#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.

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.

JIMIN, "Like Crazy (English version)"

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.

"Angel, Pt. 2", JVKE, JIMIN, Charlie Puth, Muni Long

Matoma featuring James Droll, "Won't Follow You Home"

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.

James Bay, "Brilliant Still"

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 featuring Rani, "Finally"

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”.

DJ Mirko B, "Sun Freezes Cold"

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.

Cobi, "Telepathic Powers"

Conan Gray, "Never Ending Song"

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.

DLMT, Luis Torres & Rico 56 "Wildfire"

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

Revelries "Down on You"

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

Alesso, "Without You"

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.

Purple Disco Machine & Kungs "Substitution"

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!

Gareth Emery feat. Maria Lynn, "Missing You" (Ben Gold remix)

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

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 – 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"

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.

GATTUSO feat. Jalja, "Out Of My Mind"

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"

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"

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"

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"

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"

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"

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.

Revelries "Down on You"

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.

Kaiser Chiefs, "How 2 Dance"

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.

Catie Turner, "Hyperfixations"

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

“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.

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"

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"

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"

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"

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"

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"

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"

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"

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.

Conan Gray, "Never Ending Song"

“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, "I Will Fall"

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.

B.I. featuring Big Naughty, "Dare To Love"

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

“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.

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, "Like Crazy (English version)"

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

BILLCS Top30 FASTEST RISER

Matoma featuring James Droll, "Won't Follow You Home"

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

#BILLCSTop30 #667 – June 5/23

The new chart is loaded and there are five debuts. There are just so many songs I’m enjoying right now that deserve to be on the chart, so some songs may go up and down the chart faster than usual in the next while. That’s not a bad thing, I just want to give all of the ones that resonate with me their due! This week, songs 8-19 are all on the rise, so there’s a bit of a log jam happening which should shake loose in two weeks.

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

The best places to communicate with me continue to be Twitter @billcs or Instagram @thebillcs or Facebook @BILLCSMusicProjects. Follow this blog using the “Follow” button at the bottom of the home page.

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.JIMIN, "Like Crazy (English version)"

But here we are once again and BTS’ JIMIN scores a second appearance at #1 with the simply stunning “Like Crazy (English version)” (above), certainly one of my faves of ’23 so far. “Like Crazy” is so unlike anything out there right now that it stands out whenever it plays among a bunch of other songs. You may also have caught JIMIN’s appearance on “Angel Pt. 1” from the “Fast X” soundtrack, below, which also features JVKE and Muni Long.

Kodak Black, NLE Choppa, JIMIN, JVKE and Muni Long, "Angel Pt. 1"

Loreen, "Tattoo"

Climbing 4-2 is another worldwide fan favourite, Loreen’s EuroVision winner “Tattoo”. I’m hoping a new Loreen album is in the works.

James Bay, "Brilliant Still"

I’m not sure why Universal hasn’t championed James Bay’s top notch new third album Leap, which another one that fans are running with. The beautiful “Brilliant Still” should be a single and it rises 9-6.

Niko The Kid featuring MAYLYN, "Only One"

New to the Top 10 are “Only One” by Niko The Kid and MAYLYN (12-9, above), a really ear-catching slice of deep house, and “Finally” by Jonas Blue and RANI (16-10, below), a new song revolving around that bassy sample popularized in Gusto’s “Disco’s Revenge”. It’s Jonas Blue’s 6th song to reach the chart’s Top 10.

Jonas Blue featuring Rani, "Finally"

DJ Mirko B, "Sun Freezes Cold"

Climbing 17-11 is the dark and danceable “Sun Freezes Cold” by Italy’s DJ Mirko B, who looks to score a new personal best on my next chart.

Daniel Richter, "Forget You"

I’m pleased to see that “Forget You” by former Eleven Past One singer Daniel Richter (22-17) is bubbling under deservingly at national radio in Canada, with lots of support coming from Quebec radio stations.

Matoma featuring James Droll, "Won't Follow You Home"

The Fastest Riser on the chart is another unique one that’s going to quickly find its way to the upper reaches. Norway’s Matoma is having a fantastic year for dance music and this collaboration with US singer James Droll, “Won’t Follow You Home” rises 25-18.  Watch for Matoma on tour in US cities.

Ben Ellis, "Ed's House"

Also moving up steadily is Welsh singer/songwriter Ben Ellis’ enjoyable pop track “Ed’s House” (above), which jumps 23-19. Ben has also released a follow up about meeting someone with matching tattoos called “Sofia” (below).

Ben Ellis, "Sofia"

Conan Gray, "Never Ending Song"

Making the big splash onto the chart as the Highest Debut is the latest from Conan Gray called “Never Ending Song” at #24. He sounds a lot like Brandon Flowers of The Killers to me, and it’s a fun, new wave-tinged track co-written and co-produced by Max Martin.  It’s Conan’s fourth visit to the chart and follows last year’s #1 “Yours”, which was also my # 7 song of 2022.

Revelries "Down on You"

Emirati dance producers Revelries get their 6th appearance on the chart with their fine recent deep house release “Down On You” at #26, which follows up last year’s #6 “Pulling Me Down”.

Jessie Ware, "Begin Again"

Jessie Ware’s new album That! Feels Good is a must-hear for fans of dance music with sophistication and flair, and it truly sounds like she has found a niche in pop music that fans love. “Begin Again” arrives at #27 and it’s her 13th visit to the chart overall.

Louis Pax, "The Road Back"

Talented Swedish pop/rock trio Louis Pax return with their third chart entry called “The Road Back” at #28. While the band writes melodies that could be taken right out of the 80’s, “The Road Back” often reminds me of early 2000’s rock acts like McFly or Simple Plan. Louis Pax had my #5 song of 2022 with the #1 “Bad Things”.

Francesco Yates, "Thunderbomb"

Rounding out the new entries is Toronto’s Francesco Yates at #29 with “Thunderbomb”, another raucous, guitar riff-laden tune that follows up last year’s #1 “Jimi”, which was also my #8 song of 2022. It’s from Francesco’s new EP called Little Rockstar, and is his 7th visit to the chart.

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

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.

For other details about the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules have been updated.

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. 

 

 

 

 

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – May 31/23 spotlighting new songs by @CashCash @AngieStone #LuisTorres #JakeHuffman

No preliminary commentary or remarks this week, let the new songs speak for themselves! 🙂

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, transporting us back to 1985-86 this week.  You can also find out which songs were #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 over the last 25 years!

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

Cash Cash, "Bleach (Move On)"

CASH CASH, “Bleach (Move On)”

New Jersey dance trio Cash Cash are coming full circle, returning to a vibrant melodic pop/dance style with early 2010’s vibes that also features vocals this time by their own Jean Paul Maklouf. He absolutely kills it on “Bleach (Move On)”, and I hope that means we’ll hear more of his affecting vocal! After considerable success over the last decade, which includes Billboard Hot 100 and dance club play chart smashes and regular residencies in Las Vegas (where I saw them perform last summer), Cash Cash have switched labels and seem to have gotten some of their stylistic freedom back. “Bleach (Move On)” is nothing like what they’ve released recently, and fans of One Republic and Bastille will enjoy it equally as much as dance music fans.

Angie Stone, "Good Man"

ANGIE STONE, “Good Man”

Angie Stone returns with her first album in four years called Love Language and from it we have this new classic slice of R&B, “Good Man”. It’s solid R&B that goes down easy and does not disappoint. Angie’s silky smooth, expressive voice is the gift that she has shared with us in one form or another for many years. She was a member of one of rap’s first female groups, The Sequence, and spent time in the 90’s in groups Vertical Hold and Devox, before singing on one of the seminal R&B albums of the last 25 years, D’Angelo’s Brown Sugar. She finally got to release her own songs solo soon after, on 1999’s amazing Black Diamond, and is probably best known for the R&B and dance music classic “Wish I Didn’t Miss You” from 2002, which coincidentally debuted on my BILLCS Top 30 chart 21 years ago this week. In the intervening years she’s never stopped working, whether it’s recording albums, playing shows, or taking acting lessons. So even though she’s never been away, “Good Man” is a strong welcome back release that should do well at R&B radio next to the latest Lizzo and Alicia Keys songs.

Luis Torres, "Freak Like Me"

LUIS TORRES, “Freak Like Me”

Toronto’s Luis Torres is on a roll after recently collaborating with DLMT and Rico 56 on the wonderful “Wildfire” which recently debuted on the BILLCS Top 30, so it’s no wonder that Tiësto’s Musical Freedom label has grabbed this one for release. “Freak Like Me” is actually a rework of Lee Walker’s 2016 take on DJ Deeon’s 90’s house classic featuring vocals by Katy B. Luis pitches up the vocals and builds a slamming new standout rhythm track around the song’s chorus. “Freak Like Me” should be an instant add for clubs and DJ’s can certainly have fun interpolating any one of the remixes of the Lee Walker take from the likes of Armand van Helden or Sonny Fodera with Luis’ version to create something original for their sets.

Jake Huffman, "Body Talk"

JAKE HUFFMAN, “Body Talk”

Connecticut singer/songwriter Jake Huffman has just released a four song EP called Younger. I’ve already written about previous singles “Martyr” and “Babe” which are included, but “Body Talk” is an entirely different cup of tea from those solid alternative rock flavoured tracks and my favourite track from the EP. “Body Talk” is a bluesy R&B-flavoured rock track that benefits from a gravelly vocal by Jake and some chunky bass sounds (maybe a mix of bass guitar and synths?). It’s got a simple, catchy chorus and an enticing rhythm which are instantly appealing.

FEATURING

TASBA, "Fantasia" (radio edit)

TASBA, “Fantasia” (radio mix)

“Fantasia” is a moody but intriguing slice of instrumental deep house by rising Denver electronic dance producer TASBA (aka Tanya Barrera). I can certainly visualize and sense the excitement of being taken to somewhere dreamy and special, and “Fantasia” has all of the right elements of a progressive electronic production to place yourself there. It’s all about the atmosphere, which is why the beats don’t get too heavy, though it does contain a nice drop (there is also a radio edit of “Fantasia” which you can listen to right here). If you’re in the Denver, Colorado area, you can watch for TASBA in concert and I’m pleased to say that she is performing quite regularly.

Tyler Garrett, "Automatic"

TYLER GARRETT, “Automatic”

L.A. -based singer/songwriter Tyler Garrett continues to release complex electronic songs both lyrically and musically, the latest being “Automatic”. This one is definitely aimed at those who enjoy more progressive songs by the likes of Gareth Emery and Illenium. “Automatic” does a good job at showcasing Tyler’s sharp vocal, even though it’s quite a busy, layered production that would really shine if played over stadium speakers. Repeated listens will help draw you in to the dark, intense vibe of the song.

Mobius Radio, "The More You Know"

MOBIUS RADIO, “The More You Know”

Mobius Radio is a recent project formed by Canadian singer/songwriter/guitarist Dylan Hennessy, which brings you the single “The More You Know”. The song is a part of an upcoming conceptual self-produced release that revolves around music being played on a pirate radio station. The voice other than Dylan’s which you hear in “The More You Know” is long-time Canadian broadcaster Jeff Woods, who has helped Dylan shepherd and shape the new release, and is featured in the video above along with drummer Alex Van Briggle. “The More You Know” is a stalwart rocker that will appeal to fans of late 90’s, early 00’s Canadian rockers like Our Lady Peace, I Mother Earth, Moist and more, with enough edge to attract fans of 00’s bands like Billy Talent, Three Days Grace, and Black Veil Brides. Dylan’s appealing vocal and an interesting message are also highlights of “The More You Know”.

Tisoki & Pauline Herr, "Let You Down"

TISOKI, PAULINE HERR, “Let You Down”

Despite releasing music for most of the last decade, I must admit that I am new to the music of both Tisoki and Pauline Herr, though both are established with electronic music fans. Tisoki (L.A. based British producer Bradley Edwards) has a new EP coming soon called Euphoria, which will also include this new single “Let You Down”, initially recorded as a demo about two years ago. American producer Pauline Herr is popular on the live electronic festival circuit, and this collaboration gels nicely. I’ll call it emo-electronic – it’s carefully crafted, sometimes minimal-sounding electronic music featuring numerous unconventional elements, some of which could be drawn from drum ‘n bass and perhaps even tribal rhythms, as well as a dejected-sounding but empathetic female vocal (which may be Pauline or someone else). Fans of the genre looking for something fresh will be engrossed.

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.

Cobi, "Telepathic Powers"

“Telepathic Powers” is by L.A. based rocker Cobi from his album Love In The Wildwood

“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.

Remo Forrer, "Watergun"

Remo Forrer with Switzerland’s EuroVision 2023 powerful entry “Watergun”

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.

MORGXN, “Beacon”

Nashville-born alt.pop singer MORGXN with ‘Beacon”

“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.

REO Speedwagon – Can’t Fight This Feeling
Bryan Adams – Heaven
John Parr – St. Elmo’s Fire (Man In Motion)
a-ha – Take On Me
Starship – Sara

25 YEARS OF BILLCS TOP 30 #1’s

Songs that rocked my personal chart at this time during the last 25 years.

2022 MERCER Aretha

2021 IDRIS ELBA & INNER CITY featuring STEFFANIE CHRISTI’AN No More Looking Back

2020 PORTER ROBINSON Get Your Wish

2019 M-22 White Lies

2018 MERCER featuring RON CARROLL Satisfy

2017 LOUD LUXURY & RYAN SHEPHERD Fill Me In (Something To Say)

2016 CONNOR PHILLIPS Lost (Young Bombs remix)

2015 COREY NILES featuring ALEX LACASSE Chasing Stars

2014 SAM SMITH Stay With Me

2013 TRAVIS GARLAND Blue Electric Roses

2012 BRIGHT LIGHT BRIGHT LIGHT Waiting For The Feeling

2011 ERIC SAADE Popular

2010 PENGUIN PRISON The Worse It Gets

2009 THE FRAY You Found Me (Lenny B mix)

2008 ESTELLE featuring KANYE WEST American Boy

2007 MAROON 5 Makes Me Wonder

2006 THE FRAY Over My Head (Cable Car)

2005 THE CAESARS Jerk It Out

2004 GEORGE MICHAEL Amazing (Full Intention remix)

2003 EVANCESCENCE featuring PAUL McCOY Bring Me To Life

2002 JIMMY EAT WORLD The Middle

2001 DEPECHE MODE Dream On

2000 MATCHBOX TWENTY Bent

1999 RICKY MARTIN Livin’ La Vida Loca

1998 NEXT Too Close 

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

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

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

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

Morgin Madison & Ryan Lucian, "Stimulate"

MORGIN MADISON, RYAN LUCIAN, “Stimulate”

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

Zac Poor, "Catapult"

ZAC POOR, “Catapult”

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

B. Jones & Rudeejay x Robbie Rosen, "Face Your Fears"

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

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

Airports, "Need U Here"

AIRPORTS, “Need U Here”

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

FEATURING

Famba feat. Olivia Sebastianelli, "40 Days and 40 Nights"

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

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

Mr! Mouray, "Who's Paying Now"

MR! MOURAY, “Who’s Paying Now”

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

Rowan Flack, "Tipsy On The Tongue"

ROWAN FLACK, “Tipsy on the Tongue”

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

 

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.

Matoma featuring James Droll, "Won't Follow You Home"

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

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

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

Florence & The Machine, "Mermaids"

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

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

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

24KGoldn, Kane Brown & G. Herbo, "My City"

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

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

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

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

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

JIMIN, "Like Crazy (English version)"

“Like Crazy” (English version) by JIMIN

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Loreen, "Tattoo"

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

 

#BILLCSTop30 #666 – May 22/23

Because the last chart had six new entries, this new edition has only two, and there is a long lineup of songs right behind them. With EDC Las Vegas, summer EDM festival season is officially on. I’m not a festival goer, so do advocate for an influx of new blood into the lineups. I see so many of the same names for almost every EDM festival, and while I’m happy for some of my favourite performers to be getting those gigs, they leave a lot of fine new talent stranded trying to get to the next level.

REMINDER: As with the BILLCS  New Music Report, I’m now embedding the video link in the artwork for the song or the artist, which hopefully will allow the blog page to load faster and smoothly.  So you now have to click on the photos above the write up to hear the song or watch the video. Let me know how it works for you! I am also using Alt Text where possible to assist readers with visual impairments.

The best places to communicate with me continue to be Twitter @billcs or Instagram @thebillcs or Facebook @BILLCSMusicProjects. Follow this blog using the “Follow” button at the bottom of the home page.

Check out my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS below too as they are increasingly tied in with this blog.  As most of you know by 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.

JIMIN, "Like Crazy (English version)"

The top of the chart changes guard, and that means JIMIN’s gorgeous “Like Crazy” (English version) moves up 2-1.  If you haven’t listened to it carefully, this is about someone getting caught up the possibility of romance in a wild night life and loving it, and hoping that it lasts forever, but feeling empty when it ends. It’s one of my favourite songs of the year. And it could have been a HUGE pop radio hit.

Loreen, "Tattoo"

The Fastest Riser on the chart, coincidentally just post-EuroVision, is my favourite song from that competition, “Tattoo” by Sweden’s Loreen, which soars 14-4.

Surf Mesa featuring Selah Sol - City Of Love

“City of Love” by Surf Mesa featuring Selah Sol climbs 10-5 and is a dance song similar to “Like Crazy”, with its affecting lyrics about feeling lost in a big city after a breakup. 

Greg Oakland featuring Tara Louise - Never Temporary

Climbing 9-6 is a fine one for trance music lovers, “Never Temporary” by NYC producer Greg Oakland and singer/co-writer Tara Louise.

James Bay, "Brilliant Still"

James Bay’s “Brilliant Still” (above) from his album Leap rises 12-9, and Australia-based singer/songwriter St. Humain is right behind with “Memento” (13-10, below) from his EP Metadramatic. Also below, you can check out St. Human’s redux of his recent single “Dial Tones”, which I wrote about a while back, with South Korean singer SOIN.

St Humain, "Memento"

St Humain & SOIN, "Dial Tones"

Jonas Blue featuring Rani, "Finally"

A number of debuts from the last chart make substantial moves. Jonas Blue and RANI’s “Finally” (above) moves up 25-16, while “Give Me Your Soul” by The Disco Fries and Eche Palante climbs 24-18 (below) and Cobi’s “Telepathic Powers” (also below), from his new top notch album Love In The Wildwood, rises 26-20.  You can also check out The Disco Fries’ recent collaboration with LODATO, “Call Me Crazy”, below.

The Disco Fries & Eche Palante, "Give Me Your Soul"

The Disco Fries & LODATO, "Call Me Crazy"

Cobi, "Telepathic Powers"

Matoma featuring James Droll, "Won't Follow You Home"

Following up his song “The Power”, which was his personal best to date on my chart, reaching #3 earlier in the year, Norway’s Matoma teams up with US vocalist James Droll for the stunning, techno-flavoured “Won’t Follow You Home”, which bows as the Highest Debut at #25. It’s Matoma’s 6th visit to the chart.

DLMT, Luis Torres & Rico 56 "Wildfire"

And the Toronto powerhouse dance music trio of DLMT, Luis Torres and Rico 56 arrive on the chart at #27 with their slick deep house collaboration “Wildfire”. DLMT previously got to #11 with Party Shirt with “Goin’ Down” earlier this year. And Luis Torres had a #1 back in 2016 as a part of Dzeko & Torres with Swedish producer Hellberg and an emotional melodic house track, “Care For Me”. The song was a free download at the time and totally blew me away, becoming my #2 favourite of its year. You can still listen to it on Soundcloud and You Tube. It’s not available on streaming platforms or for purchase.

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

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.

For other details about the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules have been updated.

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. 

 

 

 

 

 

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – May 17/23 spotlighting songs by #LouisPax @BensonBoone @Frankmusik @FrancescoYates @Gustaphmusic @ForrerRemo

My current music discoveries, including submissions to the blog, are on overload, which is hardly a bad thing, but it may prevent me from writing about songs that I like that stand out a little less than those that do appear in this weekly report. This week I’ve got 10 songs, with 6 in the spotlight, including two from this past weekend’s highly enjoyable EuroVision contest.

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, featuring songs from 1975.  What was I listening to 20 years ago in the early days of the BILLCS Top 30? You’ll find out below as I flash back to my chart from 2003 – so hard to believe what was number one!

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

Louis Pax, "The Road Back"

LOUIS PAX, “The Road Back”

Hailing from Malmō, Sweden, pop/rock trio Louis Pax return with their own take on 80’s inspired songs with the longing of “The Road Back”. Last year, Louis Pax soared right to #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 with the irresistible pop confection “Bad Things”, which also placed #5 on my year end list, and was followed by a few additional singles, including “Ophelia” which reached #9 on my chart.  “The Road Back” has the band back in tight form with a song about finding your way back to love again after a relationship ended where the other person felt love was “synthetic”. Singer/guitarist Oscar Reingsdahl’s gentle and earnest vocal style continues to score big time, and even though the band draws from a myriad of influences, the sound of Louis Pax is refreshing and commands your attention. Louis Pax’s EP In Case I Don’t See Ya (Part 1) arrives on June 1.Benson Boone, "Coffee Cake"

BENSON BOONE, “Coffee Cake”

Like his previous BILLCS Top 30 chart entries “In The Stars” (which got to #2) and “Before You”, Washington singer/songwriter Benson Boone continues to be a young balladeer of the moment with a number of similarly touching songs on his new EP Pulse. But with uptempo songs like “Coffee Cake”, he showcases more of his other pop side. “Coffee Cake” immediately stands out for its wonderful lyricism which transports you to the various scenes of the song as you can visualize it unfolding. It’s about someone longing for love or companionship but not yet prepared to make his move, preferring to have fleeting company at the local diner while he people-watches. As a good songwriter does, Benson lets you get into his head so he can get into yours, and by doing so lets you know that at some point or another we’ve all those scenes where he takes you in “Coffee Cake”.

Frankmusik, "Doreen"

FRANKMUSIK, “Doreen”

I try to keep up with Frankmusik’s aggressive current one song per month schedule, since his releases are of impeccable quality and document the work of an incredibly talented indie artist who continues to take the time to please his many fans. “Doreen” is certainly one of his better releases, a vibrant electronic pop release with a driving rhythm and a top notch vocal. When songs like “Doreen” leap out from your speakers amidst a lot of other new music, then you know it’s a keeper. Like “Remains” and “The Half Moon Came Up In The Sky”, “Doreen” ranks right up there with some of Frankmusik’s best music from the 2010-2014 era.

Francesco Yates, "Chanel"

FRANCESCO YATES, “Chanel”

Toronto’s Francesco Yates has quickly released a third consecutive single, another punchy rocker called “Chanel”. This one’s a steamier release that includes some lines that are song title pop culture references (“that don’t impress me much” and “livin’ la vida loca” for two). It’s accompanied by a video that showcases Francesco and some young lovelies flirting and teasing before the camera, which is obviously all intended to be leading up to … something (that we don’t get to see of course). As might be expected, there are a few raucous Francesco Yates screams and some dandy guitar riffing. With previous splendid songs like “Jimi” and “Thunderbomb”, I’d recommend not sleeping on whatever album or EP release that Francesco has in the cards for us soon.

Gustaph, "Because of You"

Remo Forrer, "Watergun"

GUSTAPH, “Because Of You”

REMO FORRER, “Watergun”

This year’s EuroVision song contest yielded a number of entertaining performances and some very good song choices, even though, to me, going into it open-minded, the winner ended up obvious – one of my current favourite songs, “Tattoo” by Loreen. Two completely different songs that I was drawn to have held my attention through repeated listens, and they are the 90’s dance-flavoured “Because of You” by Belgium’s Gustaph, and “Watergun” and its touching call for peace and unity by Switzerland’s Remo Forrer.

“Because of You” is a new queer dance anthem whose roots are in the C+C Music Factory and Crystal Waters releases of the 90’s. It’s all about the freedom to love whoever you want, and Gustaph showed off his fine voice and magnetic stage presence on the EuroVision stage. “Because of You” is deserving of international exposure because of its timely lyrics and because Gustaph is simply meant to be performing in front of a wider audience.

“Watergun” is a softer, poignant anti-war song that will resonate with any listener, thanks to the powerful and versatile tones of 21 year old Remo Forrer. Remo previously won the Voice of Switzerland contest in 2020, and clearly has innate talents that led him to EuroVision. I think the more playful and dramatic competition was a little too fierce for “Watergun”, but like Rosa Linn’s “Snap”, which became a worldwide smash after finishing 20th at last year’s contest, if the public hears something they enjoy, then it will take hold of it and run with it. Thanks to Remo’s beautiful performance, “Watergun” is well-deserving of international exposure.

FEATURING

Wingtip, Bre Kennedy, "Down (Exit Song)"

WINGTIP, BRE KENNEDY, “Down (Exit Song)”

“Down (Exit Song)” is a surprising change of pace for Brooklyn-based producer/DJ Wingtip (aka Nick Perloff-Giles), who usually records electronic pop. It’s a charming and unconventional acoustic duet with Nashville-based singer/songwriter Bre Kennedy which documents a relationship … well sort of … between a couple who don’t really know what they want from each other. There seem to be too many obstacles in the way so perhaps the resolution is to “break your heart over breakfast”. The vocals and melody are instantly memorable, so “Down (Exit Song)” is well worth adding to your favourite alternative pop playlist.

Cloverdale, "Lifted"

CLOVERDALE, “Lifted”

Halifax producer/DJ Cloverdale returns with a simmering and bold slice of techno-house called “Lifted”. This is an ideal track for club DJ’s to spin at the height of a busy evening and will be sure to keep dancers on the floor. It’s all about the rhythm and the beat under flashing lights and lasers, with some sliced-and-diced repeated female vocals creating additional intensity. Cloverdale has tailor-made “Lifted” for clubs, and his fellow producers and DJ’s should not hesitate to add this one into their mixes.

AMNES, "Otaku"

AMNES, “Otaku”

One thing that electronic and dance music lovers may not realize is that when producers create a full length instrumental track, there is usually a back story behind it. Last month I introduced you to perhaps the most accessible track of Belgian producer AMNES’ new EP Nur called “stamina” featuring L.A. singer artemis orion. The rest of the tracks on Nur are indeed instrumental, but the pervading themes throughout the EP as a back story are reflecting, rebuilding and re-energizing. AMNES apparently spent a long time not interacting with others, and Nur ultimately is about perseverance and being ready to put on your A-game. “Otaku” was previously released as a single and is a future bass-inspired progressive house track which club DJ’s would enjoy when bridging a set between mid-tempo and faster mixes. AMNES is one of the most creative new producers on the scene, which you can also hear in his recent remix of San Holo’s “Don’t Look Down”.

Honey Gentry, "Under Taurus"

HONEY GENTRY, “Under Taurus”

“Under Taurus” is an electronic pop ballad about growing into adulthood and developing your own ideals and path, instead of choosing to follow what others want you to do. Honey Gentry is a new UK-based singer/songwriter with an EP, Different Water, arriving on May 23. “Under Taurus” is quiet, deliberate and ambitious – its middle section may be a touch too slow – and Honey’s pristine, angelic voice provides an interesting contrast to her song in similar ways to Lana Del Rey and Tori Amos in their songs. So “Under Taurus” is clearly directed at the thinkers among us, particularly those who prefer to act on their thoughts regardless of what others may think, say or 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 more than 20 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

Jonas Blue featuring Rani, "Finally"

With its infectious (if borrowed) hook, “Finally” by Jonas Blue featuring RANI is a whole lotta fun!

“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.

Jesse Clegg, "Called To Hear Your Voice"

“Called To Hear Your Voice” by Jesse Clegg, the son of the late and legendary Johnny Clegg

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.

Vinny Marchi, "Soldier, Poet, King"

“Soldier, Poet, King” is a contemporary folk/pop tale by NYC’s Vinny Marchi

“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.

Doobie Brothers – Black Water
LaBelle – Lady Marmalade
Hamilton, Joe Frank & Reynolds – Fallin’ In Love
David Bowie – Fame
Silver Convention – Fly Robin Fly

BILLCS Top 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2003

In this chart, you’ll see that I charted Mis-Teeq’s “Scandalous” a year before its North American release. Such were the days before You Tube and streaming! You can see where all the songs peaked and how many charts they appeared on in the BILLCS Top 30 Archive.

08 01 BRING ME TO LIFE Evanescence featuring Paul McCoy

03 02 CLOCKS Coldplay

01 03 THE REMEDY (I WON’T WORRY) Jason Mraz

NEW 04 YET ANOTHER DAY Armin van Buuren featuring Ray Wilson

05 05 GATES OF MIND Sterbinszky & Tranzident featuring Jewls

02 06 AT THE END iio

06 07 ROCK YOUR BODY Justin Timberlake

23 08 DUST.WAV Perpetuous Dreamer [aka Armin van Buuren]

10 09 DREAMS DJ Icey

11 10 MUNDIAN TO BACH KE (Beware of the Boys) Panjabi MC

04 11 JUST THE WAY I’M FEELING Feeder

15 12 SCANDALOUS Mis-Teeq

18 13 GET BUSY Sean Paul

07 14 GIVE YOU LOVE Original 3

29 15 MAKE LUV Room 5 featuring Oliver Cheatham

19 16 LOSING GRIP Avril Lavigne

17 17 AMERICAN LIFE (Felix Da Housecat remix) Madonna

21 18 PEACEKEEPER Fleetwood Mac

22 19 HEAVEN Live

09 20 VENUS (MEANT TO BE YOUR LOVER) Cor Fijneman featuring Jan Johnston

NEW 21 IN DA CLUB Beyoncé

28 22 LIKE A STONE Audioslave

13 23 BEAUTIFUL Snoop Dogg featuring Pharrell Williams and Uncle Charlie Wilson

NEW 24 WHERE IS THE LOVE Black Eyed Peas featuring Justin Timberlake

14 25 BREATHE (remixes) Blu Cantrell featuring Sean Paul

12 26 I DON’T WANNA STOP  ATB

NEW 27 PUMP IT UP Joe Budden

NEW 28 BLINDED (WHEN I SEE YOU) Third Eye Blind

20 29 AM I ON YOUR MIND Oxygen featuring Andrea Britton

NEW 30 MR. BARTENDER (IT’S SO EASY) Sugar Ray

 

 

 

 

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – May 10/23 spotlighting songs by @GarethEmery in a @BenGoldmusic remix, @joegarrattmusic, @ChetPorter & @fknsyd, @Mahalo_dj & Money For Nothing @wearemfn2

Let the new music take control… 🙂

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, which zeroes in on the years 1976-77.  If you missed it you’ll also find out what’s on top of the BILLCS Top 30 as well as the Fastest Riser on the chart.

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

Gareth Emery feat. Maria Lynn, "Missing You" (Ben Gold remix)

GARETH EMERY, MARIA LYNN, “Missing You” (Ben Gold remix)

Something Gareth Emery always does well is to create an emotional ballad that goes over particularly well at his spectacular laser-laden concerts or at festivals. While the original of “Missing You” is half-ballad and half-rave up, British trance producer and remixer Ben Gold revs up the rhythm in the first half, and creates an even more layered, enhanced second half. While leaving Maria Lynn’s tender vocal in tact, Ben’s remix actually cranks up the euphoria level which turns a very good ballad into a heartfelt and fervid anthem. At the end, a big comforting hug is highly recommended.

joegarratt, "uncanny"

joegarratt, “Uncanny”

British electronic alternative pop singer/songwriter joegarratt has an out-of-left-field surprise with “Uncanny”. In the song he zeroes in on the essence of the dream pop sub-genre by creating a song about basking in success while losing sight of what else is important outside of that achievement. The song has a moving, uncharacteristic structure (watch for a false ending along the way), and the melody is moody but rhythmic enough to keep you swaying. joegarratt’s voice at times seems disembodied but still affecting, and I would draw “Uncanny” to the attention of fans of Porter Robinson and James Blake.

Chet Porter feat. fknsyd, "Today Tomorrow Forever"

CHET PORTER, fknsyd, “Today Tomorrow Forever”

It’s often quite a treat when Canadian progressive electronic whiz Chet Porter drops a new song, and “Today Tomorrow Forever” is his first in about two years. Teaming up with rising electronic star fknsyd (about whom little is known online, though she has already collaborated with the likes of R.L. Grime, Rezz, and Manila Killa), “Today Tomorrow Forever” bursts with energy in a playful mix that uses its effects judiciously. It’s the kind of song that will make your ears perk up and immediately take notice when you hear it at a concert or festival. Experimental and jubilant, if “Today Tomorrow Forever” is a taste of Chet Porter mach-2023, then I can’t wait to hear more.

Mahalo & Money For Nothing, "Everlasting"

MAHALO, MONEY FOR NOTHING, “Everlasting”

L.A.-based dance producer Mahalo teams up with British production duo Money For Nothing for the deep house bliss of “Everlasting”. That uncredited female vocal sounds awfully familiar – perhaps co-writer UK singer Gabrielle Aplin – and it’s the focal point of this banger, particularly all those stunning high notes. There’s definitely a lot of chemistry that went into such a tidy but infectious mix, with some dashes of techno, by all of the players. “Everlasting” should have no problem drumming up support at dance music radio and in clubs.

FEATURING

Kacey Fifield & Nippandab, "Petty"

KACEY FIFIELD, NIPPANDAB, “Petty”

“Petty” is a grower that you shouldn’t sleep on, so make sure that it gets your full attention for a couple of spins. Co-written with mentor and frequent blog visitor Robbie Rosen, and produced by India’s Nippandab (who was also at the control’s for Kacey’s house-flavoured “Toxic” from last summer from her album Between The Lines), “Petty” creates its own lane for Kacey among her songs largely for young adults and teens, and she minces no sentiments in calling out a previous friend/lover for their inconsiderate behaviour and actions. “Petty” is a swift turnaround back to dance music after the recent and more acoustic “Selfish”, and Nippandab navigates the course with rich deep house rhythms and synths.

Julian Cross feat. Afrojack, "All I Need"

JULIAN CROSS, AFROJACK, “All I Need”

“All I Need” is a perfectly agreeable eurohouse track that goes down easy that partners fresh vocalist Julian Cross with the legend who is Afrojack. It’s a fine showcase for Belgian singer Julian, who had his first big break as a teenager a few years ago and has never looked back through his association with the Armada label. And having the opportunity to team up with Afrojack is no mean feat even with that connection. “All I Need” has a bright, and memorable synth hook and a rhythm that doesn’t let up. Julian’s voice totally suits the song, though I wish it would have had an opportunity to soar at points when the melody does just that, which could have lent it some anthemic qualities. I think more could be brought out in “All I Need” in remixes.

Moonwood, "Curfew"

MOONWOOD, “Curfew”

Australia-based rock quintet Moonwood have a great flair for melody within the genre, which carries relatable stories and particularly cool vocals by singer Jake McCullough. Following up the recent single “Lady In Red”, “Curfew” offers a familiar mix of guitars, bass, drums and keyboards and a classic rock song structure, and it’s all tight and spot on. So if your thing is early 2000s’ rock by Lifehouse, Fuel, Powderfinger and others, Moonwood does a fine job of reigniting that appeal and reshaping that sound for the 2020’s.

Deep Chills & Tilsen, "Goodbye"

DEEP CHILLS, TILSEN, “Goodbye”

“Goodbye” is a warm and touching midtempo melodic house track that ruminates over those times where relationships come to an end. Italian producer Deep Chills reteams with Canadian singer/songwriter Tilsen, who offers up an empathetic vocal in her high range as she relates the feelings after the fact while knowing that there is no other solution. Deep Chills delivers his usual classy arrangement which grasps the various moods within the song at the right times along with providing other subtleties in the background.

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.

The Disco Fries & Eche Palante, "Give Me Your Soul"

The Disco Fries and Eche Palante team up for “Give Me Your Soul”,

which is also the highest debut on the BILLCS Top 30 at #24.

“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.

Go Jo, "Mrs. Hollywood"

“Mrs. Hollywood” by Australia’s Go Jo

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.

henri, "perfect"

“perfect” by Finnish singer henri

“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.

Bay City Rollers – Saturday Night
Four Seasons – December 1963 (Oh What A Night)
Leo Sayer – You Make Me Feel Like Dancing
Daryl Hall & John Oates – Rich Girl
ABBA – Dancing Queen

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Lewis Thompson featuring Clementine Douglas, "Enchanté"

“Enchanté” by Lewis Thompson featuring Clementine Douglas

BILLCS Top30 FASTEST RISER

Niko The Kid featuring MAYLYN, "Only One"

Atlanta dance producer Niko The Kid with vocalist MAYLYN and “Only One” (27-17)

#BILLCSTop30 #665 – May 8/23

It likely only happens once, maybe twice a year, but the new chart features SIX new entries, as some older ones depart. Don’t forget, since the chart is bi-weekly, that the amount of weeks that a song is on the chart is actually double what is listed on the chart itself, which is the column for chart appearances. This chart reminds me of the early days of this chart in the 2000’s, when there were a lot of songs that came and went quickly. Over the years, I’ve found that the more staying power that a song has, the better it will be for it in the face of so many releases these days. As I’ve mentioned before, when I add a song to the chart, the intention is that it has potential to get to the Top 10, and if it doesn’t, well then there is just too much competition at the time. And I love all of the songs that I add to the chart, even though some do wear on me over time.

REMINDER: As with the BILLCS  New Music Report, I’m now embedding the video link in the artwork for the song or the artist, which hopefully will allow the blog page to load faster and smoothly.  So you now have to click on the photos above the write up to hear the song or watch the video. Let me know how it works for you! I am also using Alt Text where possible to assist readers with visual impairments.

The best places to communicate with me continue to be Twitter @billcs or Instagram @thebillcs or Facebook @BILLCSMusicProjects. Follow this blog using the “Follow” button at the bottom of the home page.

Check out my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS below too as they are increasingly tied in with this blog.  As most of you know by 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 top of the chart has settled down a bit but there are several vying for their shot at the top.

Lewis Thompson and Clementine Douglas, though, succeed for another chart as the brilliant 90’s flavoured house track “Enchanté” is on top for a second appearance.

JIMIN, "Like Crazy (English version)"

Rising 5-2 is BTS member JIMIN’s song about being caught up in the wild night life, and that is the English version of “Like Crazy” (above). It’s a beautiful song with a fantastic vocal which I am still hoping radio will play, simply because it’s such a smash.  You can check out the video for the original version of the song below.

JIMIN, "Like Crazy" (official video)

The Boy From The South, "Amazing-Man"

“Amazing-Man”, the whimsical alternative pop song by Spain’s The Boy From The South, keeps climbing and moves up 7-4.

Dabin & Kai Wachi featuring Lo Spirit - Hollow

Dabin and Kai Wachi’s “Hollow”, with an alternately touching and ferocious vocal by Atlanta’s Lø Spirit, rises 6-5, and matches Dabin’s personal best, which was previously with Illenium and Lights with 2021’s “Hearts on Fire”.

Greg Oakland featuring Tara Louise - Never Temporary

Two songs join the Top 10.  Rising NYC trance producer Greg Oakland climbs 12-9 with “Never Temporary” (above) featuring a vocal by co-writer Tara Louise. And Seattle’s Surf Mesa moves up 11-10 with “City of Love” (below) featuring the voice of co-writer Selah Sol.

Surf Mesa featuring Selah Sol - City Of Love

Loreen, "Tattoo"

EuroVision is Saturday May 13 and Sweden and a lot of fans worldwide will be rooting for a second win for Loreen with “Tattoo”, which moves up 19-14.  Loreen won the contest for Sweden in 2012 with “Euphoria”.

Niko The Kid featuring MAYLYN, "Only One"

The Fastest Riser on the chart is the riveting dance track “Only One” by Niko the Kid and MAYLYN, which soars 27-17.

The Disco Fries & Eche Palante, "Give Me Your Soul"

The Highest of six debuts is the collaboration of NYC’s The Disco Fries with Miami’s Eche Palante with “Give Me Your Soul” at #24.  It’s The Disco Fries’ 5th chart entry and is culled from their upcoming album Another World. They went to #1 in early 2021 with “Give It Back” with fellow producers GIIANTS and vocalist Allison Park.

Jonas Blue featuring Rani, "Finally"

Also not new to the chart but back for his 6th entry is British producer Jonas Blue and vocalist RANI with “Finally” at #25. This song takes the hook of Gusto’s “Disco’s Revenge” (which was in turn taken from a 70’s R&B track by Harvey Mason) and builds a new song around it that is just irresistible.  Jonas Blue was last on the chart in early 2022 with “Don’t Wake Me Up” (#5) with Why Don’t We.

Cobi, "Telepathic Powers"

He’s been a frequent visitor to my blog over the years but L.A. based singer/songwriter Cobi makes his first chart appearance since 2016 with the gorgeous “Telepathic Powers” from his upcoming album Love In The Wildwood. Cobi has shifted he sound over the years to embrace bluesy guitar melodies more, and that’s something very few people are doing right now aside from say Steve Lacy and Lenny Kravitz and a few others. He’s just coming off of a tour in France where he opened for Imelda May. His Facebook page is full of live clips where you can get a read on what I’m talking about. Cobi was previously a member of the band Gentleman Hall, who reached the Top 10 on my chart twice in the early 2010’s.

Daniel Richter, "Forget You"

Arriving as an indie solo artist on the chart for the first time is Canadian singer/songwriter Daniel Richter with “Forget You” at #27. Daniel was previously the lead singer of the band Eleven Past One, who reached the Top 10 on my chart with “There’s Nothing Wrong” in early 2015, but are best known for the radio hit “The World Is Ours”. While the lyrics of “Forget You” can be adapted to many different circumstances, if you want to find out the true inspiration of the song, check out Daniel’s socials.

Ben Ellis, "Ed's House"

At #28 is Welsh newcomer Ben Ellis with “Ed’s House”, which is a fun indie romp that uses the song title “Teenage Dirtbag” as a reference point in its catchy chorus.

TELYKast & Georgia Ku, "You Got Me"

And returning to the chart at #29 is L.A. dance production trio TELYKast with singer/songwriter Georgia Ku and “You Got Me”. TELYKast reached #1 on the chart in early 2022 with their massive national dance radio hit “Unbreakable”.

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

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.

For other details about the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules have been updated.

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.