BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – July 27/23 spotlighting songs by @SteveAngello & @thisisWH0 @GATTUSO @SamDickinson Michael Medrano @stachepapi

There were so many songs that came my way over the past few weeks that are heavily influenced or inspired by the original disco music of the 1970’s, that I had to bundle them together for you, in an energy-filled Report this week. What’s been labelled as Nu Disco never really graduated to the big time over the past few years, but the way that some of this year’s producers are incorporating classic disco style in their songs could spark a very happy trend! You need to have lived through it, but disco music created some of the best times of people’s lives, and to be able to feel that again in today’s music is special. Coincidentally, today’s WORDLE game answer was DISCO (but I got it in five tries :P).

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five pop hits feature with some classics from 1979. I also have the list of songs that topped my chart at this time of year since 1998.

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

STEVE ANGELLO, WH0, “What You Need”

Swedish House Mafia’s Steve Angello kicks off his new Size record label with a ferocious start with “What You Need”, in collaboration with masked British producers WH0. The song blends in a lot of contemporary elements with early 90’s eurohouse vibes. There’s a potent uncredited female vocal which sounds like a cross-between Tina Turner and Loleatta Holloway, and some orchestral synths which provide some genuine disco flair. Add a brisk pace and you have a masterful record that by all rights should be a club and festival smash and is totally unexpected, so make sure this one gets your full attention.

GATTÜSO, “Unstoppable”

The latest from New York-based, Israel-born dance producer GATTÜSO (aka Reem Taoz), “Unstoppable” (no relation to the Sia song) is one swirling, energetic firecracker. I’ve been hearing a lot of piano-led house lately and loving it, so it’s no wonder that “Unstoppable” stands out big time among today’s releases. The uncredited male vocal is infectious and affecting, giving the proper drive that the frenetic pace of the song needs. GATTÜSO has been on a splendid roll with recent releases “Out Of My Mind” and “I’ll Be There”, and next up is a collaboration with Laidback Luke.

SAM DICKINSON, “Falling”

UK singer/songwriter Sam Dickinson returns after a few years’ absence during which he evaluated what direction he was going into with his music. His songwriting is always of high calibre, he’s received oodles of praise from Graham Norton, and Sam’s been a regular visitor to this blog since the release of his debut album The Stories That Occurred 10 years ago. Happily, Sam continues in a dance music direction laid by previous singles “Diamond Skin” and “Carefree”, and “Falling” is a disco-flavoured house track with a vibrant synth hook, co-written with Adam Dixon, that would sound great in concert. Sam’s edgy, soulful voice matches perfectly with this genre and the unique sound of “Falling” is ear-catching, making it a good one to start off a club set. Sam’s got much more in store for us and “Falling” comes from his next album, Stories: The Collection, due in the Fall.

MICHAEL MEDRANO, “Disco Sleaze (Raw and Uncut)”

Perhaps when L.A.’s Michael Medrano and his fans gave him the moniker of “disco dad”, they were a touch ahead of the game, given the other disco and retro-flavoured songs that are included in this week’s report. Michael’s been making disco-flavoured songs for the last few years now, so a likeable song from him called “Disco Sleaze” isn’t unexpected. He follows up his recent album LoveSexDrugs with an entertaining and extended redux of one of its tracks, now with the subtitle “raw and uncut”. And “Disco Sleaze” is grittier, dirtier and well-hung 😛 in its new version, which improves immensely on the previous version, which isn’t anywhere near as playful. “Disco Sleaze (Raw and Uncut)” is a winner, so put on your platform shoes or cowboy boots with pride, and get down and boogie or whatever you might do!

FEATURING

DISCO DOM, YUNG BAE, “Be The One”

Disco Dom is another side to France-born, Miami-based producer Dombresky, who made a fast rise from remixes to concert sellouts at the end of the last decade. In the 1970’s there was a lot of great disco music that came out of France, so Disco Dom reaches back into his heritage to put his own spin on it with “Be The One”, the ‘A’ side to his release called Inferno No. 1. And to partner up with Oregon-born Yung Bae, a producer who I saw perform last year in Miami, is simply kismet. Yung Bae (who has another collaboration coming with Nile Rodgers) has a lot of disco up his sleeves too, and the audience last year ate it all up. “Be The One” employs uncredited Gospel-flavoured vocals against a surprisingly traditional disco arrangement that recalls specifically 70’s French acts like Voyage and the late Patrick Juvet. “Be The One” is a lot of fun, if a little on the repetitive side, but the spirit of disco lives on in songs like this.

OLD JIM, VICTOR PERRY, “Beat It”

To get your first question out of the way, yup, this is a cover of Michael Jackson’s classic. And while Italian producer Old Jim fashions a creditable contemporary arrangement for the song, its secret weapon is NYC-based singer Victor Perry, whose voice hasn’t sounded better! I’ve written before how much at times Victor can sound like Michael, and by covering “Beat It” the resemblance continues at its strongest without entirely trying to copy him throughout the song, so still sounding like Victor in the process. But the critical parts of the song where Michael’s voice is needed are impressive and well-represented by Victor. It’s hard to slay a somewhat “untouchable” classic like this and give it new wings but Old Jim and Victor Perry’s take on “Beat It” goes down just fine.

JRDN, “What Do I Got To Do”

The return of the soulful voice of Toronto-based, Halifax-born JRDN has been a welcome surprise so far in 2023 starting with his previous release “Call My Name”. JRDN’s first Canadian successes occurred before The Weeknd arrived on the scene, and songs like “What Do I Got To Do” can easily co-exist next to The Weeknd’s hits on the radio. “What Do” moves along briskly to make you dance, and relies heavily on JRDN’s striking falsetto. I’ve long thought that Canada needs to do a better job with promoting its talented R&B singers who have somehow ended up in the shadow of The Weeknd’s success despite their unique talents. Even before The Weeknd, singers like Melanie Fiona also had to go to the US to get recognized before receiving similar acknowledgement at home. “What Do I Got To Do” has fortunately popped into Canada’s Top 40, so I’m hoping it continues another string of hits for JRDN.

BEN DAVIDSON, “Wow”

It’s a pleasure to be writing about Scotland’s Ben Davidson after a while with his new house-flavoured pop single “Wow”. Continuing a collaboration with producer Dan Scholes, Ben gives one of his best vocals in the anthemic “Wow”. He can sit up in his head voice like some of the best of ’em, and here he delivers a joyous song in “Wow” that is quite the bouncy, memorable bop. I’ll be exceedingly happy if Ben continues to pump out songs like this one.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 30 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

“Blame Brett” is the #1 Canadian alternative radio smash from Toronto quartet The Beaches

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the host of the “Top 40 Timeline” radio program and owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca. You can hear my Retro Pick of the Week every week on the “Top 40 Timeline”!

L.A. based rock trio TV Girl with “Shame”

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

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

Philadelphia producer Sauniks teams up with Arkansas’ Skyline Drive for the electronic ballad “Nightlight”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

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

Supertramp – The Logical Song
Doobie Brothers – What A Fool Believes
Chic – Good Times
The Knack – My Sharona
Eagles – Heartache Tonight

25 YEARS OF BILLCS TOP 30 #1’s

Songs that rocked my personal chart at this time during the last 25 years. Interestingly, 8 of these songs were my #1 songs of their respective years.

2022 DAYDREAMING Harry Styles

2021 SIDEWAYS Illenium, Valerie Broussard and Nurko

2020 RAIN ON ME Lady Gaga & Ariana Grande

2019 GOOD THINGS FALL APART Illenium & Jon Bellion

2018 BROKEN LOVE The Him featuring Parson James

2017 ATTENTION Charlie Puth

2016 SO BAD Brandon Skeie (now Brandon Colbein)

2015 I WANNA BE (FREE) Brandyn Burnette

2014 ELECTRIFY THE NIGHT House Rockerz & Davis Redfield featuring Carl Man

2013 VOCAL Pet Shop Boys

2012 DREAMS ARE GOLD DATABOY

2011 FLESH Simon Curtis

2010 A NEW WORD TO SAY Bright Light Bright Light

2009 MANNEQUIN Noah

2008 AFTER TONIGHT Justin Nozuka

2007 STEP INTO THE LIGHT Darren Hayes

2006 IS IT ANY WONDER Keane

2005 MJB DA MVP Mary J. Blige featuring The Game

2004 SATELLITE Oceanlab featuring Justine Suissa (Oceanlab is Above & Beyond)

2003 AS THE RUSH COMES Motorcycle (aka Gabriel & Dresden)

2002 GOTTA GET THRU THIS (D’n’D radio mix) Daniel Bedingfield

2001 CALIFORNIA Rufus Wainwright

2000 DRIFTWOOD Travis

1999 THE CUP OF LIFE Ricky Martin

1998 EVERYBODY HERE WANTS YOU Jeff Buckley

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – July 19/23 spotlighting new songs by @Grabbitz @Toniiamusic & @officialDuncan @thevoyAJer @DylanConrique & @_AlexanderStew @Whamofficial @AJRidgeley @GeorgeMofficial

The Report is back after a two week absence, which allowed me to vacation commitment-free in NYC, though of course I was often listening to new music at the hotel when I wasn’t out seeing Illenium in concert for the second time, or giving myself the dose of that ‘buzz’ that only The Big Apple can offer. I have nine new songs for your listening pleasure this week, including a spritely remix of a UK 80’s hit that never got the same attention in North America. My absence did create a long list of songs I’m enjoying which sadly will have to be whittled down, but I expect to bring you the best of the lot in the coming weeks.

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five pop hits feature, which this week teleports us back to 1970-71. And in case you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what are the #1 and Fastest Riser songs on the BILLCS Top 30.

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

GRABBITZ, “Hero”

“Hero” is a hard-hitting and memorable progressive electronic release from L.A.-based, Buffalo-raised Grabbitz (aka Nick Chiari), who has recently been on tour opening for Dabin, and of course has collaborated famously with Rezz as well as Wooli, VALORANT, Subtronics, and Robert DeLong. It’s a song that you could associate with an unmade superhero movie, TV show or video game, and its heavy synth rhythm track just begs for accompanying images. What really makes this song stand out are Grabbitz’s verses mid-song, set only to minimal synths – and then there’s this wicked drop! The piano coda is also sublime and fitting. Dance music fans, “Hero” is certain to be one of your new favourites!

TONIIA, DUNCAN, “Broken Heart”

“Broken Heart” is the intriguing collaboration between German progressive electronic producer Toniia (aka Emre Yilmaz) and Denver-born pop/R&B/hip hop vocalist/songwriter Duncan, who at times in his career has worked with Pitbull, Timbaland and Afrojack, among many others. The song recounts those times where a relationship has just ended and the plethora of emotions that are stuck in our heads with no immediate way out. Duncan’s raw, streetwise vocal is really unique – alternately soulful, anguished, and self-loathing – while Toniia’s production is forceful when necessary, but more often is the understanding melody behind the pain of the lyrics. “Broken Heart” has been in the works for a couple of years, and Toniia and Duncan found a way to refine it and make it work even better.

VOYAJER, “Come Around”

Voyajer is talented new American dance producer A.J. Cassarella, and “Come Around” is his debut release. The energy of this track is contagious, which makes it a most pleasing and unexpected summer banger. Voyajer has quality on his mind with his organized and crisp production, with well-placed synths and beats that revolve around a splendid uncredited male vocal. The layers of effects stand out on their own rather than being submerged into a blurry melting pot, and help the vocal really soar. “Come Around” is a crackerjack start for Voyajer and I can’t wait to see where his next releases will take us.

DYLAN CONRIQUE, ALEXANDER STEWART, “Birthday Cake”

Now you might be going, wait a minute, wasn’t “Birthday Cake” released last year? Why yes it was, as a solo track which went viral by Dylan Conrique, the 19 year old San Francisco-area born singer and actress, noted for her role on TV’s “The Rookie”. It’s a gorgeous, tender multi-tissue song, written for a friend after the loss of her mother to cancer, and the addition of Toronto’s Alexander Stewart and his smooth tones to the song really enhances it and gives it another perspective with another voice. This duet is highly deserving of your attention, so don’t sleep on it!

BONUS!

WHAM!, “Club Tropicana” (Balearic Breeze remix)

To celebrate the reissue of their Singles collection on vinyl, “Club Tropicana” by Wham! is given a fresh official remix. It’s an appropriately refreshing, bubbly update of a song that never became a hit in North America, and takes us back to the pre-solo career days of George Michael, when he was writing songs that tapped into the social consciousness of youth of the day. “Club Tropicana” celebrates the good times to which we all look forward, and the majority of Wham!’s early songs hold up well 40 years later. Be sure to check out the “Wham!” documentary on Netflix, which explores George’s friendship with bandmate Andrew Ridgeley, how important they were to each other, and how critical both of them were to the success of Wham!

FEATURING

MOBIUS RADIO, “Can We All”

“Can We All” is another installment in the forthcoming Mobius Radio album project, brought to you and curated by Canadian musician and producer Dylan Hennessy along with input and inspiration from renown broadcaster Jeff Woods. The theme of the project is a pirate radio station, and I’m looking forward to the completed result. “Can We All” is a fine slice of melodic rock that showcases Dylan’s guitar work as well as an instrument called boomwhackers, which are tuned percussion tubes. The Mobius Radio album is due in August as well as a live launch in Toronto.

GRAYTheBand, K-RIZ, “‘Bit Late”

Edmonton’s Gray Ford, under his collective’s name GrayTheBand, is back with another winning track, “‘Bit Late”, from a forthcoming album. Like predecessor “All Done” (also the title of the album), “‘Bit Late” features a potent vocal by Gray that’s the calling card for this kind of soulful slice of pop/rock. Rapper K-Riz, also from Edmonton, is added into the mix with some slick verses midway that remind me of acclaimed Canadian rapper K-Os. All in all, “‘Bit Late” is another highly listenable track whose somewhat retro appeal comes off as fresh and worthy of your consideration in anticipation of the full album.

TISOKI, “Wish You Weren’t Here”

With the release of his new EP Euphoria, I dive deeper into the musical world of Bradley Edwards, otherwise known as Tisoki, after writing up another track on the EP called “Let You Down” (with Pauline Herr) a while back. And the versatility of the songs on Euphoria (with contributions from San Holo and Fabian Mazur, among others) are sure to be the honey to attract fans of all kinds of electronic dance music, though at times it’s quite unconventional. “Wish You Weren’t Here”, co-written with British electronic artist joegarratt – featured not long ago himself in these blog pages with his track “uncanny” – is a head-scratcher at start, a brisk electronic bop with some affecting vocals in the first half of the song which lay the emotional foundation. But the rest of the song draws from drum ‘n bass and is sure to make fans of that sub-genre jump and dance along. “Wish You Weren’t Here” is a grower and might become one of the favourites on the EP for Tisoki fans.

ME ND ADAM, “Best of Me”

“Best of Me” is a gritty new rocker from Austin, Texas duo Me Nd Adam, whose song “Get The Money” I wrote about almost two years ago. Since that time, Vince Winik and Adam Walker have opened for The Killers in concert, thanks to an endorsement from the band on their social media, and “Best of Me” actually emerged from a songwriting session with George Gekas of The Revivalists. While I can see why Killers fans are drawn to the anthemic, no-nonsense style Me Nd Adam puts forth in “Best of Me”, the artist whose sound comes closest to mind on this track is 2010’s alternative faves Passion Pit. “Best of Me” is solid stuff that’s meant for live performances, and is culled from Me Nd Adam’s upcoming album American Drip Pt. II.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 25 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

The infectious and summery banger “Move It (Control My Mind)” is by two Canadians, dance producer Ryan Shepherd and vocalist/songwriter Heather Janssen

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

From the SZNZ: Autumn album, it’s Weezer with “What Happens After You?”

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

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

It’s a snappy dance bop “A Little Bit of Summer” by Nate VanDeusen, Horizon Blue and Michael Hausted

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

The Guess Who – American Woman (1970)
Carpenters – (They Long To Be) Close To You (1970)
The Shocking Blue – Venus (1970)
Edwin Starr – War (1970)
Paul & Linda McCartney – Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey (1971)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Norway’s Matoma grabs #1 this week with “Won’t Follow You Home” with American vocalist James Droll

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

For a second chart in a row, Alesso’s “Without You” is the Fastest Riser, soaring 17-6

#BILLCSTop30 #670 – July 17/23

While I have NYC on my mind from my trip there during the last five days, when I saw Illenium, Reeve Carney, and Andy Suzuki & The Method play shows, as well as a Mets baseball game, I’ve been hashing out a new chart too. Some early summer favourites have had their time, and the Top 10 is all abuzz with activity, so in the coming weeks there will be another big influx of new blood. In the meantime, there’s also a new #1 and three debuts!

My New Music Pick of the Week radio segment has two new radio station adds, while my Retro Pick of the Week has one, and those schedules on my blog’s home page will be updated this week.

Check out my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS below too as they are increasingly tied in with this blog. As most of you know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded.

Norway’s Matoma played a pool party this weekend in NYC, and though I didn’t get to that show, he obtains his first #1 on this chart with Nashville vocalist/songwriter James Droll, “Won’t Follow You Home”. Matoma first charted with “False Alarm” – with vocal by now-huge talent Becky Hill – back in 2016. Matoma already has a newly released fiery follow up to “Follow” called “Don’t Give Up On Me” (with vocalist Sadie Rose Van), below.

Gliding up the chart 9-3 to no surprise is “Never Ending Song” by Conan Gray, which could challenge for #1 as early as in two weeks.

Jonas Blue has his third Top 5 entry on the chart with “Finally” (featuring RANI) climbing 5-4. Only his lovely cover of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” (with Dakota) has gone higher, reaching #3 in 2016.

Cobi’s gorgeous rock ballad “Telepathic Powers” (above) climbs 7-5, and you can check out his latest release, the summery rocker “Good Morning”, below.

The Fastest Riser for the second chart in a row is Alesso’s “Without You”, a throwback to the effervescent arpeggio-laden melodic house tracks of ten years ago, and it soars 17-6, becoming his third Top 10 entry.

The Canadian dance music force of three – DLMT, Luis Torres and Rico 56 – advance 14-7 with “Wildfire”. It’s DLMT and Rico 56’s first time in the Top 10, but Luis Torres’ second after reaching #1 in 2016 “Care For Me” as a part of Dzeko & Torres (with Hellberg).

Emirati dance production duo Revelries grab their fourth Top 10 entry as “Down on You” rises 16-8.

The Disco Fries pick up their fifth Top 10 entry in collaboration with Miami producer Eche Palante as “Give Me Your Soul” (above) climbs 11-9. You can also check out The Disco Fries’ recent collaboration with Ferry Corsten and Leon Stanford called “Love You Loud” below.

And the fourth new Top 10 entry is indie Welsh singer/songwriter Ben Ellis with a throwback to teenage years that we can all relate to called “Ed’s House”, which moves up 13-10.

JIMIN’s “Like Crazy” may have left #1 after 4 appearances at the top (8 weeks), but his collaboration with JVKE, Charlie Puth and Muni Long on “Angel Pt. 2” has liftoff and zips up the chart 24-15.

You may yet see more from Francesco Yates’ Little Rockstar EP arriving on the chart in the coming weeks, but in the meantime the rollicking “Thunderbomb” climbs 21-16.

Arriving as the Highest Debut at #26 is “Move It (Control My Mind)” by Ryan Shepherd featuring vocalist/songwriter Heather Janssen. The pair previously charted with their collaboration “Who’s Gonna Love U”, which reached #6 in 2019. It’s also Ryan’s fifth chart entry.

Following his recent supporting role in TV’s “The Idol”, Troye Sivan has released a fantastic new dance record, “Rush”, in advance of his upcoming album Something To Give Each Other. “Rush” bows at #27 and is his 10th chart entry!

Rounding out the debuts is the infectious Canadian #1 Alternative Chart track “Blame Brett”, the recent single from Juno Award-winning Toronto quartet The Beaches. It’s the gals’ first time on the chart.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs. The show also repeats on Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. EST and Sunday mornings at 2:00 AM EST. You can hear recent episodes of The Big 20 at this link.

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

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

Halton Hills Online

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

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

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my New Music Pick of the Week which debuts every week on “The 3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. A repeat of “The 3D Variety Show” airs on Wednesdays at 7pm EST on Radio GTA. My pick of the week airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Addictive Energy

This is a weekly show hosted by Hunter Wilbur that airs on several online stations but is anchored at Mix88.ca on Saturdays beginning at 8pm EST. You can hear recent episodes of Addictive Energy at this link.

FM 108

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

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules are up-to-date.

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – July 5/23 spotlighting new songs by @ScottHelman @AllanJay101 @HazellHD @itsJudeYork

Summer is in full force in the western world and accordingly several of this week’s picks in the Report are summer-ready. And since I will be away on vacation next week, this will be my last blog post until July 19. I’ll still be listening and will be back with another selection of great new tunes!

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, whose selections sample the 70’s and 80’s. And if you missed them from earlier this week, you’ll find out what are the #1 and Fastest Riser songs on the BILLCS Top 30.

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

SCOTT HELMAN, “every time (drive by)”

When Toronto’s Scott Helman writes a catchy pop song, it’s usually a really great one, as with 2021’s “Pretty”, which got to #11 on the BILLCS Top 30. It’s been three years and a handful of singles since his last album Nonsuch Park (sa), so perhaps “every time (drive by)” is signs of a new album. Regardless, it’s a spiffy tune that reminisces about a past romance in a former neighbourhood. Scott sounds great and continues to be an artist in greater need of public recognition, particularly on his home turf. In July and August, he’s touring in L.A. – so check him out if you’re in the area as he is enjoyable to watch – but hopefully some homegrown shows will get served soon.

ROB MOORE, ALLAN JAY, “Summer of Love”

While there’s absolutely nothing about “Summer of Love” that I would call new or earth-shaking, its mission is extremely satisfying – yes “Summer of Love” is a terrific, fun summer song. It’s brought to us by the collaboration of Florida (of course) dance producer Rob Moore and Scottish vocalist Allan Jay, who I’ve written about before and has dance/pop in his performing blood. The beat is exceedingly familiar, fleshed out by slick synths, a driven vocal, and joyous lyrics. “Summer of Love” is also a perfect queer anthem, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it ends up with syncs on TV drag contests or other entertainment geared for queer audiences. You can also check it out in a variety of remixes including some by Matt Pop and David Noakes.

HAZELL DEAN, “100% Pure Love” (Dean & Ware Lava Lamp mix)

First off, “100% Pure Love” is not yet another cover of Crystal Waters’ classic. Instead, it’s a classic retrotastic original pop/dance release co-written by its singer, veteran British pop/dance queen Hazell Dean. And I must say that Hazell sounds positively fab in this new high energy contemporary disco production, which is guaranteed to either get you on to your feet or at very least rouse your tired spirits. Its inspiration clearly comes from ABBA, Erasure, Stock-Aitken-Waterman and other 80’s and 90’s European favourites that never go out of style. “100% Pure Love” is 100% guilt-free fun for everyone.

JUDE YORK, “All I See Is Him”

This time, Australian singer/songwriter Jude York waves his sparkling pop wand around love in today’s world via the old-fashioned-sounding “All I See Is Him”, which follows up songs such as “Mr. Porcelain” and of course his captivating 2021 Australian EuroVision contender, “I Won’t Need To Dream”. And you’ve just gotta be in love if you can sing your heart out like in this song, which is more of an exquisite tribute to a lover than a ballad. It’s warm and gushy, but most of all it’s endlessly happy, something I love to hear in today’s music because there isn’t enough of it. While Jude has admirably written “All I See Is Him” for the younger queer community (check out this clip), its underlying and most appreciative message is universal.

FEATURING

ANDREW WYATT, “Beyond The Pale”

New York City’s Andrew Wyatt is the Grammy and Academy Award winning songwriter, singer and producer who is also one of the principals in the electronic trio Miike Snow. He returns to recording for himself with “Beyond The Pale”, from his upcoming album It Won’t Feel Like Dying. It’s a crisp slice of alt.pop with a mysterious, quirky melody that compliments the vagueness of the story and lyrics, which appear to be about a breakup and turning your life around after that. You wouldn’t recognize Andrew’s voice from the Miike Snow tracks, he definitely transforms it to give it another identity for his solo work. As far as his other work goes, he’s just produced Dua Lipa’s “Dance The Night” and other songs for the “Barbie” soundtrack, won his Oscar and Grammys for co-writing Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper’s “Shallow” from ‘A Star Is Born”, and has produced a cavalcade of others, notably Liam Gallagher, Miley Cyrus, and Florence & The Machine.

GT_OFICE, ALWZ SNNY, “Every Thought of You”

Miami’s Gt_ofice returns with a song that’s already found favour with national dance radio stations called “Every Thought of You” in collaboration with fellow dance music producer, Maryland’s sunshine-masked ALWZ SNNY. It’s summery ear candy for sure, designed to put a smile on your face. “Every Thought of You” offers a bright uncredited female vocal that goes down easy, as well as relatable lyrics set to a warm melody of shimmering synths that keeps the song’s house rhythms moving along quickly.

DAVID ARCHULETA, “I’m Yours”

David Archuleta will always be an “American Idol” favourite, even if he didn’t win the competition show. And 15 years later, he continues to showcase that fine voice and now releases his songs independently. “I’m Yours” has him singing often in a cool falsetto throughout the memorable chorus, with a softer vocal in the rest of the song, and features a solid melody once again in a festive pop/dance setting like previous releases “Faith in Me” and “Movin'”. David has many dedicated fans, and while they will certainly love this one, which shows how well his songs suit the dance genre, be sure to check it out if you haven’t heard his music in a long time.

VINNY MARCHI, “Cherry Wine”

Vinny Marchi is a talent to watch for, if his rendition of Hozier’s “Cherry Wine” is any indication. Vinny is an opera singer by training and a musical theatre performer, and his softer acoustic countertenor version of “Cherry Wine” (short live clip here) is quite a contrast to Hozier’s original. His cover of The Oh Hellos’ “Soldier Poet King” is also quite enjoyable. He’s quite active on social media – you will want to check out his clips singing “Phantom of the Opera” – Christine’s part! – as well as his interpretation of “Ave Maria”. But he appears to be drawn to the pop world and some of his other originals that he’s released over the past few years show him as a chameleon whose voice can suit any pop genre.

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

JIMIN’s “Like Crazy” (English version) is now four appearances (eight weeks) in at #1!

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 25 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

From “Fast & Furious: The Fast Saga”, it’s “Angel, Pt. 2” by JVKE, JIMIN, Charlie Puth and Muni Long

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

AND

BILLCS Top30 FASTEST RISER

Taking both honours is Alesso’s stunning “Without You”, which soars 26-17 on the BILLCS Top 30!

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

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

Cassadee Pope won season three of “The Voice” and she returns with “People That I Love Leave”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Peter Gabriel – Solsbury Hill (1977)
Icicle Works – Love Is A Wonderful Colour (1984)
Fine Young Cannibals – She Drives Me Crazy (1988)
Dexys Midnight Runners – Come On Eileen (1982)
David Bowie – Let’s Dance (1983)

#BILLCSTop30 #669 – July 3/23

This is one of those weeks when a lot of songs I love are either in holding patterns or are inching their way up my chart. Of course, there are a few requisite big jumps, and four promising debuts round it all out!

It’s gonna take me a long time, if ever, that I tire of JIMIN’s “Like Crazy” (English version), as the song (above) remains at #1 for a 4th appearance (8 weeks), the longest so far for any song this year. To boot, “Angel, Pt. 2” (below) from “Fast & Furious: The Fast Saga”, which includes his contribution alongside great vocals by JVKE, Charlie Puth and Muni Long, is the chart’s Highest Debut at #24. Besides being JIMIN’s 2nd chart entry, it’s JVKE’s 3rd and Charlie’s 6th. And alongside these releases, plus BTS’ “Take Two”, bandmate Jung Kook’s “Still In Love” (also below) – originally released three years ago – has been kickstarted again on streaming platforms, so you never know what will happen!

2023 is a great year for Norway’s Matoma as “Won’t Follow You Home” (with vocalist/songwriter James Droll, below) climbs 3-2 and positions itself to succeed “Like Crazy” at #1, perhaps even in two weeks. It’s Matoma’s highest peaking song to date, surpassing the #3 peak of “The Power” from earlier this year.

Atlanta’s Niko The Kid also gets a personal chart best this week as “Only One” (featuring MAYLYN) climbs 7-6.

Right behind is Cobi’s “Telepathic Powers”, another unique song that’s gonna have long legs with me, and it climbs 9-7. Be sure to check out his top notch album Love In The Wildwood.

New to the Top 10 are: Conan Gray’s “Never Ending Song” (above), which is zipping up the chart 13-9, becoming his third Top 10 entry following last year’s “Memories” and #1 “Yours”; and “Antidote” (below) by Audien & Codeko with vocals by J.T. Roach moves up 11-10.

Two extremely catchy electronic dance songs to keep your eyes on are “Wildfire” (above) by my fellow Canucks DLMT, Luis Torres and Rico 56, climbing 18-14, and Emirati producers Revelries’ “Down On You” (below), which rises 20-16.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is Alesso’s stunning “Without You”, which soars 26-17 and probably won’t be tamed for a few more weeks.

Adam Lambert gets his 6th chart entry with his splendid cover of Sylvester’s “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” in collaboration with UK producer Sigala (aka Bruce Fielder) at #26. It’s Adam’s first chart appearance in over three years, and Sigala’s first entry on the chart.

Washington’s Benson Boone lands on the chart for a third time with the engaging “Coffee Cake” (#28) from his new EP Pulse. It’s a really well-rounded release, with a top notch vocal and a great story. Benson got to #2 on the chart last year with the melt-worthy “In The Stars”.

And at #29 Cash Cash are back on the chart for the first time in two years with “Bleach (Move On)” at #29. This song constitutes a bit of a new, more pop-oriented direction for the trio, who are extremely popular on the dance club circuit and regularly perform in Las Vegas. The vocal by band member Jean Paul Maklouf reminds me a lot of Danny O’Donaghue from The Script except with an electronic backdrop. Don’t sleep on this one! Cash Cash got to #1 in 2021 with “The Feels” featuring newly minted Tony Award winner Alex Newell.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

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

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

Halton Hills Online

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

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

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

Addictive Energy

FM 108

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

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules are up-to-date.

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – June 29/23 spotlighting new songs by @RyShepherdmusic & @HeatherJanssen @projectASTRO_io @AlexSavanin

I heard several instrumentals during the last week, and two are featured in this week’s report. Never underestimate the power of a good instrumental!! You won’t hear ’em on pop radio anymore.

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, whose choices this week sample the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. And I’ll take you back to my BILLCS Top 30 from this week in 2015 – hard to believe it’s 8 years for these songs already!

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

RYAN SHEPHERD, HEATHER JANSSEN, “Move It (Control My Mind)”

“Move It” is going to be one of this summer’s crowd-pleasing dance floor fillers. Once the song gets going it becomes irresistibly fun, and those who enjoy Fisher and Don Diablo will get into “Move It” quickly. The song teams up producer Ryan Shepherd, a regular visitor to this blog, with fellow Canadian, vocalist/songwriter Heather Janssen, whose previous collaboration “Who’s Gonna Love U” was a delight that reached #6 on my BILLCS Top 30 in 2019. Although it doesn’t slam as hard as other dance tracks, the rhythm is the key and “Move It” will help you keep your groove on.

ASTRO, “Runaway”

ASTRO is an electronic dance music collective who released their new album Los Angeles as an NFT earlier this year. It includes contributions from Reo Cragun, Tisoki, Pauline Herr, Mark Johns, Camoufly, and Lost Boy, with TWERL, Daniel Allan and helloworld all behind my featured track “Runaway”. It’s affecting, lyrical future bass-flavoured pop with a solid vocal by whoever is singing it, and ASTRO uses effects judiciously to foster the emotions in the song. Fans of Porter Robinson and Audien will particularly relish the vibe and get the most out of “Runaway”.

ALEX SAVANIN, KIRILL MALAHOV, BRANCHEY, “Strange”

“Strange” is a sophisticated-sounding slice of dance pop brought to you by Russian producer/songwriter Alex Savanin in collaboration with fellow producer and sound engineer Kirill Malahov, and Canadian singer/songwriter Branchey. The song is a co-write by Alex and Branchey, and although you may not have heard of any of these artists before, between them they have years of experience in the worldwide music business. The slick results are proof of this. Alex has written for film and TV and Branchey’s versatile and instantly appealing vocal transcends genres. “Strange” is classy and timeless, and a delightful surprise to add to your favourite pop/dance playlist.

FEATURING

AASH MEHTA, “The Prince”

When Chicago’s Aash Mehta isn’t writing complex and often romantic electronic pop, he can on occasion deliver a fun house bop, and when he does it’s a zinger, witness his 2021 release “Back To You” which got to #5 on the BILLCS Top 30. “The Prince” could easily have been quite the catchy affair just as an instrumental, as Aash uses a male voice to provide a melody without singing words over a swift house rhythm. But he aptly overlays the track with an uncredited soulful female vocalist singing a single line which is repeated, and becomes a second hook and focal point in the song that has lots of sync potential. With all of what’s going on inside, “The Prince” is toe-tapping ear candy that you’ll want to play again and again.

CID, TRUTH x LIES, “Caroline”

New York producers CID and duo Truth x Lies unite for the first time on the clever, rollicking house instrumental “Caroline”. Aside from its brisk pace, what sets “Caroline” apart from other tracks is the piano work, which is upfront and in your face, and as the groove develops you’ll find yourself completely immersed in the piano rhythm. Put it all together with its fast house beats, and you’ll know why house music started with emphasis on piano sounds back in the 80’s in its classic hooks and remixes. So “Caroline” is a fine, if perhaps indirect return to that sound, making it fresh and cool in a different way, in a collaboration that should be repeated.

CLOUDCHORD, “Shaka”

After many recordings of low-fi jazz/pop, Austin’s Cloudchord (aka masterful Emmy Award winning musician/producer Derek VanScoten) returns to dance music after a long absence for the instrumental “Shaka”. It’s actually more of a happy hybrid of both styles, leaning more in the dance vein because of its funky upfront bass playing. “Shaka” is light and refreshing, and will go down just fine on a hot summer day. It would also make superb theme music for a radio program or TV show.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 25 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

It’s Gareth Emery with vocalist Maria Lynn in the Ben Gold remix of “Missing You”

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

“Never Ending Song” by Conan Gray has grown on our own Big Daddy a lot!

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

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

Ed Sheeran teams up with red hot country singer Luke Combs for “Life Goes On”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Smith – Baby It’s You (1969)
49th Parallel – Twilight Woman (1969)
Al Stewart – Year Of The Cat (1977)
Alan Parsons Project – Eye In The Sky (1982)
Moody Blues – I Know You’re Out There Somewhere (1988)

BILLCS Top 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2015

My how time sometimes seems like it flies by! And Francesco Yates, Cobi, and James Bay all have songs on the current BILLCS Top 30!

06 01 I WANNA BE (FREE) Brandyn Burnette
03 02 NO WORDS Erik Hassle
01 03 CHASING STARS Corey Niles Featuring Alex Lacasse
04 04 AERONAUT Parralox
05 05 I’LL BE THERE Chic Featuring Nile Rodgers
08 06 CAN’T DENY MY LOVE Brandon Flowers
07 07 MARVIN GAYE Charlie Puth Featuring Meghan Trainor
12 08 SENSATION Antonio Giacca
19 09 SHINE Years & Years
14 10 GHOST TOWN Adam Lambert
11 11 WE ARE THE NIGHT Steve Grand
17 12 DEJA VU Giorgio Moroder Featuring Sia
15 13 HEY NOW Matt & Kim
20 14 BEAUTY NEVER LIES Bojana Stamenov
16 15 ROADS Lawson
18 16 WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT Smashing Satellites
02 17 NO TALK River Tiber
23 18 GUILTY AS SIN Dan Talevski
25 19 BETTER TO BE LOVED Francesco Yates
26 20 WALKING THROUGH THE FIRE Cobi
24 21 THIS SUMMER’S GONNA HURT LIKE A MOTHER FUCKER Maroon 5
09 22 FEVER Jully Black
10 23 HOLD BACK THE RIVER James Bay
New 24 EAST SIDE BAY Mi Disguise
13 25 STING Eric Saade
New 26 UMA THURMAN Fall Out Boy
21 27 DESIRE Years & Years
22 28 SEE YOU AGAIN Wiz Khalifa Featuring Charlie Puth
New 29 GIRL FROM SWEDEN Eric Saade
27 30 CHAINS Nick Jonas

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – June 21/23 spotlighting new songs by @SophiaFracassi #NicholasCampbell @SmalltownDJs

It’s been a busy week so far, but I still have six new songs for you to check out, four of them by my fellow Canadians!

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, whose choices this week span the 1980’s. In case you missed them, you’ll find out about the #1 song and the Fastest Riser in the latest edition of the BILLCS Top 30.

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

SOPHIA FRACASSI, “Dance with Myself”

Sophia Fracassi is definitely a new Canadian talent to watch, and this Alliston, Ontario born singer/songwriter is still a teen. “Dance with Myself”, which follows up last year’s debut EP Marathon, just oozes joy and confidence. It’s an upbeat anthem about doing things your way and being happy about it, even when others are not. It’s richly produced and vibrant, the kind of song with a story that the pandemic taught us spending many months in isolation, and is a good companion to the recent hit by Frank Walker and Ella Henderson, “I Go Dancing”. Sophia is opening for Amanda Marshall on her current tour, so be sure to arrive early to check out her set.

NICHOLAS CAMPBELL, “I’m Sorry”

While I seldom write about country songs, simply because it’s neither my genre of choice nor am I knowledgeable enough about it to write comfortably, on occasion songs that have crossover potential from some sub-genres of country will catch my attention. “I’m Sorry” is a rockabilly ballad by Peterborough, Ontario native Nicholas Campbell. And while this recording is pretty raw and imperfect, Nicholas has that beautiful aching tone in his voice that has served singers like Jack Scott, Robert Gordon, and Chris Isaak very well over the years. The song is earnest and with a simple, ear-catching melody. But Nicholas’ voice is the star, and we’ll be hearing more from him.

SMALLTOWN DJ’s, “Concorde Groove”

Smalltown DJ’s are the veteran Canadian duo of Mike Grimes and Pete Eves, who are also former nightclub owners and have a refined, classic house sound in “Concorde Groove”, released on A-Trak’s Fool’s Gold label. It’s a brisk and funky instrumental with disco flourishes that could be easily interspersed in a mid-evening club set and will keep dancers on the floor. “Concorde Groove” has an ideal mesh of contemporary and retro sounds. Smalltown DJ’s have played numerous festivals and clubs over the years. “Concorde Groove” dazzles without too many effects and provides a strong emphasis on melody.

FEATURING

JOSH RAMSAY, RIA MAE, “Perfect Mistake”

Josh Ramsay, the Grammy-nominated lead singer/songwriter (and my birthday mate) of Juno Award winners Marianas Trench, released his debut album The Josh Ramsay Show over a year ago. And it’s interesting how time can work in our favour sometimes, but after leading off the album with the rocking first single “Lady Mine” with Chad Kroeger, the third single, the more pop-flavoured “Perfect Mistake” with Juno-nominated Halifax-born singer Ria Mae (who I saw open for Scott Helman in concert a few years back), seems to have the charm and has started breaking at Canadian radio. It’s a solid collaboration, with Josh and Ria’s unique voices blending well, and could reignite interest in the album, which has perhaps underperformed despite the appearances of other popular Canadian performers like Tyler Shaw and Fefe Dobson. A good song is a good song and with Marianas Trench too long absent for almost 5 years from pop radio, Josh’s familiar voice should bolster the appeal of “Perfect Mistake”.

GUZ HARDY & J LUKE, ROBBIE ROSEN, “On My Mind”

“On My Mind” is a slice of deep Eurohouse from Sicilian duo Guz Hardy & J Luke that features the prolific Robbie Rosen on vocals. It’s a darker song than usual for Robbie, which allows him to reach into an affecting, expressive vocal with intriguing post-relationship lyrics where the protagonist just can’t let go of thoughts about a previous lover. Guz Hardy & J Luke have been on the European dance music scene since 2020, but are new to me and their work on “On My Mind” is high calibre – Guz Hardy (Gianluca Guzzardi) is the DJ/producer while J Luke (Gianluca Viglianisi) is the songwriter. “On My Mind” works as a slick collaboration and could easily be repeated.

LOVE & LOGIC, BORN I, “Before I Go”

“Before I Go” is no-nonsense soulful hip-house from NYC’s Love & Logic (Chris Love and AB Logic – you’ll remember the 90’s techno dance smash “The Hitman”) and Washington DC rapper Born I (Ofosu Jones-Quartey). It’s got a familiar, retro sound and will work better in club mixes than some of the more contemporary blends of house and rap. Born I’s smooth flow works compliments the seamless and catchy, funky backdrop created by Love & Logic. “Before I Go” is a sweet surprise so don’t sleep on it!

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 25 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

Retro melodic house for the win with Alesso’s “Without You”

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

Toronto quartet New West with “Those Eyes”

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

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

L.A. electronic dance producer Home By Dawn and Michigan vocalist Hannah Zhao with “Wild”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

George Michael – Faith
Bon Jovi – Livin’ On A Prayer
Bob Seger – Shakedown
Prince – Little Red Corvette
Maxi Priest – Close To You

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

JIMIN’s “Like Crazy” (English version) is #1 for a third appearance!! BTS fans are loving it.

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

It’s two charts in a row for Matoma and James Droll with “Won’t Follow You Home” (18-3)

#BILLCSTop30 #668 – June 19/23

Have you decided on what your summer song of ’23 will be? Or maybe you’re waiting for a release to arrive soon? Last summer I had three songs that continuously had my ears perked up – “Daydreaming” by Harry Styles, “Dusk” by Manila Killa and Lights, and “Superstar” by Darin. This year, one of those songs is definitely my current #1, with at least two others in the running, but I think I’ll have to wait till mid-summer to decide.

Once again it’s “Like Crazy” (English version) by JIMIN (above) which rules my chart, getting a third appearance (sixth week) at #1. There are others making noise on the chart, but “Like Crazy” could continue at the top two weeks from now. What other songs might join it as one of my songs of summer? One that’s not even on the chart that also features JIMIN is “Angel, Pt. 2” in collaboration once again with JVKE and Muni Long from part one, but this time Charlie Puth is on board. And it’s just wonderful! Check it out below.

One of those songs making noise and a contender for a song of summer is “Won’t Follow You Home” by Norwegian producer Matoma and American singer/songwriter James Droll. The song soars 18-3, matching Matoma’s highest peaking song to date, “The Power”, which got to #3 earlier this year. Matoma is indeed having a very good year, making the best music I’ve heard from him to date.

I’m looking forward to seeing his show in my city in August, and James Bay climbs 6-4 with “Brilliant Still” from his third album Leap. It’s his third song to reach the Top 5, following “Pink Lemonade” (#2) and “Chew on My Heart” (#5).

Jonas Blue’s “Finally” (10-6) featuring RANI is another great summery song, thanks to its bass synth hook popularized in the 90’s by Gusto’s “Disco’s Revenge”.

Also new to the Top 10 are songs that are personal chart bests for both artists. DJ Mirko B climbs 11-8 with the deep Eurohouse of “Sun Freezes Cold” (above), while American bluesy rock singer Cobi rises 16-9 with the ear-catching and beautiful “Telepathic Powers” (below) from his album Love In The Wildwood. It’s Mirko’s 2nd Top 10 entry and Cobi’s first, though Cobi’s previous band Gentlemen Hall also got to the Top 10 twice.

Conan Gray’s “Never Ending Song” is another smoking hot song right out of the gate, and zips up the chart 24-13. I’ll be very happy if his next album release contains more uptempo songs like this one.

“Wildfire” is a fun deep house track by my fellow Torontonians DLMT, Luis Torres and Rico 56, and it climbs 23-18.

Emirati dance producers Revelries’ dark deep house track “Down on You” is off to a great start and it rises 26-20.

Leading the trio of new releases is Alesso’s “Without You”, which arrives at #26. It’s Alesso’s fourth visit to this chart with his best showing to date being 2017’s “Falling” (featuring an uncredited vocal by Tove Lo), which peaked at #4. With its sensational and uplifting retro melodic house vibe, I think “Without You” will soon find its way to the Top 10.

Next at #27 is “Substitution” by German Grammy Award winning dance producer Purple Disco Machine – he won last year for remixing Lizzo’s “About Damn Time” – and French dance producer Kungs. It’s Purple Disco Machine’s first visit to the chart, and Kungs makes his second appearance following 2021’s #2 “Never Going Home”. What, you mean I never charted his classic “This Girl” in 2016″? Well, uh, nope – somehow it never resonated with me until long after it peaked, so it missed the chart. Fortunately there aren’t too many like that over the last 25 years!

The last new entry at #28 is the shimmering “Missing You” by Gareth Emery featuring singer Maria Lynn, which sparkles even more in its rousing Ben Gold remix. It’s Gareth’s fourth chart entry, and his now signature song, “You’ll Be OK”, was #1 on this chart exactly three years ago.

View the full BILLCS Top 30 right here! Click on the hyperlink on the song titles to hear the songs or watch the videos!

Listen to the BILLCS Top 30 Songs on Spotify! You can also follow me on Spotify at the following link: BILLCS Top 30 Songs.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

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

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

Halton Hills Online

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

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

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

Addictive Energy

FM 108

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

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules are up-to-date.

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – June 15/23 spotlighting new songs by @JohnnyOrlando & @AliGatie @GATTUSO_music & @Jaljaofficial Tim Young @soundslikeTim @ChetPorter

Every week, I listen to 30-40 new songs for the BILLCS New Music Report and perhaps eventually for my bi-weekly BILLCS Top 30 chart. Some songs may carry over for a few weeks until I make my decision about them. I pay careful attention to the “growers”, because I can’t decide on some songs until after more than two listens. The songs are usually listened to playlist-style, so in a way they are competing with each other for attention, and to determine how well they would be played in a mix of songs. So that’s my weekly strategy to bring you some great new tunes!

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, whose songs are from 1977-78 this week. You’ll also see what songs were in my Top 5 in my BILLCS Top 30 5-10-15-20… years ago feature. There are a few nice surprises on these charts, and in two of those years, Armin van Buuren had the #1 songs!

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

JOHNNY ORLANDO, ALI GATIE, “When I’m Gone”

“When I’m Gone” is a bit of a grower, which is perhaps why Canadian pop radio hasn’t latched onto it as hard as past Johnny Orlando and Ali Gatie releases. But it’s a fine, particularly well-produced song with some familiar bits, and two voices which offset each other nicely. 20 year-old Johnny, a Mississauga, Ontario native, especially sounds super, more soulful than past releases, while Toronto-based Iraqi-Canadian Ali’s voice is instantly recognizable. At times, the melody reminds me of Mario Winans’ early 00’s hit “I Don’t Wanna Know”, but that’s where the comparisons end. Give “When I’m Gone” some time and it may just be one of your new favourites. To me, it’s a song-in-waiting as an international breakout for both artists.

Johnny Orlando plays the 1MX Music Festival at Dockyards in London, England on July 8th.

GATTÜSO, JALJA, “Out Of My Mind”

NYC-based, Israel-born dance producer GATTÜSO is back with some crisp deep house with “Out Of My Mind”, featuring rising British vocalist Jalja, whose voice is finding its way onto a number of dance releases as of late. “Out Of My Mind” is definitely one for the dance clubs, an ideal late night track about those times when you regret making certain decisions. Jalja has a dynamic voice that I’m sure we’ll continue to hear more of, and GATTÜSO offers a lot of fresh synth sounds which set “Out Of My Mind” apart from the rest.

TIM YOUNG, “Lavender”

“Lavender” is an engaging, loud, no-holds-barred track by Grammy-certified NYC singer/songwriter Tim Young (for his work in the film “The Greatest Showman” and the stage play soundtrack for “Dear Evan Hansen”). Despite the song being, as he says “gay AF” because of his own experience with the smell of lavender, many of us have had times in our lives that when someone leaves a relationship, or even a room, their scent is left behind. And that smell also gets stuck in your head and messes with it too. Tim’s vocal is alternately sensitive and wild in a busy but successful arrangement, and ultimately “Lavender” gets snugly under your skin.

CHET PORTER, “222”

Quickly following up the dazzling “Today, Tomorrow, Forever”, Canadian electronic producer Chet Porter brings us the busy and lush “222”. This instrumental is a real soundscape of synths. There’s so much going on here that it takes a few listens before your ears can figure out where they want to focus. “222” is essentially a symphony of sorts unto itself, with all of the synths and effects providing a futuristic overall sound. If a variation of “222” was played on traditional instruments, it would probably be a progressive classical piece, so you’re bound to enjoy its musicality as well as all of the additional sound flourishes that Chet provides.

FEATURING

OSVALDO SUPINO, “Drip Drop”

Following up his recent pop delight “Stuck on This Feeling”, Italy’s Osvaldo Supino continues to preview an upcoming album with the darker house sounds of “Drip Drop”. In it, he muses about being free of many distractions in order to focus on what’s going on and being authentic. “Drip Drop” has a hypnotic rhythm and a vocal by Osvaldo that gently seduces you to surrender to real living. Lucky European and UK fans will have a chance to see talented Osvaldo performing live on a summer tour that begins next month.

XANA, “babyblue”

Following the acoustic “bet you’ll get off on this”, Vancouver singer/songwriter Xana returns with the driving, emotional alt.pop of “babyblue”. Whereas with “get off” Xana channeled singers like Jewel and Brandi Carlile, here it’s a mix of them along with Melissa Etheridge and Alanis Morissette. “babyblue” is a promising track that’s the aural equivalent of pouring through old yearbooks, photos, and journals, and realizing what kind of a life you’ve had so far, but also reminiscing about those who are elsewhere in the world, or even gone from our lives, and wondering if they’re still okay. The vocal effects at the end of the song – reminding me somewhat of Laurie Anderson’s early 80’s songs – represent an outpouring of the mixed emotions of the song, but overall the creativity of “babyblue” leaves you satisfied and smiling.

LEXI MARIAH, “No Worries”

“No Worries” is a fun electronic dance bop that will keep your ears perked up while you pay attention to the relatable lyrics in this original co-written by Connecticut singer Lexi Mariah. It’s a welcome slice of energetic dance pop from this singer, whose voice I have mentioned previously would sound great next to songs by Dua Lipa, Bebe Rexha and others. “No Worries” has dashes of Britney and Miley that will extend the appeal of the song, which is about brushing off your worries without appearing to feel slighted, but masking those feelings deeper inside. Stick with “No Worries” and you’ll be happy you did.

CLAUDIA CAPPELLETTI, “Mine”

Italian singer/songwriter Claudia Cappelletti brings us a powerful new song that speaks to women’s rights in particular called “Mine”. Claudia has a commanding, convincing, almost Broadway-styled voice that exudes passion for her subject. For a lot of women, “Mine” could also be about realizing that you are unique and worthy as a person. But anthemic qualities and direct lyrics that Claudia has created in “Mine” are sure to grab you and make you think, especially of the women around the world who even today have little rights in their own countries because their societies refuse to change, for reasons often pointing at religion. Claudia has had so far only a handful of releases since 2020 and I’m sure we’ll be hearing much more from her.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

Emirati dance duo Revelries are back with “Down on You”

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

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

UK’s The Kaiser Chiefs have released their first new music in 4 years with “How 2 Dance”

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

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

Former American Idol top seven finalist 23 year old Catie Turner with “Hyperfixations”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Cheap Trick – I Want You To Want Me
John Travolta & Olivia Newton John – You’re The One That I Want
Player – Baby Come Back
Fleetwood Mac – Dreams
David Soul – Don’t Give Up On Us

THE BILLCS TOP 30 – 5-10-15-20…

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

2018

01 SATISFY Mercer featuring Ron Carroll

02 EVERYBODY HATES ME The Chainsmokers

03 17 MK

04 BABY I’M A QUEEN Sofi Tukker

05 BUTTERSCOTCH Robotaki featuring Jamie Fine & FALCXNE

2013

01 BLUE ELECTRIC ROSES Travis Garland

02 GET LUCKY Daft Punk featuring Pharrell Williams & Nile Rodgers

03 OUTTA MY MIND Matt Blue

04 VOCAL Pet Shop Boys

05 SOMEBODY TO LOVE ME Eli Escobar featuring Nomi Ruiz

2008

01 GOING WRONG Armin van Buuren featuring Chris Jones

02 AMERICAN BOY Estelle featuring Kanye West

03 MERCY Duffy

04 LET GO Paul Van Dyk featuring Rea Garvey

05 AFTER TONIGHT Justin Nozuka

2003

01 YET ANOTHER DAY Armin van Buuren featuring Ray Wilson

02 BRING ME TO LIFE Evanescence featuring Paul McCoy

03 CLOCKS Coldplay

04 THE REMEDY (I WON’T WORRY) Jason Mraz

05 DUST.WAV Perpetuous Dreamer [aka Armin van Buuren]

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – June 7/23 spotlighting songs by @FrancescoYates @MattDusk Victor Perry @wallflowerperry & @Braatenmusic & @ShaunPmusic @Rithosworld

Let’s hear it for the gents this week. It came to my surprise that some familiar voices who are frequent visitors to this blog, as well as some new ones comprise, my eight song choices in this edition of the BILLCS New Music Report.

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”, which happens to be a new K-Pop delight. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, which zooms in on the 1978-79 pop/new wave era. In case you missed them, I also have the BILLCS Top 30 #1 and the chart’s Fastest Riser.

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

FRANCESCO YATES, “Little Rockstar”

Toronto’s Francesco Yates recently released a new EP called Little Rockstar, which has been preceded by three rollicking singles, “Jimi”, “Thunderbomb” and “Chanel”. Francesco’s mix of pop/rock with his dynamic guitar playing continues to be alluring enough for me to dive deeper into the title track from the EP. “Little Rockstar” has a great melody that’s aided by an infectious ad-libbing style that made big hits like America’s “Horse With No Name” highly memorable. While I’m dating myself with that example, “Little Rockstar” is fresh and fun and well worth investing in the EP beyond its fab singles.

MATT DUSK, “Y2K”

Toronto-based crooner Matt Dusk has switched gears into pop/dance mode for his new release “Y2K”. Though immensely popular for his live shows and interpretations of songs by Frank Sinatra, Chet Baker and many others, pop/dance is not exactly where I would expect to find a new Matt Dusk song, but it works splendidly. I’m also not used to hearing his voice altered by technology, and because “Y2K” is such a warm and inviting song with an emotional side, the effects suit the setting. “Y2K” is about living life to the fullest with someone special, and the allusion of course is to the “end of the world” notion that was attached to the year 1999. Instead, Matt takes a cue from Prince, and with house rhythms in tact, we can all keep dancing happily into the night. If Matt and his team want to take the song further into a clubbier direction, I think it could benefit from some DJ remixes.

VICTOR PERRY, BRAATEN, SHAUN P, “Breathe”

NYC-based singer/songwriter Victor Perry is back with a new pop/dance original, “Breathe”, in collaboration with American producer Shaun P and Norwegian producer Braaten, who has worked with Victor on some of his most successful releases to date including “Losing Myself” and his cover of “Big Jet Plane”. “Breathe” is about being trapped in a relationship that started out promising, but instead led to loneliness. The melody is hopeful and the rhythm is mainly up-tempo, with some nice subtle production touches when the beats stop temporarily and at the end. And as you might anticipate, Victor’s delightful vocal is soulful, vibrant and touching.

RITHO, “Fantasising”

New 23 year old British multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Ritho has a lot happening in a unique way on his new single “Fantasising”. Ritho’s vocal style is the star of the show, sometimes drawing on a playful hip hop style, and at other times in an affecting head voice that gets under your skin, making the song, as its press release states “as infectious as it is vulnerable”. It’s a relatable track that muses about having a relationship and ultimately a life with someone you just got to know, when we get lost in our deepest thoughts. Ritho sees his music as part of the ‘dream pop’ sub-genre and “Fantasising” will certainly draw you in and lift you up.

FEATURING

BIJOU, MAHALO, “The Way We Touch”

Phoenix dance producer Bijou and L.A. dance producer Mahalo join forces for “The Way We Touch”. It’s a tantilyzing, mysterious track that recalls a late ’10’s deep house style that I recall particularly in some Mahalo tracks like “Perfect” and “Go Ahead”. When you don’t hear songs in this style much, it becomes appealing in a throwback kind of way. “The Way We Touch” is dark and bassy, and deep house fans and club DJ’s will enjoy it.

MICHAEL MEDRANO, FUNK LEBLANC, “LSD, Pt 2”

“LSD, Pt 2” follows up L.A.-based singer/songwriter Michael Medrano’s album release LoveSexDrugs, which includes previous single releases “Fluids”, “Naked”, and “Do Your Thing, Babe!”, another collaboration with producer Funk LeBlanc. “LSD, Pt 2” takes a late 70’s, early 80’s lite funky yacht-rock vibe popularized by artists at the time like The Doobie Brothers and Michael adds his own kind of sleaze into the lyrics, music and rhythm, becoming a playful party anthem of sorts. There are a few too many vocal effects – because Michael’s vocals are always worth savoring as is – but “LSD, Pt 2” easily succeeds on its own terms.

MICO, “Bad Note”

He’s already had a Top 40 radio hit in Canada with “Cut My Hair”, and the success for Mico (aka Toronto’s Miguel Veloso) should continue with “Bad Note”. It’s about learning how to deal with the near-end of relationships, despite fighting and other factors that have led there, and taking the high road out instead of dwelling over what went wrong. Mico has a solid, memorable voice and this well-produced release goes down easy like a good pop song should.

JACK & JACK, “Stuttering”

It’s been a while since I had heard something new from social media stars Mssrs Johnson and Gilinsky, but “Stuttering” is infectious and engaging enough to keep Jack & Jack on the pop map. It’s only their third recent release, so I’ll bet they’ve had to serve out the terms of a record contract deal after their 2019 album A Good Friend Is Nice, which contains their smash “Rise” with Jonas Blue. “Stuttering” captures relatable lyrics about those important times when words unfortunately just get in the way. The rhythm is peppy and urgent, and there’s a staccato rap part of “Stuttering” that works well.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

“Never Ending Song” is brand new from Conan Gray

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

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

Pet Shop Boys with “I Will Fall” from their EP Lost

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

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

It’s a K-Pop bop from B.I. featuring Big Naughty, “Dare To Love”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Chris Rea – Fool (If You Think It’s Over)
Chuck Mangione – Feels So Good
Billy Joel – Just The Way You Are
Devo – Whip It
The B-52’s – Rock Lobster

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

JIMIN’s “Like Crazy” (English version) gets a second appearance at #1

BILLCS Top30 FASTEST RISER

Matoma and James Droll with “Won’t Follow You Home” (25-18)