for British rock quintet Nothing But Thieves with the rollicking “Oh No :: He Said What?” at #29. It has the same fun vibe as Fall Out Boy when they are at their best.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

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 mornings at 10 a.m. EST and Sunday mornings at 2:00 AM EST. You can hear recent episodes of The Big 20 at this link.

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my Retro Pick of the Week plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” 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 with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. A repeat of “The 3D Variety Show” airs on Wednesdays at 7pm EST on Radio GTA. My pick of the week airs nearly 30 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.

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.

FM 108

You can also listen to my Retro Pick of the Week on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

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! The schedules are up-to-date.

BILLCS New Music Report – February 21/24 with songs from @Aysanabeemusic & @RayeZaragoza, Logic1000 @literallylogic & @Rochelle_Jordan, @Rozallab, @KaceyFifield, @JamieWebster94 & @BillyBragg, @Jettaofficial, @CorbynBesson and Ben Ellis

The music will do all the talking in this week’s diverse and unpredictable edition of the BILLCS New Music Report.

In the Report, you can 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 from 50 years ago in that wacky year for pop music, 1974. Plus you’ll find out what songs sat atop the BILLCS Top 30 over the last 26 years!

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.

AYSANABEE, RAYE SARAGOZA, “Come Out”

Aysanabee is a multi-award winning Indigenous singer/songwriter of Oji-Cree heritage from northern Ontario, near Thunder Bay. He quickly shot to national attention with his alternative radio #1 song “Nomads” from his debut album Watin, and he was the first Indigenous performer to top that chart. “Come Out” is from his forthcoming sophomore album and is a duet with Southern California Indigenous Asian-American artist Raye Saragoza. Their voices couldn’t be any more different, but each shine in their own right throughout the song, with Aysanabee’s gruff, weary-sounding voice anchoring the story while Raye is given the opportunity to let her voice soar. “Come Out” stands apart from a lot of pop music out there and is a head-turner that should see support from Canadian Top 40 and Top 40 AC radio as well as alternative radio.

LOGIC1000, ROCHELLE JORDAN, “Promises”

You may recognize Rochelle Jordan’s name as I wrote about her feature on KAYTRANADA’s single “Lover/Friend” recently, though she’s been recording for more than a decade. This time the Toronto-based singer teams up with Berlin-based Aussie producer/DJ Logic1000 (aka Samantha Poulter) for soft, slick R&B/pop that throws back to Janet Jackson releases of the 90’s. “Promises” moves along at a nice clip with its warm lyrics and arrangement. It’s a solid introduction for me to the music of Logic1000, and sometimes I think the music industry forgets how much R&B there actually is in my city with the past success of artists like Grammy winner Melanie Fiona, Canada Music Hall of Fame inductee Deborah Cox, and Divine Brown, and hopefully “Promises” and “Lover/Friend” will continue the rise of Rochelle Jordan to prominence.

ROZALLA, “Lotta Love”

90’s dance queen Rozalla has always been a favourite since her 90’s heyday with classics like “Everybody’s Free (To Feel Good)” and “Are You Ready To Fly”. The Zimbabwe-born singer came back strong with new songs in the mid-2010’s including the #1 “If You Say It Again” and “The Shadows Of The Moon” (its House of Virus remix was a BILLCS Top 30 #9). It hasn’t been remade too many times, so her cover of the Neil Young song “Lotta Love”, popularized in 1978 by Nicolette Larson, is a great choice. The song suits Rozalla’s voice so well and she sounds terrific. Producer Dan Scholes keeps the contemporary arrangement faithful to the original, but minus the yacht rock vibes. “Lotta Love” would be especially perfect for a revival on Canadian Adult Contemporary radio, and with being written by Neil Young, counts as Canadian content (or Cancon) for radio. But regardless, fans of both Rozalla and the Nicolette Larson hit version will love it.

KACEY FIFIELD, “Never Reply”

You’ve read in this blog many posts about L.A. singer/songwriter Kacey Fifield over the last few years, and how she is continually developing her sound and putting her versatility on display. Having delved mainly into electronic pop recently in recent singles “Self Sabotage” and “Vegas”, Kacey breaks away from that genre for her first 2024 release in favour of a classic pop rock, guitar-driven sound in “Never Reply”. The song is full of irony as many people tend to put on a false front after a break-up, and only they know themselves that they are really hurting inside and not in fact over it. Accompanying Kacey this time are guitarist Mike Kamerman from L.A. band Smallpools (whose new single, “Night Shift”, I wrote about last week) and producer Sam Beresford, of another L.A. band, fronted by Matthew Koma, Winnetka Bowling League. The sound is crisp and the guitar work is a stand out, and “Never Reply” shows how well Kacey’s vocals work in a classic pop rock setting. The overall result is fresh and could easily bring new fans into Kacey’s midst.

JAMIE WEBSTER, BILLY BRAGG, “Fickle Fran”

Liverpool singer/songwriter Jamie Webster is a new name to me, but I couldn’t resist taking a listen to “Fickle Fran”, which features legendary British folk/rock troubadour Billy Bragg. Jamie recently obtained his third consecutive Top 10 album in the UK with 10 For The People, which bowed at #2. I prefer my folk on the rockier side and “Fickle Fran” will appeal to fans of The Proclaimers, Hozier, Sam Fender, and the like. It’s a slice-of-life story about a merchandise vendor who has seen better days with his business, but nonetheless carries on. The lyrics try to be hopeful for him with the uplifting refrain of “the sun’s out in the city”. “Fickle Fran” has a lot of appeal for its ability to shine a positive light on the working class and Jamie and Billy together are two delightful kindred spirits.

JETTA, “sicklysweet”

Also from Liverpool, but of a totally different bent is alternative pop singer/songwriter Jetta, who has released her debut indie album Relax, The House Is On Fire. “sicklysweet” stands out on the album because of Jetta’s interesting vocal style, which alternates between a spoken-sung patter and layers of well-placed harmonies. “sicklysweet” could be about someone who doesn’t quite know what she wants in her object of affection just yet, particularly if he’s too shy or nice with angelic traits. To be fair, when we find that someone might indeed be too good to be true, they usually aren’t, so do we pay the price and indulge in some fun anyway at our own emotional expense? Jetta calls her album “a coping mechanism for not coping” and realizes listeners hearing songs like “sicklysweet” might see it as denial or acceptance. Regardless, “sicklysweet” sticks in your head and that’s usually a good thing.

CORBYN BESSON, “Love Me Better”

L.A. singer/songwriter/guitarist Corbyn Besson is one-fifth of the pop band Why Don’t We, who are currently on somewhat of a forced hiatus to due unresolved legal problems with their previous management. Until WDW resurfaces, Corbyn is one of the members undertaking solo releases with “Love Me Better”. It’s anthemic and enjoyably in-your-face and could have easily been a WDW release. Among its co-writers in fact are WDW’s Daniel Seavey (a former “American Idol” Top 10 contestant) and Jonah Marois. Well-done power pop like this never goes out of style – ask The Jonas Brothers. “Love Me Better” will please WDW fans but if you enjoy an infectious driven-sounding singalong bop, then you may find a new favourite.

BEN ELLIS, “Half The Time”

Welsh singer/songwriter Ben Ellis continues to drop clever, catchy pop songs with his latest, the brief but loaded “Half The Time”. His previous release “Guys That Look Like Me” is currently rising up the BILLCS Top 30, while the title track from his EP Ed’s House got to #8 last year. “Half Time Time” is a bit of a head-scratcher as we have a lovelorn guy continuing to pursue his object of affection, even though she’s not into him. And despite all that, and perhaps knowing better, he still would like her to change her mind. It’s really the stuff of fantasies, but Ben’s determined vocal and his crafty way of letting a short story unfold could convince you otherwise.

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.

Producers Jonas Blue and Sam Feldt have a new project called Endless Summer with “Rest Of My Life”

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

“Water Underground” by New Jersey rock group Real Estate

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.

“Nothing Is For Sure” by Italian producers Riggi & Piros with Nashville-based vocalist Mokita

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Wednesday – Last Kiss
Redbone – Come And Get Your Love
Brownsville Station – Smokin’ In The Boys Room
Jim Stafford – Spiders And Snakes
Aretha Franklin – Until You Come Back To Me (That’s What I’m Gonna Do)

26 YEARS OF BILLCS TOP 30 #1’s

Songs that rocked my personal chart at this time during the last 26 years.

2023 HERO Martin Garrix, JVKE

2022 BAD THINGS Louis Pax

2021 NOBODY NOTD, Catello

2020 FLAMES R3HAB, Zayn, Jungleboi

2019 CLOSURE Steve Void, Andy Marsh

2018 MY MY MY! Troye Sivan

2017 PARIS The Chainsmokers

2016 8BIT HEART (redux) Simon Curtis

2015 SLEEVE Brandyn Burnette

2014 MONEY ON MY MIND Sam Smith

2013 THE CITY River Tiber

2012 MEMORIZE ME Rune RK & DATABOY

2011 THE FEAR INSIDE Frankmusik

2010 RAIN Mika

2009 RELEASE ME Agnes

2008 CHASING PAVEMENTS Adele

2007 LOVESTONED/I THINK SHE KNOWS Justin Timberlake

2006 THUNDER IN MY HEART AGAIN, Meck, Leo Sayer

2005 THE LETTER SONG Tyler Hilton

2004 YEAH Usher, Ludacris, Lil Jon

2003 THE WAY (PUT YOUR HAND IN MY HAND) Divine Inspiration

2002 TAKE A MESSAGE Remy Shand

2001 HANGING BY A MOMENT Lifehouse

2000 FADED soulDecision

1999 EVERY MORNING Sugar Ray

1998 ANGEL Joée

BILLCS New Music Report – February 14/24 with new songs by @NiGHTSofficial, MELØ, @EMMinreallife, Vinny Marchi, @SeanSmithsolo, @Christiane__De, @Ugochill & @_TurtleProject, and Yarin Glam

So far this year, a lot of alternative pop and rock has piqued my interest. Those of you who know me know that I was heavily involved in college radio in my younger years, becoming its station manager just shy of my 20th birthday, managing over 50 volunteers and steering it into an alternative music direction having acquired a Cable-FM license at the time. I have always been a proud supporter of independent music and a champion of the underdog. So many years later, who would have known that I would be continuing to write about music, as I started in my college newspaper and then as a free-lance writer, or even broadcast again in the online world. Some things come full circle and you just embrace them!

In the Report, you can 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, which takes us back to some of the sounds of 1972. If you missed them earlier in the week, you’ll also find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser in the latest edition of 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.

N i G H T S, “Hopeless”

“Hopeless” is the latest from lo-fi alternative hip-hop/R&B Philadelphia duo N i G H T S (Corey and Evan), a compelling recount of a relationship gone sour, and the immediate aftermath of anger and self-doubt. While that doesn’t exactly sound like an appealing listen, its personal story wrings out considerable emotion from the usually detached-sounding vocal. “Hopeless” works because it gets to the listener at their level, and the music creates a barren backdrop that fits the vocal and lyrics. “Hopeless” is quite a few steps sideways from the carefree nature of “Boyband” (which got to #6 on the BILLCS Top 30 last year) and puts the versatility of N i G H T S on full display.

MELØ, “The One I Love”

Windsor, Ontario artist MELØ follows up “Memento” (which just peaked at #8 on the BILLCS Top 30) with his splendid cover of R.E.M.’s first Top 10 hit, 1987’s “The One I Love”. This isn’t any straight-forward interpretation, this is an entire revamp which recalls Smashing Pumpkins’ Ava Adore period more than it does R.E.M. MELØ creates a lot of atmosphere, which includes synths and effects which of course weren’t in the original. This version also downplays the “fire” chorus in favour of more melodic instrumentation. I’m not sure how die-hard R.E.M. fans will react but this is the kind of creative vision that I enjoy in a really good cover version. MELØ’s forthcoming album, which will include “The One I Love”, is called Songs From The Spirit Box.

EMM, “Superfreak”

“Superfreak” is a tough-as-nails, anthemic and danceable release by L.A.-based multi-talent EMM. Making a bold record is nothing new for EMM, an artist in charge of her independent music career who is not afraid to take risks. She has several songs that have acquired more than a million streams, with her collaboration with electronic producer EGZOD, “Don’t Surrender”, past the ten million mark. “Superfreak” stands out because of its powerful arrangement and catchy rhythms, which one could associate with Beyoncé’s “Partition” or Lady Gaga’s “Judas”, while of course the always blunt Nicki Minaj released “Super Freaky Girl” not long ago. I think EMM will get new, committed fans with “Superfreak” and they’ll be wanting more.

VINNY MARCHI, “Leave This Party”

NYC-based singer/songwriter Vinny Marchi has been teasing “Leave This Party” for weeks on Instagram, but just enough to whet your appetite for the unexpected. I think The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” must have been an inspiration for its 80’s synthesizer hooks, which are set to lyrics about recognizing when one’s social battery is running out and you’d just rather be at home. Vinny’s got a stunning, countertenor voice (check out some of his IG posts), and you can hear that range in some of the background harmonies. While you can label the song as being a bit derivative, I’d rather embrace “Leave This Party” for its sincere and welcome message, and of course Vinny’s delightfully gentle main vocal.

SEAN SMITH, “Feels Like Forever” (Matt Pop radio edit)

UK singer Sean Smith provides one of his best vocals in “Feels Like Forever”. Sean’s ever the terrific interpreter and this warm, gracious and happy song about capturing special times together is a formidable vehicle for him. I think that Matt Pop’s signature bubbly synth style is a perfect foil for Sean’s vocal, and it improves greatly on the original mix of the song. “Feels Like Forever” is luminous dance/pop that can set the stage for anyone’s romantic date or evening.

CHRISTIANE DEHMER, “Together” (remix)

You can’t deny the important message in Christiane Dehmer’s “Together” – a simple one about being stronger when we are together, which can apply to so many different parts of our lives. Christiane is a German pop singer who is conservatory-trained in piano improvisation and accompaniment, jazz piano, jazz/pop improvisation, and music theory. “Together” was originally released on her same-titled EP in 2022 (an English version of her 2020 German release Zusammen), but has been remixed for dancing. She is associated with “Vision for Uganda”, which provides aid to people in that country, and children and young adults were invited to participate in the joyous video for the song, which you can watch above. “Together” is entirely performed and produced by Christiane, and I’m glad she chose to channel the song’s message through a dance remix, which I think helps make that message more powerful and universal.

UGOCHILL, THE TURTLE PROJECT, “No More”

Ugochill is the performing name for Dutch producer and guitarist extraordinaire Alex Rado, and though I’ve written about his music before, it has been a while. And while he prepares for the release of his first album in seven years, Chill ‘Em All, he’s released “No More”, which sounds like nothing he’s produced before. While Ugochill in the past has focused on progressive guitar instrumentals, “No More” actually downplays the guitar work in favour of vocal and lyrics provided by Welsh indie talent The Turtle Project. The artists met through an indie music portal and struck up a friendship, which has led to “No More”, an alternative rock track that will appeal to fans of Linkin Park and Bring Me The Horizon. I’ll admit that the somewhat sinister-sounding vocal did not hit the mark the first time, but the tight production and how The Turtle Project delivers the lyrics ultimately make “No More” a worthwhile and involving listen.

YARIN GLAM, “Burn It Down”

L.A.-based singer/songwriter Yarim Glam has been releasing music steadily for the last three years, with “Burn It Down” her latest single. It’s a head-turning, hip hop flavoured alternative pop track that encourages listeners to embrace who they are, and to take ownership even for those crazy moments we all have. Yarim has an interesting, diverse style that reminds me of Sky Ferreira or Lorde. “Burn It Down” has a serious edge to it that might detract from its playful side, but the pleading, invested vocal and some interesting echoey production effects will win you over.

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.

I’m loving all the 80’s vibes in Conan Gray’s “Lonely Dancers”

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

David Guetta teams up with Kim Petras for their dance take on

Supertramp’s “The Logical Song” called “When We Were Young”

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 and I were on the same wavelength this week with the release of Vinny Marchi’s “Leave This Party”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Derek & The Dominoes – Layla
Cat Stevens – Morning Has Broken
Chi-Lites – Oh Girl
Gallery – Nice To Be With You
Jimmy Castor Bunch – Troglodyte (Cave Man)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

WHO’s rollicking “Rock The Party” grabs #1 this week

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Benson Boone’s “Beautiful Things” is #1 in Canada and Top 10 in the US and the UK, and rises 15-3

#BILLCSTop30 #685 – February 12/24

The new chart is in slow turnover mode, with several favourites hanging on while others wait their turns to advance. There’s a new #1 and two new entries. Be sure to check out all of the songs!

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 is now updated to the last chart: BILLCS Top 30 Archive

Reminder: Don’t forget to click on the photos to hear the song or watch the video.

It’s one of the most fun songs out there, featuring samples from The Clash and Todd Terry, and some obvious Daft Punk inspiration (think Stardust’s “Music Sounds Better With You”), so British dance producers WH0 obtain their second #1 with “Rock The Party”. It follows last year’s chart topper “What You Need” with Swedish House Mafia’s Steve Angello. WH0 are pretty prolific and undoubtedly will have lots more coming this year for your party playlists.

“Rock The Party” bumps Benson Boone’s first #1 “To Love Someone” down to #2, but charging up right behind is his worldwide Top 10 “Beautiful Things” (above), the Fastest Riser on the chart which soars 15-3. I’m sure radio has been taken aback by the song’s massive success and have been waiting to test it out their audiences, so it has crept into the US Top 40, but I’m confident it will arrive on more radio stations within the month. As readers of this blog know from the last three years, Benson Boone is no fluke. Comparisons are being made to Olivia Rodrigo’s success in 2021, and they are pretty accurate.

Todd Terry, Gene Chandler, "What You Do"

I’ve already mentioned Todd Terry, with his song “Weekend” being sampled in new #1 “Rock The Party”, but the house master himself is back in the Top 5 now with “What You Do” (7-4), his dance rework of Gene Chandler’s 60’s soul song “You Can’t Hurt Me No More”, which looks like it may stick around for a while.

Nero’s futuristic-sounding “Truth” (above) climbs 9-7, and the UK trio are wasting no time with their comeback by releasing the follow up single, the more radio-friendly “Blame You”, which you can check out below.

Great Good Fine OK reach the Top 10 for a third time with “Blame”, which rises 13-9, and they are three-for-three! The Tiësto remix of “Let You Go” with The Chainsmokers previously reached #2, while their collaboration with St. Lucia, “Something To Believe In”, got to #4.

There’s not a whole lot of huge upward movement on the chart below the Top 10, but The Knocks and Sofi Tukker are headed towards another Top 10 entry with “One on One”, which moves up 19-13.

Keiynan’s “Sit Down” is one track that you should give some attention to. Its infectious appeal kicks in around the second or third listen and by then, you can’t get enough. The Aussie multi-talent’s track from his second album The Heart Defence Mixtape climbs 21-16.

NYC electronic dance duo Years of War have lots more music up their sleeves, but for now we can continue to enjoy the sweeping future bass of their emotional, melodic track “Used To Be”, which moves up 24-19.

The remaining three songs from the last chart are held back a bit by songs that I’m still enjoying higher above but still make good moves.

I do want to mention that Australia’s VASSY has released an independent album called Supreme, which includes the title track, an electronic empowerment anthem (which you can listen to above). Her latest dance single “Off Switch” (above), which is not on the album, climbs 26-21. It’s immediately followed by Bright Light Bright Light’s fun delight “You Want My…” (27-22, below) and Sam Dickinson’s powerful take on Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff” (29-24, also below).

The Highest Entry on the chart at #25 is the new 80’s fest by Conan Gray called “Lonely Dancers” (below). It’s a brilliant song, albeit a little on the familiar side to lovers of 80’s synth pop – the melody isn’t exactly the same as “The Safety Dance” by Men Without Hats, but it’s darn close, and the anthemic inspiration is similar. It’s produced and co-written by Max Martin and Ilya Salmanzadeh, who have a lengthy list of smashes, including Ariana Grande’s recent “Yes, And?”, and a penchant for focusing on catchy melodies. It’s from Conan’s upcoming album From Heaven.

The second new entry is by Endless Summer, the dance music project from Jonas Blue and Sam Feldt, taking a cue with a name for their project as Deadmau5 and Kaskade did with Kx5. Providing a beautiful showcase for American singer Sadie Rose Van, relatively new but already becoming a go-to vocalist having appeared on recent songs by Matoma and Sistek, “Rest Of My Life” arrives at #28 and is an irresistible dance bop.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my Retro Pick of the Week plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

Energy885

FM 108

You can also listen to my Retro Pick of the Week on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

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! The schedules are up-to-date.

BILLCS New Music Report – February 8/24 with new songs by @Chance_Pena, @BenedictCork, Will Swinton, @SleepyBenjamin, Clodelle, @The_NonRenewed, @EQLightsband and Sam Harding

Popular music has been dominated by women for the last few years, with women dominating the Grammy Awards this year, which many would say was overdue. And as times change, then listeners’ choices do too. So with the quick ascent of Benson Boone this year, it looks like ears and trends may be turning to the guys. And this week’s Report has an unplanned slant to this theme, with six out of ten spotlighted songs or picks of the week being by solo gents, some of whom are already familiar to readers of the blog.

In the Report, you can 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 Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five memorable pop hits from 1977. You’ll also find out what I was listening to 12 years ago on the BILLCS Top 30 flashback chart from 2011.

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.

CHANCE PEÑA, “i am not who i was”

When I saw that “i am not who i was” by Chance Peña popped onto the Billboard Canadian Hot 100 out of nowhere a few weeks ago, it prompted me to check out this latest release from the Texas singer/songwriter, who I wrote about years ago as a teenage underdog favourite on “The Voice”. The timing for “i am not who i was” is perfect for Chance as public ears are turning to male vocalists like Noah Kahan and Benson Boone again. Thankfully, for some performers, such TV appearances can lead to other things, and for Chance, it was a publishing deal. And while he continued to release solo music independently, one song, “Conversations in the Dark”, got pitched to John Legend, and recorded on his Grammy-winning 2020 gold album Bigger Love. Flash-forward to last year and Chance was courted by many labels, ultimately signing with indie ONErpm. “i am not who i was” is essentially a folk song, but one whose relatable emotions reach out beyond that genre. “i am not who i was” is earnest and simple proving that less is more often can be quite magnetic.

BENEDICT CORK, “Reasons I Loved You (I Can’t Think of One)”

UK singer/songwriter Benedict Cork returns with a fanciful way to say “piss off, sucker” to a past lover in “Reasons I Loved You (I Can’t Think of One)”. Being the victim of an ever-unpredictable narcissist is unfortunate, and Benedict digs deep to make sure the former object of affection gets his come-uppance in song. Aside from the lyrics, the song has a soulful arrangement, complete with an engaging chorus, sometimes reminding me of 1970’s Stevie Wonder songs in spirit. It’s a bit of a change-up for Benedict from his touching ballads, but “Reasons I Loved You” is rousing and bound to be a concert favourite.

Benedict is briefly touring the US this month, with upcoming dates in Nashville, Florida (Wilton Manors), L.A. and New York City.

WILL SWINTON, “Harmless”

The gritty and vulnerable voice of rising 23 year old New Zealander Will Swinton has me thinking of Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder or Stephan Jenkins of Third Eye Blind in his latest release, “Harmless”. Will has already found his way into the New Zealand charts as an independent artist, but ultimately a meeting in a bar with Machine Gun Kelly opened the doors for subsequent North American concerts and a major label deal. The 90’s grunge influence is readily apparent in today’s modern and indie rock, and whether intentional or not, that along with the earnest edginess of “Harmless” drives Will’s appeal in this song. “Harmless” is a great fit for alternative and college radio, but Will’s open-ended style could see him straddling genres in the near future.

SLEEPY BENJAMIN, “Only Love”

“Only Love” will lift you up with its jaunty melody and upbeat rhythm, but this mainly acoustic guitar-driven track by Australia’s Sleepy Benjamin (aka Ben Beamish) is loaded with topical subject matter written from experience by the singer. And it’s an ideal song for the upcoming Valentine’s Day for all the lovers in the world – being in love somehow makes us feel complete and that there is nothing else that is important. It’s a few steps sideways from Sleepy Benjamin’s recent forays into more soulful songs with hip hop elements like “Wish You Well” or “Stuck”, but its good-natured appeal, enthusiasm and implied encouragement to keep looking for love if you haven’t found it is relatable and timely.

CLODELLE, “I Lost My Baby”

Having held careers as a model and singer in parallel for the last 10 years or so, Clodelle has a winner with her bilingual earworm “I Lost My Baby”. Originally from Sainte-Adele, Quebec, Clodelle has a wistful, earthy voice that will intrigue fans of Lana Del Rey, Amy Winehouse and Billie Eilish, which is set against a straight-forward, 60’s flavoured arrangement that packs a mysterious punch. “I Lost My Baby” was originally a huge hit in 1996 in Quebec for Jean Leloup, and is produced by John Nathaniel, once an independent artist who has gone on to be an award-winning producer for the likes of One Republic, Shawn Mendes, and many French-Canadian artists.

THE NON-RENEWED, “River Take Me”

Taking another dive into Denver duo The Non-Renewed’s EP, its title track is delightful melodic pop with jazz flavours that made “Runaway”, a track which I recently wrote about, go down so easy. The arrangement gives vocalist Meghan a chance to really soar, and the production is fluid and uncluttered. I think if The Non-Renewed continue on this pop/jazz tip that they will continue to attract fans of both genres, and I’m sure the sweeping nature of “River Take Me” would be even more potent in a live performance.

EARTHQUAKE LIGHTS, “Heartbeat”

Although it doesn’t quite have the same soaring effect as their previous single which I wrote about, last year’s “Silhouette”, NYC pop band Earthquake Lights fuses classical influences with other inspiration into “Heartbeat” from artists as diverse as Pink Floyd and Radiohead. But Earthquake Lights’ secret weapon really is vocalist/songwriter Myles Rodenhouse, who could sing anything so gracefully and wring out every bit of sentiment. “Heartbeat” also has a beautiful, haunting piano melody – for some reason it reminds me of Chicago’s “Colour My World” at times, but its structure is more deliberate. And like that song, “Heartbeat” is a solid one for a slow dance. I’d like to see more of an online presence for Earthquake Lights, who clearly deserve to be in the spotlight.

SAM HARDING, “Always You”

Sam Harding is a 22 year old new multi-talent based in L.A. but originally from Kansas City, Missouri, currently juggling a career as an actor and a singer/songwriter. “Always You” is a classic story of heartbreak about a guy who’s left in the dust while his GF has already moved on with someone else. Sam’s got a sympathetic high range to his voice which doesn’t really remind me of anyone else off hand, but the straight-up pop style of “Always You” will appeal to fans of Ed Sheeran or Niall Horan. I think the song tends to lean heavily on the lyrics and melody, and so it peters out a bit towards the end, but perhaps a little more focus in the production could help foster and develop Sam’s vocal power a bit more. Overall “Always You” is a solid, likeable introduction to Sam Harding, which makes him one to watch in forthcoming releases.

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.

“Off Switch” is a 90’s flavoured house release by Australian dance artist VASSY

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

It’s Grammy-winning alternative rock band Cage The Elephant with “Neon Pill”

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Hunter J. Wilbur is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype” which can be heard on several online stations including Energy 885.

British indie pop artist Simon Jacobs brings us “Things” from his album 5

“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.

Atlanta Rhythm Section – So In To You
Jennifer Warnes – Right Time Of The Night
10cc – The Things We Do For Love
Eagles – Life In The Fast Lane
Boston – Peace Of Mind

BILLCS Top 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2011

It’s hard to believe in some ways that these songs are 12 years old! Songs by artists such as Frankmusik, BT and Bright Light Bright Light continue to grace the blog and chart to this day. Other artists have changed their recording name. Christian TV became JMSN, Adam Tyler now records as McEwen, and Ro Danishei last recorded as Bad W0lfy. And others are either no longer recording or have moved their talents into another part of the entertainment industry (Elouise, Roz Bell, Colin Munroe).

02 01 THE FEAR INSIDE Frankmusik
03 02 S&M Rihanna
09 03 NIGHT AIR Jamie Woon
01 04 GOLDEN TRAIN Penguin Prison
08 05 MICHELLE Ro Danishei, Simon Curtis
06 06 THE WINNER TAKES IT ALL Elouise
07 07 FALLING Bright Light Bright Light
13 08 ROLLING IN THE DEEP Adele
10 09 TILL IT HURTS Native Underground, Javi
25 10 LOVE 2 BABY Christian TV
14 11 ICE MELTS Matt and Kim
15 12 ALL YOU NEED IS NOW Duran Duran
19 13 ROCKETEER Far East Movement, Ryan Tedder
04 14 TALK TO ME Andrea Lewis, Simon Curtis
18 15 ROBOT Andrea Lewis
17 16 HYPNOTIZE U N*E*R*D
20 17 MORE Usher
26 18 I WON’T LET YOU GO Adam Tyler
New 19 HURT YOU AGAIN Frankmusik
05 20 MONSTER Kanye West, Jay-Z, Rick Ross, Bon Iver & Nicki Minaj
23 21 FOREVER, I DO Roz Bell
27 22 KEEP YOUR HEAD UP Andy Grammer
New 23 SUNLIGHT Bag Raiders, Dan Black
New 24 THE CITY (Richard X remix) Patrick Wolf
28 25 I DIE FOR YOU TODAY Alphaville
29 26 ABOUT US Neverest
30 27 THE EMERGENCY BT
11 28 JACKSONVILLE Brandon Flowers
12 29 BULLETPROOF MONSTER (LaRoux x Nicki Minaj Revox) Colin Munroe
16 30 ALORS ON DANSE Stromae

BILLCS New Music Report – January 31/24 with new songs by @DiamondCafe01, @MAXmusic & @DUCKWRTH, @ShawnHook, @BT & @ChristianBurns_ in a @djJohnAskew remix, @MorginMadison & @RyanLucianmusic with @Jas_hylo, and @DLG_soundwaves

There have been recent remarks online about how performing groups are not attracting as much attention as individuals with record label A&R’s, because it’s harder to promote a group through front-facing social media apps than with individuals. Performing groups have always been around so this is obviously just a trend, and I would not take it too seriously. I write about plenty of groups and duos (though not in today’s Report), and while many of them tend to be in the alternative genres, that is also no need to cast them narrowly. If there are in fact lazy A&R’s out there who continue to recruit online only and are only looking for individuals instead of talented performing groups, then they are in the wrong industry. The Rolling Stones would be happy to tell them that after a 60+ year career.

In the Report, you can 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 Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five pop hits, which transport us back to the mid-80’s. If you missed them on Monday, then you’ll find out what songs were #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.

DIAMOND CAFE, “When You Can’t Resist”

Diamond Café returns with the poignant alternative soul track “When You Can’t Resist”. Recently signed to Warner, readers will know it’s been a long road to a major label deal for the tall British Columbia-based artist formerly known as Tristan Thompson – when you have one of the most popular same-named basketball players taking up headline space, you have to find another moniker – who I first wrote about as a teen nearly 10 years ago. His soulful pop has always been interesting over the years, but “When You Can’t Resist” combines a lot of Michael Jackson, Prince and George Michael inspiration to achieve a long song (nearly 5 minutes) that holds your interest with an arrangement that flows along. The vocal is sweet and soulful, supported by an atmospheric beats-laden backdrop. As you think the song may end, along comes a blistering guitar solo which is the pièce de resistance. “When You Can’t Resist” would need a careful edit to be played at Top 40 radio, but it’s a gripping alternative soul song which stands apart from the rest.

MAX, DUCKWRTH, “Say Less”

MAX puts on his platform disco shoes for “Say Less” in collaboration with California hip hop artist DUCKWRTH. Zing go those 70’s string sounds along with cowbell, and we’re off to the races with a playful track with a Jack Harlow-esque rap break by DUCKWRTH. “Say Less” is a nice switch up from MAX’s ballad “Strings” (with JVKE and Bazzi), which got to #3 on the BILLCS Top 30 last year. MAX’s vocal is in solid Barry Gibb falsetto throughout the song, making it a sweet update from one of the most enjoyable eras of music for both listeners and dancers to enjoy. MAX’s third album and first in nearly four years, Love In Stereo, drops February 16.

SHAWN HOOK, “Bigger Than The Night”

Shawn Hook is a British Columbia-born twice Juno Awards-nominated talent who has racked up eight Top 40 hits in Canada, including “Sound of Your Heart” (which also reached #1 on the Billboard Dance/Club Play chart) and “Reminding Me” (with Vanessa Hudgens). Shawn recently faced a year long battle with throat cancer which is now in remission, and pop music fans will be delighted with his new single, “Bigger Than The Night” from an upcoming EP. It’s an uplifting pop anthem with a classic song structure, and his voice, with much practice and therapy, sounds better than ever. The song unveils enjoyable times with a special someone with hints of becoming more than just that, hence the title. “Bigger Than The Night” should have no problems being embraced by Canadian radio and fans of solid pop worldwide.

BT, CHRISTIAN BURNS, “Save Me” (John Askew remix)

“Save Me” was first recorded as an electronic ballad and included in BT’s 2021 album The Lost Art of Longing. Remixer John Askew has turned the song on its head, creating an intense, fast-paced electronic bop that’s intended to keep club and festival goers bouncing. It’s also at times highly reminiscent of trance in the early 2000’s, which were BT’s breakout years with his 2003 album Emotional Technology, a favourite of mine. BT has since become a Grammy-nominated, highly progressive producer who has also scored films and TV shows. While the remix of “Save Me” is missing a lot of the fine Christian Burns vocals from the original, John Askew has taken the essence of the vocals and has provided the song with an urgent, uplifting vibe. I’m glad also to see this remix of “Save Me” get an suitable release through Black Hole Recordings, a label that started as BT’s career began to blossom in the late 90’s and for which he has made numerous releases.

MORGIN MADISON, RYAN LUCIAN, JAS., “Tell Me Who You Are”

American dance producer Morgin Madison teams up once again with Australian dance producer Ryan Lucian for the dark, trance-flavoured “Tell Me Who You Are”. The two previously had a dance radio hit with “From The Start” last year, and I also wrote about their intense track “Stimulate”. This time they’ve added another Aussie as vocalist, singer/songwriter Jas., who is noted for her 2022 EP Along The Way. Her rich vocal gives a lot of presence to “Tell Me Who You Are”, providing the song with an aura of mystery and urgency, while the deep house rhythms play out around her. It’s a classy song that’s ideal for the late night club setting.

DLG., “Dive In”

“Dive In” is a quirky slice-of-line electronica release from Austin-born, L.A.-based producer DLG. (aka Dave de la Garza). Similar in style to recent releases by fellow L.A. producer Helloworld, “Dive In” is all DLG. and goes down easy with a wry sense of humour in a short song about having to take those bold moves that we often don’t want to face when they are needed. DLG.’s semi-sung guy-next-door vocal is appealing and while it sounds uncomplicated, his synth work and production are bright and refreshing.

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.

It’s the brand new one from Benson Boone, “Beautiful Things”

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

“Runaway” is by Denver duo The Non-Renewed from their EP River Take Me

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Hunter J. Wilbur is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype” which can be heard on several online stations including Energy 885.

New York electronic dance producer Deerock and Porsche Love bring us “Far Between”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Luba – How Many (Rivers To Cross)
Glass Tiger – Thin Red Line
Genesis – Invisible Touch
Nu Shooz – I Can’t Wait
Double – The Captain Of Her Heart

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Benson Boone also arrives at #1 with “To Love Someone”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

The Knocks and Sofi Tukker start their climb the right way with “One on One” (25-19)

#BILLCSTop30 #684 – January 29/24

As January comes to a close, the new BILLCS Top 30 sees the chart slow down a bit, while I enjoy some current favourites from the end of last year a little bit more, and that’s also what happens when the previous chart debuted five songs. On this chart, there are still four debuts, and a new #1!

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 is now updated to the last chart: BILLCS Top 30 Archive

Reminder: Don’t forget to click on the photos to hear the song or watch the video.

Let’s just call it Benson Boone week.

The Washington singer/songwriter gets his first #1 with the stunning ballad “To Love Someone” (above), which dislodged Jack Harlow’s super fun “Lovin On Me”, which tumbles to #3. But even better, Benson’s fierce new rock song “Beautiful Things” (below) has the Highest Debut at #15!! AND… artist presale tickets for his new tour went on sale today. Pre-sales for his show in my city at History on April 7 sold out before I could get one, so here’s hoping for a second Toronto show…

British dance producers WH0 are closing in on their second #1 as “Rock The Party” (above) climbs 3-2. This Daft Punk-inspired track is also notable for its samples of The Clash’s “Rock The Casbah” and Todd Terry’s “Weekend”. And the legendary house master is also rising in the Top 10 with “What You Do” (10-7, below), in which Todd reworks Gene Chandler’s 1966 single “You Can’t Hurt Me No More” into a slamming house banger.

Todd Terry, Gene Chandler, "What You Do"

Audien’s “Superhero” (above) is now a Top 30 dance radio hit and it rises up a notch 5-4. Also inching upward are Australia’s Moonwood with “Curfew” (6-5) and “Man Down” by Spain’s The Boy From the South (7-6) (both below).

Nero’s big return with “Truth” (above) climbs 12-9, while Manila Killa and Linney’s techno house collaboration “Sacredly” (below) moves up 11-10. It’s Manila Killa’s fourth Top 10 appearance and Linney’s second.

With their follow-up single “Breathing” waiting in the wings, Great Good Fine OK’s soulful pop/dance single “Blame” climbs 16-13.

Dig deep into Matoma’s album Love For The Beat and you’ll find the infectious “Sound of Shadows” with vocalist/co-writer JP Cooper, which rises 19-16.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is the irresistible independent release “One On One” by The Knocks and Sofi Tukker, which jumps 25-19.

The second debut is “Off Switch” by Australian dance chanteuse VASSY, which arrives at #26, becoming her second chart entry following last year’s “Tuff” (#11) with Miami producer GT_ofice. With recent original songs like “Off Switch”, VASSY returns to solo releases, which in the past have got her #1’s like “We Are Young” and “Nothing To Lose”. She’s had a whopping 8 dance radio or club play #1’s in total and has collaborated with producers like Dave Audé, Afrojack, Bingo Players, and The Disco Fries.

Bright Light Bright Light follows up his BILLCS Top 30 #1 “Down To One” (which slides to #22) with the equally fun “You Want My…” at #27, from his upcoming fifth album Enjoy Youth. You can check out new remixes of the song on Spotify by clicking on the following link: Remixes

The fourth debut is by another BILLCS Top 30 mainstay, UK singer/songwriter Sam Dickinson. Sam recently charted with the vibrant dance track “Falling” (#5), which is now followed up by a dynamic on-point cover of Donna Summer’s disco classic “Hot Stuff” at #29. It’s from his upcoming album F L E X.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my Retro Pick of the Week plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” 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” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. A repeat of “The 3D Variety Show” airs on Wednesdays at 7pm EST on Radio GTA. My pick of the week airs nearly 30 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Energy885 (currently off air for studio repairs)

Energy885 in Miramichi, New Brunswick’s Energy885 now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Addictive Energy” shows, which airs 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 recent episodes of Addictive Energy at this link.

FM 108

You can also listen to my Retro Pick of the Week on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

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! The schedules are up-to-date.

BILLCS New Music Report – January 24/24 with new songs by @brightlightx2, @thisisWH0 @djMarkKnight James Hurr & @KathyBrowndiva, #Martha&theMuffins @MarthaJohnson13, @LFrequencies & @Bastilledan, @Smallpools, @Vicetone @this_is_Noanne, and Fie Eike

We’ll let the music do the talking in this week’s BILLCS New Music Report, including eight new songs among the other features.

In the Report, you can 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 Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five pop hits, which zeroes in on songs from 1981. 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.

BRIGHT LIGHT BRIGHT LIGHT, “You Want My…”

Following up his first taste of his upcoming album Enjoy Youth, “Down To One”, a BILLCS Top 30 recent #1, Bright Light Bright Light (or Rod Thomas if you will) brings us a second one with “You Want My…” . As with “Down To One”, BLx2’s wordplay, melody and electronic dance rhythms are all top notch, and I’m sensing a lot of inspiration from Madonna, reminding me sometimes of her “Vogue” era and at other times of her “Erotica” era. The title, its ellipsis, and beginning of the song even borrow from Berlin’s 80’s classic “Sex (I’m A…)” – so appropriate in another song about sex! And I hear some pronounced Pet Shop Boys influence about 2/3 way through too. BLx2 is having a lot more fun with his music these days, and like his horror-comedy movie spoof for the video for “Down To One”, the video for “You Want My…” also has some humorous references, including his own past album covers, everything but a cameo from Elton John, try to spot them all!

WH0, MARK KNIGHT, JAMES HURR, KATHY BROWN, “Turn Me Deeper”

“Turn Me Out” by Praxis and Kathy Brown is a classic late 90’s #1 club track that was awaiting a revival. With all proceeds going to assist Kathy with health care payments for cancer treatment, British producers WH0, Mark Knight and James Hurr collaborate to update “Turn Me Out” as “Turn Me Deeper”. With Kathy’s unmistakably fierce vocal and the updated overall sound, “Turn Me Deeper” could become a club smash all over again. You know those songs that beckon you on to the dance floor from their first few moments? Well, this is one of them. Kudos to the three producers too for making such a tight, ear-catching delight. Make sure you buy this one on Beatport to help a good cause and keep Kathy singing for us. Here’s the link: https://www.beatport.com/release/turn-me-deeper/4377631

MARTHA & THE MUFFINS, “For What It’s Worth”

Canada’s Martha & The Muffins – Martha Johnson and Mark Gane – continue to make fine new music, and this time they’ve tackled a cover of the Buffalo Springfield classic protest song “For What It’s Worth”. It’s a faithful, straight-forward, and ultimately very timely rendition that’s heavily reliant on a taut tone and bang-on vocal performances. Mark has the lead here and sounds a lot like Leonard Cohen, which totally suits the song, while Martha has the chorus and harmonies. This song has been covered numerous times but I must say this is one of the best.

LOST FREQUENCIES, BASTILLE, “Head Down”

Belgian producer Lost Frequencies follows up the earworm “Dive” (with Tom Gregory) with a fortuitous match-up with Dan Smith of Bastille in “Head Down”. Just in time for Lost Frequencies (or Felix De Laet) for a return visit to North American shores for a concert tour, “Head Down” has the potential to be a dance radio smash. Dan, as you know, was the voice of Marshmello’s enduring “Happier”, still played everywhere seven years later, and his obvious presence in “Head Down” is a huge draw. A jaunty rhythm and relatable lyrics with an anthemic chorus bring it all together in what will undoubtedly be considered as one of Lost Frequencies’ best releases.

SMALLPOOLS, “Night Shift”

I like it when artists that I saw perform and/or wrote about in their early days come full circle back to another blog post. L.A.-based trio Smallpools have released three albums in the last eight years or so since I saw them open for Neon Trees in concert, most recently last year’s Cameras & Coastlines & Covers. They’ve followed up that album with “Night Shift”, an uptempo and danceable pop track whose sunny exterior masks a story about a security guard stuck in Nowhereville and resigned to a boring job. It’s a slice of life snapshot that’s brought to life by brisk playing and a solid vocal by Sean Scanlon. The rest of the lineup includes guitarist Mike Kamerman – who also produced – and drummer Beau Kuther, and “Night Shift” is co-written by the band with Colin Holbrook. With this song leading the way, I’m quite interested where Smallpools’ next project will take them.

VICETONE, “Dirty Desire”

It’s been a while since I’ve written about Dutch production duo Vicetone, but I’m glad “Dirty Desire” found its way into my discovery feed this week. Yeah, it’s another dance song about sex, but it’s beautifully crafted for those late evening club adventures. I’m also pretty sure that the fab and soulful but uncredited vocal is go-to-guy JT Roach, who is also one of the co-writers. Some of the song’s arrangement is slinky and spirited, while in other parts of the song it’s sublime and effortless. Make sure you put Vicetone’s “Dirty Desire” on one of your dance playlists and give yourself a sexy workout!

NOANNE, “White Glove”

A while back, I introduced you to Prague-based performer Noanne through her song and enthralling, creative video for “Goodwill”. She follows it up with “White Glove”, which is even more of a dramatic performance piece that showcases both her voice and a touching story of faded love. Inspired by the artistry of Marc Chagall, “White Glove” takes us through various stages of the protagonist’s emotions as she finds that there is very little left of the love that she once had. The “White Glove” of the title is intended to be akin to throwing down the gauntlet, a challenge for her lover to react and then act. Aligning this to everyday breakups, most of us have been through this in some shape or form, but Noanne elevates the situation into a fantasy setting where your imagination can be unleashed. So do be prepared to be engrossed by the theatricality and passion in “White Glove”.

FIE EIKE, “The Nile”

“The Nile” is an unconventional, sometimes experimental alternative pop track by Danish singer/songwriter/producer Fie Eike, who is also of Norwegian heritage. It’s an intriguing track that wants to take you out of your comfort zone through a series of unique sounds, sometimes electronic, other times instrumental via a piano or cello, as well as Fie’s vocal, which recalls talent like Kate Bush, Björk or Tori Amos. “The Nile” takes us to a dark place which we are to embrace despite any trepidation to try and uncover the wonder and amazement that might be within. As provocative as it sounds, it’s hardly a difficult listen, with its arrangement following the style of a classical composition in a more progressive setting. “The Nile” could be considered a set piece of sorts, and fans of alternative electronic vocal pop are sure to get the most out of it.

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.

“Sit Down” by Australian singer, actor and dancer Keiynan Lonsdale

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

Sam Dickinson’s on-point cover of Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff”

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Hunter J. Wilbur is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype” which can be heard on several online stations including Energy 885.

“Moment”, a track from the album Levi Don’t Do It by German producer BUNT.

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Delbert McClinton – Giving It Up For Your Love
Talking Heads – Once In A Lifetime
April Wine – Just Between You And Me
Neil Diamond – Hello Again
Steve Winwood – While You See A Chance

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 DJ’S GOTTA DANCE MORE A-Trak, Todd Terry

2 LOYAL Odesza

3 IN MY ARMS, Mahalo, Le:Blanc

4 GOD DAMNIT Illenium, Call Me Karizma

5 WILD SUN Sam Dickinson

2014

1 ANIMALS Martin Garrix

2 EASY Travis Garland

3 AN OPEN HEART Bright Light Bright Light

4 EVERY SINGLE MOMENT SIRPAUL

5 GOLD Eurielle

2009

1 SINGLE LADIES (PUT A RING ON IT) Beyoncé

2 YOU CAN NEVER GO BACK Jon Mclaughlin

3 GET ON WITH IT Val Emmich

4 NEVER AGAIN The Midway State

5 RELEASE ME Agnes [Carlsson]

2004

1 MY TIME Dutch, Crystal Waters

2 HEY YA OutKast

3 YOU DON’T KNOW MY NAME Alicia Keys

4 THE WAY YOU MOVE OutKast, Sleepy Brown

5 SMOOTH iio

1999

1 LOST ONES Lauryn Hill

2 YOU GET WHAT YOU GIVE New Radicals

3 WHAT’LL I DO Rufus and Martha Wainwright, Loudon Wainwright III, Kate McGarrigle

4 SPEAK OF THE DEVIL Chris Isaak

5 BLUE MONDAY Orgy