BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

Autumn has begun in the western world with no shortage of solid independently released music to keep us all going. Check out this Report’s new songs as well as all of regular features.

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week and last, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers takes us back to 1988 for his Classic Five selections. Our BILLCS Top 30 Flashback chart takes us back to 2007 – how can that already be 18 years??

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

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

REIGEN, “Quiero Bailar”

About the artist: After a bit of a break, American pop/R&B singer Reigen relocated from New York City to Madrid, and returned to releasing music a few months ago with “Keep Dreaming”.

About the record: “Quiero Bailar” could be a game-changer for Reigen, as he hasn’t recorded anything quite like it in the 12 years or so that I’ve been following his music. The frenetic melody embraces an older style of Latin music but his vocal execution is nothing but contemporary, with an infectious rasp, perhaps with a few cues from “Livin’ La Vida Loca” era Ricky Martin. There’s a bona fide fiesta brewing in this song and it’s simply impossible not to move to it – after all the title means “I want to dance”. Reigen’s energy is stellar, and you don’t have to be fully immersed in Latin music to get a huge kick out of this release. Bravo, más, más!

Other comments: If “Quiero Bailar” finds its ways to the right ears who knows what could happen?

JON MULLANE, “Remember in November”

About the artist: Jon Mullane is a Halifax-born singer, songwriter and guitarist who is noted for his recent releases “Walking Away” and “The Sun in Summertime”. His song “My New American Girl” previously broke into the top 40 of the Hot AC Billboard Chart.

About the record: “Remember in November” is a touching, reflective and passionate song that recalls a memorable past love. Jon’s vocal here has a grittiness to it that alternately reminds me of Adam Cohen and Robbie Robertson. The song has its quieter moments but rocks out strong too, and it all melds together in a deeply satisfying way.

Other comments: Jon co-wrote this one in Nashville, in great company with A-list writers Michael Dulaney (Grammy-nominated for Faith Hill’s “The Way You Love Me”, Blake Shelton, Kenny Chesney) and Michael Jay (Celine Dion, Eminem, Martika’s “Toy Soldiers”), and sparkling production by Creighton Doane, whose new single “Need a Friend” you read about here last week.

THE JACK RUBIES, “Are We Being Recorded?”

About the artist:  The Jack Rubies is a British post-new wave quintet whose flame shone all too briefly circa 1988-1990, resulting an alternative and college radio favourite in “Be With You” and two albums, Fascinatin’ Vacation and See The Money In My Smile before splitting up. The band regrouped during the pandemic and returned with their first album in 30 years, with the previous two re-released.

About the record: The dark and cynical sound of The Jack Rubies is in full bloom on “Are We Being Recorded?” It’s alternately humourous, alternately very paranoid, and sums up just about every reason why we should all be concerned about our information being taken or our steps being followed, and all apparently legally too. Nonetheless it’s an intriguing listen and sure to make you smile, in a crooked, should-I-really-be-smiling kind of way.

Other comments: “Be With You” certainly caught my ear back in 1988. You can expect a new Jack Rubies album later this year or early next year.

ZEROBADDAYS, JOLIE ADAMSON, “Hit The Road Jack”

About the artists: ZEROBADDAYS is the performing name for the ace German saxophone player who has recorded as Stan Sax and has been one half of the dance music production duo Saxity. Jolie Adamson is an L.A.-born pop singer who previously released a track with Saxity – and is now his wife.

About the record: This is a super cool, jazzy pop rendition of “Hit The Road Jack”, a number one hit for Ray Charles in 1961 and covered countless times since. Jolie’s pristine vocal is inviting and fully committed, while ZEROBADDAYS’ sax work couldn’t be better. Fans of the song and the 1960’s era of music will be immediately down for it. Snap those fingers and tap those feet, I don’t mean to rhyme, but this one’s a treat!

Other comments: A deep house dance remix could easily attract younger listeners to join the fun.

LIAM WALL, “Medicine on Me”

About the artist: Nashville indie singer/songwriter Liam Wall has been establishing himself as a thoughtful performer with loads of potential thanks to pop songs like “Walking Red Flag” and “So” which have both been featured in this blog and on the BILLCS Top 30.

About the record: “Medicine on Me” is a charming diversion from slower paced songs to one with an uptempo rock flavour. Liam treads into Shawn Mendes territory here with a relatable song about two people who seemed to have been addicted to each other, but one has moved on and the other clearly hasn’t. I particularly enjoy Liam’s vocal and the catchy melody that makes “Medicine on Me” memorable.

Other comments: The talent and music is all there for Liam, now he just needs a bigger audience, and perhaps more interactive social media posts would help. Make sure you check out “Medicine on Me”.

J.FLA, “Moon Eater”

About the artist: J.Fla (aka JungHwa Kim) is an indie singer/songwriter from Seoul, South Korea. While a lot of performers who we see from South Korea are part of vocal groups, we can’t forget others who take a different path to find fans throughout the world. J.Fla has been releasing music for the last eight years but became established as a covers artist on You Tube.

About the record:  There’s always more to a singer than covers, if they want it to be, and clearly J.Fla has both the songwriting chops and vocal talents in “Moon Eater” to break away from that mold. The song is about seizing what may be unattainable to others and making it your own, and she uses the blue moon imagery to represent both the target and her passion. She’s also done a great job at producing this alternative pop track and creating an inviting and interesting vibe.

Other comments: “Moon Eater” is also the title track of J.Fla’s new six-song EP.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week  is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online. 

It’s UK rock sensation Yungblud with “Zombie” (recorded at Hansa Studios)

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, including those mentioned above. It debuts Saturdays on Russ Horton’s Top 40 Timeline on UK National Radio at 1pm EST.

“Help Is On Its Way” by Australia’s Little River Band was its North American Top 20 breakthrough in 1978

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

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

It’s Aerosmith and Yungblud’s follow up collaboration to their MTV VMA’s appearance, “My Only Angel”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and is anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter also has a new show on Fridays at 8pm EST called “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it also includes the New Music Pick.

It’s the moving electronic track “Bigger Than All of Us” by Above & Beyond with Justine Suissa

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show  (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays) where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Tuesdays after 7pm EST.  The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

Traveling Wilburys – Handle With Care
George Harrison – Got My Mind Set On You
INXS – Need You Tonight
George Michael – Father Figure
Terence Trent D’Arby – Wishing Well

BILLCS TOP 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2007

When I saw this chart, I found it so hard to believe these songs are now 18 years old. Timbaland’s music was everywhere from his new album Shock Value, after having success with Justin Timberlake the year before, introducing us to One Republic. Canada’s Marianas Trench were breaking out across Canada, 19 year old Rihanna had two new entries, and a favourite movie was the remake of “Hairspray”!

01 01 THE WAY I ARE Timbaland featuring Keri Hilson, D.O.E. & Sebastian
03 02 THE FEAR YOU WON’T FALL Joshua Radin
04 03 MAKE ME BETTER Fabolous featuring Ne-Yo
10 04 APOLOGIZE Timbaland featuring One Republic
05 05 SHAKETRAMP Marianas Trench
07 06 STRONGER Kanye West featuring Daft Punk
02 07 TEARS DRY ON THEIR OWN Amy Winehouse
09 08 ON THE VERGE OF SOMETHING WONDERFUL Darren Hayes
13 09 LAST TIME George
12 10 WAKE UP CALL Maroon 5
06 11 STEP INTO THE LIGHT Darren Hayes
14 12 LOVE IS GONE David Guetta featuring Chris Willis
08 13 UGLY IS BEAUTIFUL David Usher
16 14 YOU CAN’T STOP THE BEAT Cast Of ‘Hairspray’
17 15 BREAKAWAY (Chris Fraser main mix) Inaya Day
20 16 LE DISKO Shiny Toy Guns
22 17 DON’T WANNA dbClifford
25 18 ROLLERCOASTER Major Maker
15 19 RELAX (TAKE IT EASY) Mika
26 20 SOMEBODY’S ME Enrique Iglesias
18 21 TULSA Rufus Wainwright
19 22 I FELL IN LOVE WITH THE DJ Chenelle featuring Baby Cham
New 23 SEVEN DAY FOOL Jully Black
New 24 DON’T STOP THE MUSIC Rihanna
21 25 YESTERDAY MAN Roz Bell
New 26 HATE THAT I LOVE YOU Rihanna featuring Ne-Yo
New 27 ALL I EVER WANTED Brian Melo
New 28 NYC BEAT Armand Van Helden
23 29 LEAVING FOR PARIS NO. 2 Rufus Wainwright
24 30 BREAK MY FALL Tiesto featuring BT

I feel it coming… Autumn concerts are in store for me over the next four weeks, with stops in my city by pop duo Fly By Midnight, Sam Fender, David Archuleta, and Andy Bell of Erasure (featured in today’s Report), and who knows who else! The Report also features a previously unreleased song that I heard in concert last November.

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week and last, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers has this week’s Classic Five, which this time span the early-to-mid 80’s. If you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30.

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

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

ALEXANDER STEWART, LAUREN SPENCER SMITH, “Friends Don’t”

About the artists: Alexander Stewart is the Toronto-born singer/songwriter who has released two albums to date and whose hits include “His Problem Instead” (which reached #2 on the BILLCS Top 30) and “Blame’s On Me”. Lauren Spencer Smith hails from Nanaimo, British Columbia and has also released two albums, most recently The Art of Being a Mess. Her singles “Fingers Crossed” (Top 10 in North America) and “Flowers” were hits globally in 2022.

About the record: I’m so glad “Friends Don’t” has been released. I first heard it at Alexander’s Toronto concert in November 2024, and the song left a huge lump in my stomach that would normally be in my throat. It was an affecting performance, and has been given new life as a duet with Lauren. Both voices are showcased beautifully and are extremely complimentary to each other in what is essentially a piano ballad. When I first listened to it, the lump went back into my stomach… a good sign that it will be one of my favourites during the rest of 2025!

Other comments: “Friends Don’t” will appear on Alexander’s forthcoming third album called What If.

ANDY BELL, “Dance For Mercy” (Vince Clarke remix)

About the artist: Cambridgeshire, England born Andy Bell is the vocalist of Erasure and released his first solo album in 15 years, Ten Crowns, last Spring.

About the record: “Dance For Mercy”, one of the most ebullient dance tracks on Ten Crowns, gets a different kind of remix by Andy’s Erasure partner-in-crime, the illustrious synth pop wizard Vince Clarke. What Vince goes for, in an arrangement highlighted by acoustic guitar and bigger drum/percussion sounds, is the drama often associated with an Erasure release. It’s an alternate mix that I like a touch more than the album version, suiting Andy’s vocal well with its moody, theatrical changes.

Other comments: I doubt whether the remix would be showcased in a live setting, but I’ll be seeing Andy Bell in concert in Toronto on October 21 at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. I look forward to hearing songs from Ten Crowns as well as from his extensive Erasure discography! The first time I saw Erasure perform was in 1986; the last time was in 2014, one of my most favourite concerts!

CREIGHTON DOANE, “Need a Friend”

About the artist: Creighton Doane is a Toronto-based musician/songwriter/producer who is also the drummer in the rock and Harem Scarem. Last Spring, his feel-good, summery single “Better Believe It” was his first new solo work in about 15 years.

About the record: “Need a Friend” is a worthy follow-up to “Better Believe It”, albeit a more gentle kind of pop track. Creighton says, ““In the age of connection it’s easy to feel disconnected”. The song captures a turning point about being left out and lonely which can change through the simple kindness of others. Creighton handles keyboards and drums, while fellow Harem Scarem member Pete Lesperance lends splendid guitar work, augmented by the bass playing of Pat Kilbride.

Other comments: Creighton’s new era is off to a terrific start with two cool radio-worthy singles so be sure to check them out.

SYDNEY JO JACKSON, DREY HENUK, “Good At goodbye”

About the artists: Sydney Jo Jackson is a Birmingham-born, London-based soul singer/songwriter with a powerful voice who has also been featured on a number of dance music releases. Newcomer Drey Henuk hails from Indonesia, and the artists met while vacationing in Bali.

About the record: “Good At goodbye” is a classic, almost torchy, R&B ballad that is all about the performance. And the artists are indeed both stunning in this collaboration written by Sydney. She has a wide-ranging voice with amazing restraint and the song provides her a great showcase for it all. Drey Hanuk has a grittiness in his voice that offset’s Sydney’s alternately crisp and husky tones, and he is a great choice to flesh out the song, which provides additional dimension in its story about two people deeply in a love that is too toxic for each other. While ballads like this aren’t terribly front and centre these days, there is no denying that “Good At goodbye” is simply gorgeous.

Other comments: Look for Sydney’s EP No Fixed Abode later this year.

THE SUN HARMONIC, “Glory Days”

About the artist:  The Sun Harmonic is a three piece Canadian rock band consisting of vocalist/guitarist Kaleb Hikele, drummer Dave Skrtich, and bassist Ian McLennan. With six albums to date, and The Sun Harmonic was originally a solo project for Kaleb until 2023.

About the record: Recorded live off the floor, “Glory Days” is a gripping, slice-of-life rock anthem that weighs in about both successes and struggles in life, now or in the past. It has everything an underdog indie rock track needs – great melody, tight musicianship, solid production (by Brian Moncarz) and a gripping vocal. All of these stand-out traits make it an ideal choice for rock, alternative and college radio stations.

Other comments: The Sun Harmonic’s seventh album is due later this year. The group is also performing in concert throughout Ontario in just about every major destination, including Waterloo, Windsor, Ottawa, Toronto, and Hamilton.

NATALIE SHAY, “Do u relate?”

About the artist: Natalie Shay is a London-based pop artist whose musical path has also flirted with country styles and dance music collaborations, but it’s her solo work that I’ve written about several times over the last six years. Natalie has recently supported Shania Twain, Saint Motel and Gavin DeGraw on their UK tours.

About the record: “Do u relate?” falls into the uptempo bop category that disguises that it’s a bittersweet, reflective love song about the uncertainty of taking the next steps when one is ready for a potential relationship. Those are certainly moments that most people go through, often unsuccessfully, and the song is sweatered with a giddy, confident, full band energy and deft melody which give it a big lift. “Do u relate?” will appeal to fans of Taylor Swift, Demi Lovato, and Gracie Abrams.

Other comments: After the release of her EP Champagne in 2024, “Do u relate?” goes down another pop path for Natalie which should find more fans.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week  is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online. 

DJ Martinee – producer Lewis Martinee – teams up with Canadian disco star France Joli for “My Everlasting Love”

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

My Retro Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, including those mentioned above. It debuts Saturdays on Russ Horton’s Top 40 Timeline on UK National Radio at 1pm EST.

A fresh batch of new retro picks begins next week!!

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

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

It’s “Slow and Easy” by rockers Rome featuring Dirty Heads

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and is anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter also has a new show on Fridays at 8pm EST called “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it also includes the New Music Pick.

It’s Irish singer and former X-Factor contestant Janet Devlin with “Candy”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show  (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays) where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Tuesdays after 7pm EST.  The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

Tears For Fears – Pale Shelter (1983)
Phil Collins – Sussudio (1985)
Bob Seger – American Storm (1986)
Steve Winwood – Higher Love (1986)
Fleetwood Mac – Big Love (1987)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

sombr’s “12 to 12” continues at the top of the BILLCS Top 30

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

It’s Above & Beyond and Justine Suissa with the worldly “Bigger Than All Of Us” climbing 24-16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Celebration

Satisfy

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

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

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

Check out information about my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS after the chart commentary below as they are directly tied in with this blog.  As most of you know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded. The Big 20 and the picks of the week are happily being syndicated and you can find the current schedule for all at the bottom of the home page of this blog.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Halton Hills Radio Online

Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs.  The show also repeats on Saturday evening at 6 pm EST. 

My New Music Pick of the Week debuts each week on The Big 20. It airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking at the following link: Schedule. 

On Saturdays and Sundays from 8pm to Midnight EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix”, four hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

My Retro Pick of the Week airs each week on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline”, Saturdays at 4pm EST. You can view its schedule by going to the lower right corner of the home page of this blog. New episodes are coming soon!

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada 

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my Retro Pick of the Week on the live online radio show “The 3D Variety Show”, powered by www.xstreamrockradio.com with “The Musicman” James Rogers. I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments.  The show repeats on Alberta’s www.katpowerhit.ca on Wednesdays at 6pm EST. 

Party Dog Radio  

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

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! Schedules are updated regularly.

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

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week and last, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers has this week’s Classic Five, which focuses on the diverse talents of five female vocalists who created dance music in the 70’s and 80’s. You’ll also find out what songs were in the Top 5 of the BILLCS Top 30 5-10-15-20-25 years ago!

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

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

GREYSON CHANCE, “Summertrain ’25”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FELIX CARTAL, REO CRAGUN, “Summer Rain”

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

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

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

ALEX SAMPSON, “There She Goes”

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

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

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

DLG., “I Just Want You”

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

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

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

THE WHAT FOUR, “Quarter to Midnight”

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

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

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

HISSTERIA, “RUDEBOI”

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

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

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

BLACK DAHLIA, “On The Run”

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

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

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

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week  is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online. 

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

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

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

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

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and is anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter also has a new show on Fridays at 8pm EST called “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it also includes the New Music Pick.

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

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show  (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays) where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Tuesdays after 7pm EST.  The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

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

THE BILLCS TOP 30 – 5-10-15-20-25…

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

2020

01  HEAD & HEART, Joel Corry, MNEK

02  WHAT I DESERVE, Victor Perry

03  DANCING NEXT TO ME, Greyson Chance

04  UNDO MY HEART, Karen Harding, Digital Farm Animals

05  BAD DECISIONS, Francesco Yates

2015

01  SHINE, Years & Years

02  I WANNA BE (FREE), Brandyn Burnette

03  KISS ME QUICK, Nathan Sykes

04  SHOW ME THE WAY, Penguin Prison

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

2010

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

02  CROSSFIRE, Brandon Flowers

03  HEAD OVER HEELS, Bim

04  A NEW WORD TO SAY, Bright Light Bright Light

05  FRICTION (Ricardo Autobahn edit), Adam Tyler

2005

01  THE WORLD IS MINE, David Guetta, JD Davis

02  END OF TIME, The Bitch Hotel

03  THIS IS HOW A HEART BREAKS, Rob Thomas

04  YOU’RE BEAUTIFUL, James Blunt

05  WAKE ME UP WHEN SEPTEMBER ENDS, Green Day

2000

01  LET ME KNOW, Jake

02  NO MORE, Ruff Endz

03  BETTER LIFE, 3 Doors Down

04  BANG BANG BOOM, The Moffatts

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

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

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week and last, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers has this week’s Classic Five, a group of songs which includes three from 1968 that you may not have heard in a while. If you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30.

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

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

DJ MARTINEE, FRANCE JOLI, “My Everlasting Love”

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

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

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

N i G H T S, “Addicted”

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

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

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

MEDII, “IDNU”

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

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

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

THE BROS. LANDRETH, “I’ll Drive”

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

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

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

MADELLINE, “Happy As Hell”

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

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

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

NOELLE HARLOW, PETE CHO, “xo”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEXXI RAINE, “Nothing (Acceptance)”

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

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

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

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week  is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online. 

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

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

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

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

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

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and is anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter also has a new show on Fridays at 8pm EST called “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it also includes the New Music Pick.

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

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show  (6 – 9pm EST Tuesdays) where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week on Tuesdays after 7pm EST.  The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

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

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

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

 

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

Check out information about my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS after the chart commentary below as they are directly tied in with this blog.  As most of you know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded. The Big 20 and the picks of the week are happily being syndicated and you can find the current schedule for all at the bottom of the home page of this blog.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Halton Hills Radio Online

Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs.  The show also repeats on Saturday evening at 6 pm EST. 

My New Music Pick of the Week debuts each week on The Big 20. It airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking at the following link: Schedule. 

On Saturdays and Sundays from 8pm to Midnight EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix”, four hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

My Retro Pick of the Week airs each week on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline”, Saturdays at 4pm EST. You can view its schedule by going to the lower right corner of the home page of this blog. New episodes are coming soon!

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada 

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my Retro Pick of the Week on the live online radio show “The 3D Variety Show”, powered by www.xstreamrockradio.com with “The Musicman” James Rogers. I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments.  The show repeats on Alberta’s www.katpowerhit.ca on Wednesdays at 6pm EST. 

Party Dog Radio  

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

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! Schedules are updated regularly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week and last, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers has this week’s Classic Five, a set of rockers which all come from the early 70’s. Since the Report didn’t publish last week, I’ll have my picks of the week from both last week and this week, and the #1 song and Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30. You’ll also find out what songs were #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 in this week over the last 27 years!

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

JAMIE WOON, “When”

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

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

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

CHANCE PEÑA, “West of Ohio”

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

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

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

BEN DENNY MO, “In The Breakdown”

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

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

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

ANIQO, “The Call”

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

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

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

JORDAN ANTHONY, “Reckless”

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

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

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

SAM HARDING, “Wildflower”

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

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

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

KENTON, “Gift of Loneliness”

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

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

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

VINNY MARCHI, “The Let Go”

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

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

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

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week  is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online. 

This week’s pick:

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

Last week’s pick:

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

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

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

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

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and is anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter also has a new show on Fridays at 8pm EST called “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it also includes the New Music Pick.

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

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show , where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week.  The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

The Guess Who – Albert Flasher (1971)
Lighthouse – One Fine Morning (1971)
The Doors – Riders On The Storm (1971)
Bachman Turner Overdrive – Let It Ride (1974)
Paul McCartney – Maybe I’m Amazed (1970)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

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

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

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

27 YEARS OF BILLCS TOP 30 #1’s

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

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

2023  ALESSO, “Without You”

2022  HARRY STYLES, “Daydreaming”

2021  DARIN, “Can’t Stay Away”

2020  JOEL CORRY, MNEK, “Head & Heart”

2019  KAZAKY, GASPAR, “Push”

2018  THE HIM, PARSON JAMES, “Broken Love”

2017  BRIGHT LIGHT BRIGHT LIGHT, “New York Pretty”

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

2015  YEARS & YEARS, “Shine”

2014  BRIGHT LIGHT BRIGHT LIGHT, “I Believe”

2013  KADEN, “Black Light” (Stormby mix)

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

2011   DATABOY, “Just Once”

2010  BRANDON FLOWERS, “Crossfire”

2009  DAN BLACK, “Symphonies”

2008  JON MCLAUGHLIN, “Beating My Heart”

2007  AMY WINEHOUSE, “Tears Dry On Their Own”

2006  JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE, “SexyBack”

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

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

2003  BT, “Simply Being Loved (Somnambulist)”

2002  DARREN HAYES, “Crush (1980 ME)”

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

2000  JAKE, “Let Me Know”

1999  SANTANA, ROB THOMAS, “Smooth”

1998  RUFUS WAINWRIGHT, “Foolish Love”

 

 

 

 

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

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

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

Check out information about my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS after the chart commentary below as they are directly tied in with this blog.  As most of you know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded. The Big 20 and the picks of the week are happily being syndicated and you can find the current schedule for all at the bottom of the home page of this blog.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Halton Hills Radio Online

Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs.  The show also repeats on Saturday evening at 6 pm EST. 

My New Music Pick of the Week debuts each week on The Big 20. It airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking at the following link: Schedule. 

On Saturdays and Sundays from 8pm to Midnight EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix”, four hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

My Retro Pick of the Week airs each week on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline”, Saturdays at 4pm EST. You can view its schedule by going to the lower right corner of the home page of this blog.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada 

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my Retro Pick of the Week on the live online radio show “The 3D Variety Show”, powered by www.xstreamrockradio.com with “The Musicman” James Rogers. I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments.  The show repeats on Alberta’s www.katpowerhit.ca on Wednesdays at 6pm EST. 

Party Dog Radio  

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

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! Schedules are updated regularly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week and last, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers has this week’s Classic Five, with choices from 1981 and 1985. Years & Years, Brandon Flowers and Rob Thomas had the #1 songs on the BILLCS Top 30 10, 15, and 20 years ago respectively, which means I have another look at the Top 5 on the BILLCS Top 30 from 5-10-15-20-25 years ago. Enjoy!

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

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

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

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

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

MICHAEL MEDRANO, “Animal”

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

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

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

THE BLOW MONKEYS, “Long Lost Child”

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

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

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

JAY BIRD, “True Love”

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

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

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

RAD CAT, “Lose Control”

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

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

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

MELØ , “Follow You, Follow Me”

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

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

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

EKONOVAH, “Feel The Beat”

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

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

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

THE FLASHCUBES, “The Sweet Spot”

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

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

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

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week  is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online. 

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

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

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

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

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and is anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter also has a new show on Fridays at 8pm EST called “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it also includes the New Music Pick.

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

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show , where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week.  The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

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

THE BILLCS TOP 30 – 5-10-15-20-25…

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

2020

01  RAIN ON ME, Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande

02  NEVER LET ME DOWN, VIZE, Tom Gregory

03  WHAT I DESERVE, Victor Perry

04  DANCING NEXT TO ME, Greyson Chance

05  BAD DECISIONS, Francesco Yates

2015

01  SHINE, Years & Years

02  I WANNA BE (FREE), Brandyn Burnette

03  GUILTY AS SIN, Dan Talevski

04  KISS ME QUICK, Nathan Sykes

05  SHOW ME THE WAY, Penguin Prison

2010

01  CROSSFIRE, Brandon Flowers

02  A NEW WORD TO SAY, Bright Light Bright Light

03  8BIT HEART, Simon Curtis

04  SOMETHING GOOD CAN WORK, Two Door Cinema Club

05  PUMPKIN PIE, Evan Taubenfeld

2005

01  THIS IS HOW A HEART BREAKS, Rob Thomas

02  WORDPLAY, Jason Mraz

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

04  ALL THESE THINGS THAT I’VE DONE, Killers

05  END OF TIME, The Bitch Hotel, Rivaz

2000

01  LET ME KNOW, Jake

02  A SONG FOR THE LOVERS, Richard Ashcroft

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

04  BANG BANG BOOM, The Moffatts

05  THE NEXT EPISODE, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg

 

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

In this edition of the Report, you can also check out my picks of the week from this week and last, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers has this week’s Classic Five, with an assortment of tunes from the early-to-mid 80’s. In case you missed them on Monday, you’ll also find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30!

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

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

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

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

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

LEXIE, “Plane Jane”

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

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

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

TAKIS, “When You Smile”

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

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

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

HarlowBardot, “Wednesday Night” (club radio edit)

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

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

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

PETER FOLDY, “Sunday Afternoon”

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

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

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

BLUE INITIALS, “Aube”

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

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

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

SPLITSVILLE, “I Hate Going to Hutzler’s”

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

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

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

EFA, LACEY, “Wilderness”

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

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

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

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week  is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, and now debuts each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online. 

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

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

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

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

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and is anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. Hunter also has a new show beginning on Fridays at 8pm EST called “Hot Hits with Hunter” on UK station Dodge Radio, and it also includes the New Music Pick.

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

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show (currently on a brief hiatus), where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week.  The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

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

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

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

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

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

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

The retro pick will return at a later date.