BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

I’ve got no commentary to add to this week’s Report, so the great songs will speak for themselves!  I do want to let you know that I’m taking next week off, since it’s my birthday as well as a busy week in general, so the Report will return on Wednesday, June 18.

Listen to my daughter VXTORIA‘s latest dance music release, the afrobeats-flavoured “Lost In Your Love”, at the following link:  Lost.  Since I’ll have no blog posts next week, I get to announce that her next release “More Love” is a collaboration that arrives on Friday June 13!  If you haven’t checked out her second single, “changes”, you can do so at the following link:  changes.  You can watch her in the video for her debut single “Back To You” at the following link: Back To You.

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers is back with his weekly “3D Variety Show” and this week’s Classic Five is a selection of choice songs from 1970-1972, including a couple of cool Canadian ones. And if you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser in the latest edition of the BILLCS Top 30.

Reminder:  Click on the photos below to listen to the songs, usually with a Spotify link unless otherwise indicated.

LENNI KIM, “Scars”

Video link:  Scars

About the artist:  23 year old Lenni Kim Lalonde is a Canadian singer/songwriter/actor from Montreal who is known mainly to French-speaking audiences for his appearances as a teen on the French shows “The Voice Kids” and “Danse avec les stars”. He has released an album, an EP, and several singles up to 2022 in French, but his recently released EP Adrenaline is entirely in English.

About the record: “Scars” was one of the single releases from Adrenaline which I caught up with while checking out other songs on the EP. By far, “Scars” is Lenni Kim’s most moving song from the EP, with its frame in a spoken-sung narrative, while its whirlwind emotional chorus spins the song into a breakup anthem. Lenni Kim sounds somewhat like The Driver Era’s Ross Lynch or Swedish singer Adam Woods. He has a beautiful tenor and his vocal in the chorus reminds me of Conan Gray.

Other comments: After having major label experiences with his French releases, Adrenaline is Lenni Kim’s first independent release. With talent like Benson Boone and sombr having breakouts these past couple of years, there is plenty of room for a talent like Lenni Kim. Be sure to check out the video at the link above.

MERGUI, “Risk It All”

About the artist: Jonathan Mergui is an Israel-born talent who experienced some success in his home country before relocating to Los Angeles. “Risk It All” follows up his EP Nobody Really Knows, which included “On My Mind”, the Sam Feldt remix of which got to #15 on the BILLCS Top 30 earlier this year.

About the song: “Risk It All” is a compelling rock-flavoured bop that’s about taking one too many steps into an encounter. I suppose this song is more about a one-night thing where unfortunately the event didn’t even lead to friendship. But it could be applied also to just making friends or trying to establish yourself with someone, with the idea not to move too fast, even if the other party wants to as well.

Other comments: This kind of brisk pop would certainly liven up any Top 40 or Hot AC playlist, and Mergui continues to be a talent to watch. He performs in L.A., Philadelphia, Chicago and New York (for 2 shows) later this month.

SHAWN HOOK, “Lie”

About the artist: Shawn Hook is a Vancouver-based Juno Award-nominated singer/songwriter whose songs you can hear on Canadian radio at any given time of day. Shawn also battled throat cancer in 2023 which is now in remission. “Lie” follows up his 2024 EP Beauty In Surrender

About the record: “Lie” is a stirring breakup anthem, a little more rock-flavoured in the Imagine Dragons/Benson Boone territory, with an expressive performance by Shawn. It signals a new era for Shawn, whose past releases ranged from ballads through to pop/dance tracks, like his biggest hit “Sound Of Your Heart”. As Shawn has said in social media, “Lie” is pretty pointed, so “If someone has played you, kindly send this song to them and tell them there’s something else they should add to their playlist.”

Other comments: It’s always great to hear fresh-sounding new music from one of Canada’s often unheralded pop music mainstays.

PETER FOLDY, BEKI COLADA, “Showdown”

About the artists: Peter Foldy is the Juno Award-nominated Canadian L.A.-based multi-talent who scored a national #1 with the classic “Bondi Junction”. When he’s not making movies as a director, producer and writer, he continues to release solid pop songs. On “Showdown”, he collaborates with Australian singer/songwriter Beki Colada, who had a 14 year career as vocalist/keyboardist with the group The Mavis’s, including a Top 20 album and single. The Mavis’s reunited in 2022.

About the song: “Showdown” has an atypical, refreshing storyline about a couple who are experiencing some tension, and need to take a few steps back from it all. So make it a date night over some wine and good conversation, and that could help ease getting through it. The music is elegantly-styled pop, with Peter and Beki’s voices trading off well, and make the song work effortlessly.

Other comments: Adult contemporary music fans and radio stations looking for something fresh for their playlists can’t go wrong with “Showdown”.

RYAN SHEPHERD, MOUGLETA, “Losing All Control”

About the artists:  Ryan Shepherd is the Canadian dance music producer and DJ who creates feel-good house music which has landed him on the BILLCS Top 30 several times, most recently with “Move It (Control My Mind)” peaking at #5. Mougleta is Dubai-born Canadian singer/songwriter Yasmeen Semaan, who has collaborated with such diverse dance music luminaries as Afrojack, Robin Schulz, Sultan + Shepherd and NGHTMRE.

About the record: “Losing All Control” could have been an all-out party record, but fortunately is infused with some imaginative lyrics about two people finding that magical chemistry that we all can only wish for, and then letting loose, ideally on the dance floor. Ryan’s slick deep house production frames the story and Mougleta’s enticing vocal is an ear-grabber.

Other comments: “Losing All Control” should find its way into dance club and festival sets as part of a great lead up to an evening of fun.

NELSON BRAGG, “We’re Gonna Laugh About It”

About the artist:  L.A.-based, New Hampshire born veteran drummer, percussionist and vocalist Nelson Bragg has played in countless bands over the years, which came to fruition in 2003 when he joined Brian Wilson’s band, just in time for the release of Brian’s long-awaited Grammy-winning album Smile, and he also performed at the Beach Boys’ 50th Anniversary concert in 2012.

About the record: “We’re Gonna Laugh About It” is apparently inspired by the sounds of British group Squeeze, though to me I hear 90’s rock bands like The Smithereens meshing with the omnipresent SoCal sound that leads back to The Beach Boys. It’s lighthearted theme about celebrating the time of our youth and realizing, through changes over the years, that there’s a lot of then-serious stuff in our lives to be taken with a grain of salt as we get older.  In addition to vocals, drums and percussion, Nelson also played 12 string guitar on “Laugh”, while British rocker JK Harrison added bass and electric guitar.

Other comments:  “We’re Gonna Laugh About It” is included in the upcoming album Mélodie de Nelson: A Pop Anthology, which also includes selected songs from the artist’s three solo albums.

MATTHEW HOLTBY, “This Is Bliss”

About the artist: Matthew Holtby is a singer/guitarist based in Warkworth, Ontario, near Peterborough. Matthew is known to his fans as an authentic storyteller who mixes pop with rock, folk, country and other genres into his songs.

About the song:  “This Is Bliss” is a love song about Matthew and his wife and how they have forged their relationship together. It’s simple, sweet and to the point, with an acoustic guitar carrying the melody. But the song has full instrumentation too, augmented by touches by cellist and violinist David Shewchuk. “This Is Bliss” will touch anyone who has seen a relationship bloom and get to a point that you would have never imagined.

Other comments: Matthew has several live performances scheduled across south-eastern Ontario during the next two months where you can hear his genuine brand of pop.

ALI J. HASSAN, “Into The Winds”

About the artist: Hailing from Johnstown, Pennsylvania, Ali J. Hassan takes his first step into a solo career with the rocker “Into The Winds”. Ali has played in several rock bands as a bassist and rhythm guitarist, engineered recordings by Alicia Keys and John Legend, and has coordinated the live sound for shows by Benson Boone, Elton John, Sting, Pharrell Williams and Bruno Mars.

About the song: “Into The Winds” is energetic roots rock that goes down easy with its hopeful message of finding the right path for yourself. That path simply opens whatever door you choose, and suddenly life becomes a lot more carefree where you can ride the winds as implied by the title. Ali’s message is accompanied by an earnest and heartfelt performance.

Other comments: “Into The Winds” will appeal to fans of classic rock singers like John Mellencamp and Bruce Springsteen, but also newer talents like Sam Fender and Noah Kahan.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

Sam Feldt’s latest foray into tropical house is “Lonely Tonight” with American vocalists Justin Jesso and Parson James

BIG DADDY” RUSS HORTON’S RECORD OF THE WEEK

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

Veteran rockers Hinder return with their first new music in 7 years with “Bring Me Back To Life”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations. It’s anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. 

It’s not terribly new but it is Lady Gaga and it’s “Abracadabra”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show, where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week.  The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.  The 3D Variety Show is currently on vacation, returning on Tuesday July 8.

King Floyd – Groove Me (1971)
Stevie Wonder – Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours) (1970)
Diana Ross – Reach Out And Touch (Somebody’s Hand) (1970)
Dr. Music – Sun Goes By (1972)
Brave Belt – Dunrobin’s Gone (1972)

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

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

My retro pick of the week is currently in repeats, and new ones will return soon.

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

sombr continues at #1 as “back to friends” begins to break out nation-wide

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

From his upcoming project Rooms I Never Left, it’s Toronto’s Francesco Yates with the jazz-fusion flavoured “If I Have You” (18-12)

 

 

 

 

 

If you know anyone who is getting fed up with the lack of variety and personality and too many commercials on terrestrial radio stations, then make sure they explore some free online radio selections. Granted there are many amateur stations that are inconsistent and sound like they are put together on a whim, but there are many online stations that are run by radio professionals past and present. It could be what they need to brighten their day and replace their previous listening habits with something they enjoy.  

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

As a standing item about my daughter VXTORIA‘s progress with her music, her latest release “Lost In Your Love” is out with its sultry vocal and afrobeats-influenced rhythm. Please check it out at the following link:  Lost.  And if you haven’t checked out her second single, the clubbier track “changes”, you can do so at the following link:  changes.  You can see her in the video for her debut single “Back To You” at the following link: Back To You. Her next release is coming soon!

“back to friends” (above) by sombr is in a lock at #1 for the next while, and his newly minted Top 40 pop hit “undressed” (below) moves up 8-5.  So will sombr end up succeeding himself at #1 or will another song get there first?

Benson Boone’s “Sorry I’m Here For Someone Else” (above) climbs 4-3, with his new album American Heart on the way to support his upcoming sold out tour. Benson has also released the affecting song “Oh Momma”, which to me is a much better song than the previous single “Mystical Magical”, check it out below.

Jude York’s “After The Opera” (above) is up 9-7, and the Aussie pop/dance multi-talent recently released his EP Heartstrings, which includes another fine song in “That’s Just Love” (below). Jude wraps up his brief European tour today in London.

Tiësto’s “Hold Me”, with vocals by British co-writer Jordan Shaw, climbs 12-8. It’s Tiësto’s first Top 10 entry since 2019’s “Ritual” and Jordan’s second this year following “Heart First” (#3, with Lucas & Steve). I’m disappointed that Tiësto’s label didn’t push this one because it’s far superior to the others that have recently seen dance radio action and club play.

Lady Gaga gets a second MAYHEM Top 10 entry with “Vanish Into You” (above) rising 11-9 and becoming Gaga’s 13th Top 10 entry, while “How Bad Do U Want Me” (below) continues its climb, up 22-18.

Rounding out the Top 10 is Bay area dance producer Jay Bird with the sly earworm “Do It Like Me”, which moves up 14-10. It’s got a vibrant and playful house groove and comes from the Space Yacht label’s Tech My House Vol. 8 compilation. It’s Jay Bird’s third Top 10 entry and first since 2022’s “Float” (#3).

James Hype’s fast-paced and compelling “Don’t Wake Me Up” is in line for a Top 10 entry in two weeks and climbs 16-11.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is “If I Have You”, the effortless-sounding slice of pop/R&B that mixes some retro jazz fusion by Toronto’s Francesco Yates, which leaps 18-12, from his upcoming project Rooms I Never Left. The talented singer/songwriter plays The Drake Hotel in Toronto for a rare club appearance on Friday June 20 (I know where I’ll be!). You can also check out another single by Fran called “All” (below).

GT_Ofice’s “Something New” has now landed in the Top 30 on the national dance radio charts, and this collaboration with Matthew Topper and Petie climbs 19-14.

Fresh sounds imbue three other great songs on the move.  The happy-go-lucky pop/folk sound of The Boy From The South pervades “Older” (20-16, above), while Steven Thad’s “Smile” (21-17), below has a smooth, somewhat retro R&B/pop flavour, and Jon Bellion’s return to releasing his own music with singles like “Kid Again” (23-19, below) has a captivating and organic outside-of-the-box style. Jon also co-produced and co-wrote Rihanna’s latest single, “Friend Of Mine”.

Despite the three new entries starting at the bottom of the chart, mark my word, these are three songs that are going to be around into the fall months.

The highest debut at #28 is “In My Arms”, the formidable collaboration from Illenium and Hayla. Both artists are the toast of the EDM world so it makes sense that their unique abilities to craft songs should be combined. This one is going to be a huge favourite, one of those songs that leaves you breathless as you listen.  It’s Illenium’s 11th chart entry and first since 2022, and for Hayla it’s already entry #5.

Next at #29 is “Lonely Tonight” by Dutch producer Sam Feldt with American vocalists/songwriters Justin Jesso and Parson James. It’s from Sam’s new album Time After Time, which also includes his previous #1’s “Mi Amor” (with JVKE and Anitta) and “Heart Like Mine” (with Rosa Linn). It’s another instant favourite that includes Sam’s signature tropical house sound along with amazing vocals from both Justin and Parson.  Happily, I saw all three perform on Kygo’s most recent tour, Sam last September opening for Kygo while the latter’s set got rained out, and Justin and Parson in January performing their previous releases with Kygo in his rescheduled show. “Lonely Tonight” is Sam’s fourth chart entry. Justin – who is a happy fireball of energy on stage – is here for the first time, while Parson previously got to #1 with Dutch producers The Him on 2018’s “Broken Love” and #8 with The Knocks on 2022’s “River”.

Completing the debuts at #30 is the return of Agnes with the stylish and bold” Balenciaga Covered Eyes”. The Swedish singer hasn’t sounded better and with some new collaborators, “Balenciaga” is cutting edge and takes its time drawing you in before its seductive piano house rhythm takes over.  It’s Agnes’ fifth chart entry.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Halton Hills Radio Online

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

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

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

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

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada 

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my Retro Pick of the Week on the live online radio show “The 3D Variety Show”, powered by www.xstreamrockradio.com with “The Musicman” James Rogers. I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments.  The show repeats on Alberta’s www.katpowerhit.ca on Wednesdays at 6pm EST.  The show will be on vacation from June 10 to July 1, returning on July 8.

Party Dog Radio  

Canada’s Party Dog Radio now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Saturdays at 6pm EST, which airs my New Music Pick of the Week. Party Dog Radio also airs “The Big 20”, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week on Sundays after 9pm EST. 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I’ve never liked the idea from the inset, especially now, years into the streaming world, but there’s no doubt that the Billboard Hot 100 is here to stay as the composite source for all releases in the United States. As an alternate to this chart as well as its increasingly boring radio charts, I would like to propose a new “singles” chart, likely based on songs record labels are promoting, which would bring back a chart like those pre-streaming and would be a bellwether chart for new music.  In the case of recent songs by Billie Eilish (“Birds of a Feather”) and Drake (“Nokia”), their labels have determined their viability through streaming users before they were identified as “singles”, though in the case of sombr’s releases, the label targeted them to both alternative (“back to friends”) and Top 40 (“undressed”) audiences. I’d love to hear your comments – you can add your comments to the blog post or respond to my post about this edition of the Report on the platform of your choice – Facebook, Threads, Blue Sky, or Instagram!

Listen to my daughter VXTORIA‘s latest dance music release, the afrobeats-flavoured “Lost In Your Love”, at the following link:  Lost.  If you haven’t checked out her second single, “changes”, you can do so at the following link:  changes.  You can watch her in the video for her debut single “Back To You” at the following link: Back To You.

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers is back with his weekly “3D Variety Show” and this week’s Classic Five choices take us back to 1987. And you’ll also find out what songs were riding the top of the BILLCS Top 30 5-10-15-20-25 years ago!

Reminder:  Click on the photos below to listen to the songs, usually with a Spotify link unless otherwise indicated.

AGNES, “Balenciaga Covered Eyes”

About the artist: Agnes Carlsson has been wowing pop and dance music fans in Sweden and other European countries for 20 years – her first album came out in 2005, and all of her albums to date have reached the Top 10, with the first two reaching #1. “Release Me” was also a hit in the UK, reaching #3 in 2009 and it got to #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 too, where she has charted four times, most recently in 2020.

About the record: “Balenciaga Covered Eyes” is a decidedly different outing for Agnes, but it is positively enthralling. It’s a dark, 90’s-flavoured piano house track that will have you digging its seductive groove rocked by Agnes’ slick vocal. It’s certainly a risky song at this stage in her career but sometimes chance has to be thrown to the wind when the song is so good. “Balenciaga Covered Eyes” will hit you in the gut and stay in your head for days.

Other comments: Agnes is working on album #6 and she will undoubtedly bring more stylish goods like this single.

CERRONE, CHRISTINE & THE QUEENS, RAHIM REDCAR, “Catching feelings”

About the artists:  Cerrone is the legendary French disco producer who captivated us in the 70’s with songs like “Supernature” and “Love In C Minor”, and has remixed and re-recorded those songs since. He’s been a constant presence in France with a lesser profile in the rest of the world. Christine & The Queens is now the previous recording name for singer/songwriter Rahim Redcar, who came to prominence in 2014 with his European and alternative hit “Tilted” and recently has collaborated with Charli XCX.

About the record:  As you might expect with Cerrone, since he constantly re-invents himself, “Catching feelings” leads the way through the sophisticated disco mold in the EDM of 2025. It’s a great song, co-written with frequent collaborator Brendan Reilly.. who sang on his BILLCS Top 30 #1 “The Only One” in 2023. But it really makes the classy and spirited vocal by Rahim shine in a catchy mix that beckons club goers to the dance floor.

Other comments: I’m wondering if “Catching feelings” is the lead-in to a new album of originals by Cerrone, which would be his first since 2020’s DNA, a bit reminiscent of Giorgio Moroder’s “comeback” album, 2015’s Déjà Vu, which was recorded by him at age 74 (Cerrone now being 73). It’s also a transitional release for Rahim Redcar as he puts the Christine & The Queens moniker behind him.

AX & THE HATCHETMEN,  ALBERT HAMMOND JR., “Blurry Lights”

About the artist: Ax & The Hatchetmen is a six-piece rock band formed in Chicago in 2018 with vocals and guitar by Axel Ellis, and also includes members who play trumpet and saxophone. They released one live album before they signed with Arista Records.

About the record: “Blurry Lights” is one hot, catchy record aided by guitar work from The Strokes’ guitarist Albert Hammond Jr. (who, yes, is the son of British singer/songwriter Albert Hammond of “It Never Rains In Southern California” fame and many more songs as a prolific songwriter). The song works up to a guitar hook that might just be as memorable as the one in The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army”. But it’s loaded with hooks, fine production, and instrumentation, and serves as a great introduction to the Ax & The Hatchetmen.

Other comments: “Blurry Lights” is a no-brainer for alternative and mainstream rock stations, with pop crossover potential.

CORBYN BESSON, “Tied Up”

Video link: Tied Up

About the artist: Texas-born Corbyn Besson is a pop singer/guitarist who was one fifth of the band Why Don’t We, which dissolved due to legal issues. “Tied Up” is his solo release following last year’s fun collaboration with Swedish producers NOTD, “Panic”, which reached #6 on the BILLCS Top 30.

About the record: “Tied Up” is a sexy slice of danceable and soulful pop that will appeal to the fans Corbyn inherited from Why Don’t We, as well as other artists like The Jonas Brothers, Harry Styles and Justin Bieber. Like “Panic”, “Tied Up” is a bop when it rocks out, but also has a softer, seductive side to it, which will only serve Corbyn well as a diverse performer in the pop genre.

Other comments: Check out the video at the link above which doesn’t turn out as you might think – though the song’s title will come to mind!

LENA LEON, “Seconds to Sunrise”

About the artist: Lena Leon is a NYC-based singer/songwriter who has sang on and co-written songs by Tiësto, Vicetone, Tchami and Sick Individuals, as well as released her own solo works since 2019. Her release “Spiral” was a #1 national dance radio track in 2022.

About the record: “Seconds to Sunrise” positively shimmers as a romantic but uptempo summer song. It will certainly brighten up those big speakers at festivals and accompany you on those idyllic long walks or late night drives by the beach. It’s got a different sound from past releases by Lena but it works and captivates you all the way through.

Other comments: Lena’s songs have well over 50 million streams and all you have to do is listen to “Seconds to Sunrise” to hear why.

PLS&TY, x.o. anne, “Leave The Light On”

About the artists: PLS&TY (aka L.A.-based dance producer Tommy Leas) follows up his recent release “Constellations”. x.o. anne is a California-born singer/songwriter now based in London, who came to prominence on TELYKast’s #1 dance radio hit “Free”, and has worked with other producers such as Calvo, Marvel Riot, and Matt Fax.

About the record: There’s no denying the dance radio-ready appeal of “Leave The Light On” that has already landed it on the national dance radio chart. x.o. anne’s luminous vocal highlights yet another propulsive PLS&TY release, which he co-produced with co-writer Ellis Lawrie. “Leave The Light On” is also a shining example of heart-felt story-telling in a deep house setting.

Other comments: “Leave The Light On” is from PLS&TY’s 3-song EP Into The Light, and should lead the way to another collaboration between both artists. You can also check out the Rush Avenue remix at the following link: Light On.

ANDY TONGREN, “So Good”

About the artist:  Andy Tongren launches a solo career while still the lead singer of Young Rising Sons, a prolific NYC rock band that released 3 EP’s for Interscope back in the day and have been staunchly independent since.

About the record: There’s always room for one more bright folk/pop singer who can keep fans of singers like James Bay, Jason Mraz, and Weezer happy. “So Good” is an uplifting track with an energetic vocal by Andy that’s meant to be a mood-changer. It comes from an uncomplicated place, with a jangly melody that accompanies lyrics to which anyone can relate. It’s a fantastic kick off as a solo artist that should travel well beyond the fans of Young Rising Sons.

Other comments:  Besides a new Young Rising Sons album on the way called YRS, I’ll be waiting to hear what Andy Tongren offers up next as a solo artist.

MISTINE, “changing with the weather”

Video link:  changing

About the artist:  Mistine is the recording name for New Jersey-raised singer/guitarist Christine Meisenhelter, who has been recording music for about the last seven years and has toured with the likes of Conan Gray. She has just released her debut album called i guess this is where we’re at.

About the record: “changing with the weather” is a punchy, rock-flavoured love song that really shows off Mistine’s singing, songwriting and guitar work. Obvious references here would be Kelly Clarkson and Taylor Swift, but you could add “changing” easily to a playlist that might include songs by The Beaches, The Linda Linda’s, and The Marias. Mistine also drops references, often subtly, to her other passion, sustainability and the environment, into her songs. “changing” is a warm introduction into the authentic songs of Mistine.

Other comments: Mistine has a Master of Science degree in Sustainable Business Leadership. She has also worked at the Sphere in Las Vegas as the on-site Sustainability Coordinator for the Grateful Dead’s residency and also worked on Billie Eilish’s tour for her album Hit Me Hard And Soft.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

Get up and move to “I Don’t Speak French” by MELØ which fuses new wave, rock, house and disco

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

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

It’s British rockers Wolf Alice with “Bloom Baby Bloom”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations. It’s anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. 

Grammy Award winner Doechii samples the only hit by Gotye & Kimbra in “Anxiety”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

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

Grateful Dead – Touch Of Grey
Heart – Alone
Whitney Houston – Didn’t We Almost Have It All
Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes – (I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life
Billy Idol – Mony Mony “Live”

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

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

My retro pick of the week is currently in repeats, and new ones will return soon.

THE BILLCS TOP 30 – 5-10-15-20-25…

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

2020

01  GET YOUR WISH, Porter Robinson

02  ALL ON YOU, Super Duper

03  I DON’T WANNA GO HOME, The Prizm, ARTFCAL

04  YOU’RE NOT ALONE, Arty, Griff Clawson

05  YOU’LL BE OK, Gareth Emery, Annabel

2015

01  CHASING STARS, Corey Niles, Alex LaCasse

02  NO TALK, River Tiber

03  NO WORDS, Erik Hassle

04  STING, Eric Saade

05  AERONAUT, Parralox

2010

01  THE WORSE IT GETS, Penguin Prison

02  BEAT DROP, Simon Curtis

03  SITUATION (Monsieur Adi remix), Javi

04  JOYSTICK, Simon Curtis

05  ACAPELLA, Kelis

2005

01  JERK IT OUT, The Caesars

02  LONELY NO MORE, Rob Thomas

03  ELEANOR, Low Millions

04  YOU AND ME, Lifehouse

05  WRAP MY WORDS AROUND YOU, Daniel Bedingfield

2000

01  BENT, Matchbox Twenty

02  KRYPTONITE, 3 Doors Down

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

04  THIS TIME AROUND, Hanson

05  DRIFTWOOD, Travis

 

 

 

I have no thoughts to write about as an intro to this week’s Report, so please check out and enjoy the music and our features.

Listen to my daughter VXTORIA‘s latest release “Lost In Your Love” at the following link:  Lost.  If you haven’t checked out her second single, “changes”, you can do so at the following link:  changes.  You can watch her in the video for her debut single “Back To You” at the following link: Back To You.

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers is back with his weekly “3D Variety Show” and this week’s Classic Five choices come from an interesting time for pop music, 1974-75. In case you missed them, you’ll also find out which songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser in the latest edition of the BILLCS Top 30.

Reminder:  Click on the photos below to listen to the songs, usually with a Spotify link unless otherwise indicated.

SAM FELDT, JUSTIN JESSO, PARSON JAMES, “Lonely Tonight”

About the artists:  Sam Feldt is the talented Dutch dance producer who has been releasing music for about 10 years, and topped the BILLCS Top 30 last year with both “Mi Amor” (with JVKE and Anitta) and “Heart Like Mine” (with Rosa Linn). Justin Jesso and Parson James are both American singers/songwriters noted mainly for their vocals on too numerous dance music releases between them to mention here over about the last 10 years too, but like me, you may have seen them perform on Kygo’s most recent tour.

About the record:  Like with “Mi Amor”, Sam has smashed it again with another tropical-flavoured summer song. in “Lonely Tonight”. I don’t know why so many producers are reluctant to release songs with the good vibes only feel of tropical house. To boot, it’s an anthemic singalong that will stir up some emotions inside, and the inspiring vocals by Justin and Parson take the reigns and make it almost go down too easy. This is grand, textbook creating in both songwriting and production for dance music fans everywhere.

Other comments: Sam’s first album in several years, Time After Time, arrives on Friday May 23.

COBI, “Out Here”

About the artist:  Cobi is the L.A.-based singer/songwriter whose most recent releases have been in the bluesy rock vein, either as punchy rockers or laid-back slower songs. His complex 2023 release “Telepathic Powers” reached #5 on the BILLCS Top 30. He has recently been touring in Europe, and has a large fan base in France.

About the record: “Out Here” is a moody rocker led prominently by Cobi’s passionate, intense vocal, snappy guitar work, and atmospheric production. The defining moments of the song are catchy and memorable, making “Out Here” a natural crowd pleaser that would be a highlight in concert.

Other comments: Lucky music fans in mid- and west US states get to see Cobi in concert this summer so check your local listings!

BENEDICT CORK, “Deep Dive”

About the artist: For the last 6 years or so, Hertfordshire, England born Benedict Cork has been a frequent visitor to these blog pages as well as the BILLCS Top 30. He’s in a new era, following up his 2024 album Notes On A Hopeless Romance.

About the record: Leaving behind the often wrenching heartbreak of some of his songs, “Deep Dive” is a peppy bop with the theme of promising new beginnings.  It includes another beautiful vocal by Benny – some of you may have caught snippets of some of his thoughtful Instagram interpretations recently – and bright, fulsome production. It’s got a classic song structure to ensure that you get its chorus stuck in your head.

Other comments: And while “Deep Dive” signals that something fresh is afoot, Benedict is including the song in a deluxe edition of the Notes album for release on July 4.  He’ll be playing all of the songs from the album at Hoxton Hall on July 24 for lucky denizens of London, England.

BUD CAHILL, “Vessel”

About the artist: Bud Cahill is a producer and violinist from NYC whose sly instrumental “Intergalactic Highway” reached #5 on the BILLCS Top 30 at the top of the year.

About the record: “Vessel” is an adventure into progressive house music with a lot of studied techno inspiration particularly from the early 2000’s when artists like Above & Beyond, Tiësto, and Armin van Buuren were breaking out.  His violin work is blended into the mix instead of as a showcase but hearing that live instrumentation instead of a synthesized version is always an impressive addition. From a journey to the stars on “Intergalactic Highway”, “Vessel” conveys images of exploring the underwater world. As is often the case with progressive house instrumentals, “Vessel” is a little longer than usual but you’ll want to be along for the full ride.

Other comments: There are exciting sync possibilities for “Vessel” for either film-makers specializing in themes of nature and the elements, video games, and animated films. The song is culled from the Substance Selects EP, a label sampler for Controlled Substance.

GLASS PETALS, ROSE MOTION, “Just Let Go”

About the artist:  Glass Petals is the side project for Juno Award winning dance producer Felix Cartal in conjunction with fellow producer Johnny Jover which first released music back in 2018. Rose Motion is a male-female Canadian-Australian production duo who have been releasing music during this decade.

About the record: “Just Let Go” is an intriguing tech-house production that is much more geared towards clubs than Felix’s releases under his own name. It’s a song that immediately beckons dance club patrons to the dance floor where they can do exactly what the title says. There’s a wicked, multi-layered drop in the last quarter of the song that will have those dance floor lights aflutter.

Other comments: Glass Petals doesn’t release music too often but you won’t be disappointed when you check it out.

PHARØ, ROBBIE ROSEN, VERONICA BRAVO, “While We Slowly Fall Apart”

About the artists: PHARØ is a relatively new mystery American dance production duo, and that’s all I could find to share with you about them. Robbie Rosen is the multi-talented former “American Idol” contestant who makes regular appearances in these blog posts.  Veronica Bravo is an Australian singer/songwriter who has released solo and worked with such dance producers as Coopex, Egzod and WVLNGTH.

About the record: While it’s sometimes difficult to listen to songs about break-ups, “While We Slowly Fall Apart” is a creative melodic techno production with an infectious, stuttering beat.  The vocals by Robbie and Veronica mainly blend in seamless harmony, and each get their own solo moments that help make the song stand out from the rest. The lyrics relate a hopeful story about salvaging a relationship before it’s too late.

Other comments: While PHARØ and Robbie appear to have worked together previously, I would be down to hear a second collaboration by all three artists!

JNR, NATALIE GRAY, “Meant To Be”

About the artists:  Following up their collaboration from late last year, “Player Two”, JNR is a dance music producer from Newcastle, England who recently remixed Hazell Dean’s “Evergreen”, and Natalie Gray is a British dance music vocalist who has performed live opening for the likes of Becky Hill and Rag ‘n Bone Man.

About the record: “Meant To Be” is a solid and funky British house track that uses a slamming rhythm similar to what you heard recently in PAWSA’s smashing rework of The Adventures of Stevie B’s “Dirty Cash (Money Talks)”.  Natalie’s vocal is fresh, soulful and sophisticated, with some 90’s/00’s inspiration drawing from releases by Madonna, Whitney Houston, and Britney Spears.

Other comments: JNR and Natalie’s talents jibe well together and “Meant To Be” is a highly elevated indie release that deserves attention.

EMILY HABER, “Nostalgia”

About the artist: Until now, L.A. born Emily Haber has been noted as a songwriter for artists as diverse as Joy Oladokan, Andy Grammer, Syence, and Gryffin. As a child, was also in a group called Laughing Pizza, which toured the US for 10 years. She has now released her debut 5-song EP, Nostalgia. One other thing that you should know about Emily before checking out her music is that she experienced severe hearing loss at age 4, resulting in hearing aids in each ear.

About the record: The title song to her EP is an easy-going  short folk/pop track that is partially acoustic, with additional instrumentation in its latter half. With crisp production by Latin Grammy winner Daniel Dávila, “Nostalgia” sparkles with a raw, affecting vocal from Emily with highly relatable lyrics guaranteed to make you think back to many good times, as well as ones that might have been.

Other comments: Emily Haber weaves her story from a unique perspective and background, also being a person with a disability who shares her many talents with us.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

From last week’s Report, it’s Provi and Ron Carroll with their danceable disco delight “Celebration”

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

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

It’s Miami indie rock trio Mustard Service with “Big Time”, which I wrote about a few weeks ago

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations. It’s anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. His show “Pyjama Party” is back, on Saturdays at 5pm EST on Energy 885.

Montreal-area artist Jay Scott, who sings in French, with “Woodstock” from his album Toutes les rues sont silencieux

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

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

Grand Funk – Some Kind Of Wonderful (1975)
The Guess Who – Dancin’ Fool (1974)
Cher – Dark Lady (1974)
Barry White – Can’t Get Enough Of Your Love, Babe (1974)
Dionne Warwick & The Spinners – Then Came You (1974)

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

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

My retro pick of the week is currently in repeats, and new ones will return soon.

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

19 year old singer/songwriter sombr climbs 4-1 with his alternative radio hit “back to friends”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

It’s sombr again, this time with his Top 5 UK hit “undressed”, which soars 20-8

 

 

 

The new chart has another changeover at #1 as well as another injection of four new songs including some by familiar BILLCS Top 30 visitors.

As a standing item about my daughter VXTORIA‘s progress with her music, her latest release “Lost In Your Love” arrived on Friday with its sultry vocal and afrobeats-influenced rhythm. Please check it out at the following link:  Lost.  And if you haven’t checked out her second single, the clubbier track “changes”, you can do so at the following link:  changes.  You can see her in the video for her debut single “Back To You” at the following link: Back To You.

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

So far there is no song that has gotten under my skin this year as much as “back to friends” (above) by 19 year old Shane Boose, aka sombr, and it ascends 4-1 this week, looking for a likely long-term stay at the top. Even though his rise seems to be sudden and meteoric, he’s actually been releasing music for the last 4 years and has been in a long-term development deal with Warner Music.  And they were wise to choose to release two singles at the same time, with “back to friends” targeted at alternative radio audiences, while the Fastest Riser on the chart, “undressed” (below), soars 20-8 and is targeted at Top 40/AC radio audiences. “undressed” is already #5 in the UK, and this is just the start.  sombr performs on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon on Tuesday May 20.

It may very well be the most good-natured song of the year. Guaranteed to make you smile is “Good Dogs” by indie L.A. rock duo Magic Bronson, which climbs 3-2.

“Sorry I’m Here For Someone Else” by Benson Boone climbs 7-4 and becomes his 7th Top 5 entry on the chart. His North American tour is entirely sold out.  His new album American Heart arrives June 20.

“Martini (Shots)” becomes the third Top 5 entry for L.A.’s resident Disco Dad, Michael Medrano, climbing 9-5. It’s culled from his second album, The Penthouse. It matches the #5 peak of 2022’s “i don’t wanna talk about love”.

AThe other new entry in the Top 10 belongs to Australia’s Jude York, currently touring in Europe and the UK, with “After The Opera” climbing 11-9. It follows up last year’s #2 entry “Monaco”.

UK dance producer James Hype is currently playing shows to significantly larger American audiences than he did when he first toured the US in 2021. His dance music radio hit, “Don’t Wake Me Up”, moves up 22-16.

All six debuts from the previous chart move up five places, except Jon Bellion’s affecting “Kid Again”, which gets in an extra notch rising 29-23. Jon’s new album Father Figure arrives June 6, and you should check out his interactive website Beautiful Mind Club in advance of the album and potential live show dates. Beautiful Mind is also the name of his own Universal-distributed label.  Jon is also a co-producer and co-writer of Rihanna’s latest single, “Friend of Mine”.

The Highest Debut belongs to French producer Provi and American house music legend Ron Carroll with the sophisticated disco of “Celebration” (an original, not a cover of the overplayed Kool & The Gang hit) arriving at #25. It’s the first chart entry for Provi, and second for Ron, who reached #1 in 2018 with another French producer, Mercer, with “Satisfy”.

Also bringing retro dance music influences to the fore is Windsor, Ontario multi-talent MELØ with his latest independent release, the upbeat pop track “I Don’t Speak French”, which bows at #26.  MELØ first charted in late 2023 with the somber and emotional new wave-influenced rock track “Memento”, which peaked at #8.

While his cover of George Michael’s “Freedom” exits the chart after reaching #12, David Archuleta continues with his recent fun, breezy and danceable release “Crème Brûlée” joining the chart at #27. It’s his fourth chart entry overall.

The last new entry belongs to Toronto area duo Crash Adams, currently winning new fans all over the world with their friendly antics on Instagram and Tik Tok.  Their latest single “Karaoke” arrives at #28.  It’s their 6th chart entry since 2020.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Halton Hills Radio Online

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

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

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

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

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada 

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

Party Dog Radio  

Canada’s Party Dog Radio now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Saturdays at 6pm EST, which airs my New Music Pick of the Week. Party Dog Radio also airs “The Big 20”, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week on Sundays after 9pm EST. 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Now that good weather is upon us in the western part of the world, it’s important for music fans to go out and support their favourite artists in concert, particularly those who are not signed to a major record label. Attending their shows and buying their merchandise if you wish goes a long way to support them. And for those artists who are non-performing who are also faves, use all of your favourite social platforms to post about them. Several may eventually decide to perform in concert, while others may choose to remain in the studio.

My daughter VXTORIA has released two singles thus far, both happily well received, “Back To You”  and “changes“. Watch for her sultry and rhythmic third single “Lost In Your Love” on Friday May 15! Remember, this is only the start!

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers is back with his weekly “3D Variety Show” and this week’s Classic Five selection mixes it up with songs from the 1979-1981 era. You’ll also find out what songs were atop the BILLCS Top 30 for each of the last 27 years!

Reminder:  Click on the photos below to listen to the songs, usually with a Spotify link unless otherwise indicated.

PROVI, RON CARROLL, “Celebration”

About the artists:  Provi is a veteran French dance producer, specializing in retro disco flavours, recently featured here with his single with Mercer, “Remember Me”.  Ron Carroll is a house music veteran from Chicago, who often preaches his own gospel of dance music through songs like the recent “Love Message” with Robbie Rivera. But on “Celebration”, Ron lends his distinct singing voice.

About the record: Don’t worry, it’s not a rehash of the overplayed Kool & The Gang hit. “Celebration” is a lively, summery original co-written by both artists, and it’s as if it took a time warp to leap into 2025 from sometime in the 70’s or 80’s. It’s exactly the classic disco vibe that I crave, having lived through that era as a teenager, and I’m so glad Provi and Ron are here to help revive it properly!

Other comments: This one is for all of the club DJ’s incorporating disco and old school house into their mixes. Play the HELL out of it!!

STEPHEN MARLEY, “Old Man”

About the artist: Stephen Marley is one of the children of Bob and Rita Marley, and he has won a phenomenal 8 Grammy Awards, three Reggae Album of the Year awards for his own records and the rest for work with his siblings, including as member of Ziggy Marley & The Melody Makers and as a producer.

About the record: “Old Man” is a cover of Neil Young’s seminal 1972 hit, that is featured as a part of the collection Heart Of Gold Volume One. It’s a benefit album for The Bridge School,  pioneering nonprofit that helps children with severe speech and physical impairments through assistive technology. The reggae lilt adds a special charm to Stephen’s otherwise classic interpretation of the song. And it’s a rather poignant juxtaposition given that his own father only lived to age 35. It all adds up to a cover version done very well, and now available for the right reasons and a worthy cause.

Other comments: Stephen, ironically, was born in 1972, the same year that the original version was released. Other artists appearing on Heart Of Gold Volume One include Brandi Carlile, Fiona Apple, The Doobie Brothers with Allison Russell, Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam, Mumford & Sons, The Lumineers, and more. The company releasing the compilation, Cinema Music Group (CMG), is known for reimagining classic songs and producing new music with both established and emerging artists.

GREAT GOOD FINE OK, MARC E. BASSY, “Pressure”

About the artists:  Great Good Fine OK is the NYC duo of Jon Sandler and Luke Moelmann who have been regular visitors to this blog particularly as of late, as they have just released their new five-song EP, Seven. Marc E. Bassy is a San Francisco-born indie pop/R&B vocalist. On his records he has worked with such artists as G-Eazy, Kehlani and Shake 070, and has been the vocalist on dance releases by Shift K3Y, Dillon Francis, and Cheat Codes.

About the record: “Pressure” is a pretty direct pop/R&B release with Jon and Marc offsetting each other’s vocals seamlessly. The vantage point of the song’s lyrics is an interesting one – when you’ve finally met a special person and the pressure of dating is off, but the pressure of building a relationship is on. As is to be expected from a GGFO release, the production and synth work sparkle, making the whole package a winner.

Other comments: GGFO’s Seven EP also includes other collaborations with country singer Danielle Bradbery and rocker Andrew McMahon In The Wilderness.

CREIGHTON DOANE, “Better Believe It”

About the artist: Creighton Doane is a veteran multi dimensional musical artist based in Toronto (originally from the Canadian east coast), embracing roles as a musician/songwriter/producer and performer. “Better Believe It” is his first new solo work in about 15 years. In the intervening years, he continues to perform as the drummer for Canadian rock band Harem Scarem, which he joined in 2000. In the past, he’s worked with such award-winning talent as Alannah Myles, Kim Mitchell, Honeymoon Suite, and his sister, Melanie Doane.

About the record: “Better Believe It” provides instant retro feels with its 80’s power pop flavour, which includes an impressive guitar solo. It’s vibrant and uplifting, with rich production, and would sound great on the radio. Creighton’s vocal is also a highlight, reminiscent of what you would hear in bops by the likes of Rick Springfield, Matthew Sweet, and Dwight Twilley. But overall the song is a real earworm, with a timeless message.

Other comments: Now is the time for Creighton to return to solo work if he has more songs up his sleeve like “Better Believe It”, which will find instant fans.

EGZOD, MAESTRO CHIVES, EKE, “Follow”

About the artists:  Egzod is a Miami-based dance producer originally from France who I’ve written about several times before because of his fluid and varied production style which can shift from harder and edgy to melodic. He previously worked with Polish violinist on 2021’s “Royalty”, his most successful release thus far. EKE is a Dutch singer/songwriter who has had her songs recorded by the likes of Tiësto and Hardwell, and has sang on songs by Morgan Page and Sander van Doorn.

About the record: “Follow” is a boisterous techno-house rave up with an occasionally medieval-sounding melody. Egzod mixes up the pace, giving the song great momentum and memorable moments, which makes EKE’s vocal and Maestro Chimes’ luminous violin work really shine. Fans of Egzod and Maestro Chimes’ “Royalty” will be easily won over by “Follow”. It’s a fine song that has wonderful sync possibilities particularly for video games.

Other comments: “Follow” is Egzod’s second release for Canadian label Monstercat, following 2023’s “Mayday”. Monstercat’s recent acquisition by Create Music Group should mean a lot more for indie artists like Egzod going forward.

FOUR NIGHTS, “all night long”

About the artist: Four Nights is Irish DIY pop artist Tommy Buckley, whose recent releases have been featured in this blog, and are now available to you in his new EP, called in my mind i’m safe.

About the record: Out of the songs on the EP, “all night long” is my new favourite by Four Nights, a new companion to his 2021 release “Want You Always”, which reached #8 on the BILLCS Top 30. There’s just so much to like, from Tommy’s vulnerable, guy-next-door vocal to its underdog theme of having a crush on a girl who doesn’t know he exists. The rhythm is upbeat, and overall the song takes you into those early moments of attraction, and not knowing too much about what you want to do with them – in “all night long”, it’s talking on the phone.

Other comments: In the hands of the right producer, I think the songs and talents of Four Nights could easily be taken to another level.

aibai & vinny, “running around”

About the artists: aibai & vinny are mid-west American alternative pop songwriting duo Aibai Tarrant and Vinny Rosa-Chavez, with aibai the producer and vinny the vocalist. “running around” is a track from their recent self-titled EP following up “still broke” which I wrote about a few weeks back.

About the record: aibai & vinny’s unconventional style led me through their four song EP thanks to the distinct and and impressive “still broke”.  “running around” is an atmospheric, acoustic-guitar led folk-oriented track. Unlike “still broke”, “running around” doesn’t include vinny’s falsetto, focusing on his dreamy tenor instead.  aibai adds other instrumentation that fills out the backdrop resulting in another unique song that is well worth your attention for all of its almost 5 minutes.

Other comments: I’m certain that the music of aibai & vinny would sound wonderful in a moderate, intimate venue where their many talents can be highlighted. Their EP is for those music fans who like to spice up their mix with a touch of adventure.

YARIN GLAM, “Human”

About the artist:  L.A.-based Israel-born indie alternative rock artist Yarin Glam follows up her biting recent single “Rebel” with the title track from her upcoming EP Human.

About the record: It’s clear that Yarin Glam’s songs come from an honest, authentic place. “Human” is a friendly reminder to all of us that we don’t know everything and it’s okay to ask for help or be wrong, no matter how old we are, because we all figure out as much about life as we can along the way. “Human” is a much more restrained than “Rebel” in a very good way, a piano rock ballad that shows off Yarin’s vocal range and never goes over the top.  Yarin Glam is not the kind of artist whose style or songs can be summed up easily, because she is hugely capable of making sudden and successful shifts.

Other comments: Yarin recently toured with former X-Factor contestants, American rock trio Emblem3. I’m confident with her recent songs that we’ll see her in solo shows sometime soon.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

Miami dance producer GT_Ofice is back with producer friends Matthew Topper and Petie for “Something New”

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

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

From her first album in 10 years, Flying With Angels, it’s Suzanne Vega with “Chambermaid” and its Bob Dylan hook!

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations. It’s anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. His show “Pyjama Party” is back, on Saturdays at 5pm EST on Energy 885.

It’s French electronic dance duo Nito-Onna with “Gravity”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

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

Dire Straits – Sultans Of Swing (1979)
Wings – Goodnight Tonight (1979)
Bee Gees – Tragedy (1979)
Diesel – Sausalito Summernight (1981)
Blue Oyster Cult – Burnin’ For You (1981)

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

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

Jazz fusion found its way into the pop music scene in the early 80’s with songs like 1981’s “Is It You” by guitarist supreme Lee Ritenour

27 YEARS OF BILLCS TOP 30 #1’s

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

2024  SHIVER, John Summit, Hayla

2023  ENCHANTÉ, Lewis Thompson, Clementine Douglas

2022  ARETHA, Mercer

2021  NO MORE LOOKING BACK, Idris Elba, Inner City, Steffanie Christi’an

2020  GET YOUR WISH, Porter Robinson

2019  WHITE LIES, M-22

2018  SMILE, Dyrisk, Nik Ernst

2017  FILL ME IN (SOMETHING TO SAY), Loud Luxury, Ryan Shepherd

2016  CARE FOR ME, Dzeko & Torres, Hellberg

2015  CHASING STARS, Corey Niles, Alex LaCasse

2014  PROXY, Martin Garrix

2013  MAP, Frankmusik

2012  WAITING FOR THE FEELING, Bright Light Bright Light

2011  POPULAR, Eric Saade

2010  BEAT DROP, Simon Curtis

2009  CHEATER OF THE YEAR, Evan Taubenfeld

2008  AMERICAN BOY, Estelle, Kanye West

2007  MAKES ME WONDER, Maroon 5

2006  TURN ON THE MUSIC, Roger Sanchez, GTO

2005  LONELY NO MORE, Rob Thomas

2004  AMAZING, George Michael

2003  THE REMEDY (I WON’T WORRY), Jason Mraz

2002  THE MIDDLE, Jimmy Eat World

2001  FLAVOR OF THE WEEK, American Hi-Fi

2000  THERE YOU GO, Pink

1999  MILLENNIUM, Robbie Williams

1998  INDESTRUCTIBLE, Matthew Good Band

 

 

 

 

 

The week went by rather quickly and so this week’s Report is a little shorter than usual. But with all kinds of music to consider in the coming week, next week’s report should be more fulsome!

My daughter VXTORIA has released her second single, “changes“, which mixes emotion with clubby vibes, and is available on all platforms.  If you haven’t done so, check out the video for her first single, “Back To You”. Single #3 is coming on Friday May 15!

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers is back with his weekly “3D Variety Show” and this week’s Classic Five selection transports us back to 1989! You’ll also find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser in the latest edition of the BILLCS Top 30.

Reminder:  Click on the photos below to listen to the songs, usually with a Spotify link unless otherwise indicated.

MELØ, “I Don’t Speak French”

Video link:  French

About the artist:  MELØ hails from Windsor, Ontario and is a veteran producer and engineer who has performed with numerous bands over the years. In 2022 he released his first solo music, which led to his fine 2024 album Songs From The Spirit Box. MELØ’s passionate and affecting track “Memento” reached #8 on the BILLCS Top 30 at the end of 2023.

About the record: “I Don’t Speak French” is quite a change of pace for MELØ after a rock album heavily influenced by 80’s new wave. But the song works like a charm as a tip of the hat to disco and house genres, and 80’s artists who fed off of those inspirations like Robert Palmer and David Bowie, incorporating a familiar 90’s rhythm that sets the pace for a sophisticated song full of good vibes.  So get on your dancing shoes and be prepared for this new highly diverse era of MELØ with some surprises along the way. 

Other comments: Fans of the album and his previous singles can be assured that there is plenty of rock music in store too. I was predisposed to “I Don’t Speak French” at MELØ’s enjoyable showcase concert at Toronto’s Horseshoe Tavern last month. Be sure to check out the fun video for the song above. It’s so refreshing to see people actually dancing together in it!

DIAMOND CAFE, ” Fantasy Real”

About the artist: Diamond Café is a rising pop/R&B singer/songwriter/producer from Victoria, British Columbia who recently released his latest EP, Fantasy Real, which is otherwise a compilation of previous singles (many of which I’ve written about in these blog pages), including “When You Can’t Resist”, which reached #5 on the BILLCS Top 30 last year.

About the record: “Fantasy Real” includes so many vibrant elements from 70’s and 80’s R&B – courtesy of Prince, Michael Jackson, Parliament/Funkadelic, Rick James – that you’ll lose track. It’s an exuberant, danceable original track with a Diamond vocal that really lets loose. You won’t be able to sit still to “Fantasy Real”!

Other comments:  Diamond Café is opening for Teddy Swims on his North American tour, and he couldn’t be matched up with a better artist to win over new fans. I heard “Fantasy Real” when Diamond played a show at The Drake Hotel in Toronto recently, and it will sound ten times better out of huge stadium speakers!

REIGEN, “Keep Dreaming”

About the artist: American vocalist/songwriter Reigen Miller is a familiar name to readers of this blog during the last 10 years, though he hasn’t released music in a few years. After a break, he’s back sounding bigger and better than ever, incorporating Spanish lyrics and elements into his music. Reigen has reached the Top 10 on the BILLCS Top 30 three times, most recently with “Blue” (#8) in 2021.

About the song: Although “Keep Dreaming” is a brief 2 minutes long, it’s a pop song loaded with emotion, and throws the spotlight on Reigen’s wieldy vocal, which can transcend from a whisper to a roar in moments. Reigen is inspiring and authentic in his conviction, and fans of Latin music will enjoy his Spanish verses.

Other comments: I can’t wait to hear what Reigen has in store for us next.

RICKY MANNING, “Waterbed”

About the artist: Ricky Manning is a singer/songwriter originally from Florida, now based in Nashville, who was a Top 20 contestant on season seven of  TV’s “The Voice”, appearing on both Pharrell Williams and Gwen Stefani’s teams.

About the record: “Waterbed” is an earnest acoustic song about a relationship constantly sabotaged by one thing or another, and really was never meant to be, ultimately leading to dreaded silence. The production highlights Ricky’s voice beautifully, and “Waterbed” is a concise, interesting story that wraps up in two and a half minutes.

Other comments: You know with his gorgeous, earthy tone why Ricky Manning had some success back on “The Voice”. I remember the performances well – Top 10 worthy to me – and I’m glad he continues to share his love of making music.

XANTZ, APROJECT, ROBBIE ROSEN, “Control Of Me”

About the artists:  Xantz and AProject are producers who both hail from Norway, the former is Andreas Naess, and the latter is a duo of Dennis and Kim-André.  Robbie Rosen is the multi-talented former “American Idol” contestant who has appeared on the BILLCS Top 30 a dozen times, with two #1’s among them, and whose songs have been featured in this blog even more!  Xantz has released songs with both AProject and Robbie before separately.

About the record: “Control Of Me” is an edgy slice of melodic house led by Robbie’s invested vocal, where the protagonist of the song clearly wants his object of affection to be and stay in control. The synth work, particularly the bright arpeggios – thank goodness some producers haven’t forgotten about these secret weapons – keep the intensity going strong.

Other comments: “Control Of Me” could help breathe some life into North American dance radio.

THE GOLD NEEDLES, “Supernature”

About the artist: The Gold Needles are a British rock quintet from Kingston-upon-Hull led by singer/guitarist Simon Dowson. They were formed 10 years ago, and have released three albums to date. 

About the record: “Supernature” is a provocative song whose title is derived from the 1973 book by South African writer Lyall Watson, which attempted to find explanations for a variety of things, both real and supernatural/occult. The song poses that there are answers out there somewhere (with plenty of wacky theories on the internet too), and all we have to do is look at the beautiful nature around us which even science can’t explain properly.  The song will remind you most of The Beatles and Paul McCartney with its lilting melody, and before it’s all over the lead guitar work of Dave Burbage is showcased handsomely.

Other comments: The Gold Needles have only released a handful of songs since their last album in 2021, and more is to come. “Supernature” was one of the earliest songs written by the band, which shows that some songs can remain unreleased until its time has come.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

It’s Toronto’s Francesco Yates with his soulful pop release “If I Have You”

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

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

“Deadman’s Trigger” is from Creed’s Scott Stapp and his album Higher Power

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and is anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. His show “Pyjama Party”, is also back on Saturdays at 5pm EST on Energy 885.

It’s the latest from country crossover singer Dasha called “Not At This Party”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

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

Henry Lee Summer – Hey Baby
Phil Collins – Two Hearts
Fine Young Cannibals – Good Thing
Madonna – Like A Prayer
Janet Jackson – Miss You Much

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

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

It’s the sophisticated early 70’s pop/soul sounds of Stevie Wonder with “If You Really Love Me” (1971)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Sonny Fodera grabs his second #1 of 2025, this time with Clementine Douglas, with “Tell Me”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

“Angels for Each Other” is a warm and heartfelt collaboration by Martin Garrix and Arijit Singh (19-10)

It’s Spring house-cleaning time on the BILLCS Top 30 as six debuts replace some long-standing favourites of the first quarter of the year. And which song managed to dethrone Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra” at #1? The Top 10 is also busy with four songs moving into the upper reaches.

As a standing item about my daughter VXTORIA‘s progress with her music, the video for her debut single “Back To You” is now over 650 views!  Please check it out at the following link:  Back To You.  And if you haven’t checked out her second single, the clubbier track “changes”, you can do so at the following link:  changes.

Chalk up two #1’s in 2025 so far for UK-based Australian producer Sonny Fodera!  He’s back with UK go-to dance vocalist/songwriter Clementine Douglas, who also scores her second #1 with “Tell Me”. Clementine was last on top in 2023 with another UK dance producer, Lewis Thompson, with the ever-delightful “Enchanté”.

Kygo gets his third #2 track on the chart with “Chasing Paradise” (3-2) with One Republic. Could it get to #1, perhaps as early as two weeks from now?

Another song with designs on getting to #1 is the pick-me-up “Good Dogs” by L.A. electronic rock duo Magic Bronson, which climbs 5-3.

The one to watch though is “Back To Friends”  (above) by 19 year old L.A.-based singer/songwriter sombr, which zips into the Top 10 11-4. Also making waves, particularly in the UK, is his other single “undressed” (below), which climbs 28-20.

I enjoy with every listen how Nashville singer/songwriter Liam Wall lays his soul bare in his vulnerable track “Walking Red Flag”, which moves up 8-6.

Gryffin gets his third Top 10 entry with “In My Head”, (12-8) which is a collaboration with Kaskade (his second Top 10 entry) and vocalist Nu-La.

L.A.’s Michael Medrano also lands in the Top 10 for a third time with a track from his second album The Penthouse, “Martini (Shots)” (14-9).

The Fastest Riser on the chart belongs to Martin Garrix and Arijit Singh with their fantastic collab, “Angels For Each Other”, which soars 19-10. It’s such a warm-hearted song and the inclusion of the verses in Hindi is lovely.  Not to mention that Martin and Arijit’s vocals really complement each other too!

Australia’s Jude York continues his winning ways as “After The Opera” (above) leaps 17-11. Take a listen to Jude’s newest single, “Whiplash!”, below. Both songs will be included in his upcoming EP called Heartstrings.

The Highest Debut on the chart belongs to Canada’s Francesco Yates with “If I Have You” at #23. It nicely mixes mellow, soulful moments with 80’s style jazz fusion vibes. Francesco plays Toronto’s The Drake Hotel on June 20 too, and “If I Have You” is his 9th chart entry.

Set for another dance radio hit is Miami producer GT_Ofice with “Something New” at #24. It’s his 6th chart entry and 2nd with Matthew Topper following last year’s “Ecstasy” (#8), but 1st with fellow producer Petie.  Look for tour dates for GT_Ofice in your city or one near you!

Making his fourth appearance on the chart following last year’s “Space Party” (#9) is London-based Spanish singer/songwriter The Boy From The South with “Older” arriving at #25.

Arriving on the chart for the first time is DMV-based pop/soul singer Steven Thad with the uplifting “Smile” at #26.  Check out Steven’s recent appearance on Afro TV’s “The Sissaundra Show” (12 minutes in) at the following link:  Steven Thad

She’s already on the chart twice with former #1 “Abracadabra” and “Vanish Into You” (16-13), but yet another track from MAYHEM by Lady Gaga will be keeping them company, and that’s “How Bad Do U Want Me”, which bows at #27. 

The final debut on the chart marks the first new solo music in seven years for Jon Bellion, who has been concentrating on being a producer to the stars and running his own major label imprint, Beautiful Mind. From his upcoming album Father Figure, be sure to check out the affecting and self-reflective “Kid Again” which premieres at #29. Jon’s previous appearance on the chart was on the #1 “Good Things Fall Apart” with Illenium, which was also my #1 song of 2019.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Halton Hills Radio Online

Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs.  The show also repeats on Saturday evening at 6 pm EST. You can hear recent episodes of The Big 20 at the following link: The Big 20.

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

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

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

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada 

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

Party Dog Radio  

Canada’s Party Dog Radio now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Saturdays at 6pm EST, which airs my New Music Pick of the Week. Party Dog Radio also airs “The Big 20”, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week on Sundays after 9pm EST. 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s been a busy week, hence the one day delay for this week’s edition of the Report. In the coming months I’ll be checking out concerts by James Bay, Francesco Yates, Above & Beyond, and Andy Bell (of Erasure), and likely some others along the way too!

My daughter VXTORIA has released her second single, “changes“, which mixes emotion with clubby vibes, and is available on all platforms.  Her first single, “Back To You”, continues to find new people checking out its video.

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers is back with his weekly “3D Variety Show” and a Classic Five selection of tunes from the early to mid-80’s. I also take a look at the BILLCS Top 30 from this week 10 years ago – yes 2015! – and you may be surprised at what songs were on the chart at that time!

Reminder:  Click on the photos below to listen to the songs, usually with a Spotify link unless otherwise indicated.

HarlowBardot, “You Sleep”

Video link:  You Sleep

About the artist:  HarlowBardot is an electronic alternative pop duo from Toronto consisting of vocalist Kinga and synthesizer whiz Marc Wonnacott.

About the record:  “You Sleep” is HarlowBardot’s second release, following “Nothing (Feels The Same)”. The duo trades in the bright synth sounds of the latter for a darker, brooding melody with a militaristic rhythm. It’s a cathartic, haunting, almost claustrophobic breakup song featuring a quietly seething vocal by Kinga that’s punctuated by his haunting spoken word interjections.  Fans of 80’s music by Peter Murphy, The The, or Sinéad O’Connor will eat this up. “You Sleep” is ambitious and doesn’t necessarily go down easy on first listen, but you’ll find yourself so intrigued that you’ll need to listen several more times.

Other comments: HarlowBardot has many more songs in waiting for you this year. College and alternative radio stations should dig “You Sleep.  

MGR MIKE, VENESSA JACKSON, “Rescue Me”

About the artists: MGR Mike is a Nashville-based dance producer specializing in adding traditional disco rhythms and melodies into his tracks.  He teams up with South African vocalist/songwriter Venessa Jackson for “Rescue Me”. MGR Mike is currently riding the BILLCS Top 30 with “The Message” with fellow producer Milton V.

About the record: As anticipated, “Rescue Me” contains that uber-catchy, disco rhythm that will wake up your dancing shoes – think the same funky kind of business as The SOS Band’s “Take Your Time” or Lipps, Inc.’s “Funkytown”. Venessa’s sleek and charming vocal makes the song soar and your ears will also perk up accordingly. Ain’t nuthin’ wrong with such likeable records as “Rescue Me”.

Other comments: MGR Mike is currently on a tour of some US cities, so check your listings, and if you can, join his disco party!

PLS&TY, “Constellations”

About the artist:  PLS&TY is L.A.-based electronic dance producer Tommy Leas, whose songs have visited these blog pages several times. His 2024 release “Feel Love” (with Georgi Kay) reached #4 on the BILLCS Top 30.

About the record: “Constellations” is a sultry, wondrous deep house track that has rhythmic similarities to tracks like John Summit’s “What A Life” (which in turn borrowed heavily from 90’s classics like Crystal Waters’ “Gypsy Woman”). A smooth uncredited male vocal gives it added depth, and “Constellations” is ideal for dancing and grooving on those clear, starry late nights on a beach or at a festival.

Other comments: “Constellations” is one of a few recent releases for PLS&TY on Steve Aoki’s Dim Mak label.

PARRALOX, “Beautiful World” (Benja remix)

About the artist:  Parralox is the ongoing project from Melbourne, Australia producer and musician John Von Ahlen. “Beautiful World” follows up the recent cover of Massive Attack’s “Teardrop”.

About the record: “Beautiful World” is a fresh, summery, original synth pop track highlighted by a bubbly uncredited female vocal. It’s lighter than the usual Parralox release, given some added zest by American remixer Benja. In the EP you’ll also find extended and acapella versions. Parralox is one of a few artists which does synth pop right every time.

Other comments: John is working on a new album for release later this year. I’m sure it will be full of surprises as usual! Parralox was also on the BILLCS Top 30 10 years ago with “Aeronaut” – see my Flashback chart below!

FAMILY STEREO, “Down The Line”

About the artist: Family Stereo is the artist name for Blake Watt, British singer, songwriter and guitarist, and son of Ben Watt and Tracey Thorn, otherwise known as Everything But The Girl. Blake’s been rather quietly releasing music since 2018, and Family Stereo also performs as a live four-piece group.

About the record: Like his parents, Blake has started his music career with an understated, earthy DIY folk-pop sound that would go over best in live performance. “Down The Line” is about living in the moment and being rather confounded about what the future has in store, so why worry when living in the now is so important. Blake has a likeable voice, and “Down The Line” is straight-forward and easy to digest with a captivating melody, like many of Neil Young’s early songs.

Other comments: You can catch Family Stereo performing around London, England periodically, including on May 22 at The Ivy House.

aibai & vinny, “still broke”

About the artists:  aibai and vinny are a new American vocal/production duo from the midwest. aibai is the producer, noted previously for her work in the electronic genre, while vinny is the vocalist, previously a member of the group The Love Channel.

About the record: vinny has a stunning, pitch-perfect falsetto which leads the way into “still broke”. It’s a rich dose of dreamy alternative pop with acoustic folk and electronic elements that doesn’t quite sound like anything else out there. The lyrics are somewhat vague, but the song seems to be about a past relationship that was fun while it lasted, but came and went quickly.

Other comments: “still broke” is culled from the duo’s debut self-titled 4 song EP.

JAMES GREBB, “Remedy”

About the artist:  James Grebb is a Denver-based dance producer who calls his style “abstract house”, mixing traditional electronic dance rhythms with bass house.

About the record: “Remedy” is a pulsating house track that’s meant to be played loud on big speakers. It’s James’ first release in a few years after some time off, and it’s well-focused with a silky uncredited female vocal filling the centre of the song. “Remedy” is best suited for the wee hours when its crunchy bass will give club goers an irresistible groove to keep them going till breakfast.

Other comments: Watch for “Remedy” to help lead to some shows for James Grebb in the Denver area, which thrives on its EDM audience.

STACI GRUBER, “No One Is Alone”

About the artist: Dr. Staci Gruber is a neuroscientist and Harvard Medical School professor who has done ground-breaking research on cannabis. She also happens to be a vocalist and songwriter professionally trained in both classical and jazz, and “No One Is Alone” marks a new era for her, after releasing an album and a few singles 10 years ago.

About the record: “No One Is Alone” is a song well-suited for our times, where more people than ever have fragile mental health conditions, many of them undiagnosed. It’s a moving and comforting song for anyone who is down and out regardless of their situation. Staci has a powerful and expressive voice, which reinforces the genuine nature of the lyrics, and collaborator and arranger Michael Orland and producer Avli Avliav have created a vibrant melodic backdrop for Staci’s story, at times reminiscent of some signature songs by Bruce Hornsby & The Range or k.d. lang.

Other comments: Music is so important as aural therapy and it’s wonderful to see another member of the medical community using her other talents to bring her songs to life.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

UK dance producer James Hype has a national dance radio hit with “Don’t Wake Me Up”

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

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

It’s Swedish electronic production duo NEIKED with “Glide”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and is anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. His show “Pyjama Party”, is also back on Saturdays at 5pm EST on Energy 885.

It was Russ Horton’s record of the week in March, and is still climbing the BILLCS Top 30 – “After The Opera” by Australia’s Jude York

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

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

Opus – Live Is Life (1985)
Wham! – Everything She Wants (1985)
Elton John – Wrap Her Up (1985)
Chilliwack – I Believe (1982)
Huey Lewis & The News – Do You Believe In Love (1982)

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

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

It’s still a big rave up 50 years later. Heyyyy…. it’s the “Ballroom Blitz” by (The) Sweet

BILLCS TOP 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2015

10 years ago marked the debut of Years & Years with “King”, which was my new music pick of the week and then the following week went to #1 in the UK!  Other notables on the list include favourites like Jessie Ware and James Bay. And with the top two debuts of the week is Charlie Puth!

01 01 KING Years & Years
02 02 CHASING STARS Corey Niles featuring Alex Lacasse
03 03 WATERFALL Smashing Satellites
04 04 CHAMPAGNE KISSES Jessie Ware
05 05 SACRED Erasure
08 06 NO TALK River Tiber
07 07 HURRICANE Lifehouse
09 08 EARNED IT The Weeknd
10 09 STING Eric Saade
11 10 LAY ME DOWN Sam Smith
12 11 WHEN IT RAINS, IT POURS DATABOY featuring Niko The Kid
14 12 DESIRE Years & Years
20 13 AERONAUT Parralox
19 14 FEVER Jully Black
17 15 HOLD BACK THE RIVER James Bay
18 16 CHAINS Nick Jonas
26 17 NO WORDS Erik Hassle
25 18 I’LL BE THERE Chic featuring Nile Rodgers
21 19 WE ARE THE NIGHT Steve Grand
22 20 COSMONAUT Wrathschild
06 21 RIOT Mikky Ekko
16 22 SLEEVE Brandyn Burnette
New 23 MARVIN GAYE Charlie Puth featuring Meghan Trainor
New 24 SEE YOU AGAIN Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth
13 25 VELVET Chris Jamison
30 26 HEY NOW Matt & Kim
New 27 CAN’T DENY MY LOVE Brandon Flowers
New 28 ROADS Lawson
23 29 I KNOW Shift K3Y
24 30 MOONMOLT Daniel Robinson

While many big concerts have already been announced for the summer, some additional ones are appearing now for late summer and early fall – sombr, Andy Bell (of Erasure), and Above & Beyond to name but a few that are visiting my city. And then there’s the January 2026 Groove Cruise line up, led by John Summit and featuring other prominent artists like Joel Corry, Angrybaby, Markus Schultz, Mashbit, Sarah de Warren, Trivecta and numerous others. This is already 97% sold out – they’re gonna need to do another one to accommodate all of the interest in 2027!  Note: Next week’s Report will be published on Thursday, May 1.

Make sure you check out the video for my daughter VXTORIA‘s debut electronic dance single, “Back To You”, available on all platforms.  Her next single, the more club-oriented “changes”, arrives this Friday, April 25!

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”.  The Musicman James Rogers is back with his weekly “3D Variety Show” and a Classic Five selection of hits from 1974. And if you missed them, you’ll find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser in the latest edition of the BILLCS Top 30.

Reminder:  Click on the photos below to listen to the songs, usually with a Spotify link unless otherwise indicated.

THE BOY FROM THE SOUTH, “Older”

About the artist – The Boy From The South is Pedro Balañá, a pop singer/songwriter/guitarist who hails from Spain but divides his time between there and London. He creates unique, sometimes whimsical stories that you’ll want to hear over again, and then find they’re stuck in your head. He’s had three releases reach the Top 10 of the BILLCS Top 30, most notably “Amazing-Man” (#3).

About the record – “Older” is hot off the presses today (April 23), but it’s one that I’ve known about and have been awaiting. It’s full of clever perspectives that make you smile and think a little more when you’re listening to its carefree-sounding piano-led melody. Lyrics like “life has its corners, it’s never straight”, and observations like wondering why young folks “wander in places I go to”, as well as enjoying life from our sofas (“nevermind, stay inside”, as we were conditioned during the pandemic), are all intriguing food for thought.

Other comments – The Boy From The South is one of the brightest talents around awaiting your discovery, and “Older” is a great place to start. For those of you already familiar with his songs, “Older is top notch! Coming up are shows in Los Angeles, Mexico and South America!!

FLY BY MIDNIGHT, “Heart Race” and “Divine Thing”

About the artist – Fly By Midnight is a Staten Island, NY pop duo comprising two Justins, Breit and Slaven (aka producer Slavo). They’ve been releasing their own brand of upbeat pop music for most of the last decade. Their earworm “SuperFine” got to #3 on the BILLCS Top 30 last year.

About the records – Both “Heart Race” and “Divine Thing” form two thirds of their EP The Race Lap 3/3. “SuperFine” was from The Race Lap 1/3, and another track I reviewed, “Casablanca”, was from The Race Lap 2/3, with all EP’s each comprising three songs. “Heart Race” will remind you of a Charlie Puth song, with its breathy start and pauses, and how it builds up to convey the anxiety of waiting to see a special someone. “Divine Thing” is breezy late 70’s, early 80’s styled pop that meets the Backstreet Boys half way. Both songs just ooze charm and you can’t go wrong with either.

Other comments – The third song on the EP, “Less In Love”, is a solid rockier track, I just happen to like the other two songs a bit better! You can listen to “Heart Race” by clicking the photo above, and to “Divine Thing” by clicking on the following link: Divine Thing.

CLAUDIA BRÜCKEN, “Rosebud.” 

About the artist – Claudia Brücken is best known for her vocals as a member of German synthpop group Propaganda on their seminal 80’s and much loved new wave album A Secret Wish, a remarkable production for its time, and for co-writing their best known song, “Duel”, a Top 30 UK hit along with another track from the album, “Dr. Mabuse”. Since then, she has been releasing music as a solo artist or in other collaborative group efforts, including a few revivals under the Propaganda name, and the duo Onetwo with Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark member and former partner Paul Humphreys.

About the record – Claudia’s unmistakable voice leads the way in a song which reflects on “Rosebud.”, a secret childhood club (recalling the sled in Orson Welles’ “Citizen Kane”), and ponders if we’ve made the most of our lives with the right choices. It’s certainly thoughtful and quietly provocative, with broad lyrics as “Have we used our time wisely / Have we lived each day”. It reminds me somewhat of the similar outlook of another 80’s artist, Alison Moyet, in her recent songs. 

Other comments – “Rosebud.” is Claudia’s first solo release in 10 years, with an album, Night Mirror, to follow this summer.

NICK CELINO, “Beggin”

About the artist – As a teenager, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England, singer/songwriter Nick Celino was a contestant on Britain’s Got Talent, recognizable for his huge mane of hair accompanied by a deep, sometimes gravelly voice. After enjoying the fruits of that appearance, which were followed by numerous music industry frustrations, Nick has released his first new music in eight years independently this year.

About the record – First off, “Beggin” is not another tired cover of The 4 Seasons hit that Italy’s Maneskin remade a few years ago. This original “Beggin” showcases Nick’s deep, rich voice in a slow, soulful arrangement with some electric guitar pizzazz. It will appeal to fans of Teddy Swims, Nathaniel Rateliff, and Rag-N-Bone Man, who have all similarly wowed listeners with their depth and range. But “Beggin” is not about being a wrenching Michael Bolton-styled soul ballad, with exceptional well-balanced and nuanced production.

Other comments – The big hair of 11 years ago is gone in favour of a clean-cut look which will allow more focus on fine songs like “Beggin”.

DAN BLACK, “I Run Right Back To You”

About the artist – Dan Black is a British singer/songwriter/producer from Newcastle-upon-Tyne who came to prominence with his amazing track “Symphonies”, a rewrite of his song “HYPNTZ”, which borrowed lyrics from The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Hypnotize” against a classical instrumental cover of “Starman”. He released two subsequent solo albums, UN and Do Not Revenge. “I Run Right Back To You” is among his first new releases since 2017.  “Symphonies” and another track from UN, “Alone”, both reached #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 in 2009.

About the record – “I Run Right Back To You” finds the DIY musical alchemist back in fine form in a song about a guy who keeps returning to a toxic relationship. Less is more in the production of this kind of song, which conveys the aloof feelings we get when trapped in a personal situation. So while the sounds seem a bit barren, with synths as well as guitar and percussion sounds coming in and out of the mix, they make “I Run Right Back To You” more intense and gripping, along with Dan’s recognizable voice.

Other comments – Dan has worked with many other artists over the years, including Kid Cudi, Kelis on 2013’s “Hearts” (which had remixes from artists like Kaskade and Louis The Child) and 2017’s “Farewell”, Bag Raiders, and Imogen Heap. I saw Dan perform in a small club in Toronto in 2010.

SHIROBON, FRANKMUSIK, “Imposter Syndrome”

About the artists – Shirobon is a British producer (aka Michael Cordedda) who found his way into music through making songs using gaming consoles, which led to him to learn synthesizers and combine the two for some unique sounding releases. Frankmusik (Vincent Turner) is a regular visitor to this blog, known for his one-of-a-kind self-produced songs and his powerful, far-reaching voice. Frankmusik’s songs have appeared many times on the BILLCS Top 30, with three #1’s. He most recently charted with a redo of his 2009 song “Confusion Girl” (#8) and “The Half Moon Came Up In The Sky” (#2).

About the record – “Imposter Syndrome” is a hard-hitting, boisterous synthpop dance track that will have heads bopping and feet moving in no time. The song’s about a relationship growing further and further apart, which asks the questions “tell me can we make it, or do we fake it”.  As much as Frankmusik’s soaring vocal can suit a slower song like “Dear Nicole”, it works equally well with slamming beats underneath like in “Imposter Syndrome”.

Other comments – “Imposter Syndrome” is a seamless collaboration between the two artists, and I hope more in store for us!

PLASTIC RHINO, “TAKEITALL”

About the artist – Plastic Rhino is the hard rocking duo of vocalist Alara Glazer and guitarist/bassist/producer Jack Glazer, who fuse their heavy sound with EDM elements such as dubstep.  They’ve released two albums in the last 10 years and “TAKEITALL” is their first new music in two years.

About the record – Alara Glazer has a versatile, often ferocious voice, that’s used to its best effect on “TAKEITALL”. It’s a blistering hard rock song about love and obsession and when it goes too far. “TAKEITALL” will make you stop whatever you’re doing and listen. Tom Chandler’s production, while it takes no prisoners, does leave room for us all to take a deep breath. 

Other comments – “TAKEITALL” is a powerful song that will find fans in both hard rock and EDM genres – head-banging and mosh pits await! It will appeal most to fans of bands like Bring Me The Horizon, Evanescence and Linkin Park, but also EDM producers like Wooli, Excision and SLANDER.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

Superstar dance producer Tiësto teams up with Jordan Shaw for “Hold Me”.

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

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

Big Daddy’s record of the week will return.

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio show “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and is anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week. His show “Pyjama Party”, is also back on Saturdays at 5pm EST on Energy 885.

Hunter’s on the K-Pop tip this week with Rosé’s “Toxic Till The End”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show, where you can hear my Retro Pick of the Week.  The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song. This week all songs are from 1974!

Neil Diamond – Longfellow Serenade
Gary & Dave – I May Never See You Again
Steve Miller Band – The Joker
George McCrae – Rock Your Baby
Andy Kim – Rock Me Gently

BILL’S RETRO PICK OF THE WEEK

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

Two-time Grammy Award winner Shaggy had a Top 5 hit in 1995 with “Boombastic”

Check out the fun 90’s animated Levi’s commercial featuring the song. Video link:  Boombastic

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

It’s a 4th appearance (8th week) at #1 for Lady Gaga’s “Abracadabra”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Today’s pre-sale for a sombr show in my city didn’t work for me, so I’ll try again Friday to see if anything’s left.

His song “back to friends” soars 24-11.