#BILLCSTop30 #655 – December 19/22

This edition of the new chart is my last one for 2022. The next edition will kick off 2023 on January 2, 2022. I’ll have one more edition of the BILLCS New Music Report in two days, but the report will not publish next week as I will be preparing my Top 100 of 2022. I expect to count down the list on Twitter in three parts starting Thursday December 29. The full list will be published on December 31, and that evening an online radio broadcast of my Top 30 of 2022 will happen first on Radio GTA and then on Mix88.ca. So there’s lots more coming to put a wrap on an interesting year in music!

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.  

For the final chart of the year, “Yours” by Conan Gray is locked in at #1 for a second appearance at the top. But also, where will the song finish on my year end list next week?

Both “Golden Hour” by JVKE (above) and “Until I Found You” by Stephen Sanchez (also above) have been bookends making a deliberate pace up the chart. “Golden Hour” however moves 6-3, and “Until I Found You” inches up 5-4, which will also allow them to finish off well on my year end list.  JVKE also has a new song which you shouldn’t miss. It was a surprise for me to f,ind out that “Hero” was recorded with Martin Garrix and it’s definitely turning into a new favourite. Check it out below with its cool animated video.

Charlie Puth’s short but thoughtful “Charlie Be Quiet” moves up 8-5 and becomes his third Top 5 song on this chart. The other two were “Attention” (#1)  and “We Don’t Talk Anymore” (with Selena Gomez, #5).

The top of the chart is heavy with action as Darin’s “Satisfaction” (above) climbs 14-6 and is the Fastest Riser on the chart for a second chart in a row.  His other entry, “What’s The Point” (below), jumps 25-20.

“The Power” is looking to become Matoma’s personal best on the chart. The rollicking sports anthem moves up 10-7, one position behind the peak of his 2016 release “False Alarm” with Becky Hill.

I’ve really had a sweet spot all year for ballads or softer songs recorded by new male singers. You can add Toronto’s Shawn Molko to that list as his lovely “I Will Wait” climbs 11-8.

Continuing to rev up the dance charts is “Lionheart (Fearless)” by Joel Corry and Tom Grennan which rises 13-9.

Toronto duo Crash Adams get their first Top 10 placement on the chart with “Give Me A Kiss”, which jumps 12-10.

Zac Poor’s poignant bop “Ghost Boy” kicks into high gear and moves up 22-16.

The Highest Debut on the chart belongs to Greyson Chance with “Black Mascara” at #25, another stunning track from his Palladium album. His beautiful performance of the song from his December 1 show in Toronto sticks in my memory and compelled me to revisit it, now one of my favourites from the album. As his song “Athena” departs the chart this week after peaking at #6, Greyson continues to have to songs on the chart as “My Dying Spirit” holds at #2.

At #26 is the unanticipated collaboration of dance music legend Armand Van Helden and British house music queen Karen Harding. The song is “Wings (I Won’t Let You Down)”, an Armand release from 2016 built around the refrain of Ph.D.’s 1981 Top 5 UK hit “I Won’t Let You Down”, which has been revamped to include original lyrics and vocals from Karen. Even better, the song keeps the late Jim Diamond’s vocal intact in the chorus. It’s an upbeat song made into something euphoric thanks to the talented team. While “Wings” is Armand’s first appearance under his own name on this chart since 2007 (since he’s also a member of Duck Sauce), it’s also his sixth entry, which includes two #1’s, the house classic and UK #1 “U Don’t Know Me” (with Duane Harden, 1999) and “My My My” (2005). “My My My” in fact is an early example of a dance producer building a new song around an old one, which in that case was Gary Wright’s “Comin’ Apart”. Karen has also worked on other tracks like this, for example ALTÉGO’s “I Wanna Know”, which I wrote about recently, is a similarly styled reboot of CHIC’s “Soup For One”. “Wings” is Karen’s 7th entry on the chart.

The last new entry at #27 is the dance music radio firecracker “Spiral” by NYC’s Lena Leon at #27. This song has quickly moved up into the Top 10 of the national dance music radio charts. It’s well-deserved, with an excellent vocal driving a unique house music release. It’s Lena’s second entry on the chart, her first being earlier this year with Mahalo and Milkwish on “Careless” (#3).

 

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 past 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.

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.

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 20 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here.  You can hear past episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Addictive Energy (currently on hiatus until January)

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 past 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!

 

 

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – December 14/22 spotlighting @Darinofficial @BensonBoone #TASBA @RiverTiber @NiGHTS_official

10 seems to be the magic number for all the new music that can fit into the BILLCS New Music Report every week for you. I guess that I’ve essentially revamped my previous “10/10” feature into a weekly report of the best new songs that I’ve heard in the last few weeks, some of which you’ll be seeing on my personal chart, the BILLCS Top 30, soon too.

You can also read about my pick of the week, along with picks from online radio buddies “Big Daddy” Russ Horton and Hunter Wilbur.  “The Musicman” James Rogers dips back into the 60’s this week with his Classic Five pop hits feature. Plus I include my current BILLCS Top 30 #1 song and 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.

SPOTLIGHTING

DARIN, “Memories”

As regular readers of the blog know, I just can’t get enough of the recent releases from Swedish pop star Darin. He’s followed up the single release of “What’s The Point” with a five song EP, My Purple Clouds, which not only includes previous singles “Can’t Stay Away”, “Superstar” and “Satisfaction” (which is currently rising up the BILLCS Top 30), but two new tracks, “Give You Up” and “Memories”. Both are solid, but “Memories” gets the edge for me because it evokes thoughts of great pop singles of the past, and how much of today’s contemporary music is veering away from classic songs structures and arrangements. “Memories” is particularly 80s/90s inspired, and I love how Darin’s variety of producers are shaping his already excellent voice for his 2020’s era.

BENSON BOONE, “Before You”

2022 has brought us numerous songs from young new talents from Instagram or Tik Tok who show off their softer side quite well – including Stephen Sanchez, JVKE (both currently with songs on my chart), and Washington’s Benson Boone. Following up the 20 year old’s EP Walk Me Home, which includes the still-gorgeous “In The Stars” (which reached #2 on the BILLCS Top 30 earlier this year), Benson brings us the romantic “Before You”. The song’s about stopping time and basking in the moment with that special someone, and trying to remember what life was like before you met. Benson’s passionate performance (check out his live performance above) makes “Before You” extra special and a cut way above the average ballad.

TASBA, “Now”

TASBA is a new electronic dance producer from Denver (aka Tanya Barrera), who can shift seamlessly within sub-genres. A while back I wrote about her debut release, the deeply personal instrumental trance track “Inner Child”, and she returns with the energetic deep house of “Now”. As she told me about the song, visualize if you will “two lovers facing difficulties with expressing their love for each other. So close, yet so far to connecting and letting each other know they feel the same.” “Now” is a lengthy late night house track that will set the mood for your club soirée. With high calibre releases like “Now” (in both radio and extended mixes), we can look forward to much more from TASBA in ’23.

RIVER TIBER, “Not Just Anyone”

Toronto’s River Tiber has been my go-to alternative pop artist during the last decade who never fails to come up with songs that are totally out of the ordinary, and occasionally catches the ear of someone like Drake, who sampled River Tiber’s “No Talk” on one of his albums. River Tiber (aka Tommy Paxton-Beesley) recently dropped his third album Dreaming Eyes (his first indie album is out of print and not on steaming services), which is chock full of such a myriad of influences that it would be hard to name even a handful and sound knowledgeable. He draws upon classical, pop, rock, jazz and avant-garde sounds that alternately challenge and soothe the listener. “Not Just Anyone” is a particularly jazz-inflected track that features a good use of his voice against a backdrop of a fast-paced linear-sounding melody. Much of the album is awash in sounds from different instruments – such as harp, if I’m hearing right – and melodies evocative of other pre-rock eras. Previous singles “Sent From Above” and “Hypnotized” are included. The ultimate test for “Not Just Anyone” and other songs from Dreaming Eyes will be to hear them performed live – the last time I saw River Tiber perform in concert was in 2016.

N i G H T S, “Boyband”

Right away, I want to tell you that “Boyband” isn’t a new release for the prolific Philadelphia-based electronic pop/R&B duo N i G H T S.  But it is one that I seem to have missed, though judging by its streaming numbers, it’s one of their most popular releases to date. “Boyband” has resurfaced in these blog pages because of a new video for what has turned out to be a rather timeless-sounding song. As the two members of N i G H T S continue gradually to reveal themselves from the shadows in it, the video for “Boyband” is also provocative for its minimal black and white style that captures both a cool vibe and attitude that’s a perfect match for the song, which is heavier in hip hop flavours than usual for the guys. So it was a good call to drop this video to reignite interest in “Boyband” four years after its original release, because if it caught my attention then others will also enjoy.

FEATURING

A.J. SMITH, “Naughty”

“Naughty” is about as different a Christmas song that you can get, and it’s brought to you by Nashville-based rising multi-talent A.J. Smith. And different here means joyous, festive and jingling bells, but it also means some suggestive holiday fun for grown-ups. A.J.’s voice really soars, his wordsmithing will make you smile, and as usual his production is impeccable, so when making your holiday playlists, start some new traditions with “Naughty”.

VASSY, BINGO PLAYERS, THE DISCO FRIES, “Pieces”

“Pieces” is a bouncy and vibrant slice of classic 90’s flavoured deep house brought to you by an amazing mix of dance music talent: Australian singer/songwriter VASSY, who has had 7 Billboard dance/club play chart #1’s to date; The Netherlands’ Bingo Players, known for the UK #1 “Get Up (Rattle)”; and NYC’s The Disco Fries, regulars in this blog who have previously collaborated with Bingo Players (on 2020’s “Forever Love”) but also got to #1 on the Billboard dance/club play chart with VASSY a few years ago with “Concrete Heart”. “Pieces” is everything that you could expect and more to keep those party vibes grooving along, and is currently in the Top 30 and rising up North American national dance radio charts.

ST. HUMAIN “Pillow”

Australia-based singer/songwriter St. Humain continues to dazzle with his relatable stories which are beautifully sung and often set to zesty pop electronic backdrops. “Pillow” finds the protagonist’s head wanting to ease into a relationship while his heart urges him to jump. It’s that in-between stage when we usually find that the relationship isn’t going to happen for one reason or another, and it ends up being the stuff that keeps us up late at night. You can pick and choose your favourite with “Pillow” or previous consistently fine releases “Memento”, “Tastes Like You” and “Sick Sad Love Song”, all or any of which are apt to be included on St. Humain’s upcoming EP Metadramatic.

MOD SUN, CHARLOTTE SANDS, “SEXOXO”

Minnesota-based singer/songwriter Mod Sun has released his 4th single from his upcoming album God Save The Teen called “SEXOXO”, which also follows up his collaboration with dance producers Two Friends on “Timebomb” (which recently peaked at #9 on the BILLCS Top 30). This is a fun-loving song that celebrates exploring a new relationship and all the feelings that go hand-in-hand with that – which might have a little to do with his own life with fiancée Avril Lavigne. Featuring impressive L.A. singer/songwriter Charlotte Sands – who you know from social media through her song “Dress” and her duet with Brandyn Burnette, “Everything” (which reached #7 on the BILLCS Top 30 about a year ago) – the pair definitely are in sync on “SEXOXO” and their chemistry makes the song stand out. Mod Sun keeps turning new pages with his music, leaps and bounds beyond his early pop punk/hip hop days, and I’ll look forward to hearing more on the album.

XANA, “bet you’ll get off on this”

As its title implies, “bet you’ll get off on this” is about boldly stating your authentic self, laying everything bare so that others can choose to stick with you or move on, with no regrets. Canadian pop singer/songwriter Xana has a flair for waxing poetic directly, and eloquently at that. This mainly acoustic release with minimal production, supported by acoustic guitar and strings, is an ideal showcase for this song. Fans of singers like Jewel, Brandi Carlile or Ingrid Michaelson will enjoy the music of Xana.

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.

It’s a banger! “Goin’ Down” by electronic dance producers DLMT & Party Shirt

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

“Can’t Stop Us Now” by Mr. Worldwide himself Pitbull, this time with Country singer Zac Brown

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S PICK OF THE WEEK

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

18 year old Canadian singer/songwriter Aja with “Fireflies”

“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.

Aretha Franklin – Respect
Otis Redding – (Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay
Tommy Roe – Dizzy
Troggs – Wild Thing
Marvin Gaye – I Heard It Through The Grapevine

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

“Yours” by Conan Gray

BILLCS Top30 FASTEST RISER

“Satisfaction” by Darin (26-14)

#BILLCSTop30 #654 – December 5/22

My chart is three days early as I will be going on my first week-long cruise on Saturday, and plan to take a break from my regular routines to enjoy everything that it has to offer. With this kind of trip, vacation means vacation!  A reminder too that there will be no BILLCS New Music Report until Wednesday, December 14. 

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.  

The new chart is my second last for 2022 and marks another shakeup, including another new #1.  Conan Gray’s stunning ballad “Yours” makes the big leap 6-1 for his first chart topper which is culled from his album Superache. It’s also an early Happy Birthday for Conan, who turns 24 on Monday!! 

Remaining at #2 is “My Dying Spirit” by Greyson Chance from the Palladium album. It’s kind of odd to have two songs that aren’t from the electronic dance world at the top, but these ones are very deserving. And Greyson performed one of my favourite concerts of the year last night in Toronto. Though he said he was nervous he was deeply committed and I felt that the concert was the equivalent of a musical group hug.

“Golden Hour” (above) by JVKE rises 10-6, as a new duet of the song, featuring British singer Cat Burns (below), is released, to try and capitalize on the Top 40 success of “Golden Hour” in the UK. As much as I enjoyed Cat’s duet with Sam Smith on “Go” earlier this year, I think that “Golden Hour” is just fine with JVKE solo, though do listen for yourself to decide. And have you noticed that most of the song is pretty much a waltz?

Charlie Puth gets a 31st birthday present today as “Charlie Be Quiet” climbs 14-8, becoming his fourth Top 10 on my chart, from his album Charlie.

L.A. based singer/songwriter Lily Lane’s dynamic and dramatic “Bad” climbs 12-9 from her EP Queen of Hearts. I enjoy how the singer borrows stylistically from some singers and their songs – in the chorus I clearly hear Adele’s “Rumour Has It”.

Norway’s Matoma gets his 3rd Top 10 and first in 4 years with new sports anthem “The Power” soaring 19-10.  He previously reached #6 in 2016 with “False Alarm” (with Becky Hill) and #10 in 2018 with “Lonely” (with MAX).

Toronto’s Crash Adams has been picked up by Warner Records and their fun and breezy single “Give Me A Kiss” climbs 18-12.

I’m hoping that Joel Corry & Tom Grennan’s “Lionheart (Fearless)” becomes a huge North American hit outside of dance radio and clubs. This potent anthem bolts 21-13.

The Fastest Riser on the chart – to no surprise to regular readers – is “Satisfaction” (above) by Darin, which vaults 26-14. It looks like the Swedish star is destined for a fourth Top 10 in a row.  And might there be a fifth? His pop cover of Johnossi’s “What’s The Point” (below) debuts at #25.

I’ve been enjoying how Martin Garrix has been tapping into more alternative electronica rather than focusing on dance pop or festival bangers. His collaboration with DallasK and vocalist Sasha Alex Sloan, “Loop”, rises 22-17.

The rest of the previous chart’s debuts also make headway. “100% Pure Love” (above), the Crystal Waters classic redone by Years & Years, climbs 27-19.  Then there’s the winning collaboration of Tiësto and Tate McRae for “10:35” (also above), which moves up 28-21.  And right behind is Zac Poor’s beautiful indie release “Ghost Boy” (below), up 29-22. Although “Ghost Boy” ultimately confronts homophobic behaviour, if you listen closely to the lyrics you may also relate if you have ever been bullied or have been made deliberately to feel out of place.

The Highest Debut belongs to two of my faves, Illenium and MAX, two artists I would never have thought would work together, but here they are with “Worst Day” at #24. The song to me could have even been an outtake from Illenium’s Ascend album. It’s a heavenly match and more on the pop side than usual for Illenium, and introduces MAX to yet another audience.  “Worst Day” is Illenium’s 10th chart entry, following last year’s #1 “Sideways”, and it’s MAX’s 12th and first in almost two years!

At #28, Canadian dance producer DLMT makes his chart debut along with Australia-based duo Party Shirt with the immensely fun “Goin’ Down”. This one is tailored for New Year’s Eve parties and just try to resist moving around to it.

And at #29, New York City-based but Israel-born dance producer GATTÜSO returns with his second chart entry, “I’ll Be There”, which is graced with the voice of go-to dance singer/songwriter Zak Abel. GATTÜSO reached #8 earlier this year with “Afterglow” in collaboration with Nicky Romero and singer/songwriter Jared Lee.

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 past 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.

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.

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 20 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here.  You can hear past episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Addictive Energy (currently on hiatus until January)

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 past 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!

 

 

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – November 30/22 spotlighting @Tailsxbeats & @mrBenjiLewis @EdenPrincemusic & @KarenHarding @weareApolloLTD

The BILLCS New Music Report is six editions deep already, and I must say that I’ve been pleased with the positive reaction to the new format. I can review more new music – usually, like this week, 10 songs in a week – and can better manage my time to prepare it all for you.

On that note, I’m taking a week’s vacation beginning on Saturday December 3 and will return on Saturday December 10, so there will be no BILLCS New Music Report next Wednesday. It will return on Wednesday December 14. But I will have a new BILLCS Top 30 chart blog for you, three days earlier than usual, on Friday December 2!!

You can also read about my pick of the week, along with picks from online radio buddies “Big Daddy” Russ Horton and Hunter Wilbur.  “The Musicman” James Rogers offers a varied selection from 1984-85 in his Classic Five pop hits. Plus I list the BILLCS Top 30 #1’s for each year from 1998 to 2021!

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.

SPOTLIGHTING

TAILS, BENJI LEWIS, “is that ok?”

“is that ok?” taps into a lot familiar melodic electronic and guitar sounds, but ends up being a substantially unique electronic alt.pop release from Vancouver producer Tails (aka Spencer Reid). I enjoy how uncomplicated “is that okay?” sounds but yet you can hear all of the work that went into it. Australian singer Benji Lewis’ emotive vocal taps into the longing and nostalgia that happens when you’ve had a good romantic experience with someone, but in the end it just didn’t click. So “is that ok?” ends up being a rhetorical song title but a reassuring song about being perfectly fine with retaining feelings and memories for someone, which help make us all better people. “is that ok?” comes from Tails’ forthcoming EP called (unannounced).

EDEN PRINCE, KAREN HARDING, “Last Christmas”

Wham!’s essential holiday song “Last Christmas” is given a tidy house rework by British producer Eden Prince and the sensational Karen Harding. They don’t rely on the original very much and that’s what makes their take on “Last Christmas” really shine. It features one of Karen’s best vocals in a while, loaded with the heartfelt longing at the holiday season that’s conveyed by George Michael’s lyrics. So if you’re looking for something contemporary to perk up your evening playlist of Christmas songs, Eden Prince and Karen Harding’s rendition of “Last Christmas” is positively swoon-worthy.

APOLLO LTD, “Run”

Nashville duo Apollo LTD released one of my favourite albums of 2019, Out Of Body, so it’s nice to catch up with them again with “Run”, thanks to hearing it on my friend Hunter’s online radio show. Reminiscent of their own “On The Way Up 2.0” (which peaked at #4 on the BILLCS Top 30) as well as artists like Bastille or Imagine Dragons, “Run” is a joyous new, richly produced fist-pumping anthem with a commanding vocal that shows Jordan Phillips and Adam Stark have not let up these past few years and after the release of another album, Nothing Is Ordinary Everything Is Beautiful. Let’s hope that “Run” is the start of another fine string of new music from this talented duo.

FEATURING

TheFatRat, EVERGLOW, “Ghost Light”

“Ghost Light” is an intriguing new track that steps away from the regular melodies and rhythms that you find in most of today’s dance tracks, and offers something funky, mysterious, and anthemic instead. German electronic dance producer TheFatRat is no stranger to experimentation, and this time he veers towards trap sounds with vocals by K-Pop sextet Everglow. It all works out beautifully, with Everglow’s supercharged vocals luring you to follow the song’s theme of desire. “Ghost Light” is a big win for both artists but especially for K-Pop fans, and the melody of the chorus is destined to get stuck in your head.

ALTÉGO, “I Wanna Know”

Many of you already know ALTÉGO, the UK-based producer/DJ’s otherwise known as twins Lukas and Michael Fernandes-Pendse, from their entertaining Instagram and TikTok posts, which led to a surprise radio hit earlier in the year with their mashup of Britney Spears’ “Toxic” and Ginuwine’s “Pony”, as “Toxic Pony”. And though they prove their infectious creativity over and over again with their mashups, “I Wanna Know” sets them in original recording territory, and they have lots of pedigree help. First, the music of “I Wanna Know” is based on CHIC’s 1980 release “Soup For One”, so it’s already got a zesty groove which they build upon. Next, co-writing the song with the boys are UK luminaries like Karen Harding and Lewis Thompson, and it’s eminently singable. The *yawn* pitched-down vocals are the only stumbling point and a regular singing voice could have made “I Wanna Know” really fly. Nevertheless, it’s still an above-average release and could help put ALTÉGO on the charts after some successful live performances this year in the UK.

LF SYSTEM, “Hungry (For Love)”

Scottish duo LF System have a hard act to follow – their massive hit “Afraid To Feel” (which peaked at #3 on the BILLCS Top 30) was #1 in the UK for eight weeks. Just as “Afraid To Feel” tapped into lesser known 70’s soulful R&B with a female vocal, “Hungry (For Love)” pivots towards obscure disco, again with an outstanding female vocalist, although it’s one that has a key name behind it. The song revolves around samples from “Hungry” by Sandy’s Gang, which was co-written and produced by the recently departed and renown disco producer Patrick Adams. So “Hungry (For Love)” stands as a fine, if perhaps unintended, tribute to Patrick while being a smart fusion of electronica and disco that will rev up club goers.  At only 2:09, it’s a quick but loaded shot of a good time.

LAUREN MAYHEW, ANGELO BASHAM, “I’m Living”

It’s always awesome to see two artists that I’ve written about separately getting to collaborate together. Florida multi-talent Lauren Mayhew and German dance producer Angelo Basham join forces with the deep house banger “I’m Living”. Lauren’s versatile voice always works wonders in a house music setting, and Angelo’s precision production and rich synth work flesh out the song into an inviting and club-worthy release. Let “I’m Living” start off your weekend party soundtrack – definitely one to cue up for New Year’s Eve!

TWO FRIENDS, BRYCE VINE, “Graduated”

I was surprised it actually hadn’t happened yet, but Two Friends and Bryce Vine collaborating together are like three peas in a pod. Their release together “Graduated” has an irresistible, singalong chorus – something that’s becoming a trademark of Two Friends releases – and it’s carried by Bryce’s laid back, personable, WSIWYG vocal. Two Friends recently peaked at #9 with “Timebomb” (with Mod Sun) on the BILLCS Top 30, and continue to make amiable anthems that go down easy in their Big Booty mixes and in concert.

LOLA DUTRONIC, “The Christmas Disco”

What’s there not to love about a song called “The Christmas Disco” by those Canadian-German purveyors of infectious dance tunes, Lola Dutronic? This re-release (originally from a few years back) is well-timed for the first fully celebratory holiday season since 2019, a light, fun song meant to be your companion piece when you decide to slip on those platform shoes, your Christmas party cap, and grab a glass of bubbly or two. And if you have a disco mirrorball or colourful party lights, then you are all set! “The Christmas Disco” is a pleasing alternative to those repetitive Christmas classics. It follows up Lola Dutronic’s “Let’s All Dance (Our Last Summer)”, which recently peaked at #9 on the BILLCS Top 30.

MARK LEE, “Christmas Time Is Here”

“Christmas Time Is Here” is an awesome choice for a cover of the modern day holiday classic that doesn’t get enough attention. Its origins of course are in Vince Guaraldi’s soundtrack to the 1965 TV special “A Charlie Brown Christmas”. Mark Lee, Georgia Music Hall of Fame member formerly of the Grammy-winning band Third Day, does a fine job with capturing the sentiment of the song, though to me it is strangely missing harmonies, which would have given it a big boost and connected it more to the original. But “Christmas Time” is a solid add for your Christmas playlists and guaranteed to attract attention since it’s just not heard often enough.

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.

Years & Years with a cover of Crystal Waters’ classic “100% Pure Love”

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

“Himalayas” by Vancouver alt.pop singers Elijah Blond & KNOWN and producer KULTARGOTBOUNCE

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S PICK 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. (currently on hiatus till January).

“Memory Lane” by Latvian electronic dance producer Tobu

“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.

This week, songs that helped define 1984-85.

Prince – When Doves Cry
Stevie Wonder – I Just Called To Say I Love You
Foreigner – I Want To Know What Love Is
Whitney Houston – Saving All My Love For You
Tina Turner – What’s Love Got To Do With It

24 YEARS OF BILLCS TOP 30 #1’s

Songs that rocked my personal chart at this time during the last 24 years.

1998 YOU GET WHAT YOU GIVE New Radicals
1999 THE FUTURE OF THE FUTURE (STAY GOLD) Everything But The Girl with Deep Dish
2000 HERE WITH ME Dido
2001 BLACK BLACK HEART David Usher
2002 SERVE THE EGO (Gabriel & Dresden remix) Jewel
2003 DEEPEST BLUE Deepest Blue
2004 THEY MIGHT SAY Mitchell Hunter
2005 PRETTY VEGAS INXS
2006 FUTURE SEX/LOVE SOUND Justin Timberlake
2007 ME, MYSELF AND (I) Darren Hayes
2008 RELAPSE Jesse McCartney
2009 ALONE Dan Black
2010 RESURRECTION (Penguin Prison remix) The Temper Trap
2011 CAN’T HELP MYSELF (KEEP DANCING) Matt Blue
2012 DON’T YOU WORRY CHILD Swedish House Mafia featuring John Martin
2013 AN OPEN HEART Bright Light Bright Light
2014 SAY YOU LOVE ME Jessie Ware
2015 HELLO Adele
2016 STARBOY The Weeknd f/ Daft Punk
2017 NEED YOUR HEART Latchmere
2018 PHANTOM OF THE DANCE FLOOR Kiesza featuring Philippe Roy
2019 LIGHTS UP Harry Styles
2020 DIAMONDS Sam Smith
2021 HOLDING ME MORE Darin

 

 

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – November 23/22 spotlighting @BenedictCork @Cobimusic #TheBoyFromTheSouth @DanAuramusic

This week’s blog post taps into the best of everything that I hear each week – piano ballads, bluesy rockers, thoughtful singer/songwriters, whimsical pop, progressive electronic dance music, and deep house bops.  

You can also read about my pick of the week, along with picks from online radio buddies “Big Daddy” Russ Horton and Hunter Wilbur.  “The Musicman” James Rogers offers a varied selection from the 1960’s in his Classic Five pop hits. Plus I recap this week’s BILLCS Top 30 new #1 and the Fastest Rising song 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.

SPOTLIGHTING

BENEDICT CORK, “Dream of You”

I can just hear the oohs, the aahs, the sighs and… the silence. UK singer/songwriter Benedict Cork returns with his first release since earlier this year with “Dream of You”. Fans of Adele, Sam Smith, Richard Marx, Alicia Keys, and others who craft their songs with piano in mind will simply adore “Dream of You”. Who can’t relate to this simple story of fantasizing about a lover who you may or may not seek out. Benedict provides one of his best vocals and I can just imagine “Dream of You” playing to a hushed audience where everyone has all eyes on the singer. And while Adele can drive it out of the park anytime she releases something new, there have been a number of piano ballads that have crossed my ears recently, so maybe it’s time for a mini-comeback? I don’t think anyone would mind Benedict Cork and other similarly talented artists singing more songs like ‘Dream of You”. The deepest sighs win here!

COBI, “Just My Luck”

Minnesota-born singer/songwriter Cobi consistently releases new songs, but “Just My Luck” stands out for his edgy, bluesy vocal and excellent guitar playing. In the light of recent successes of performers such as Steve Lacy, it’s great to hear Cobi reaching down deep into Led Zeppelin and Lenny Kravitz territory, which makes you hang on every note of “Just My Luck”. The audio above has great harmonies and terrific production, but watch Cobi’s studio clip of the song below, when he brings the piano up in the mix, which gives the flavour of the song some extra dimension.

THE BOY FROM THE SOUTH, “Stereotypes”

If you’re looking for your songs to be light-hearted and upbeat, but with the odd important message nestled within, then be sure to check out “Stereotypes” by Barcelona-based singer/songwriter The Boy From The South. Six singles in and he’s racked up over 3 million streams to date, which has opened doors for more things to happen in a short period of time. The Boy From The South (who you can find on Instagram) has a whimsical style that recalls UK group The Beautiful South or American singer Jason Mraz. And “Stereotypes” has an amusing video, below, but you can see that other characters in the story look at The Boy’s lead character differently when he breaks his bubble cover, which certainly provides food for thought. There’s more coming next year from a very enthused The Boy From The South and you can also check out a new single called “Welcome To The South”.

DAN AURA, “Living Room”

UK indie singer/songwriter Dan Aura reaches out to homebodies with mental health issues in “Living Room”. He sets his topic to a vibrant, uptempo beat, with a bit of encouragement to confront the issues.  His analogy to not being able to leave one’s home is that you become part of the living room furniture. In the pandemic, many of us felt that way. But it’s not a temporary thing for people who either don’t like going out or don’t like socializing. Dan wants to tap into that inner voice that says to go out and make it a more regular thing. He’s got a gentle, appealing vocal that sometimes will remind you of Troye Sivan, and at other times perhaps Ed Sheeran. But with “Living Room” he’s on the right track as a thoughtful singer/songwriter from whom you’ll want to hear more.

FEATURING

BRIGHT LIGHT BRIGHT LIGHT, “I Don’t Know What I’m Gonna Do”

“I Don’t Know What I’m Gonna Do” is the latest release for NYC-based, Wales-born Bright Light Bright Light, who has been featured numerous times in this blog over the last 10+ years. After celebrating the 10 year anniversary of his album Make Me Believe In Hope and subsequent related releases, “I Don’t Know What I’m Gonna Do” has BLx2 waxing his eloquent melodies to lyrics about what sounds like a devastating breakup. If you’ve ever been in that situation, you’ll find that song is honest, heartfelt and direct, and particularly beautifully sung, a nice combination of everything that we’ve grown to expect from a BLx2 release. I’m sure it’s a stalwart introduction to BLx2 mach 2023, and we can look forward to much more.

NGHTMRE, ZED’S DEAD, TORI LEVETT, “Shady Intentions”

A similar theme that started with the animated video for “Fall Into Me” continues with “Shady Intentions” from NGHTMRE’s DRMVRSE album. The song is in collaboration with Canadian progressive electronic group Zed’s Dead and vocalist Tori Levett, and digs more into what’s happening behind the scenes that led to this video and the other recent one for “Fear & Love”. And as is common in sci-fi themes, a corporate  entity is the culprit here which seems not to bode well for our hero and the female alien to whom he seems to be mentally and emotionally connected. It’s really well done and helps make “Shady Intentions” shine even more, so hopefully there will be more of these videos for NGHTMRE to tie the stories together.

KEYS N KRATES, “Get Up”

If you enjoy your contemporary electronic dance music with 70’s R&B and disco flair, then “Get Up” by much acclaimed Toronto trio Keys N Krates is just what you’ll want to hear. They sample the lesser known 70’s R&B track “Sounds Ridiculous” by Alice Taylor to form the basis of “Get Up”, but bearing that in mind, they build a fun dance floor filler around it. And while Keys N Krates have been at this kind of great musical fun for years, they join artists like A Trak, LF System, Todd Terry and Mercer, who infuse the vibe of older songs into new ones and create an entirely fresh sound. “Get Up” will make you do just that so don’t say you weren’t warned!

MAHALO & DLMT, “Body Love”

After their #1 dance radio hit “So Cold” back in 2019 and follow up release “Destination” last year, it was inevitable that L.A.’s Mahalo and Canada’s DLMT would regroup for more releases. “Body Love” is a clubbier release with an infectious piano melody underneath some propulsive beats that keep the song moving along. If my ears are hearing right, then I’m pretty sure the uncredited vocalist is Canadian singer/songwriter Cat Lewis, who previously graced a number of my favourite late 2010’s Mahalo releases. Everything adds up in “Body Love” that should make it a dance floor favourite.

HARRIET, “Nothing Hurts Like You”

UK pop singer Harriet returns with her first new music in about 5 years with “Nothing Hurts Like You”. Her voice often reaches that mellifluous tone that Karen Carpenter had in her voice. And her traditional vocal style is perfectly suited for “Nothing Hurts Like You”, whose story unfolds when the protagonist sees her former lover with a new flame, which unleashes a barrage of internal emotions while still feeling rather immune to the circumstances. The song makes you wonder how she will deal with it all going forward. “Nothing Hurts Like You” is classy, well-produced pop and I look forward to more of what Harriet will bring us next year.

AMELIA WRAY, “Disappear”

You might recognize Amelia Wray’s name more as a TV actress – Sophia on the Disney+ show “Sydney To The Max” – than you would as a singer. “Disappear” is a promising uptempo pop release as only her second single to date. It masks a tale of teenage heartbreak through a lovely, shifting melody that’s highlighted by Amelia’s captivating vocal. The story unfolds when would-be-lovers end up more as friends, then the relationship fizzles, and one of them pretends like it never happened, which makes the various uses of “disappear” throughout the song all the more effective. I’m sure we’ll be hearing more of Amelia Wray’s vocal and songwriting talents and what else she has to offer for her pop music fans.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

“Satisfaction” by Sweden’s Darin

BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S PICK OF THE WEEK

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

Montreal rockers The Damn Truth with “Look Innocent”

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S PICK 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.

British group The Wombats cover Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill” for Triple J Like A Version

“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.

Buckinghams – Kind Of A Drag
The Mamas & The Papas – California Dreamin’
Simon & Garfunkel – Mrs. Robinson
Sly & The Family Stone – Everyday People
The Association – Windy

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

“The Boss” by Coopex, Charles B, and Robbie Rosen

BILLCS Top30 FASTEST RISER

“Yours” by Conan Gray (22-6)

#BILLCSTop30 #653 – November 21/22

There’s a lot of big moves on the new edition of the chart, so I’ll be focusing on writing about those. But there’s a change-up at #1 too and four steaming hot debuts. 

My chart continues to be posted bi-weekly below with an accompanying blog post. The regular blog posts under the new name The BILLCS New Music Report now appear weekly on Wednesdays.

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 will become increasingly tied in with the BILLCS New Music Report.  This week I am on air LIVE on Tuesday November 22 at 8pm EST counting down Toronto’s Top 10 from this week in 1969 on the 3D Variety Show.

ANNOUNCEMENT

I would normally publish the next chart blog post on Monday December 5. However I will be away on vacation from December 3 to 10, so it will appear three days early, on Friday December 2!

I always look forward to this song coming up on my personal playlists, so there is absolutely no reason why it shouldn’t be the new #1 song on the BILLCS Top 30. Up 2-1 it’s the crazy infectious “The Boss” by French producers Coopex and Charles B with NYC singer/songwriter Robbie Rosen. It’s the first #1 for both producers, but the second for Robbie, following last year’s glorious “Sanctuary” which he made with Dutch producer Howen.

Coming up close behind and looking to succeed it in two weeks is “My Dying Spirit” by Greyson Chance, which soars 7-2 and ties “Dancing Next To Me”, which also reached #2 in 2020. “My Dying Spirit” comes from Greyson’s fascinating album Palladium, and I am so looking forward to seeing him perform in concert in Toronto on Thursday December 1!!

The Fastest Riser on the chart is one that I simply cannot get enough of – it draws me in and makes me sing along every time. From his album Superache, Conan Gray’s “Yours” vaults 22-6 to follow “Memories” (which peaked at #4) into the Top 10. Conan is currently touring in eastern Asia.

Also making an impressive move is Stephen Sanchez, whose “Until I Found You” sails 16-7. The production and its layered harmonies sounds to me like The Everly Brothers (specifically Phil Everly) in a contemporary setting!

Amid all of the movement, two more songs land in the Top 10.  Two Friends and Mod Sun climb 11-9 with the crowd-pleaser “Timebomb” (above), while Rhode Island native JVKE’s impressive “Golden Hour” (below) moves up 18-10!

“Charlie Be Quiet” by Charlie Puth moves up 20-14. It’s short and sweet but packs a big punch!

Toronto singer Shawn Molko rises 28-16 with the absolutely beautiful ballad “I Will Wait”. He’s definitely a new talent to keep your eyes and ears on.

Also from Toronto, pop/rock duo Crash Adams knows how to package up a lot of fun in just under three minutes with “Give Me A Kiss” (26-18), which is their third chart entry to date. Watch the video too above too, which is shot in Southern California.

Then soaring 29-19 is “The Power” by Matoma, sure to be a New Year’s Eve anthem this year!

It’s not going to take long for a commanding song like “Lionheart (Fearless)” by Joel Corry and Tom Grennan to get out of the lower reaches of this chart. This week it’s up 30-21.

The Highest Debut belongs to Sweden’s Darin as “Satisfaction” bows at #26. The fun and flirty single follows one of my summer faves, “Superstar” (which peaked at #2), and two #1’s, the ballad “Holding Me More” and last year’s “Can’t Stay Away”.  In total it’s Darin’s 8th chart entry, going back to 2008.

Years & Years surprised us a few weeks back with a reverent cover of Crystal Waters’ “100% Pure Love”. Yes folks, it’s THAT good, and arrives at #27. It’s Y&Y’s 12th entry on the chart, and 4th this year, and follows the immensely appealing Night Call album, from which three songs (including #2 “Sweet Talker” with Galantis) reached my Top 10. Olly Alexander’s vocal is especially playful on this release!

After watching his sensational set in Las Vegas this past summer, it’s no surprise to me that Tiësto gets his first chart entry in three years with “10:35” featuring Calgary’s Tate McRae at #28 from his upcoming album Drive. This is exquisite ear candy for radio, clubs and festivals, and Tiësto’s 6th chart entry, though he also has 4 entries as a remixer which begin as early as 2003! It’s also Tate’s 2nd entry after last year’s “You” with Regard and Troye Sivan.

The fourth debut is the brilliant release by Montana-born, L.A.-based singer/songwriter Zac Poor, a heartbreaking but hopeful track called “Ghost Boy” at #29. Although almost anyone can relate to its story, it’s the LGBTQ2S+ community to whom the song will mean a lot. Zac’s been a prolific songwriter for others like Tori Kelly, Backstreet Boys and Tate McRae – total coincidence their songs debut back to back! – over the past 10 years, along with releasing his own music periodically (and appearing in this blog), but this is his chart debut.  Be sure to watch its lovely video above – tears or a big lump in your throat are likely, so keep a tissue handy.

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 past 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.

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.

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 20 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here.  You can hear past 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.  Be sure to listen to Hunter’s special Thanksgiving show starting at 11 a.m. EST on Thursday November 24! You can hear past 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!

 

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – November 16/22 spotlighting @Darinofficial @Fambamusic & @GlasgowKISSme @itsLenaLeon @Afrojack & @JamesArthur23 @ukShapeshifters, @RamonaRenea & @Fiorious @TELYKast & @FrancisKarel

Several great new dance music tracks are front and centre in the spotlight in my posts about 13 new songs below, along with picks of the week from online radio buddies “Big Daddy” Russ Horton and Hunter Wilbur, and myself.  “The Musicman” James Rogers throws it back to the 70’s in his Classic Five. Plus I recap the top five songs from the BILLCS Top 30 from this week 5, 10, 15 and 20 years ago.

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.

SPOTLIGHTING

DARIN, “What’s The Point”

It’s very rare indeed for me to be writing about an artist two weeks in a row, but Sweden’s Darin has released the rock-flavoured “What’s The Point” quickly after the recent “Satisfaction”. What’s different here is that “What’s The Point” is a cover of a fondly remembered 2010 hit in Sweden by the duo Johnossi. Darin’s vocal is enhanced by some harmonies and other effects which compliment the energy level in the production. Darin takes “What’s The Point” to another level with a blazing interpretation that suits the song’s lyrics and message.

FAMBA and GLASGOW KI$$, “No Sleep”

It’s great to hear Toronto-based dance producer Famba settling back into the club-oriented style that got him on the map in the first place. “No Sleep” is a simmering hot pot of deep house featuring newcomer GLASGOW KI$$ that blows up in all the right places. If you hear this one at 3 a.m. in a club then you can certainly call “No Sleep” your new late night club anthem. It’s definitely one of Famba’s best recent releases and is the follow up to “Forever”.

LENA LEON, “Spiral”

NYC’s Lena Leon is a popular go-to vocalist for electronic dance music songs, but she’s also been releasing her own music alongside those successes. After adding a brilliant vocal to Mahalo and Milkwish’s “Careless” (which reached #3 on the BILLCS Top 30) earlier this year, “Spiral” is breaking out at dance music radio, a smooth deep house track co-written and with production by those talented guys, The Disco Fries. But it’s Lena’s vocal that’s the star of the show, and when you hear “Spiral” alongside a lot of samey-sounding dance music it is simply unmistakable.

AFROJACK and JAMES ARTHUR, “Lose You”

Following up the recent fun deep house track “Hit It” and his current dance radio hit “Day N Night”, Afrojack is unstoppable with “Lose You”, featuring British singer/songwriter James Arthur.  And James’ vocal certainly suits the electronic dance genre, with “Lose You” a quick but intense track that benefits from a really rich, masterful Afrojack production. “Lose You” should have no trouble following up “Day N Night” at dance radio.

THE SHAPESHIFTERS with RAMONA RENEA and FIORIOUS, “Slippery People”

Veteran UK dance producer The Shapeshifters (aka Simon Marlin) – best known for his 2004 UK #1 “Lola’s Theme” (which also reached #1 on the BILLCS Top 30) – returns with his take on Talking Heads’ “Slippery People”, originally from the Heads’ 1983 album Speaking In Tongues, from their new album Let Loose. But to me, this version is less about the Talking Heads’ original and more about the amazing 1984 cover by The Staple Singers. It’s a feast for your ears with powerful and soulful vocals by Ramona Renea and Fiorious burning brightly next to Mavis and Pops Staples, and the loaded arrangement featuring strings and horns makes it all the more dynamic.  Don’t sleep on this one!

TELYKAST and FRANCIS KAREL, “Better Now”

L.A.-based production trio TELYKast have had a great year, which started off with the dance radio #1 “Unbreakable” (which also reached #1 on the BILLCS Top 30) and almost ends with another one, as “Body To Body” finds its way to the top of the national dance radio charts this week. “Better Now” is another compelling track that is more of an urgent-sounding anthem than usual. That’s thanks to the potent voice of Indonesian singer Francis Karel, who is quickly finding his way into the John Martin-Clinton Kane-Jared Lee graduate school of go-to dance music vocalists. The energy level is guaranteed to soar on the dance floor or at a festival when the DJ spins “Better Now”.

FEATURING

ALMA FAYE BROOKS and LOUIS TOTEDA & THE HIGH STEPPIN’ ORCHESTRA

“Dreams Don’t Only Happen At Christmas” and “Con Te Partirò (Time To Say Goodbye)” 

This “double A sided” single marks a sparkling return to recorded music for 70’s Montreal-based, Texas-born disco singer Alma Faye Brooks, who has a small repertoire of songs adorned by club DJ’s years later, which includes her modest Canadian radio hit “Stop I Don’t Need No Sympathy” and dance club hit “It’s Over”. Over time, Alma Faye’s voice has gotten bigger and more powerful which adds a lot of charm to her joyous, self-penned “Dreams Don’t Only Happen At Christmas” (above), and allows her to create a splendid cover of “Con Te Partirò” (below), popularized as a duet in the UK by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman, reaching #2 there in 1997, and then two years later as a #1 dance smash by Donna Summer. Alma Faye puts her own spin on the song which holds its own against Donna’s version, thanks to production by Louis Toteda (former leader of Nightlife Unlimited) and the legendary John Luongo, on whose JLM label these songs are released. “Dreams” will definitely brighten up your holiday playlist, while “Con Te Partirò” is waiting to shake up clubgoers once again on the dance floor.

MR! MOURAY, “Cats Can’t Fly”

Mr! Mouray is a Toronto-area quartet of veteran rock musicians with a penchant for amusing song and album titles. Led by lead vocalist and guitarist Simon Bedford-James and my good friend, Canadian Pop Music Encyclopedia guru and bassist Jaimie Vernon, “Cats Can’t Fly” is culled from their just-released second album, What’s The Stouray. The song’s about recognizing when a relationship is biting the dust. Despite the downbeat theme, the song has a wicked melodic hook, beautiful keyboard work from another fine friend, Rob Preuss (ex-Spoons, Honeymoon Suite), and stellar harmonies. If you enjoy rock bands like The Wallflowers, Men at Work or Sloan, then “Cats Can’t Fly” is for you. If you buy “Cats Can’t Fly” on Bandcamp, you’ll get another song with it for free. Oh, and about the song title? Canadian music fans will undoubtedly remember the Toronto band Cats Can Fly for their 1986 domestic hit “Flippin’ To The ‘A’ Side”… 

STEVEN THAD, “Find My Way”

In his charming lo-fi way, Washington DC area singer/songwriter Steven Thad is consistent with his approach to releasing his original music. Focusing on vocals, story, and harmonies goes a long way and “Find My Way”, from his debut album Love, R&B, is a refreshing winner. It’s about learning and making changes that work for you in order to reach your destiny. In the song, Steven turns a negative into a positive, and hope is something that so many people need to hear in the music they enjoy. “Find My Way” is the highlight of the album, which also features songs I’ve written about, “Goodbye Farewell” and “Do You Remember”, as well as a cover of Destiny’s Child’s “Free”.

TONY ROMERA and BILLY VALENTINE, “Tonight’s The Night”

“Tonight’s The Night” is a classy, feel-good, fast-paced house track that’s brought to you by Lyon, France native and producer Tony Romera. As a big bonus, he’s utilized the slick voice of veteran R&B and jazz singer Billy Valentine, who you know not only from being one half of the Valentine Brothers (they recorded the original version of Simply Red’s “Money$ Too Tight (To Mention)”), but also the familiar voice of so many cover versions that graced TV’s “Sons of Anarchy”. Together, and as they should, they will keep your body moving in some shape or form in “Tonight’s The Night”.

ASHWYN and NATALIE, “Pink Skies”

India-born, USA-based multi-talent Ashwyn returns with a new EP called Skar, which features “Pink Skies”, a crisp and dreamy new pop track. Vocalist Natalie gives “Pink Skies” a really personal sound amid an imaginative setting, with lots of layered harmonies. Adding in some dazzling guitar magic from Ashwyn makes “Pink Skies” that much more memorable. The Skar EP also features Ashwyn’s single from last year, “Feelings of Yesterday”, which is also worth revisiting for its intriguing arrangement and impressive guitar work.

SIERRA BLAX and CHRISTOPHER WATSON, “Control”

If you enjoy your R&B/pop on the mellow side, the music of Sierra Blax on her new EP BRB…I’m Daydreaming is tailored for you. The L.A.-based, Kaua’i born singer/songwriter has a gentle tone which is given an uncomplicated mix to accentuate the authentic rawness in “Control”. The song seems to portray a couple who are totally into each other but want to wrestle away control from the other, at least in the romance department. It’s a duet with Tampa, Florida singer Christopher Watson, who adds a complimentary graceful turn and makes “Control” go down quite easily.

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 Power” by long-time favourite, Matoma

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

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

“Nightshift” covered by Bruce Springsteen from his album of soul covers, Only The Strong Survive

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S PICK 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.

“Nothing I Won’t Do” by NYC dance producer David Solomon and vocalist TMW

“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.

This week it’s all about the 1970’s, and perhaps unintentionally, 1975:

Barry Manilow – Mandy
Minnie Riperton – Lovin’ You
John Denver – Thank God I’m A Country Boy
Bee Gees – Jive Talkin’
KC & The Sunshine Band – That’s The Way (I Like It)

THE BILLCS TOP 30 – 5-10-15-20…

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

2017

  1. Need Your Heart – Latchmere
  2. Perfect – Mahalo featuring Cat Lewis
  3. Show Me – Loud Luxury featuring Nikki’s Wives
  4. No Love In Brooklyn – Nick Peters & Frank Pierce featuring Scott Vega
  5. Flags – Shoffy featuring Yuna

2012

  1. Don’t You Worry Child – Swedish House Mafia featuring John Martin
  2. Music Makes You Lose Control – Carlos Nóbrega
  3. Spectrum – Zedd featuring Matthew Koma
  4. Parachute – Matthew Koma
  5. Anything Could Happen – Ellie Goulding

2007

  1. Me, Myself & I – Darren Hayes
  2. Apologize – Timbaland featuring One Republic
  3. Love Is Gone – David Guetta featuring Chris Willis
  4. Don’t Stop The Music – Rihanna
  5. The Fear You Won’t Fall – Joshua Radin

2002

  1. James Dean (I Wanna Know) – Daniel Bedingfield
  2. Spin – Lifehouse
  3. Serve The Ego (Gabriel & Dresden club remix) – Jewel
  4. Like I Love You – Justin Timberlake
  5. Shine (Tracy Young radio mix) – Cyndi Lauper

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – November 9/22 spotlighting @Darinofficial @DLMTmusic & @PartyShirt @YearsandYears @TheHim & @BullySongs #MByrd

Check out my posts about 10 new songs below, along with picks of the week from online radio buddies “Big Daddy” Russ Horton and Hunter Wilbur, and myself.  “The Musicman” James Rogers offers more tunes from the 80’s in his Classic Five. Plus I recap this week’s BILLCS Top 30 new #1 and the Fastest Rising song 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.

SPOTLIGHTING

DARIN, “Satisfaction”

After three brilliant singles, it’s absolutely no surprise that “Satisfaction” is another newly minted gem for 2020’s Darin. Like “Superstar” and “Can’t Stay Away”, a flirty and sexy style of dance music for the Swedish pop sensation draws its influences from 80’s stars like Madonna, George Michael, Pet Shop Boys, and other risk takers who converted several of their songs into visual feasts too. Minus the unnecessary voyeuristic plot, the video for “Satisfaction” captures this too with Darin embracing his sexuality amid some eye-catching choreography.

DLMT & PARTY SHIRT, “Goin’ Down”

With the right club DJ and the right mix, “Goin’ Down” is one of those infectious dance tracks that could easily become a centrepiece in a mid-evening set. It’s brought to you by increasingly noted Toronto producer DLMT – he’s recently remixed Bad Bunny – and American-Australian producers and Tik Tok favourites Party Shirt. I’m certain the hook featuring Latin horns is a sample (but I can’t place it… help) and the producers totally smash the production in “Goin’ Down” with their loaded bag of tricks. “Goin’ Down” is one of those dance tracks you don’t want to let up and leaves you feeling exhilarated at the end.

YEARS & YEARS, “100% Pure Love”

Taking a break from original tunes after his fine album from earlier this year Night Call, Olly Alexander and team offer us “100% Pure Love”, a reverent cover of the 1994 Crystal Waters smash. It wouldn’t have occurred to me that this one could be a Years & Years song but it makes total sense. Olly certainly has fun with the vocal, and the supporting musicians nail the mid-90’s house bounce that it could not go without. It’s bound to sound fab at a Y&Y live event!

THE HIM and BULLYSONGS, “Violet Skies”

Dutch producer The Him continues to keep vibrant beats rolling, and switches it up a bit with the slower but funk-flavoured “Violet Skies”. The vocalist is BullySongs, a British artist probably known more as an epic hit-making songwriter for the dance music world cream of the crop like Armin van Buuren, Galantis and Don Diablo among others. His gentle, echo-filled vocal gives “Violet Skies” that soothing, delightful quality that you associate with watching a sunset on the beach. Notch up another impressive release for The Him!

M. BYRD, “Flood”

Although I haven’t written about his music till now, I’ve been paying attention to the growth of Germany-born singer/songwriter M. Byrd through the songs I’ve heard. His new song “Flood” almost sounds like a fresh start, a song about letting go of certain things and people in our lives, even if temporary, to lead your best life. M. Byrd describes it as follows:

“I like to think of it as a constant cascade, like a waterfall that is becoming stronger and stronger, the more it is raining. Musically I find that to be most apparent in the littler guitar melody that slowly weaves into the song…”

Musically, the song harkens back to late 80’s, early 90’s alt.pop/rock that evolved out of the new wave era by British groups like The Railway Children, House of Love, and The Mighty Lemon Drops – whether or not that could have been in M. Byrd’s trajectory is another thing. “Flood” is most enjoyable and also succeeds on its own merit as cathartic and ambitious.

FEATURING

COCO & BREEZY and TARA CAROSIELLI, “Just Say”

“You’re toxic but it only makes me wanna love you”

That memorable recent lyric might have been nagging you when you’ve heard it on your dance radio show, and it comes from “Just Say” by Coco & Breezy with singer/songwriter Tara Carosielli. The independent release has quickly made huge strides and is in the Top 20 nationally for dance music radio airplay. That’s great news for twin sisters Coco & Breezy, otherwise known as DJs/producers/ entrepreneurs Corianna and Brianna Dotson. Among their achievements include running a successful sunglasses company that began when they were teenagers, and performing as tour dancers with Prince. “Just Say” has a welcoming, light-hearted, playful vibe that fills a bankable void left by 90’s pop/R&B acts like TLC or Brandy.

MICHAEL MALCOLM and VICTOR PERRY, “Out Of My Mind”

NYC singer-songwriter Victor Perry teams up with new Canadian dance producer Michael Malcolm for “Out Of My Mind”. Some of Victor’s best releases have been in the deep house genre, and this song about being just a little bit more than infatuated goes down easy. Michael’s production isn’t full of effects or tricks, and ably showcases Victor’s superlative Michael Jackson-inspired vocal. Club DJ’s and dance radio shouldn’t sleep on this one!

OLLY MURS, “Die Of A Broken Heart”

Olly Murs is back with a fresh sound after four years since his last new music. He’s a superstar in England from the early ’10’s hits “Heart Skips A Beat” and “Troublemaker” (with Flo Rida) but is in comeback mode with the reggae-tinged “Die of a Broken Heart”. And it’s a nice change from recording songs with Snoop Dogg or Shaggy for name value. The sound is bright and crisp with a nice percussive backdrop, which allows his vocal to really soar. As a guy in love, he’s got a new album coming appropriately called Marry Me so there may be more opportunities yet for Olly to be back on the charts.

JOT SINGH, “Nothing Like This World”

Earlier this year, I introduced you to L.A.-based singer/songwriter Jot Singh and his beautifully sung acoustic release “Don’t Play With Fire”. “Nothing Like This World” serves as a worthy follow-up. This time it’s a more DIY effort, relying on some effectively distinct choppy guitar sounds which compliment another solid vocal by Jot. The song is about taking risks to help give yourself a better life, and the optimistic lyrics and dreamy melody yield better than average results. Check out the video above!

TYLER GARRETT, “Deception”

This past summer brought us an ambitious full album release, Mirage, by L.A. dance music multi-talent Tyler Garrett. “Deception” is sure to turn heads as Tyler shifts flavours from pop/dance/house and into trance for a trek to a darker side of electronic music. Self-realization is at the core of “Deception”, and Tyler playfully alters his vocal before the chorus kicks in. It’s a tad long at almost 5 minutes but trance music fans will thoroughly enjoy it, and I think it would benefit from an even deeper trance mix.

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.

“I Will Wait” by new Toronto singer/songwriter Shawn Molko

BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S PICK OF THE WEEK

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

“Kick Ass” by the one and only Bryan Adams (with an amusing prologue by John Cleese)

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S PICK 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.

A fast-paced slice of EDM by Quickdrop, “Too Late To Turn Back”

“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.

Queen – Crazy Little Thing Called Love
Toto – Africa
Yes – Owner Of A Lonely Heart
Wham! featuring George Michael – Careless Whisper
U2 – I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

“Bad Habit” by Steve Lacy

BILLCS Top30 FASTEST RISER

“My Dying Spirit” by Greyson Chance (18-7)

#BILLCSTop30 #652, November 7/22

The BILLCS Top 30 has been unofficially 25 years old since September, but I didn’t keep any of the charts at that time, and they were only being shared on various chart-related Internet sites.  This week marks the first one that I still have which yielded this Top 10:

  1. YOU MAKE ME WANNA … Usher
  2. BITTER SWEET SYMPHONY The Verve
  3. TUBTHUMPING Chumbawumba
  4. WALKIN’ ON THE SUN Smash Mouth
  5. FLY Sugar Ray
  6. RATTLESNAKE Like
  7. FREE Ultra Naté
  8. BABYLON The Tea Party
  9. EVERYTHING TO EVERYONE Everclear
  10. LAST OF THE BIG GAME HUNTERS Barstool Prophets

My chart continues to be posted bi-weekly below with an accompanying blog post. The regular blog posts under the new name The BILLCS New Music Report now appear weekly on Wednesdays.

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 SHOWSbelow too as they will become increasingly tied in with the BILLCS New Music Report.

“Bad Habit” by Steve Lacy is one of the most memorable songs of 2022 and it’s one that I don’t think I’ll get tired of any time soon. Fittingly, it rises 2-1 for my fellow Gemini from Compton, California whose performance on Saturday Night Live this past weekend you can check out above.

Climbing 5-2 is the superbly infectious “The Boss” by French producers Coopex and Charles B and NYC singer/songwriter and “American Idol” alumnus Robbie Rosen. Robbie reached #2 late last year with “To The Top” (with Natixx and Lyonbrothers) and was #1 exactly a year ago with Dutch producer Howen for “Sanctuary”.

“Full Force” (above) by Italy’s Luca + Giam with American vocalist Sam Merkin rises 6-4. Check out their latest release with New Zealand-based singer theajsound called “Game Changer” below.

The irresistible “Celebrate” by Laurentius and Oke makes another big move, up 9-5, from their upcoming EP together called Jaiye.

Greyson Chance is back-to-back in the Top 10 with two songs from his Palladium album. “Athena” (above) rises 8-6 while the engrossing “My Dying Spirit” (below) is the Fastest Riser on the chart, soaring 18-7.

Two more songs land in the Top 10. Florida’s Tonner climbs 13-9 with “Castles” (above), and Showtek gets their first Top 10 since 2019 with “Welcome Back Home” (below) featuring NYC’s MC Ambush, up 11-10.

The Fall has begun with great music from some fantastic new male singers. Stephen Sanchez’s “Until I Found You” (above) breaks loose and moves up 22-16, while JVKE’s piano-laden “Golden Hour” (also above) rises 21-18. And they’re joined by Conan Gray whose “Yours” (below) rises 27-22.

I can’t get enough of Charlie Puth’s “Charlie Be Quiet” from his new album Charlie, which I hope will eventually be promoted at radio. It climbs 24-20. His best song hands down in years.

Capital Cities and Bobby Nourmand make a respectable move of 26-21 with their collaboration “Together”.

The Highest Debut belongs to a great new voice from Toronto which you might recognize from last week’s BILLCS New Music Report. It’s Shawn Molko and his scintillating ballad “I Will Wait” at #28.

Norway’s Matoma returns to the chart for his fifth entry which is “The Power” at #29. The song is already becoming an unexpected sports anthem, having been played at national hockey (Matoma got to play it himself at a New York Rangers game recently) and baseball games. Watch out for this one in the coming weeks. The uncredited powerhouse vocal is by co-writer Clementine Douglas.

The third new entry is a song guaranteed to be love at first listen. Joel Corry teams up with British vocalist Tom Grennan for “Lionheart (Fearless)” at #30. It’s Joel’s 2nd appearance on my chart following 2020’s enduring #1 “Head & Heart” (with MNEK).

 

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 past 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.

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.

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 20 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here.  You can hear past episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Addictive Energy (currently on hiatus but returning soon!!)

This is a weekly show hosted by Hunter Wilbur that airs on several online stations but is anchored at Mix88.ca on Sundays beginning at 8pm EST. You can hear past 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!

 

 

 

 

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – November 2/22 spotlighting songs by @ShawnMolko, Shawn Desman @DaRealSD, @ZacPoor, @CraigDavid & @MuniLong, and Lilly Wood & The Prick @LWATP

Check out my posts about 12 new songs below, along with picks of the week from online radio buddies “Big Daddy” Russ Horton and Hunter Wilbur, and myself.  “The Musicman” James Rogers takes his Classic Five to the 80’s, and I look back at #1’s on the BILLCS Top 30 from this week over the previous 23 years, from Rufus Wainwright through to Justin Timberlake through to Karen Harding.

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.

SPOTLIGHTING

SHAWN MOLKO, “I Will Wait”

There’s a new Shawn from Canada in town, and Toronto’s Shawn Molko has a voice that you won’t soon forget. Witness his new single “I Will Wait” – he has the gorgeous finesse of a Michael Bublé or Matt Dusk, but in a higher key with a light falsetto, so it’s no wonder that a cappella group Pentatonix has caught their attention – he could be a crooner like either gents, or stand alongside someone like Sam Smith. It also helps that “I Will Wait” is a beautiful piano-led song with a classic structure. Shawn recently sang the national anthems at Madison Square Garden for a Rangers/Flames game and stunned the arena. So if we’re just at the start for Shawn Molko, then I’m here for what’s next. Pop radio is playing similar new male vocalists like JVKE and Stephen Sanchez, and so would be missing out by not adding “I Will Wait”.

SHAWN DESMAN, “Maniac”

There’s another Shawn in Canada making an auspicious return. Toronto’s Shawn Desman is one of Canada’s most successful domestic pop stories of the 2000’s, yet despite often R&B-inflected pop smashes like “Get Ready” (reaching #5 on the BILLCS Top 30), “Shook”, “Nobody Does It Like You” and “Electric”, has not released any new solo material since 2015 when his record label deal ended. After taking some time to raise a family, he came back recently as one half of electronic production duo Radioclub with a couple of recent singles. But the soulful dance/pop of “Maniac” should put him back in the fore, with a solid vocal and production as well as some nice choppy guitar riffs that help it stand out. Fans who saw him perform at Drake’s OVO fest in Toronto gave Shawn a warm welcome back, so following it up with a strong single like “Maniac” – which has just landed in Canada’s Top 40 at radio – completely makes sense.

ZAC POOR, “Ghost Boy”

It’s been a while since I’ve heard or written about L.A.-based singer/songwriter Zac Poor, but over the years he’s been busiest as a songwriter as part of tunes recorded by the likes of Tori Kelly, Backstreet Boys, Nick Jonas, and many others. His new solo release “Ghost Boy” is one that strikes all the feels as the protagonist relates recalling younger versions of himself. And while some memories are painful, “Ghost Boy” will always be a part of him through good and bad, including one of the worst – discrimination. As usual, it’s beautifully sung, and set to a contrasting carefree, danceable rhythm, but the poignant narrative is what hits the home run.

CRAIG DAVID and MUNI LONG, “Obvious”

British R&B/pop singer/songwriter Craig David has released a new album in his 22 year chart career called – well, 22!  “Obvious”, which is included in the album, is a more pop companion to his classic “7 Days” than his other recent releases, and it features Tik Tok breakthrough artist Muni Long, who leaves a potent vocal stamp on this song that you’ll remember. Craig sounds as smooth as ever and “Obvious” is refreshing and fluid ear candy.

LILLY WOOD & THE PRICK, “You Want My Money (Quieres Mi Plata)”

You will remember the French duo Lilly Wood & The Prick, comprising Israel-born vocalist Nili Hadida and guitarist Benjamin Cotto from their inescapable 2014 worldwide smash, the Robin Schulz remix of “Prayer In C”. Last year, the pair released their first album in 7 years called Most Anything, which included the initial English-language version of “You Want My Money” (below). Now re-recorded in Spanish as “Quieres Mi Plata” (above), the song will capture Latin music fans as well as appeal to those of you who enjoy another talented electronic duo, Sofi Tukker. I’m enjoying both versions of the song with its chugga-chugga house rhythm and edgy vocal, so pick your favourite!

FEATURING

AASH MEHTA, “I Just Wanna Love You”

Following up his personal and atmospheric electronic pop album The Moments In-Between, Chicago producer Aash Mehta dishes out some contemporary house this time with “I Just Wanna Love You”. It’s also a successor to one of my faves from last year, the deep house rave-up “Back To You” (reaching #5 on the BILLCS Top 30). What the song might lack in terms of lyrical punch is completely compensated by on-point production, which stirs up the vibe a bit before reprising the drive of its melodic hook.

LOST BOY, “Ready2Go”

It’s been a while since I wrote about Bay Area multi-talent Lost Boy. Otherwise known as Dillon Deskin and now based in L.A., “Ready2Go” is a strong release waiting to be discovered, and caught my attention with its vibrant vocal and playful production. Lost Boy seems to be headed more in a pop direction than in past, and I think the cheery flavours in this song will draw in fans of Justin Bieber and Shawn Mendes, while the rich backdrop will continue to appeal to Zedd or Alesso enthusiasts.

AFROJACK presents NLW x PHLEGMATIC DOGS, “Get It”

Afrojack steps away from the melodic dance that gave him one of his biggest hits last year with David Guetta with “Hero”, and back into the bass house realm with a new banger called “Get It”. And this one is strictly for the clubs and festivals, once again under the name “Afrojack presents NLW”. With its irresistible rhythm and deadpan vocal, plus additional production by Russian duo Phlegmatic Dogs, “Get It” is sure to please Afrojack’s hardcore house fans.

CRISTÓVAM, “Ferris Wheel”

An award-winning star in his native Portugal, singer/songwriter Cristóvam brings you “Ferris Wheel” from his new album Songs On A Wire. It’s a provocative slice of folk-flavoured alt.pop that covets looking after your own problems before you try and help someone who has perhaps even more complex matters at hand. With a voice that’s a hybrid of Bob Dylan and Paul Simon, and simple but crisp production and some nifty guitar work, the lyrics in “Ferris Wheel” aren’t judgmental and choose to guide rather than criticize. Let’s hope anyone having some difficulties will recognize and enjoy Cristóvam’s intrinsic perspective, while many others will have no problem connecting with it.

BROOKS, VLUARR, and JAY MASON, “Sober”

There’s a lot of European dance music that receives so much success at home that it often doesn’t get as much notice or praise outside of Europe. Brooks is a talented Dutch producer who is a protégé of Martin Garrix who has recorded numerous singles with his superstar buddy such as “Byte” (reaching #5 on the BILLCS Top 30) among Brooks’ earliest releases. Teaming up this time with two newer Dutch artists, producer/DJ/cellist Vluarr and vocalist Jay Mason, “Sober” is a punchy and gritty slice of deep house which is recognizably Brooks from its bounce, but spearheads other elements such as Vluarr’s supurb cello work. Jay Mason has released a few fistfuls of singles these last two years and has an earthy, compelling voice for a convincing delivery in “Sober”.

ROSEBURG, “Alice”

Utah-based alt.rock quartet Roseburg follow up their debut 2020 album Righteous Punk with a straight forward ode to life, love and having a purpose called “Alice”. The group deliberately stripped back their rocking sound for “Alice”, which is a more pop-oriented song that singer/guitarist Zack Knell wrote when he was 16. The production incorporates some winning harmonies alongside a tight arrangement. The band are originally from Roseburg, Oregon and can continue to happily represent the proud name of that town. Fans of early 2000’s alt.rock will be the first to love it, and you can watch for social media stars Dylan Jordan and Summer McKeen in the video for “Alice” above.

KINGA, “Sexy Boy” (Champain remix)

In the music biz, everything that’s been done before can be reinvented, remixed and rebooted into something that can fit into whatever is contemporary today. “Sexy Boy” has a timeless, easy-going electronic pop mystique that can fit into the fun and flirty part of dance music that is giving artists like L.A.’s Michael Medrano and even Sweden’s Darin a niche that was begun long ago by Brits Boy George, Marilyn, Pet Shop Boys, and Dead Or Alive. So what’s new to you, isn’t to me – Canada’s KINGA originally released long out of print indie “Sexy Boy” back in 1989 (you can listen to it at the link below), when it obtained a modicum of success on TV’s Much Music as well as some adventurous pop and college radio stations, which gave the androgenous KINGA a chance to shine in local performances. The fast-paced synthpop Champain remix of “Sexy Boy” brings him back with an alluring, smoother Boy George-ish vocal that sounds fresh all over again.

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.

“Yours” by Conan Gray from his album Superache

BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S PICK OF THE WEEK

“Big Daddy” Russ Horton is the owner of online stations Radio GTA, Halton Hills Radio Online, & FM108.ca.

“Red and Gold” by new Manchester rockers Gathering Of Strangers

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S PICK 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.

“What You Got” by Oryon featuring Woodz

“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.

Michael Jackson – Billie Jean
John Cougar – Jack and Diane
Kim Carnes – Bette Davis Eyes
Rick Springfield – Jessie’s Girl
Christopher Cross – Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)

23 YEARS OF BILLCS TOP 30 #1’s

Songs that rocked my personal chart at this time during the last 23 years.

“Pink Cadillac”, in 2009, was the first song available as a free download to top my chart.

1998 APRIL FOOLS Rufus Wainwright
1999 THE FUTURE OF THE FUTURE (STAY GOLD) Everything But The Girl with Deep Dish
2000 TWISTED TENDERNESS Electronic
2001 BLACK BLACK HEART David Usher
2002 JAMES DEAN (I WANNA KNOW) Daniel Bedingfield
2003 SUPERFABULOUS BT featuring Rose McGowan
2004 THEY MIGHT SAY Mitchell Hunter
2005 PRETTY VEGAS INXS
2006 FUTURE SEX/LOVE SOUND Justin Timberlake
2007 APOLOGIZE Timbaland featuring One Republic
2008 RELAPSE Jesse McCartney
2009 PINK CADILLAC 100 Akres featuring Roz Bell
2010 RESURRECTION (Penguin Prison remix) The Temper Trap
2011 NO I.D. Frankmusik featuring Colette Carr
2012 MUSIC MAKES YOU LOSE CONTROL Carlos Nobrega
2013 ADORN Miguel (also featuring Jessie Ware)
2014 SMILE Mikky Ekko
2015 LET YOU GO River Tiber
2016 NATIVE SON PREQUEL (Jenaux remix) Gramatik featuring Leo Napier
2017 PERFECT Mahalo featuring Cat Lewis
2018 PHANTOM OF THE DANCE FLOOR Kiesza featuring Philippe Roy
2019 DREAMER Throttle
2020 UNDO MY HEART Karen Harding x Digital Farm Animals
2021 SANCTUARY Howen & Robbie Rosen