BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

LISTEN to “The Big 20” edition #220, February 5, 2025

Listen to edition #220 at the following link: The Big 20 #220

The Big 20 is hosted by Bill Smith and “The Musicman” James Rogers, with JC Legend filling in for The Musicman (on vacation), and produced by “Big Daddy” Russ Horton.

Join our groups on Facebook @TheBig20 @HaltonHillsOnline.

THE WEEKND, JUSTICE, Wake Me Up
THE WEEKND, Cry For Me
PITBULL, BON JOVI, Now or Never
COREY KENT, This Heart
MORGAN WALLEN, I’m The Problem
JON PARDI, Friday Night Heartbreaker
JERRY CANTRELL, Afterglow
HARDY, Jim Bob
DOROTHY, SLASH, Tombstone Town
INHALER, Your House
PHANTOGRAM, Come Alive
DECLAN McKENNA, Champagne
ANYMA, ELLIE GOULDING, Hypnotized
MGR MIKE, MILTON V, The Message
BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK:
LUCA HANNI, Love Me Better
GREGORY DARLING, JULIAN LENNON, A New Dream
JACK DRINKER, California King
MERCER, TONY ROMERA, Rendezvous
MICHAEL MEDRANO, Hollywood
SAMANTHA GONGOL, Planes Are Low
ELEPHANTS & STARS, Strangers On A Train
MARSHMELLO, JONAS BROTHERS, Slow Motion
TATE McRAE, Sportscar
POINT NORTH, World vs Peace
SET IT OFF, WILLIAM BECKETT, Wolf In Sheep’s Clothing (Reborn)
SHINEDOWN, Dance Kid Dance
THE WOMBATS, Sorry I’m late, I didn’t want to come
ST VINCENT, Flea
PALAYE ROYALE, Showbiz
CHESNEY HAWKES, Live Forever
BIG DADDY’S RECORD OF THE WEEK:
MYLES SMITH, Nice To Meet You

BILLCS Top 30 #712 – February 24/25

The BILLCS Top 30 is a bit late owing to my travels in Australia, which puts me 16 hours behind my regular time. I only have commentary for this edition about the new additions to the chart.

Leading the four is “Cry For Me” by The Weeknd at #25, from the album that closes off his trilogy, Hurry Up Tomorrow. It’s The Weeknd’s 11th chart entry and first since 2022.

Next at #26 is what is shaping up to be a major pop/dance smash, “Tell Me” by Sonny Fodera with vocalist Clementine Douglas. Sonny of course has a second appearance at #1 with “Somedays” with Jazzy and D.O.D. But “Tell Me” is his second entry with Clementine – their first was 2021’s “Angel” which got to #4.

The third new entry at #27 is the good-natured fun of “Good Dogs” by L.A. alternative rock duo Magic Bronson from the album of the same name. Don’t sleep on this one folks! I think this would appeal to fans of Foster The People, Saint Motel and Weezer.

Rounding out the new ones at #30 is “In My Head”, a new collaboration by Gryffin and Kaskade with vocals by Nu La. It’s Gryffin’s follow up to last year’s “Last Of Us” with Rita Ora, which got to #3. It’s Kaskade’s first appearance on the chart since his project with Deadmau5, Kx5, got to #8 with Sofi Tukker on “Sacrifice”.

Click on the following link for the online version of the chart: Online chart

Click on the following link for the Spotify playlist of the chart: Spotify

BILLCS Top 30 #712:

01 01 SOMEDAYS Sonny Fodera, Jazzy, D.O.D.
03 02 HIS PROBLEM INSTEAD Alexander Stewart
07 03 OPTIMIST Crash Adams
04 04 EASY DISTRACTION James Bay
02 05 BACK TO LIFE (MashBit VIP remix) Angrybaby
08 06 IN THE BACK OF MY CADILLAC (Eric Kupper remix) NYNE, K.C. & The Sunshine Band
11 07 HEART FIRST Lucas & Steve, Jordan Shaw
10 08 DIRTY CASH (MONEY TALKS) PAWSA & The Adventures Of Stevie V
14 09 HYPNOTIZED Anyma, Ellie Goulding
12 10 BORN WITH A BROKEN HEART Damiano David
21 11 ABRACADABRA Lady Gaga
13 12 PEOPLE WATCHING Sam Fender
16 13 WITHOUT U LSR/City, Gareth Emery, Annabel
17 14 UP IN THE SKY Henri PFR
19 15 THE MESSAGE (radio edit) MGR Mike, Milton V
05 16 SOMEONE ELSE GT_Ofice
20 17 ON MY MIND (Sam Feldt edit) Mergui
22 18 LOVE ME BETTER Luca Hanni
24 19 FOCUS John Summit, CLOVES
06 20 FINALLY Swedish House Mafia, Alicia Keys
09 21 MINE Dan Talevski
27 22 CHASING PARADISE Kygo, One Republic
28 23 WALKING RED FLAG Liam Wall
29 24 SHOW ME THE WAY Milkwish, Mike Konstanty
NEW 25 CRY FOR ME The Weeknd
NEW 26 TELL ME Sonny Fodera, Clementine Douglas
NEW 27 GOOD DOGS Magic Bronson
15 28 FLAMES Will Swinton
18 29 SURRENDER YOUR LOVE TELYKast, Sam Gray
NEW 30 IN MY HEAD Gryffin, Kaskade, Nu-La

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. Russ Horton fills in for me while I’m on vacation for two weeks, and JC Legend fills in for The Musicman until April. 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. Note: There will be no New Music Picks of the Week until the week of March 10.

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. Note: There will no new Retro Picks of the Week until the week of March 10.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

The 3D Variety Show is on hiatus and will return in April 2025.

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.

BILLCS New Music Report – February 13/25 with new songs by Magic Bronson, David Archuleta, Jude York, The Disco Fries x MINTD x KAYRAE, Lyra, Benjamin Russell, Gene Champagne, and Four Nights

As I get ready to travel to Australia early next week, this is the last BILLCS New Music Report until I return, which means that the next usual publishing date will be Wednesday, March 12. Any submissions that I receive will be placed in the queue until then, and naturally I’ll be continuing to listen while I’m away (especially on the very long flights to and from!). I look forward to visiting Melbourne, Sydney and Bribie Island (off the coast of Brisbane), and hopefully can check out a couple of club shows along the way!

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, while vacationing in Australia, has sent in his Classic Five choices, all from the early 80’s! In case you missed them, you’ll find out what songs were #1 and the Fastest Riser on the latest BILLCS Top 30.

Reminder: Click on the photos below to listen to the songs. If the song has a video, a You Tube link is now provided underneath the artist and song title.

MAGIC BRONSON, “Good Dogs”

About the artist: Magic Bronson is an L.A.-based electronic pop duo (Michael Nicastro and Matthew Lieberman) specializing in pulsating rhythms without sacrificing an indie sound. “Good Dogs” is the title track from their first album in four years.

About the record: “Good Dogs” will easily put a smile on your face. It’s a good-natured song that might make you think of our happy canine friends, but is more of an affectation for some of our human friends. Magic Bronson straddles electronics in the same way as other groups like fellow L.A. denizens Capital Cities, and puts a new spin on a big rock sound that has been trademarked by Imagine Dragons over the last decade. There’s an equal emphasis on melody as there is on rhythm and beats. Everything melds together in a delightful mix of ear candy that you’ll keep spinning.

Other comments: “Good Dogs” is chock full of fun without being a novelty, and a great way to get to know the music of Magic Bronson.

DAVID ARCHULETA, “Freedom”

About the artist: One-time “American Idol” runner-up David Archuleta has been embracing the pop/dance genre in the last few years, which culminated in an EP of remixes for his infectious 2024 single “Afraid To Love”, which reached #3 on the BILLCS Top 30. He’s also become more visible on TV and in the public eye in the last year, which was spurred by his appearance on “The Masked Singer”.

About the record: “Freedom” is a faithful cover of the George Michael release from 1990, which has found more favour in recent years as a queer anthem than at time of release and of course since George’s passing in 2016. It’s a great choice, and David makes no bones about not trying to ape George’s soulful style in favour of his own fine tones. The arrangement is similarly euphoric to the original, including the choral backing vocals, and the lyrics make a home run for David after coming out a few years back. I’m glad David has got to rework “Freedom” his way, and fans of the original will be mighty pleased.

Other comments: “Freedom” is a missed opportunity for a major label to jump in and market it to terrestrial radio and give their stale playlists a much needed boost, with a song that would light up request lines. I’m hoping some remixes are in the making, too!

JUDE YORK, “After The Opera”

Video link: Opera

About the artist: Last year, Australia’s Jude York broke through the invisible curtain by getting signed to Spinnin’ Records for his self-penned, self-produced dance track “Monaco”, which reached #2 on the BILLCS Top 30.

About the record: “After The Opera” follows it up with a unique perspective – a relationship with an ex mirroring the story in an opera – and Jude weaves a sad, relatable tale about living “the same sad song” over and over again before it ended. The song definitely strikes the heart strings, with a touching vocal by Jude, but hey it’s got a peppy beat too and you can dance to it, so enjoy the cathartic release!

Other comments: “After The Opera” is more of a pop record than a dance record but it’s a handsome hybrid all the same.

THE DISCO FRIES, MINTD, KAYRAE, “Never Mine”

About the artists: The Disco Fries are a veteran NYC-based dance production team and record label owners (Liftoff Recordings) who have graced these blog pages as well as the BILLCS Top 30 many times. MINTD is a new production duo on their second release, while KAYRAE is an L.A.-based singer/songwriter who has during the last decade recorded solo and worked with the likes of Kaskade, KDrew and Morgin Madison.

About the record: “Never Mine” is The Disco Fries’ first new music since 2023 with a cool, progressive, deep house sound with some chill moments, and a collaboration with new producers MINTD brings it all to fruition, undoubtedly with some fresh perspective. KAYRAE’s vocal reminds me a lot of Ellie Goulding and her work with Calvin Harris. The pace only lets up to highlight KAYRAE’s vocal, otherwise “Never Mine” is full of dramatic lustre which provides an intriguing contrast to the vocal, and it all adds up nicely.

Other comments: “Never Mine” has plenty of sync possibilities, particularly for video games and animation.

LYRA, “Freak”

About the artist: Irish singer/songwriter Lyra is a superstar in her home country. Her debut self-titled album went to #1 on the Irish charts in 2024, and you’ve read about her songs like “Falling”, “The Ending” and “Chess” in these blog pages. That album was a compendium of songs from the last five years, and “Freak” is the first single to follow the album.

About the record: With its self-explanatory title, “Freak” is a winning empowerment anthem about self-worth, directed particularly at women. Its riveting rhythm carried by dark synths and beats takes you straight to the dance floor where you can let loose and do anything you want and make it your safe space. It’s a significant change up from songs about love and heartbreak on her album, and that’s not a bad thing at all.

Other comments: Lyra says: “This is a song about being a sexy ass powerful woman. As a woman I have been told “be sexy but not too sexy”, well fuck that. This song is all about the power of a woman’s sexuality. Bring your ego to the dance floor.”

BENJAMIN RUSSELL, “One Step (The Time Is Now)”

About the artist: Prolific alternative electronic Montreal artist Benjamin Russell returns with his latest 12 song album Waves, which continues to deliberately blur the boundaries between pop, rock, electronic, jazz and classical genres. The album is meant to be taken as a whole, to be heard from start to finish, where you’ll notice some common themes and a variety of inspirations.

About the record: “One Step” to me is the standout track on Waves. Co-written with his wife Elyse, Benjamin’s keen and expressive vocal and a bright melody keep you listening as the song works its way through an example of a daily grind of its own. Disagreements occur, tempers flare, but in the end, everyone is heard, which leads to a peaceful and encouraging resolution, as well as acting on it now – walk through that door and make it happen.

Other comments: There are many layers and stylistic shifts in Waves that require your objectivity and attention, and you will easily find something in its songs for yourself.

GENE CHAMPAGNE, “Yummy Yummy Yummy”

Video link: Yummy

About the artist: Gene Champagne is a Hamilton-based singer and drummer who was a founder of the Juno Award winning 90’s alternative rock band The Killjoys, noted for their hits “Soaked”, “Rave + Drool” and “Dana”. Since 2016, he’s been the drummer for Canadian rock mainstays, Teenage Head, and is also the drummer for The Black Halos.

About the record: I didn’t quite know what to expect as I approached listening to a new version of bubblegum pop classic from my childhood. “Yummy Yummy Yummy” was the biggest hit for mirth-makers Ohio Express in 1968, reaching #4 in the US and #1 in Canada, followed by the equally catchy “Chewy Chewy”. Fortunately, Gene knows how to frame the song properly with post-punk power pop energy and attitude, and makes it a well-sung, well-played welcome blast from the past without bells and whistles needed in the production. A couple of points of reference for fans of the post-punk late 70’s, early 80’s would be fellow Canadians The Diodes’ cover of The Cyrcle’s “Red Rubber Ball” or The Clash’s update of Bobby Fuller Four’s “I Fought The Law”.

Other comments: In our increasingly weird year of 2025, “Yummy Yummy Yummy” does not sound out of place at all. College and alternative radio stations will have the most fun with it. Add it to your own playlist of edgy rock cover versions!

FOUR NIGHTS, “Do You Feel The Same Way”

About the artist: Four Nights is the moniker for Irish indie bedroom artist Tommy Buckley, and its his third release within the last several months. His catchy pop/dance track “Want You Always” previously reached #8 on the BILLCS Top 30.

About the record: The project of Four Nights is brimming with authenticity in “Do You Feel The Same Way” as Tommy invites listeners to explore true-to-life lyrics that take a snapshot of a precious moment in a relationship. The magic of discovery is always an immediate draw in a song, which here is sung with a lot of conviction.

Other comments: Never underestimate the power of an indie pop song, and Tommy keeps it fresh and real.

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. Here are my picks for this week and last week.

It’s all about Lady Gaga this week and her best single in years, “Abracadabra”, from her forthcoming 7th solo album MAYHEM

Video link: Abracadabra

“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 “Champagne” by rising UK alternative pop singer Declan McKenna

Video link: Champagne

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 newly anchored at Party Dog Radio, where you can also hear my New Music Pick of the Week.

“Now or Never” is the rework of Bon Jovi’s “It’s My Life” as Bon Jovi collaborates with Mr. 905 himself, Pitbull

Video link: Now or Never

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show, where you can also now hear my Retro Pick of the Week. The 3D Variety Show is now on hiatus, returning in April 2025. 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.

Thompson Twins – Hold Me Now (1984)
Sherry Kean – I Want You Back (1984)
Bob Seger – You’ll Accomp’ny Me (1980)
Pat Benatar – Invincible (1985)
Peter Gabriel – Games Without Frontiers (1980)

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 classic rocking foot-stomper “Have I The Right” by UK band The Honeycombs from 1964

Video link: Have I The Right

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Dance producer Sonny Fodera gets his first #1 with “Somedays”, a collaboration with vocalist Jazzy and producer D.O.D.

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Anyma and Ellie Goulding’s “Hypnotized” soars 26-14

LISTEN to “The Big 20” edition #219, January 29, 2025

Listen to edition #219 at the following link: The Big 20 #219

The Big 20 is hosted by Bill Smith and “The Musicman” James Rogers, with JC Legend filling in for The Musicman (on vacation), and produced by “Big Daddy” Russ Horton.

Join our groups on Facebook @TheBig20 @HaltonHillsOnline.

MARSHMELLO, JONAS BROTHERS, Slow Motion
ARIANA GRANDE, Popular
TATE McRAE, Sportscar
DREW BALDRIDGE, Tough People
JASON ALDEAN, Whiskey Drink
KENNY CHESNEY, Just To Say We Did
POINT NORTH, World vs Peace
SET IT OFF, WILLIAM BECKETT, Wolf In Sheep’s Clothing (Reborn)
SHINEDOWN, Dance Kid Dance
THE WOMBATS, Sorry I’m late, I didn’t want to come
ST VINCENT, Flea
PALAYE ROYALE, Showbiz
CHESNEY HAWKES, Live Forever
BLAIR GILMOUR, Burning Up
BEN ELLIS, Red Handed
MYLES SMITH, Nice To Meet You
JACK WHITE, Archbishop Harold Holmes
BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK:
ANYMA, ELLIE GOULDING, Hypnotized
JAMIE FINE, Like I Do
TYLA, Push 2 Start
LUCAS & STEVE, JORDAN SHAW, Heart First
LOLA YOUNG, Messy
KATY PERRY, DOECHII, I’m His He’s Mine
BILLIE EILISH, Wildflower
WILDERADO, Higher Than Most
BIG DADDY’S RECORD OF THE WEEK:
TWENTY-ONE PILOTS, Routines In The Night
SMASHING PUMPKINS, Who Goes There
JNR, NATALIE GRAY, Player Two
THE PAST, ROBBIE ROSEN, Way To Go
SHAWN MENDES, Heart Of Gold
COLIN MANSON, These Words
JAMES CARTER, LUCAS ESTRADA, Falls Down
KOUSS, LIZ HUETT, Never Be Nothing

BILLCS Top 30 #711 – February 10/25

Suddenly there’s a line-up of new songs waiting to enter the BILLCS Top 30 over the next month. Fortunately, some older songs made room for five debuts in today’s edition, which will help.

I’ll have two more blog posts before I head off to Australia on Monday February 17. The next BILLCS New Music Report will publish on Thursday February 13, and I’ll also post another episode of The Big 20 for everyone’s listening pleasure. The next BILLCS Top 30 will be coming to you from Melbourne, not sure if it will be on February 23 or 24 for most of you, it depends on when I publish it. The BILLCS New Music Report will not publish while I’m away, returning Wednesday March 12.

Check out information about my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS after the chart commentary below as they are now 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.

My new music and retro picks of the week will air during the week of February 17 and then will resume the week of March 10.

NOTE: I will be gradually phasing out the You Tube links for the songs on the chart for accessibility purposes. With this week’s new entries, the links in the photos are now Spotify links.

UK-based, Australia-born dance producer Sonny Fodera gets his first BILLCS Top 30 #1 with a song that continues to endure and be discovered. It’s “Somedays”, the brisk and heartfelt house track featuring vocals by Irish singer Jazzy and contributions by UK producer D.O.D. “Somedays” also continues to linger on the UK singles chart, where it reached #5 last year. It’s a shame such a gorgeous track won’t receive radio airplay in North America beyond dance music stations.

L.A.-based dance producer Angrybaby climbs 4-2 with “Back To Life” in its VIP remix by Texas producer Mashbit. It’s a mesmerizing dance track that fans of John Summit will enjoy. It contends with “Somedays” for #1 in two weeks.

Toronto’s Alexander Stewart finds his way to #3 again, this time with “His Problem Instead” (6-3). He reached #3 last year with his collaboration with Two Friends, “Wrong Way”. Does “His Problem Instead” have a shot at #1 in two weeks?

James Bay climbs into the Top 5 with “Easy Distraction” rising 7-4. James last reached #4 with 2023’s album track “Brilliant Still”.

“Optimist” by Crash Adams is the first of three songs on the chart to arrive in the Top 10, climbing 11-7 and patching the peak of last year’s rollicking blast of fun “Hotel Party”.

Houston, Texas artist NYNE bests the recent peak of the band for which he is musical director, K.C. & The Sunshine Band. Co-produced and co-written by K.C. himself (Harry W. Casey), the insanely catchy “In The Back of My Cadillac” climbs 12-8 in its Eric Kupper remix. Last year’s “I Get To Love You” by K.C. & The Sunshine Band stopped at #12.

Rounding out the Top 10 is the #1 dance song in Europe, the redux of “Dirty Cash (Money Talks)” (15-10) by UK producer PAWSA in conjunction with Stevie Vincent aka the original artist The Adventures Of Stevie V himself. The original “Dirty Cash” was my #62 song of 1990.

Lucas & Steve and Jordan Shaw pass the #12 peak of their collaboration “End Of Time” last year with their latest and highly craveable “Heart First” rising 17-11.

Sam Fender also scores a personal best on the chart with “People Watching” climbing 19-13. His 2019 release “Can We Talk” topped out at #14.

To no surprise, the Fastest Riser on the chart is a record that is defining how dance music sounds in 2025. It’s “Hypnotized” by Anyma and Ellie Goulding, which soars 26-14.

On the indie tip, do yourself a favour and check out “The Message” (27-19) by Nashville’s MGR Mike and Mexico’s Milton V. It’s sure to put a smile on your face as the disco beats groove around an uber-inspiring speech by boxer Ricky Turcios.

Lady Gaga is back with another banger that ranks right up there for me with “Rain On Me”, “Applause”, “Bad Romance”, and “The Edge of Glory” with “Abracadabra” powering onto the chart as the Highest Debut at #21. It’s from her upcoming seventh solo album, MAYHEM, and is her 16th chart entry.

Impressive, but awfully brief at only 2:13, is “Love Me Better” by Switzerland’s Luca Hänni, which quickly moves up 28-22.

New at #24 is “Focus” by Chicago superstar dance producer John Summit and vocalist CLOVES, which is certain to be a festival favourite this year. It’s John’s second entry on the chart following last year’s “Shiver” (with Hayla), which was my #1 song of the year.

Next at #27 is a song I first heard in concert on January 23. It’s “Chasing Paradise”, a slice of summery dance/pop we all need during the winter months in the northern hemisphere by Kygo and One Republic. It’s easily one of Ryan Tedder’s best vocals in recent years. It’s Kygo’s fourth chart entry, and One Republic’s fifth but first since 2012. To be fair, I would have charted 2014’s “Counting Stars”, but it hadn’t grown on me till long after it had peaked.

At #28 is Nashville-based newcomer Liam Wall with an affecting, authentic song that’s chock full of hooks, “Walking Red Flag”.

Finishing up the debuts at #29 is “Show Me The Way”, a laid back piano-house track by Polish producers Milkwish and Mike Konstanty. It’s Milkwish’s third chart entry but first since 2022.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Halton Hills Radio Online

Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs. JC Legend fills in for The Musicman until April. 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.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

The 3D Variety Show is on hiatus and will return in April 2025.

Party Dog Radio

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.

LISTEN to “The Big 20” edition #218, January 22, 2025

Listen to edition #218 at the following link: The Big 20 #218

The Big 20 is hosted by Bill Smith and “The Musicman” James Rogers, with JC Legend filling in for The Musicman (on vacation), and produced by “Big Daddy” Russ Horton.

Join our groups on Facebook @TheBig20 @HaltonHillsOnline.

KATY PERRY, DOECHII, I’m His He’s Mine
BILLIE EILISH, Wildflower
RAYE, Oscar Winning Tears
ELLA LANGLEY, Weren’t For The Wind
RUSSELL DICKERSON, Bones
CHAYCE BECKHAM, Everything I Need
WILDERADO, Higher Than Most
JACK WHITE, Archbishop Harold Holmes
TWENTY-ONE PILOTS, Routines In The Night
SMASHING PUMPKINS, Who Goes There
THE DROWNING POOL, Revolution (The Final Amen)
BEARTOOTH, ATTN.
JNR, NATALIE GRAY, Player Two
THE PAST, ROBBIE ROSEN, Way To Go
NATHALIE MIRANDA, Jamais
STROMAE, POMME, Ma meilleure ennemie (from “Arcane League of Legends”)
BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK:
LUCAS & STEVE, JORDAN SHAW, Heart First
SHAWN MENDES, Heart Of Gold
COLIN MANSON, These Words
JAMES CARTER, LUCAS ESTRADA, Falls Down
KOUSS, LIZ HUETT, Never Be Nothing
ROSÉ, Toxic Till The End
TEDDY SWIMS, Bad Dreams
LIGHTS, Damage
TATE McRAE, 2 Hands
JANN ARDEN, You Gotta Be
CAGE THE ELEPHANT, Metaverse
WEATHERS, Wasn’t Gonna Go Out
BIG DADDY’S RECORD OF THE WEEK:
DAUGHTRY, The Dam
TAWNY ELLIS, Elephant
KAITLYN OLSON, Everytime
FLY BY MIDNIGHT, Casablanca

BILLCS New Music Report – February 6/25 with new releases by Michael Medrano, Kacey Fifield, The Knocks & Dragonette, Francesco Yates, Ronski Speed x Harshil Kamdar x Greg Oakland x Tara Louise, Church Of Trees, Braaheim x Angelo Basham x Felix Averian, and Earth Cadet

It often takes until the Grammy Awards for the start of big new releases in a new year. And so within a week we had a new album by The Weeknd and a new single from Lady Gaga, which is a throwback to her Born This Way era and just what we might have needed. I haven’t seen the Grammy Awards get so many rave reviews as I have this year. My perspective is always tainted by the politics in the way, and for the most part they did a decent job of hiding that in plain sight, so to speak.

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, while vacationing in Australia, has sent in his Classic Five choices, all from 1976! And you’ll also find out what the BILLCS Top 30 looked like this week 20 years ago – 2005!

Note: Next week’s report will publish on Thursday, February 13 rather than on Wednesday.

Reminder: Click on the photos below to listen to the songs. If the song has a video, a You Tube link is now provided underneath the artist and song title.

MICHAEL MEDRANO, “Martini (Shots)”

About the artist: L.A. based pop/dance artist Michael Medrano has released his latest album called The Penthouse, which includes the single “Hollywood”, the Madonna cover I wrote about recently.

About the record: “Martini (Shots)” is the album opener and with its propulsive, seductive techno-house rhythm draws you into Michael’s naughty NSFW world of The Penthouse. And Michael has certainly found his niche in the dance music world, making fun music like this without losing his integrity. Going back to disco days, dance music has always had a provocative, subversive side that revolves around innuendo, which gets stretched a bit further in the album. It’s not for everyone, but it’s fascinating for those willing to explore with Michael.

Other comments: The Penthouse also includes previously released singles “Tom Hardy”, “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang”, “Pornstar”, and “Karma”.

KACEY FIFIELD, “Hold Ur Peace”

About the artist: Kacey Fifield is the 20 year old vocalist and musician from L.A., currently attending school in NYC. When not focused on her studies, she is attracting her loyal social media following to her shows.

About the record: “Hold Ur Peace” features an explosion of energy which will attract fans of The Go Go’s as equally as fans of The Beaches. Like “Dream Girl” and “Never Reply”, it’s a guitar-soaked rocker created in conjunction with producer/writer Mike Pepe, known for his work with The Struts and Cassadee Pope. It’s fresh and vibrant, and shows that Kacey can cross the line between pop/rock and dance/pop with ease whenever she likes.

Other comments: “Hold Ur Peace” has an immediately catchy chorus, and a dynamic vocal by Kacey, easily one of my three favourites by her to date. Don’t miss this one!

THE KNOCKS, DRAGONETTE, “Revelation”

About the artists: NYC production duo The Knocks have released three albums to date and are club and festival favourites thanks to their positive strides to unite dance music lovers at their events. Dragonette is now solely award-winning singer/songwriter Martina Sorbara, best known for her hit with Martin Solveig “Hello”, and also Dragonette’s previous collaboration with The Knocks, “Slow Song”, which in fact one of both artists’ best known songs.

About the song: I think the “Revelation” being explored here is the universal theme of doing whatever it takes to be happy in our life, which is something that sure includes music and dancing. It’s one of Martina’s best vocals amid The Knocks’ new found fascination with crisp, bright sounds in favour of deep, darker synths. It’s definitely a continuation of what they started last year, particularly with “Lover” and “All The Time/Tout le temps”, which both landed in the Top 10 of the BILLCS Top 30.

Other comments: The last time I saw a show by The Knocks was in 2018 in NYC, and though they have been consistently performing smaller gigs, they’re overdue for some bigger shows. I’d love to hear in concert what songs I’ve been digging since that time. The music scene needs more shows like “The Knocks and Friends” again!

FRANCESCO YATES, “Better Half”

About the artist: Francesco Yates is the versatile indie Toronto vocalist and guitarist best known in the last decade for “Better To Be Loved” and his vocal on Robin Schulz’s worldwide smash “Sugar”, which is still played at festivals all over the world.

About the record: It’s been a while since Fran returned to his softer side, which we first heard late last year with “Acapella”. When he’s not smashing it with his wicked guitar work, he can scale things back beautifully to show off his silky, soulful voice. There’s always an audience for gorgeous, polished songs like “Better Half”. Fran’s audience is that much older now too, though “Better Half” can easily continue to woo his younger listeners too.

Other comments: Francesco Yates has had 8 entries on the BILLCS Top 30 including the 2023 #1 “Jimi”. I’d love to see “Better Half” and other upcoming releases draw in the R&B crowd.

RONSKI SPEED, HARSHIL KAMDAR, GREG OAKLAND, TARA LOUISE, “The Good Times”

About the artists: Ronski Speed is a German dance producer who has been making music for more than 25 years. It’s funny how small the world has become with streaming, because I hadn’t heard of him before now. Conversely, Harshil Kamdar is an 18 year old dance producer from New Jersey but originally from India. Greg Oakland is a NYC-based dance producer who graced the BILLCS Top 30 in 2023 with “Never Temporary” (#5) which also features the stunning voice of vocalist/songwriter Tara Louise.

About the record: “The Good Times” is euphoric, trance-flavoured dance music that reminds me a lot of what was coming out of Europe between 2000 and 2009. It’s a lush, melodic track guaranteed to make you feel great. I’d pitch the song to fans of the genre who enjoy Above & Beyond as much as they would Cascada.

Other comments: The three producers and vocalist all show off their craft and collaboration skills well, and we need more songs “The Good Times” to keep the great vibes going in 2025 as we approach festival season.

CHURCH OF TREES, “Mystery Boys”

About the artist: Church of Trees is an Ottawa alternative rock collective led by vocalist/keyboardist Bernard Frazer, which weaves its repertoire from the last decade in 80’s new wave synthpop and progressive electronic flavours.

About the record: “Mystery Boys” does indeed offer up some mystery in its lyrics – who are these foreboding characters and why should we fear them? It’s a compelling release that portrays elements of a “1984”-ish society, with Bernard trading off vocals with Stella Panacci, and they both sound great amid the slick rhythm section which includes guitar and drums.

Other comments: “Mystery Boys” comes in advance of Church of Trees’ next album Thief of Joy, scheduled for a late Spring release. The song was mixed by noted producer Mark Plati, who worked with David Bowie in the 90’s and early 2000’s.

BRAAHEIM, ANGELO BASHAM, FELIX AVERIAN, “Mountain King (Rave It Up)”

About the artists: Braaheim is a Norwegian dance producer who has acquired a sizeable following over the last four years. Angelo Basham and Felix Averian are German dance producers, with Angelo having had some of his songs previously featured in this blog.

About the record: “Mountain King (Rave It Up)” is a fun techno-bounce that doesn’t let up for its 2:18 length, a bop that could easily energize a club set, and an ID could find its way to festivals. And yes you’ve heard that melody before, it’s Edvard Grieg’s classical piece “In the Hall of the Mountain King” that serves as the basis for the song, which also features a playful uncredited female vocal.

Other comments: I could also hear “Mountain King (Rave It Up)” in a wacky video game or animated cartoon setting, so there is plenty of sync potential too.

EARTH CADET, “Silhouette”

About the artist: Earth Cadet is a hard rock/grunge trio led by Sam Edmonds and hails from Bendigo, which is north west of Melbourne in Australia. To date the band has released several singles and an EP called Tales From The End.

About the record: “Silhouette” is probably the hardest core grunge song I’ve heard in a long time. Earth Cadet’s big guitars, fuzzy production, and overall Pearl Jam-meets-Smashing Pumpkins sound take pages right out of the 90’s, and minimal embellishments give “Silhouette” a live-off-the-floor feel. The vocal is more what you might hear in metal releases but works well in the big picture.

Other comments: “Silhouette” is the opening track on Tales From The End, which includes five other songs. Earth Cadet has also released a few singles recorded live to give you a taste of what you might expect at a show.\