BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

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

“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”.

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

“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.

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

BILLCS New Music Report – January 17/24 with songs by @GreatGoodFineOK, @TylerGarrettusa, @Kaytranada & @Rochelle_Jordan, Norma Jean Wright, @RealEstateband, @SukiWaterhouse, @MattHoltbymusic, and @plsandtybased, Tudor and @cat_dealers

Could 2024 be on the tip of some more sophisticated-sounding music? It reminds me of the gradual lead-up to the disco era in the 1970’s, when the R&B/soul sound got increasingly more sophisticated, and with the addition of synthesizers, the overall sound became full and sharp. A number of the selection in this week’s Report offer some kind of sophistication whether it’s in the vocals, arrangement, or rhythm.

Among the 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 transport us back to 1979. In case you missed them on Monday, you’ll also find out what’s #1 and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30 this week.

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.

GREAT GOOD FINE OK, “Breathing”

The NYC electronic pop duo of Jon Sandler and Luke Moelmann have released a double-whammy of cosmopolitan tunes, with “Breathing” following hot on the heels of “Blame”, currently rising up the BILLCS Top 30. While “Blame” is more of a contemporary R&B-flavoured pop song, “Breathing” draws from an early 80’s R&B sound that you don’t hear revived too often – think George Benson’s “Turn Your Love Around”, Al Jarreau’s “We’re In This Love Together”, or even early Level 42 with “Starchild” – and you’ll get no complaints from me! “Breathing” is moving, delightful stuff with another smashing vocal by Jon. Check out the imaginative video for “Breathing” by clicking on the photo above.

TYLER GARRETT, “Holding On”

L.A.-based indie singer/songwriter Tyler Garrett has taken on production duties for the first time with the emotional electronica of his latest release “Holding On”. And this is one shimmering beauty of a song, a deeply warm and genuine story about a couple who were once in love, but separate, leaving the protagonist fighting the complexities of being alone but in some ways still being in love. Many of us have been through such experiences, which then gradually become memories, trying to remember and retain the good times and not the bad ones. Tyler’s vocal in the quite danceable “Holding On” is one of his best and his mix of electronica and effects isn’t too busy but complimentary to the story. It offers no resolution but remains very satisfying, allowing the listener to draw their own conclusions while you sway to the rhythm. Click on the photo above to see an in-studio performance of “Holding On” by Tyler.

KAYTRANADA, ROCHELLE JORDAN, “Lover/Friend”

Quebec-raised Haiti-born producer, rapper, and vocalist Kaytranada has one of those star-studded, awards-soaked success stories – two Grammys and four Juno Awards to date – that many artists can only dream of attaining. Yet despite all of the critical claim and success of his albums, he has yet to have a hit single, in terms of the pop charts and radio play. That’s in the process of changing with the release of “Lover/Friend”, a silky R&B/pop duet with Rochelle Jordan, a fellow Canadian who has sung with the likes of Childish Gambino and KLSH. It follows up Kaytranada’s 2023 album collaboration with rapper Aminé called Kaytraminé. “Lover/Friend” also brings some 90’s flavour, with inevitable vocal comparisons for Rochelle to Aaliyah or Brandy. The propulsive mid-tempo rhythm is infectious and I’d love to see Top 40 and R&B radio stations grab “Lover/Friend” and make it a first really big hit song for Kaytranada.

NORMA JEAN WRIGHT, “In Love Again”

2024 has kicked off with a nice surprise – “In Love Again”, the first of two releases (the other being “Around Me”) in many years for former CHIC vocalist Norma Jean Wright. 1970’s disco fans will recognize the beautiful tone in her voice from many a CHIC hit, as well as her solo disco hits like “Having A Party”, “Saturday”, “Sorcerer” and “High Society”. Norma Jean has been touring as one third of The First Ladies of Disco with Martha Wash and Linda Clifford in recent years which has obviously kept her voice in great form. “In Love Again” is a step forward in time though, it’s disco done 2024 style packed with all of the elegance and grace that came with that era.

REAL ESTATE, “Water Underground”

Real Estate is an indie rock quintet from New Jersey that has been around for just over a decade. From their upcoming fifth album is “Water Underground”, a gentle rocker led by a catchy acoustic guitar melody. There’s not a whole lot new happening here, but Real Estate’s overall performance featuring delightfully chill vocals by Martin Courtney make the song stand out. Sometimes a song doesn’t need a lot of bells and whistles to get your attention, and often a soothing mix of melody and rhythm will do the trick. “Water Underground” sends me back to the 90’s for songs by bands like The Rembrandts, Toad The Wet Sprocket, and Soul Asylum, and Real Estate’s unassuming, relaxed style is very welcome in the over-stressed out times of the 2020’s.

SUKI WATERHOUSE, “OMG”

“OMG” is punchy rock ‘n roll from British singer, songwriter, actress and model Suki Waterhouse. I’d pitch “OMG” to fans of Garbage, Alanis Morissette and Courtney Love with its jagged guitar sound in contrast to Suki’s polished and restrained vocal. Many people know Suki as a model for just about every major designer in the last decade, but she branched out into music and acting, scoring most recently as keyboardist Karen in TV’s “Daisy Jones & The Six”, as well as in films like “The Divergent Series: Insurgent”, “Pride & Prejudice & Zombies”, and even “Pokémon: Detective Pikachu”. Never knock a multi-talent, Suki Waterhouse’s music has all the right stuff to win over alternative rock fans.

MATTHEW HOLTBY, “Goodbye Song”

Last summer, I introduced you to Canadian rock singer/songwriter Matthew Holtby, who hails from the Campbellford, Ontario area, a seasoned performer gone solo after years of playing in bands. Matthew’s released some new music lately, and “Goodbye Song” is the title track from his three-song EP. The song draws you right in with its story of being torn – attracted to someone who lies but yet you don’t want her to leave. “Goodbye Song” features an engaging vocal and a nifty guitar bridge in an arrangement that doesn’t let up, making four well-spent minutes go by in a flash.

PLS&TY, TUDOR, “Yours” (Cat Dealers remix)

Never knock remixes that can give added dimension to your songs! To me, last year’s original version of “Yours” by L.A.-based dance producer PLS&TY is a super song missing something in the arrangement, so I was happy to see a few remixes surface to send me back for another listen. Brazil’s Cat Dealers have a recognizable deep house sound that has won them favour all over the world, and their remix of “Yours” heightens the mysterious vibe of the song, conveyed largely by Welsh vocalist Tudor (who has also sung on recent releases by SNBRN, Discrete, and Zack Martino among others), as well as accentuating the techno-influence, which was a little too slight in the original. Fans of artists like Vintage Culture and Morgan Page will especially enjoy this skillful remix of “Yours”.

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.

The Knocks and Sofi Tukker reunite for their fun indie collaboration “One On One”

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

Brand new from The Black Keys, it’s “Beautiful People (Stay High)”

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.

Hailing from L.A., originally from Wisconsin, it’s Hannah Connolly with “Reno”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Dire Straits – Sultans Of Swing
The Doobie Brothers – What A Fool Believes
Bee Gees – Tragedy
Claudja Berry – (Boogie Woogie) Dancin’ Shoes
Pointer Sisters – Fire

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

“Lovin On Me” by Jack Harlow continues at #1

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Check out Todd Terry’s house track “What You Do” (18-10) with sampled vocals by Gene Chandler

#BILLCSTop30 #683 – January 15/24

My second personal chart of ’24 is pretty active, with a few big if unexpected moves, and after since some 2023 favourites have now departed, there are five debuts! Over 2,690 songs have charted since the BILLCS Top 30’s inception in January 1998. My online BILLCS Top 30 Archive will be updated by the end of the week to include this 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

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.

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

“Lovin On Me” by Jack Harlow continues to reign the chart. Because it’s such an odd choice for me for a #1, I think it all boils down to the basics – good house-flavoured beat that makes you want to dance, and an infectious and playful vocal from Jack. We all need on occasion a song that’s light and fun, and “Lovin On Me” does that for me.

“Lovin On Me” however is not without competition for as soon as the next chart in two weeks. A song that’s quite different from it, Benson Boone’s dreamy ballad “To Love Someone”, soars this week 8-2, matching the peak of 2022’s “In The Stars”, which also belatedly became a Top 40 radio hit last year. His next single, “Beautiful Things” arrives on Friday January 19.

Also very much in the running is “Rock The Party” by British producers WH0. If you want to put the bounce back into your day, this is the song to play right now. It climbs 4-3.

“Memento” is an emotional new wave-influenced rocker from Windsor, Ontario artist MELØ, who gets his first Top 10 entry as the song rises 12-9.

The second arrival in the Top 10 is also the Fastest Riser on the chart. The slammin’ house track “What You Do” by Todd Terry completely transforms Gene Chandler’s 1966 release “You Can’t Hurt Me No More”, and highlights the best part of Gene’s vocal performance on that track. It becomes Todd’s 2nd Top 10 entry. The “Duke of Earl” himself, Mr. Chandler is alive and well at 86.

NYC’s Great Good Fine OK are back to dazzle us with their invested brand of pop, R&B and dance, all present on “Blame”, which moves up 21-16.

If I was a record label, I’d be promoting the hell out of Matoma & JP Cooper’s memorable “Sound of Shadows”, which rises 26-19. It’s an album track from Matoma’s new Love For The Beat album that is as good as if not better than many of the singles previously released from the album.

Two of my favourite dance performers, The Knocks and Sofi Tukker, are back with their first collaboration in a while, “One On One”, which is the Highest Debut at #25. It was co-written by Dragonette’s Martina Sorbara, who also provides some vocals. This fun disco-house track is the 10th entry on the chart for The Knocks, and the 6th for Sofi Tukker, who have both got to #1 separately, The Knocks with “Kiss The Sky” (with Wyclef Jean) and Sofi Tukker on “Everybody Needs A Kiss” (with Benny Benassi).

Next is “Sit Down” by Keiynan at #26. Queer Australian singer, actor and dancer Keiynan really takes some stylistic risks on his new album The Heart Defence Mixtape, which is what pulls it all together into one interesting grab bag of songs. “Sit Down” is R&B/alternative which you’ll enjoy if you like music by Steve Lacy, yb. or Jean Dawson. It’s Keiynan’s second visit to the chart – his song “Preach” reached #8 in 2018.

Bowing at #27 is “Rescue Me”, the new collaboration by Dutch producer Justin Mylo and British house music queen Karen Harding. It’s Justin’s first appearance on the chart, but 10th for Karen, and it extends her current chart run which started on September 11, 2023, to 10 charts (20 weeks) by replacing previous entry “Need Your Love” with Felix Cartal, which exits the chart.

At #29 is the first chart entry for the duo previously known as Rico & Miella (aka Rico and Michelle Caruso), now dubbed Years Of War. Their emotional future bass-flavoured indie dance track “Used To Be”, released last Fall, continues to endure, and lands a place on the chart this week. Groove Cruise travellers can look forward to catching Years Of War aboard ship this week.

Getting a second concurrent appearance on the chart, from their EP Curfew Hours, at #30 it’s Australian rockers Moonwood with “Cool If I Love You?”. The lads are flying high currently with “Curfew” rising 7-6.

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” 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

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 10/24 with songs by @JustinMylomusic & @KarenHarding, @djMickyMore & @djAndyTee with @KathyBrowndiva & @MsShereeH, @VASSY, @SamDickinson, @MrSagacious, and @RickyRemedy & Palmer Reed

The music biz doesn’t really start to recover from the holiday season until the end of the second week of January. So aside from many talented independent performers keeping new music afloat for the last six weeks or so, it’s been another quiet week for releases.

Among the 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 draw from the great music from 1970. Plus you’ll find out what was #1 on 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.

JUSTIN MYLO, KAREN HARDING, “Rescue Me”

“Rescue Me” is a taut new deep house track by Dutch producer Justin Mylo who teams up with British house music queen Karen Harding with a solid vocal and a fine song to add to each artist’s repertoire. Karen has been on a spate of top notch releases throughout the last year, including collaborations with Felix Cartal and Armand Van Helden, as well as releasing her debut album Take Me Somewhere, mixing in older releases with new songs like “Wrong Places” and “Deep Deep Water”. Much to my surprise, I got to see Justin open for Martin Garrix when I was in Las Vegas last year, and he certainly knows how to work the room with his set. I hadn’t heard much music from him over the years but most of you know him as one of Martin’s go-to buddies from their club hit together, “Bouncy Bob”. What also makes “Rescue Me” such a pleasure is the other songwriting pedigree in the mix – UK songwriter James Newman (brother of singer John) and Stephen Puth (brother of fellow singer Charlie). Both talents have their own list of successes, but I’ll be you didn’t know James co-wrote Calvin Harris’ “Blame” (sung by brother John), Rudimental’s “Waiting All Night”, Matoma’s “False Alarm”, and Louis Tomlinson’s “Don’t Let It Break Your Heart”! “Rescue Me”, released on Martin’s STMPD imprint, is slick and sleek ear-grabber.

MICKY MORE & ANDY TEE, KATHY BROWN, SHEREE HICKS, “Celebrate”

What a way to kick of the new year with the positive retro disco vibes of “Celebrate”. It’s brought to you by a passel of talent, led by veteran Italian dance music mirth-makers Micky More & Andy Tee, and American vocalists Kathy Brown and Sheree Hicks. All of these great folks have years and years of performing and creating music behind them, so with “Celebrate” there is no mistaking the quality, which just begs you to drop what you’re doing and groove to the music. If anything “Celebrate” is heavily influenced by the rhythms and guitar work of Nile Rodgers and CHIC circa their 1978-1980 glory days. Those are always welcome dance music sounds in my book, and “Celebrate” delivers all of the goods you need for your own private dance party.

VASSY, “Off Switch”

Australian dance music favourite VASSY is coming off a big North American dance radio hit with “Krazy”, which re-established her as a confident solo artist who continues to carve out an interesting path in dance/electronic music after more than 10 years of making club and festival smashes, largely with other artists. “Off Switch”, another original which she co-wrote, features a more subdued but playful vocal – in fact the entire track reminds me of seminal dance artist Kristine W’s eloquent and thoughtful dance music of the 90’s. You can’t go wrong with a classic house rhythm, and with producers Duke & Jones, VASSY has found yet another great fit in “Off Switch” to showcase her talents.

SAM DICKINSON, “Hot Stuff”

Last year, UK pop/soul vocalist Sam Dickinson returned after a three year absence with the punchy original bop “Falling”. Currently working on a fourth album, again mainly of original compositions, called F L E X, Sam has followed up “Falling” with a rare cover, of no less than Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff”. Sam previously did justice to his version of Mica Paris’ “Carefree” a few years back, but tackling a better known song is always risky. Fortunately, Sam’s vocal delivers the goods and will make fans of “Hot Stuff” quite proud. It’s a reverent but shorter version of the disco-rock classic, with an arrangement of higher register sharp synth sounds which throws the spotlight on Sam’s energetic and engrossing vocal. Though I would have liked to have heard more noticeable bass sounds to round out the mix (which could be achieved through a remix), to me Sam’s take on “Hot Stuff” is ideal for radio play. BBC 2 has been a big supporter of Sam’s music and has already given the song some love, so who’s next? There’s much more music to come from Sam Dickinson in 2024!

If you’re in north-east England, Sam plays the Alphabetti Theatre in Newcastle on Friday, March 15.

MR. SAGACIOUS, “Forever”

Meet Adebayo Oluwatobi Olamide, otherwise known as Mr. Sagacious (a name he acquired through friends in high school), a 24 year old relative newcomer to the music industry from Nigeria but based in London, England. He’s determined to do his own thing to produce the music he loves for all to hear, focusing right now on the Afrobeats genre, with intent on exploring other styles and genres along the way. “Forever” is a dreamy, sparkling introduction that will transport you to sunshiny days where you can just let go to its buoyant rhythm. With some influence from hip hop, Mr. Sagacious knows how to create music for his vocal style. “Forever” is fresh and vibrant and fans of the variety of styles in African music that span from Ladysmith Black Mambazo to Amadou & Mariam will thoroughly enjoy it.

RICKY REMEDY, PALMER REED, “Float Away”

“Float Away” is a rhythmic slice of R&B whose modest but captivating arrangement will help you drift away to wherever your imagination takes you. It’s brought to you by two Florida talents whose experiences separately speak volumes. Ricky Remedy is a Latin Grammy-nominated producer and remixer, who has worked with Travis Scott and French Montana, recorded collaborations with Diplo, Lil Jon, and John.k, and has remixes with millions of streams for songs by The Chainsmokers and Skrillex. Palmer Reed is a vocalist/songwriter on the rise who has opened in concert for Post Malone and worked recently with Adam Lambert, and released his first new music last year in several years. Together their talents really mesh in “Float Away”, a song that could set the tone for a beautiful evening or with which you could wind down into the wee hours.

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.

From Wales, it’s Ben Ellis with his pop bop “Guys That Look Like Me”

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

From their album Wabi Sabi, it’s Australia’s The Moving Stills with “Westside”

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.

Swedish electronic pop duo Bomberjak brings us “Never Go Back Again”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

The Beatles – The Long And Winding Road
Simon & Garfunkel – Cecilia
The Moments – Love On A Two-Way Street
Freda Payne – Band Of Gold
Terry Jacks – I’m Gonna Capture You

26 YEARS OF BILLCS TOP 30 #1’s

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

2023 GOLDEN HOUR JVKE

2022 UNBREAKABLE TELYKast, Sam Gray

2021 GIVE IT BACK The Disco Fries, GIIANTS, Allison Park

2020 SHIVOHUM Tritonal, Henry Dark

2019 DJ’S GOTTA DANCE MORE A-Trak, Todd Terry

2018 PINEAPPLE SKIES Miguel

2017 BURN Pet Shop Boys

2016 NOTHING AT ALL Brandyn Burnette

2015 HEADPHONES (Matt Mancid Retro Crossover Mix) Color Theory

2014 AN OPEN HEART Bright Light Bright Light

2013 PARACHUTE Matthew Koma

2012 HOTTER THAN FIRE Eric Saade, Dev

2011 GOLDEN TRAIN Penguin Prison

2010 DELUSIONAL Simon Curtis

2009 SINGLE LADIES (PUT A RING ON IT) Beyoncé

2008 HOW TO BUILD A TIME MACHINE Darren Hayes

2007 SET FIRE TO THE THIRD BAR Snow Patrol, Martha Wainwright

2006 DO WHAT U WANT jASeFOs, Claire van den Boom

2005 MY MY MY Armand van Helden

2004 MY TIME Dutch, Crystal Waters

2003 THE SOUND OF VIOLENCE Cassius, Steve Edwards

2002 BLACK BLACK HEART David Usher

2001 HANGING BY A MOMENT Lifehouse

2000 FADED soulDecision

1999 LOST ONES Lauryn Hill

1998 ANGEL Joée

BILLCS New Music Report – January 4/24 with new songs by @Helloworldbeats, Breigh, @The_NonRenewed, @eeeEdith, @JayB1rdmusic & Kayrae, and @DAmicoandValax with HENNZ, Johan Oslah & Doriel

Happy 2024! I have no idea what we’re in store for music-wise, but expect the unexpected. I would like some barriers in the entertainment biz to come down for indie artists. It’s like a parallel to society right now – the rich are getting richer and the indies are staying poor. A&R folks need to get back to more authentic representation of artists rather than phoning it in from home using socials. And the holidays nail December (and some of November) shut for indies releasing new material when the industry effectively shuts down, other than to promote holiday music.

AND NO, CONTRARY TO POPULAR BELIEF, BLOGS ARE NOT DEAD.

Among the 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 epitomize the 80’s new wave genre. In case you missed them, you’ll also find out what are my #1 song 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.

HELLOWORLD, “Planes”

L.A. electronic producer Helloworld clearly wears his heart on his sleeve in his songwriting. His direct lyrics easily resonate with the listener without being polarizing, even when he’s a little riled up like on his recent single “Need That”, which I wrote about a while back. “Planes” is his first truly indie release, and transports you to a place where you’re travelling with someone but couldn’t feel more lonely, and you’re essentially on airplane mode. There’s no mistaking that Helloworld (aka Drew Wilken) cares about the other person in the song but when there’s no warmth or conversation, then it’s easy to appreciate his feeling of isolation. “Planes” is an open book with a light electronic backdrop, and also follows up his splendid collaboration with Aussie producer Throttle, “Weightless Feeling”.

BREIGH, “Stupid, Reckless”

New NYC singer/songwriter Breigh puts herself on the path to stardom in her songs in her imaginative four-song EP Manifestations of a Pop Star. With her inspirations being Kate Bush and Imogen Heap – setting the bar high from two challenging artists in their own right – you can hear Breigh’s precision in her vocal in “Stupid, Reckless” from the EP. When you’re determined and on your path to greater things, you’ll make mistakes and charge ahead knowingly, and Breigh beautifully conveys this in the song, with the anticipated aftermath that things will work out all right. While she’s been making music since her teens and studied formally at SUNY at Purchase, “Stupid, Reckless” is a promising lead-in to the EP which makes you want to hear more from Breigh in ’24.

THE NON-RENEWED, “Runaway”

“Runaway” is a pleasing meeting of retro and contemporary sounds that unfolds a story of queer love after returning home from an overseas getaway, as brought to you by Denver indie duo The Non-Renewed, who are Meghan Mallon (vocals) and Mellik Gorton (guitar, vocals). It’s pop as influenced by jazz and folk, with Meghan’s vocal recalling Carole King and Rickie Lee Jones with a dash of Norah Jones. The stalwart instrumentation is refreshingly without synthesizers or keyboards, and includes bass, drums/percussion, and horns. The overall sound is bright and upbeat, and “Runaway” is one of the first handful of singles from the duo, who are not a couple, but got together after mutual personal hardships to find solace in collaborating. The Non-Renewed expect to release an album, three years in the making, this year, and “Runaway” is a fine one in which you can get to know the duo, inspired by Jason Mraz’s “The Remedy (I Won’t Worry)” no less!

EDITH, “Over It”

Edith is a Romanian-born indie singer/songwriter based out of London about whom I’ve previously written with her refreshingly upbeat track about a breakup called “The Day We Met”. Since then she’s released her debut album In This House We Celebrate Heartache which details a variety of breakups and the resulting heartbreak, not all with glossy exteriors like “The Day We Met” and “Over It”. In “Over It”, she recalls a relationship that came to a natural, mutual end where you can be happy that your ex may have found someone else even if you didn’t. Although “Over It” was released as a single over two years ago, its slick sound and positive message fit equally well into 2024, and is another solid song to introduce yourself to the music of Edith.

JAY BIRD, KAYRAE, “Out Of This World”

SoCal dance producer Jay Bird continues on the house tip creating fun bangers with “Out Of This World”. The familiar 90’s-style melody could fit easily into just about any club set, and benefits from a strong vocal by Kayrae, an L.A. multi-talent who in a short time has worked with Kaskade, Revelries and KDrew. Jay Bird continues to show how diverse he can be as a producer regardless of what dance music sub-genre he chooses to embrace. “Out Of This World” will certainly keep you grooving the night away!

D’AMICO & VALAX, HENNZ, JOHAN OSLAH, DORIEL, “Wanna Have Fun”

Italian dance producers D’Amico & Valax team up with Colombian producers HENNZ (aka Fabian Hernandez, who records Latin house as Fabian Hernandez DFH) and Johan Oslah for some blistering tech house with “Wanna Have Fun”. Despite its title, it’s an IDGAF statement about taking the time to have fun. The buoyant rhythm and the sharp synth sounds will sweep you away while you listen to Doriel’s confident but sometimes sultry vocal. “Wanna Have Fun” has had lots of hands in its creation, but comes out as a sparkling, slick club banger in-the-waiting.

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.

From his album Love For The Beat, it’s Matoma with “Sounds Of Shadows” with vocalist JP Cooper

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

As heard on The Big 20 this week, it’s British women rockers Lime Garden with “I Want To Be You”

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. Hunter’s also got a new show coming on the same station in January!

Louisiana singer/songwriter Katijayde with Oceans (Roses Pt. 2)

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

The Fixx – Saved By Zero (1983)
Psychedelic Furs – Pretty In Pink (1981/1986)
A Flock Of Seagulls – I Ran (So Far Away) (1982)
Eurythmics – Right By Your Side (1983)
UB40 – Red Red Wine (1983/1988)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

It’s fun-loving Jack Harlow with “Lovin On Me”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

It’s the comeback for early 2010’s EDM heroes Nero with “Truth” (26-16)

#BILLCSTop30 #682 – January 1/24

Happy 2024 to you all! I don’t really know what to expect from this year, so I’ll take that as a good thing and expect the unexpected. Aside from indie releases, which must continue through the holidays, December was a slower month in general than usual for other releases. I’m not sure if this will affect turnover on the BILLCS Top 30 in January, as I almost always find something new to sate my appetite for discovery!

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

If you had told me three months ago that my first number one song of 2024 would be by Jack Harlow, I would have asked if that somehow came to you in a dream. While I’ve appreciated his talent on previous releases, his style of hip hop, let’s say, is not in my go-to genres of music. So even after I enjoyed his collaboration with Jung Kook on “3D” (which just peaked at #12), even I couldn’t have been prepared for the 2:18 of infectious business that is “Lovin On Me”, which climbs 3-1, a rarity because it has also been #1 in both the US and the UK. The last song to do this for me was “Rain On Me” by Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande nearly four years ago, which was also my #1 song of 2020.

Rising 6-3 is “Feels Like Us”, a warm slice of dance/pop by Miami’s Gt_ofice, Maryland’s ALWZ SNNY, and frequent chart visitor and NYC singer/songwriter Robbie Rosen. It becomes Robbie’s 6th Top 5 entry.

Soaring up through the Top 10 from 10-4 is “Rock The Party” by British dance producers WH0, who get their second Top 5 entry following the #1 “What You Need” with Steve Angello, which is appearing in its last chart at #23 having reached the 10 chart maximum.

Moving up 7-5 is “Real Love” by Martin Garrix with South African singer Lloyiso, which becomes Martin’s 8th visit to the Top 5.

I’m enjoying the brand of indie rock offered by Australia’s Moonwood on their EP Curfew Hours. Songs like “Curfew”, which climbs 11-7, would sound just great played live in concert.

Getting his third Top 10 entry is Benson Boone with a ballad that just drips with emotion, “To Love Someone”, which rises 15-8.

Spain’s The Boy From The South lands in the Top 10 for a second time, following last year’s sheer delight “Amazing-Man” (which peaked at #3) with “Man Down” (14-10).

“Memento” by MELØ (18-12) is showing signs of being an enduring song on the chart. The 80’s new wave flavour combined with its story of moving on after profound loss is unique as you will see in its extended video clip above.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is the powerful, foreboding sound of UK’s Nero with their comeback release “Truth”, which rises 26-16.

“What You Do” (27-18) is a slamming slice of house by the master himself, Todd Terry, who transformed a minor Gene Chandler release, 1966’s “You Can’t Hurt Me No More”, allowing Gene’s voice to breathe life into a really fun track.

The Highest Debut at #26 is the third song from Matoma’s recent Love For The Beat album to reach the chart. Featuring UK vocalist/songwriter JP Cooper, it’s the very catchy “Sound of Shadows”, which is an album track though it really should be promoted as a single as it deserves club and festival play.

On the chart with his 2nd entry is indie Welsh singer/songwriter Ben Ellis with “Guys That Look Like Me”. His first appearance on the chart was the jaunty “Ed’s House”, which got to #8. “Guys That Look Like Me” was a similar relatable story and a breezy melody which makes it all go down easy.

Jung Kook gets his second entry on the chart with the soulful KPOP track “Standing Next To You” at #28. It’s no wonder that people like Justin Timberlake and Usher have climbed aboard the KPOP train with their contributions to Jung Kook releases – JT on an alternate version of “3D” and Usher on another version of this one.

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 Top 93 of 2023

In my annual list, you’ll find that JVKE and Darin have the most entries each with 4, though JVKE has 3 of those in the Top 30! Almost half the chart comprises independent releases, and 20% of the entries are from Canada (my country).

I’m looking forward to what’s coming that we don’t yet know about in 2024!

Alternately, you can view the full list at the following link to the online chart: BILLCS Top 93 of 2023

And you can hear all five hours worth of music on my Spotify playlist of the chart at the following link:

BILLCS Top 93 of 2023 Spotify playlist

BILLCS New Music Report – December 20/23 spotlighting new songs by @KeiynanLonsdale, @Angel_District, Skram, @itsCloverdale, Faith Richards and Tanya Shanker

It’s the last BILLCS New Music Report of 2023! There is no shortage of music to hear, so I have six new ones for your listening pleasure. My next week will be spent finalizing the BILLCS Top 93 of 2023 and recording the accompanying radio show, and I’ll have more details on that next week. Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all!

Among the 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 focus on rock radio favourites by Canadian bands from 1977-1980. In case you missed them, you’ll also find out what are my #1 song 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.

KEIYNAN, “Sit Down”

The artist otherwise known as queer Australian multi-talent Keiynan Lonsdale was on a dance music tip a few years back with fine releases like “Gods Of The Disco’. He’s back with a new album called The Heart Defence Mixtape, in which he continues to put forward his authentic self, but more in an alternative pop setting with R&B flavours. It all works quite well with “Sit Down”, where his sensual vocal and songwriting really shine. The rest of the album takes cues from what has been presented recently by other performers like Steve Lacy, Master Peace or Jean Dawson, which fills The Heart Defence Mixtape to the brim with variety. Keiynan’s songs have really branched out with this release but it’s all quite focused deep down to the core. A lot of you who watched Keiynan on TV’s “The Flash” don’t know he’s also a professional dancer, so check out the video above.

ANGEL DISTRICT, BAZZLYNE, “Carry Me Home”

“Carry Me Home” is a feel-good electronic pop song that takes a dramatic turn in sound just after the two-thirds mark. Brought to you by Las Vegas producer/DJ Angel District in conjunction with Bazzlyne, it’s all about putting yourself first and looking after your well-being over anything else. It’s something that we all discover, sometimes the hard way, and Angel District beautifully articulates it in a song that has a similar angle and spirit to Troye Sivan’s “Take Yourself Home” (from his 2020 EP In A Dream). Just as you get comfortable with the vocal, music and tone of the song, the production shifts into dramatic future bass/dubstep territory – the cathartic emotional dam has burst for those of you who want to rage a bit. Overall it’s an unconventional but stellar production adding a few final words at the end to leave a lump in your throat.

SKRAM, “Serendripity”

Ignore the spell check, the song title is indeed “SerenDRIPity” and it’s brought to you by New Zealand alternative pop group Skram. The song is mood-changer with a wry sense of humour and wordplay all about being confident in who you are, particularly in public. Its video, above, uses clothing and makeup to support the song’s statement. Lead singer Henry Ashby has a wild and funny vocal style, but the release is an assured one featuring solid instrumentation and production. There’s an old school, busker-like vibe to the proceedings at times and you’re bound to have a great time listening to “Serendripity”.

CLOVERDALE, “Pump Up The Vibe”

Canadian electronic dance producer Cloverdale takes us into techno-flavoured overdrive with “Pump Up The Vibe”. It’s a fun club track that shows its roots in the 80’s techno house which brought us classics like “Pump Up The Volume” by M/A/R/R/S and “Beat Dis” by Bomb The Bass, and led to music by other popular artists like The Chemical Brothers and The Crystal Method. “Pump Up The Vibe” begs to be played either as a party starter or on the change-up to infuse high energy into a set. You can find it on Cloverdale’s recent EP This Is High Octane.

FAITH RICHARDS, “good girl”

Faith Richards is a pop/R&B singer currently based in Paris, France, and “good girl” is bound to tease out the little devil that we all have inside. She’s got a sultry and expressive vocal, accentuated amply by some simple production sounds. “good girl” is about the public face we put on, but that doesn’t mean putting us in a box or judging us by appearance. The old school hip hop beats in the background become same-sounding after a while, which leaves me wanting more variety to match the caliber of the vocal. Overall “good girl” is a fine showcase for Faith’s voice and her songwriting talents.

TANYA SHANKER, “Phoenix”

When listening to “Phoenix”, you would have no idea that Tanya Shanker is only 17. Hailing from Bangalore, India, Tanya actually released her first EP when she was 14. With an intentional powerhouse style similar to what we heard from Christina Aguilera in her early heyday, “Phoenix” provides an introduction to Tanya with a wallop. Some growth will be needed with her songwriting, as perhaps lyrics associated with the title mythical character have gone to the well a little too often in recent years. However this doesn’t detract from the enjoyment of Tanya’s performance and how the story will be instantly relatable to other young people.

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 comeback single for revered UK electronic trio Nero, “Truth”

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

“Hit Hollywood” is an infectious rocker by Toronto’s James Clark Institute from Under The Lampshade

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

Luke Combs follows up “Fast Car” with “Where The Wild Things Are”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Max Webster – Diamonds Diamonds (1977)
Triumph – Rocky Mountain Way (1977)
Rush – The Spirit Of Radio (1980)
April Wine – Roller (1980)
Prism – Armageddon (1979)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Bright Light Bright Light gets a second appearance at #1 with “Down To One”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Right now, I can’t get enough of “Lovin On Me” by Jack Harlow, which soars 25-3

#BILLCSTop30 #681 – December 18/23

It’s hard to believe in some ways that this is my last chart of 2023! Music now travels into our grasp at superspeed, and it’s hard to push pause long enough to enjoy the songs before the next sensation comes along. Towards the end of next week, I’ll begin publishing my Top 93 of 2023 and I’ll also be working on the accompanying radio program for the Top 30 of the year. Despite what I just said, for some reason there wasn’t a lot of turnover on the chart this year, and no song reached below #19. I’ll continue to honour my rule that songs can remain on the chart for up to 10 appearances (20 weeks), which only 10 songs achieved this year 😮

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

A couple of songs charge up the new chart, while we have four hopefuls arriving just in time for the new year. As well, a singer becomes the oldest living person to appear on this chart through a rebooted version of one of his minor chart records.

In the meantime, Bright Light Bright Light continues to rule the chart with the irresistible “Down To One”, in the same way that he did exactly 10 years ago with the always stunning “An Open Heart”.

One of those songs that makes short work of the chart actually soars 25-3 as the Fastest Riser, and that’s Jack Harlow’s insanely catchy and quick “Lovin On Me”, a number one both in the US and the UK, and in the Top 10 at Top 40 radio now. This isn’t the usual for me but I enjoy how playful and droll it is, and Jack’s delivery and flow are so smooth. A number one contender for the first chart of ’24? You betcha!! Jack also appears at #12 with Jung Kook on their collaboration “3D”.

“Top of the World” is one of many immensely infectious house tracks to grace the chart this year, brought to you by Swedish producer John Dahlbäck and Nashville-based vocalist/songwriter Davis Mallory, and climbs 5-4. Even better to make it this high on the chart, the song’s an independent release, like 40% of other songs on the chart.

Also a stalwart indie release with a great story angle is “Fan Of You” by Chicago producer Pete Cho, which climbs 7-5.

Miami producer Gt_ofice has two songs in the Top 10 this week. “Feels Like Us” (above), with fellow producer ALWZ SNNY and singer/songwriter Robbie Rosen, is a national dance radio Top 40 hit and leaps 12-6 over his other track “Can’t Deny” (with JAYEM and Alix Robson, below), which is up 9-8. “Feels Like Us” is Robbie’s 8th Top 10 entry.

Martin Garrix and Lloyiso move up 11-7 with their dance radio #1 “Real Love”, becoming Martin’s 10th Top 10 entry overall.

Electronic dance producer Audien gets a personal best on the chart as “Superhero” rises 13-9.

The other huge move on the chart belongs to British dance producers WH0, as “Rock The Party” has arrived at exactly the right part of the year to become a dance club favourite. It zips up the chart 28-10, just as WH0’s other track on the chart, the former #1 “What You Need” with Steve Angello, departs the Top 10. If you heard my New Music Pick of the Week segment last week, you found out that WH0 are now unmasked as Rob Chetcuti (who has been producing songs under a myriad of aliases) and Tom Cross.

Just outside of the Top 10 is Australian rockers Moonwood, who keep getting better and better with each release. “Curfew” climbs 16-11 and comes from their very good EP Curfew Hours.

If you follow Benson Boone’s socials, you may think like me that he has yet another big ballad on the way. I personally can’t get enough of them, and his latest release “To Love Someone” moves up 20-15.

L.A.-based singer/songwriter Cobi is off to a great start with a bluesy rock ballad from his recent EP Sugar Man called “Where We Belong”, which climbs 27-21.

Leading off the debuts is Veteran British progressive electronic trio Nero, who are back with their first new music in five years with the huge and bold “Truth”, which is the Highest Debut at #26. It’s their first appearance on this chart.

Next at #27 is the highly influential house music master Todd Terry with “What You Do” at #27. This song co-bills veteran pop/R&B singer Gene Chandler, age 86, who is best known for his 1962 #1 smash “Duke of Earl” as it transforms a minor single by Gene from 1966 called “You Can’t Hurt Me No More”. Gene becomes the oldest living person to appear on this chart. And Todd was on the chart five years ago exactly with his future #1 with A-Trak, “DJ’s Just Gotta Dance”.

At #28 marks the third appearance on the chart and first since 2015 for NYC duo Great Good Fine OK with “Blame”. GGFO is back in fine form with their brand of soulful dance/pop led by an exceptional Jon Sandler vocal.

Rounding out the debuts at #29 is veteran Dutch dance production duo (and brothers) Showtek with fellow Dutch denizens Sonny Wilson (a duo led by the same-named singer) and “Shine”, from Showtek’s recent album 360 Yellow. This is a bright, anthemic house track that stands apart from the rest on the album. It’s Showtek’s fifth appearance on the chart, which goes back almost 10 years exactly with their future #1 “Cannonball (Earthquake)” (with Justin Prime and Matthew Koma).

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 new “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 more than 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.

Addictive Energy

This is a weekly show hosted by Hunter Wilbur that airs on several online stations and will be newly anchored at Miramichi, New Brunswick’s Energy885 starting in January!! 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 – December 13/23 spotlighting songs by @Cobimusic, @TheKnocks & @SofiTukker, Benjamin Russell & Rob Stuart @mtl_bar, Eric Rivero x @PuFFcornmusic x @RobbieRosenlive, @MaxEhrich & Thad Beaty @musicthatmoves1, and Nathalie Miranda @vocalfreaknat

As the music business winds down for the rest of the year, my regular blog posts will also be wrapping up next week, but will be followed by my Top 93 of 2023 and a concurrent Top 30 of 2023 radio special, which will air on select online radio stations. More about that to follow in the coming weeks! In the meantime, among my six selections this week in the Report, there are two new Christmas songs for your holiday playlists and celebrations.

Among the 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 focus on harder and more progressive well-known songs from the 70’s. And you’ll also find out what songs were in the Top 5 of the BILLCS Top 30, 5-10-15-20 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.

COBI, “Sugar Man”

L.A.-based singer, songwriter and producer Cobi is back with a new EP, from which comes the title track “Sugar Man”. He’s one of my most written-about performers this year because of the ongoing development of his own sound, as well as the sheer quality of his indie releases. It’s a bluesy guitar-laden, well-sung rocker shrouded in mystery about a benefactor called Sugar Man who doesn’t come through to follow up and help when it’s needed. The EP also features five tracks, two about which I’ve written, the ballad “Where We Belong” (currently charting on the BILLCS Top 30) and “Good Morning”. You can hear from all of the songs in the EP how invested Cobi is in his music, and your time spent with them will be rewarded with some new favourites.

THE KNOCKS, SOFI TUKKER, “One on One”

In the free-flowing world of dance music, performers can almost always return to their home base of collaborators, and thus we have the first collaboration in a few years from NYC production duo The Knocks and their one time protégés, Sofi Tukker (who I saw together in concert in 2016). “One on One” is classic house music with a heavy old school disco groove that could have easily fit on The Knocks’ album 55 (and that 2015-16 era will make its comeback, mark my words!). Sophie Hawley-Weld’s vocal has only gotten more assured over the years, as was clearly evident on 2022’s WET TENNIS album, and the production has a lot of nice robust layers that enhance how polished the song sounds overall. The Knocks and Sofi Tukker are all so good at their craft and “One on One” just makes it sounds easy, which should generate immediate appeal for both clubs and dance radio airplay.

BENJAMIN RUSSELL, ROB STUART, “Driving Hollow”

Toronto-based producer/songwriter Rob Stuart and Montreal producer/singer/songwriter Benjamin Russell have made the most of 2023 releasing several projects, and their new four song EP Brighter Light follows up their earlier collaboration, Something in F Minor. I was drawn to “Driving Hollow” and its big, bass-filled, progressive electronic sound, reminiscent of work by Peter Gabriel (“Sledgehammer” and “Digging in the Dirt”) and Mike Oldfield (“Five Miles Out”). The story in “Driving Hollow”, as sung vividly by Benjamin, seems to be in a futuristic sci-fi setting, where something foreboding is in store for us if we don’t watch how we’re driving, as we’re told in cryptic electronic messages by what might be a “Nineteen Eighty-Four”-like government official. It’s an absorbing if unresolved listen that uses driving as a metaphor for how we navigate relationships.

ERIC RIVERO, PuFFcorn, ROBBIE ROSEN, “Lost In Love”

“Lost In Love” is an early 2010’s throwback to the big room house sound of the day, reminiscent of early work by the likes of Alesso, Hardwell and Deadmau5. It’s brought to you by Chicago-born producer Eric Rivero, Taiwanese producer PuFFcorn, along with the prolific NYC singer/songwriter Robbie Rosen, currently riding up the BILLCS Top 30 with “Feels Like Us” (which is also Hunter Wilbur’s Bop of the Week, see below). It’s great to hear Robbie in this kind of a throwback setting, and the producers have created a tight, textbook flow for the song, whose euphoric melody, hand-in-hand with the positive theme of the lyrics, will keep listeners smiling and club goers dancing.

I don’t usually write about Christmas music, but you can feel free to add these two new ones to your favourite Christmas playlist.

MAX EHRICH, THAD BEATY, “All I Want Is You” (Big Sky remix)

A while back, I wrote about the recent affable hip hop/pop single by singer, actor and dancer Max Ehrich called “Backroads”. Although noted for his work years ago in TV soap opera “The Young & The Restless”, Max completed two film projects lately, “Southern Gospel” and for TV, “A Cowboy Christmas Romance”. “All I Want Is You” is the feature song for the latter film and veers away from the trendier sound of “Backroads” in favour of a country-flavoured, mostly acoustic ballad that this time shows off the natural timbre in Max’s affecting vocal. It’s a straight-forward, well-written song supported by veteran Nashville guitarist, producer and hitmaker Thad Beaty, who has worked mostly with Sugarland over the years but has appeared on stage with numerous A list stars.

NATHALIE MIRANDA, “Bring My Baby Back”

The absence of a loved one over the holidays, for one reason or another, can often be a let down, and Nathalie Miranda’s energetic plea to Santa Claus, “Bring My Baby Back”, is a breezy and uplifting request. A diminutive presence with a voice that packs a wallop, Nathalie hails from the UK and is of Greek Cypriot heritage. Her vocal in “Bring My Baby Back” reminds me of versatile 80’s performers Melissa Manchester or Vonda Shepard, and she has also recorded in Spanish (check out her recent single “Terremoto”). In the end we all hope our wishes like in “Bring My Baby Back” get granted which would make it a Merry Christmas indeed.

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 30 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

“Rock The Party” by WH0 will certainly be appropriate for a lot of New Year’s Eve celebrations!

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

UK alternative band Bad Sounds with “Beggin'”

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.

“Feels Like Us” is the new national Top 40 dance radio hit by Gt_ofice, ALWZ SNNY and Robbie Rosen

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Alice Cooper – Welcome To My Nightmare
Jethro Tull – Bungle In The Jungle
Black Sabbath – Iron Man
Deep Purple – Smoke On The Water
Genesis – Ripples

THE BILLCS TOP 30 – 5-10-15-20…

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

2018

01 LOYAL Odesza

02 DJ’S GOTTA DANCE MORE A-Trak featuring Todd Terry

03 FIREWORKS Mercer

04 PHANTOM OF THE DANCE FLOOR Kiesza featuring Philippe Sly

05 CRAWL OUTTA LOVE (PatrickReza remix) Illenium featuring Annika Wells

2013

01 AN OPEN HEART Bright Light Bright Light

02 WHAT’S GOING ON Monsieur Adi featuring A*M*E

03 CAN’T HOLD BACK Anton Ewald

04 EASY Travis Garland

05 I HAVE A NAME Osvaldo Supino

2008

01 NEVER AGAIN The Midway State

02 RELAPSE Jesse McCartney

03 LET IT ROCK Kevin Rudolf featuring Lil’ Wayne

04 HOT MESS Sam Sparro

05 FROZEN Tami Chynn featuring Akon

2003

01 ROCK STAR (Jason Nevins remix) N*E*R*D

02 I FEEL LOVE Blue Man Group featuring Venus Hum

03 DEEPEST BLUE Deepest Blue

04 THE FORCE OF GRAVITY BT featuring JC Chasez

05 VIBRATE Rufus Wainwright