Ashwyn – BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – August 2/23 Spotlighting new songs by @_ClaireRichards & @AndyBell_info @KaceyFifield @AlexSampson @Ashwynmusic

My shortlist for this particular edition of the Report was a long one, and some of those choices will carry over into next week’s Report. Anyone who tells you there is a shortage of good new music out there simply isn’t listening. This report includes two offbeat cover choices, a few side steps which show the versatility of the respective artists, and a number of solid pop songs.

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five pop hits features several ballads from the early-to-mid 70’s. If you missed them, you’ll also find out what’s #1 this week on the BILLCS Top 30, and what song is the Fastest Riser on the chart.

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

CLAIRE RICHARDS, ANDY BELL, “Summer Night City”

Even though their main successes were in different decades, it somehow makes sense that Steps’ Claire Richards and Erasure’s Andy Bell would team up to tackle an ABBA song, which is 1979’s “Summer Night City”. While it’s not one of ABBA’s best known songs (but one of my faves) and will be almost lost on North Americans who aren’t ABBA fans, “Summer Night City” was a Top 5 UK hit and a Top 10 hit in other markets around the world. Claire is coming off renewed interest in Steps which yielded two #2 albums in the UK as well as a #1 singles compilation. Andy has released 19 albums with Erasure and has interspersed a solo career which has resulted in particularly successful collaborations with producers Dave Audé and Bright Light Bright Light. Needless to say, the two voices meld together beautifully, as well as distinctly in their solo parts, in a faithful arrangement to the original song. ABBA fans and those of both singers will be delighted. I’d like to hear some dance remixes!

KACEY FIFIELD, “Self Sabotage”

L.A. pop singer/songwriter Kacey Fifield has released her most self-assured single yet in “Self Sabotage”. Co-written and produced again with Robbie Rosen, the additional harmonies offer a delicate sound, and the uncluttered production suits the song and its purpose lyrically. Kacey writes about real-life situations to which her fellow teens and young adults will ultimately relate. Her performance is confident and, after some releases with much more electronic production, the classic pop sound in “Self Sabotage” is quite refreshing.

ALEX SAMPSON, “WANT YOU!”

Alex Sampson is a 19 year old singer/songwriter from Atikokan, Ontario, a small rural town north west of Thunder Bay. I’ve been following him on Instagram for a few years based on the calibre of his vocal talent in some of the videos he’s posted as well as his down-to-earth personality (he’s also easy on the eyes), and he’s been releasing music since he was 15. I don’t use Tik Tok, where Alex apparently has a bigger following and he’s also noted for his sense of humour. He signed to Warner Music earlier this year, and “WANT YOU!” is a pleasing step away from ballads and IG covers. It’s a fun pop/rock track that will appeal to fans of Avril Lavigne, Marianas Trench and Fall Out Boy, a post-breakup song about being unable to get a former GF out of his head. There’s no doubt that Alex has burgeoning talent happily honed through social media and it comes through in flying colours on “WANT YOU!”.

ASHWYN, “The One That I Turn To”

“The One That I Turn To” is a few steps away the songs that US-born, India-raised multi-talent Ashwyn has released over the past few years (which you can find in these blog pages). It’s an uncharacteristic happy, romantic pop anthem, whose lyrics were written in two phases a year apart, about realizing the importance of having a special person in your life who will always be there for you. The production is crisp, showcasing some nice guitar parts and harmonies, with synth work taking a backseat in the arrangement this time. It’s rare to hear a straight-forward, sincere pop track that’s not too sugary and will make you smile, and Ashwyn nails it with “The One That I Turn To”.

FEATURING

THROTTLE, “I Walk This Earth All By Myself”

We haven’t heard near enough of Australian electronic producer, songwriter and occasional vocalist Throttle (aka Robbie Bergin) since the release of his wonderful EP Where U Are in 2019. Where U Are was reissued in a deluxe edition last year featuring VIP and acoustic mixes of its songs. The flavour of Throttle’s cover of Canadian punk-pop artist EKKSTACY’s “I Walk This Earth All By Myself” – the original has over 100 million streams on Spotify alone – continues his fascination with drum ‘n bass heard on the title track of the EP. And like “Where U Are”, he once again sings. offering his unique take on this somewhat guarded tale of exploration and self-fulfillment. “I Walk” is an intriguing track that takes a few listens before it will settle in with you. As his first new release in almost four years, we’ll have to see where music takes Throttle next!

DJ MIRKO B, JOSH PAULINO, “Just For This Night”

Italy’s DJ Mirko B is just finishing off a run on the BILLCS Top 30 with the powerful europop track “Sun Freezes Cold” (which peaked at #8), and returns this time with the more pop-oriented “Just For This Night”. This one reminds me more of dance/pop I would associate with One Republic or Bastille, and benefits from a catchy chorus set to a strong melodic backdrop. Brazilian vocalist Josh Paulino is front and centre in a fine, memorable showcase, which makes “Just For This Night” a pleasing earworm.

THE VELVETEINS, “Athene”

Inspired by the war goddess in Homer’s “The Iliad”, “Athene” is melodic alt.pop from Edmonton quintet The Velveteins, released in advance of their upcoming sophomore album. Led by singer/songwriter Spencer Murphy, “Athene” will appeal to those who enjoy the dream-pop sub-genre, as well as perhaps 80’s alt.pop by the likes of The Replacements or The Lemonheads. Aside from the song’s intriguing concept, Spencer’s warm but inspired vocals and some interesting guitar work are what will also draw you into “Athene”.

MATTHEW HOLTBY, “Big Mouth”

Matthew Holtby is a seasoned rocker from Warkworth, Ontario (near Campbellford) who has ventured into a solo career after being part of several bands. “Big Mouth” is a familiar-sounding but energetic country-flavoured rock track which showcases his passionate vocal style. Many of us have lived through a variation of the story that he sings in “Big Mouth”, which would make the song go over well in concert as its well-shot video suggests we would enjoy.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

“Little Rockstar” is the title track from the recent EP by Francesco Yates

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

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

“Rush” is by Benin-born singer Ayra Starr

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

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

“Weight of the World” is by British singer/songwriter Blair Keen

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

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

Paul Simon – Mother and Child Reunion (1972)
Carly Simon – That’s The Way (I’ve Always Heard It To Be) (1971)
Barbra Streisand – The Way We Were (1973)
Art Garfunkel – All I Know (1973)
Art Garfunkel with James Taylor & Paul Simon – (What A) Wonderful World (1978)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Norway’s Matoma gets a second appearance at #1 with “Won’t Follow You Home” with vocalist James Droll

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

I caught a quick Instagram live set by promising new singer/songwriter Benson Boone last night, and while he didn’t perform it, his track “Coffee Cake” from the EP Pulse climbs 24-12 on the BILLCS Top 30.

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

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

DARIN, “What’s The Point”

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

FAMBA and GLASGOW KI$$, “No Sleep”

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

LENA LEON, “Spiral”

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

AFROJACK and JAMES ARTHUR, “Lose You”

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

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

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

TELYKAST and FRANCIS KAREL, “Better Now”

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

FEATURING

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

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

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

MR! MOURAY, “Cats Can’t Fly”

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

STEVEN THAD, “Find My Way”

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

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

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

ASHWYN and NATALIE, “Pink Skies”

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

SIERRA BLAX and CHRISTOPHER WATSON, “Control”

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

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

“The Power” by long-time favourite, Matoma

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

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

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

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S PICK OF THE WEEK

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

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

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

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

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

THE BILLCS TOP 30 – 5-10-15-20…

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

2017

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

2012

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

2007

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

2002

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

Let your mind drift and sweep you away in “Feelings of Yesterday” by India’s @Ashwynmusic

ASHWYN, “Feelings Of Yesterday”

Ashwyn is a talented singer, songwriter, guitarist, and producer who ditched a rising career as electronic dance producer Astra for more creative pursuits while still a teen. He’s released a series of very different singles over the course of the last year, including the warm and compelling “Sell My Soul”. Surprisingly, he’s returned to more of a pop/dance release with “Feelings of Yesterday”, but this is not your cookie-cutter overproduced dance music that clutters up the radio these days. He’s made a fine decision to create a memorable, beautifully sung song that’s actually meant to convey the feelings of isolation and loneliness as many people have felt during the pandemic. The song has such a great rhythm, perfect for a long drive along a beach coast or late at night when the sky is full of stars, that Ashwyn stops singing and lets it take over halfway, which allows your mind to wander and your feet to do their thing on a club dance floor should you be so inclined. “Feelings of Yesterday” is a distinct new emotional dance track that takes risks while being perfectly accessible. It’s from Ashwyn’s forthcoming EP of the same name.

Indian artist @Ashwynmusic releases uplifting new single “Pyar”

ASHWYN, “Pyar”

Indian producer, singer and guitarist Ashwyn follows up his recent singles “Deja Vu” and “Sell My Soul” (which has reached #9 on my personal chart) with an uplifting new lyrical single. It’s called “Pyar”, which is the Urdu word for “love”, and quite a change of direction from when Ashwyn was recording EDM records under the name Astra. The song is about how transformative love can be in one’s life, and more than his other songs showcases Ashwyn’s pleasing voice and personality, which you can see in the video above. “Pyar” is a song meant for sunny days, touching indie pop with a universal message. It’s also suited for days when you need to put your head into a different, positive space – it will certainly help you get there.

#BILLCSTop30 #622 – September 13, 2021

If the music industry doesn’t come up with a better strategy other than for artists to keep releasing more, more, more new music, then the quality is going to suffer because of quantity. Already, there are too many awful knockoff cover versions released every week, none of which intends to try and be better than the original, and only exist to make money from unsuspecting listeners who flock to them on streaming services. I have a private playlist that I use to keep track of songs under consideration for review, both submissions and my own discoveries, it rarely sinks below 50 songs as I remove songs from it that I’ve written about or considered. Most songs I listen to get two or three listens before I make my decision to write about them or not. As a blogger who no longer has a full-time career and doesn’t use other contributors to write reviews, I can’t imagine the amount of releases continuing to increase. There’s definitely too much that falls in the lap of the artists, and it never seems like they can do enough to get ahead! Rant over hehe.

Also, make sure you read about my ONLINE RADIO AFFILIATES (see details after the post) – all kinds of online radio announcing projects now keeping me busy!

Sweden’s Darin hangs tight at #1 for a second time with the fun pop-dance track “Can’t Stay Away”, which I like more than ever since it first debuted. And it’s hard for such a great song to hold on to #1 when so many good ones are right behind.

Sofi Tukker and Amadou & Mariam move up 3-2 with the “Red Hot + Free” multilingual track “Mon Cheri” (above). Sofi Tukker along with producer John Summit have a huge dance hit in the making with “Sun Came Up” at the link below.

And right behind “Mon Cheri” up 9-3 is “Sanctuary” (above), which features one of my favourite vocals of the year by “American Idol” contestant Robbie Rosen. This beauty is produced by relatively new Dutch producer Howen, who has a bright career ahead. Robbie’s other song on the chart, “Don’t Want Perfect” (below), with Quebec dance producer Kayliox, rises 18-13.

The triad of talent that is Russian producers Purple Guns, NYC singer Jessica Chertock, and Florida rapper Young Jae, came together this year for a fantastic cover of Noah Cyrus and XXXTentacion’s “Again”, which climbs 11-6 and is well worth your attention. The highlight is a fantastic vocal by Jessica.

India’s Ashwyn climbs into the Top 10 with his pop-rock-dance fusion of “Sell My Soul”, which moves up 12-9.

“Break Me Down” rises 14-10 and becomes the second Top 10 for each of the producers, Autograf and Win & Woo, featuring a fine vocal by SINGA.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is one of the most enjoyable dance songs on release right now. It’s “Never Going Home” by French producer Kungs, which climbs 19-12.

Reaching a new peak of 14 is “Anxious”, the taut and empathetic song with soulful touches by Australia’s Beamish Brothers.

Duck Sauce’s “Nonchalant” would normally have made a bigger jump of 24-19 but has a wall of other fine tracks to break through, so watch for some more movement in two weeks. Its melody is sampled from Modern Romance’s 1981 release “Queen Of The Rapping Scene”.

“Take My Breath” is proving to be a more than worthy and highly danceable successor to “Blinding Lights” for The Weekend, and it rises 26-21. It’s from The Weeknd’s upcoming yet untitled project.

NYC’s Gina Naomi Baez has a winner with her powerful anthemic ballad “My Time” (above), which moves up 27-23. Check out her newest song “Liquor Love” below.

The Highest Debut of the week comes from Denmark’s Christian and Christian, aka Boye & Sigvardt, appearing on the chart for the second time with a real grower, “Microdose”, featuring singer and co-writer Jordan Shaw. Although I’ve written about the talented lads several times since, their infectious song “Astronauts” (with MAGNUS and UHRE) reached #6 in 2017.

At #27 is no stranger to this chart. Toronto’s Justin Nozuka is back with a soulful and thoughtful new release that will make you smile called “Nova”. He appeared on the chart late last year with “No One But You” (with the Grammy-nominated Mahalia), which topped out at #4. It’s his seventh song to reach the chart.

“Chasing Stars” is a rather unlikely collaboration between Alesso, Marshmello and James Bay that works like a charm! It arrives at #29 and is Marshmello’s debut on this chart. It’s Alesso’s third appearance, following last year’s #8 “Midnight” (with Liam Payne) and the fourth for James, following “Chew On My Heart”, which peaked at #5 earlier this year.

“Almost Home” is a big welcome back to this chart for British trance legendary trio Above & Beyond, who return with the inimitable Justine Suissa at #30. Both artists last appeared on the chart in mid-2004 at the same time, Above & Beyond under their pseudonym Oceanlab (with Justine on uncredited vocal), which reached #1, and Justine also billed as featured vocalist on Armin van Buuren’s “Burned With Desire”, which reached #11. While trance has been rearing its head in the past few years outside of its sub-genre as an influence in other dance music sub-genres, is it about to make a big comeback? “Almost Home” could be its ticket.

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

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

Check out and ‘like’ the BILLCS Music Projects Facebook page 🙂

ONLINE RADIO AFFILIATES

Radio GTA – listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs mixed with classics and songs you haven’t heard in a while. And on Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm I bring you “Your Weekend Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

Halton Hills Online – “Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free, proudly brought to you by Symposium Cafe Restaurant & Lounge in Georgetown, Ontario!

Planet Radio Canada – I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm with my New Music Pick of the Week on the “3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. The show won’t broadcast on September 14 but will return.

Here’s why #OpenDoorSessions curated by charity-driven @NeonOwlco is your go-to music networking event

I’m departing a bit from my usual blog post format to encourage musicians and producers to invest in some valuable networking through Open Door Sessions (ODS), which are curated by founder Elaine Huang and her team at Neon Owl. The Neon Owl team are taking their next virtual event on Saturday, August 21 to an amazing next level – they’ve invited key players and artists at Anjunabeats to participate in their panel discussion, on a production breakdown, as well as to listen to demos which have been submitted and selected in advance (the deadline was August 16).

But even if you can’t submit your demo this time, it’s worthwhile to purchase a VIP ticket (which includes a charity donation) to listen, participate, and hear some great unreleased music. Prior to the pandemic, ODS were held in person at a US location, so moving it online has opened even more doors to interested participants around the world who would not normally be able to attend in person.

It’s a bit lengthier a post than usual, but read along about my ODS experience and those of five artists. I’ve also featured a recent song by each artist.

My ODS Experience

I was sent an invite to Neon Owl’s April ODS by southern California producer Jay Bird, whose music I’ve been writing about for the last four years or so. The Neon Owl team has created a safe and respectful environment which is meant to inspire and inform rather than dissect and criticize. The panel discussion was interesting and positive, but the demo session in particular was well-organized, gave every artist who was selected a chance to shine, and gave the listening panel as well as participants the opportunity to comment on some fine music and engage with the artists to the extent that time would permit. I came away from this session wanting to get to know all of these folks better, and of course to attend future ODS.

To reinforce my illuminating experience, I engaged five previous participants, who could not speak highly enough about ODS.

Jay Bird

In 2017, Jay Bird was looking to launch his new brand and sought out like-minded blogs (including yours truly!), tastemakers, and other Soundcloud users. He sent his music to Elaine, who really enjoyed it and the vibe, so she asked him to do a guest mix for one of the Neon Owl social media channels. Jay then attended ODS in person in Oakland, since the topics of networking, getting shows, and improving as a DJ were of interest. He immediately felt like he was part of a special community, meeting other artists and Elaine, and making friends in the process.

“There was no ego, everyone was welcoming and approachable”, he recalls. It was a big step forward as he began to see how working with the right people can help you accomplish your dream through mentorship, modeling behaviour, and giving back to the ODS community. “I started as an attendee, and then came back as a panelist. It’s about inspiring artists and paying it forward”, he says.

A memorable moment came when Andrew Rayel said he could hear the demo he presented being played on the radio. “He even mentioned that someone like Kaskade would play it”, says Jay.

Jay’s networking skills also ramped up. He started curating a Spotify playlist (“The Birdhouse”) as well as an artist coaching program, which included new friends from the ODS community. “Be humble, edify other people, ask good questions. Create value for yourself to offer to other people”, he points out.

Jay Bird releases his latest single on Friday August 20 called “Have To Go”. Through a remix contest, he also has an unofficial remix of “Try” by MitiS currently available on Audius and Soundcloud, which he hopes will attract the interest of Ophelia Records (Seven Lions, Trivecta), or perhaps other similar labels.

Ashwyn

Next, I was very pleased that during my ODS experience, one of the artists who submitted his demo for review, Indian performer Ashwyn, immediately connected with me with his submission for consideration in my blog. That led to me writing up his guitar-laced pop/rock effort “Sell My Soul”, which took a few steps away from his earlier work as a dance producer who recorded under the name Astra. And he’s only just 20!

Ashwyn found out about ODS through Jay Bird’s Instagram feed and compliments “the warm, community driven feedback and insights into the music industry” that ODS offered him.

Importantly, “I learned about the different aspects of music marketing and how to build an organic fan base” and “got to talk to everyone in the VIP lounge”. He believes that ODS definitely encourages artists to express who they are, as that always comes from a deep and authentic place.

Ashwyn followed up “Sell My Soul” with the more progressive “Déjà Vu” and his next release is “more Indian and pop-driven” and “sounds like none of the tracks I’ve put out before”.

Rahat Rashid

Rahat Rashid is a dance producer and PR media strategist who records under the name Reznor. and will be a panelist at Saturday’s ODS. He has known Elaine for years and has been participating in ODS since their early days in the mid-2010’s. He’s continually amazed at the variety and quality of talent that has been participating in the events. He also reinforces the authenticity of the artists who attend, and how he always learns something new – this is not just for beginners.

“I’ve made some wonderful connections and even have found other folks I’ve wanted to collaborate with on future projects with,” he says.

There was a previous ODS which allowed participants to talk openly about mental health, and hear how performers like Christian Burns and SILVA overcame their own personal issues, which he found illuminating.

“I also can’t forget the time when Andrew Rayel gave feedback on my most recent release, “Feeling My Soul”, and shared some glowing feedback on the release, even saying he’d play the track on his radio!”

He has upcoming projects on his home base Scorchin’ Records, but also has a major remix coming out on a compilation album next month too!

SAKET

For someone who has to juggle family responsibilities and a full-time job and doesn’t consider himself good at networking, producer SAKET found out about ODS through social media hoping for some worthwhile comments about his music after 10 years of producing, as well as to assist with networking. Originally from India and based in Maryland, SAKET got more out of ODS than what he was expecting when Andrew Rayel gave him some amazing feedback, especially considering the demo SAKET presented was created with Andrew’s label in mind.

“His comments validated that I can actually make good quality music,” says SAKET, who plays to attend future ODS as a result of his positive experience.

For what’s next, SAKET says “This year I’m planning on establishing my other project, T3KAS, I really wish I made music which is completely different than my SAKET project that focuses on trance music. Under my T3KAS project, I have already signed multiple tracks to the label run by The Disco Fries, and a couple of tracks to another label in the UK . I have at least 6 to 7 finished songs but I’ll start pitching in the coming weeks.”

Danny Fathom

San Francisco-based DJ and producer Danny Fathom found out about ODS quite by accident. Another artist, Ducka Shan, asked him to attend with him, and Danny found his first session had a great environment that was full of approachable people. He has now attended five ODS, and describes them as good containers for people to interact or network and hear demos.

Attending ODS for Danny has helped improve his self-confidence immeasurably. “You’re in the same room as big artists who can listen at your level”, he says. In fact, through one of the sessions, he got one song “Owen” (above) signed through another artist and attendee, Ram, though it needed some work and was ultimately improved with the help of another producer. In February, Sacha Robotti of Dirty Bird Records thought the demo he submitted was a lot of fun and asked if he could work with it.

So while Sasha works away at his demo, Danny also recently got to open for Tritonal – twice! You can see photos from those shows, hear clips of his demo, and another new song called “Wanting You” on Danny’s Instagram feed.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up for the next Open Door Session on Saturday, August 21! I will be attending again, and you can find all details including cost and what charity will benefit from your payment at http://www.neonowl.co/opendoorsessions!!

#BILLCSTop30 #617, July 5/21

The new chart is so chockful of my favourites that it seems pretty static, with only a few songs making decent-sized moves. But if you’ve followed this blog or my chart, then you’ll know that this is temporary.

With this chart, I’m pleased that my number one song is “Myself In You” (above) by Italy’s Lordnox and NYC’s Victor Perry. Victor’s music has been appearing regularly on the chart since 2016 and this is his first trip to the top, and almost certainly not the last! I was delighted that Lordnox could capture the glory and diversity of Victor’s vocal in this particular song. It makes the song just so much fun! Victor has a second entry on the chart with French producer Kislaw called “Slip Away” (below), which climbs 20-17.

Making an impressive move from 7-4 is the emotional electronic whirlwind that is “Sideways” by Illenium, singer Valerie Broussard and fellow producer Nurka. Illenium performed his first three albums in concert in Las Vegas as his “Trilogy” show this past weekend, which is quite an amazing accomplishment.

Glass Petals’ infectious deep house track “Heartbeat” is making short work of its time in the Top 10, rising 9-6. One half of Glass Petals, Juno Award-winner Felix Cartal, released his latest album Expensive Sounds For Nice People, which is chock full of many of his single releases of the past two years.

To no surprise, the dance floor banger “The Feels” by Cash Cash featuring Alex Newell advances 12-9 – for now!

The darker and deeper house track from Australia, “Unnatural” by Needs No Sleep and Jeremy Beamish, is the other newcomer to the Top 10, up 11-10.

Whenever I play Greyson Chance’s “Hellboy”, I am stuck humming it for hours on end. This quirky track from his album Trophies climbs 16-11.

The Fastest Riser on the chart was the Highest Debut two weeks ago. It’s “Can’t Stay Away” by Sweden’s Darin, which is now accompanied by a zesty, splashy video loaded with cool choreography. It soars 22-14.

Another banger from England to keep your ears on is “Give Me That” (23-19) by producers Charlie Lane and Gold 88 with a stunning vocal by Kate Wild.

While it’s already been to the top of the dance charts, “You” by Regard, Troye Sivan and Tate McRae (27-21) is also headed to the Top 10 of Top 40 radio.

The Highest Debut on the chart is also a first on the chart. In the over 23 years that I’ve published it, a completely redone version of a song originally recorded by the same artist has never charted – until now! Moby’s “Natural Blues” reached #5 on my chart in 2000, and 21 years later he has re-recorded it and some of his other best known songs on his album Reprise. “Natural Blues”, featuring the stellar vocals of Gregory Porter and Amythyst Kiah arrives at #24. Some chart geekery: Because it was re-recorded, it is not considered to be a re-entry.

Next up at #26 is India’s Ashwyn with the guitar-soaked “Sell My Soul”. This single preceded his latest, more progressive rock-flavoured one “Deja Vu” , which I wrote about recently. Ashwyn is also the second artist from India to appear on my chart, following DJ Shaan’s “By Heart” which reached #10 earlier this year.

My third debut at #27 is the second chart appearance by Australia’s Beamish Brothers called “Anxious”. Ben and Jeremy previously were featured on “Black Gasoline” by Mark Mendy, which got to #6. And Jeremy is currently charting at #10 with Needs No Sleep. Their music keeps on getting better and better so this is their first appearance on the chart as lead artists. In fact I just wrote about their newest single “Privilege” this past weekend, so check it out too.

The last of four debuts at #28 is “Gone Tomorrow” by Southern California producer Jay Bird with vocalist Clay Agnew. This is definitely in the Illenium/Trivecta vein and is exceptionally well done as an independent release. Jay Bird recently got to #4 with “Escape”.

Announcements

NEW AND STARTING JULY 10!! I’m pleased to announce that I will be your weekend announcer on Halton Hills Online and Radio GTA for my show “Your Weekend Music Mix”. The show will air Saturday and Sunday afternoons on Halton Hills Online and Saturday and Sunday evenings on Radio GTA. Be sure to check it out next weekend!

Planet Radio Canada is currently on hiatus for a few weeks and will return!

The music from this chart and blog are also featured regularly on the online radio station Radio GTA. You can hear their Big 20 on Wednesday evenings, also with ‘The Musicman’ James Rogers, and listen for songs from the chart too 🙂Scroll down the station’s main page to listen to lots of variety from across the decades! You can start by joining Radio GTA’s new interactive Facebook group too!!

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

Listen to the BILLCS Top 30 Songs on Spotify! Click on this link to take you there, and follow me on Spotify: BILLCS Top 30 Songs

Check out and ‘like’ the BILLCS Music Projects Facebook page 🙂

India’s @Ashwynmusic is back with progressive rock-flavoured electronica called “Déjà Vu”

ASHWYN, “Déjà Vu”

Back in early May, I wrote about Indian producer Ashwyn‘s rock flavoured electronic track “Sell My Soul”, which features awesome guitar work and an intriguing story sung with a committed vocal. Continuing to find gaps to tell his own musical story, Ashwyn has followed up “Sell My Soul” with the decidedly different “Déjà Vu”. This one is likely to appeal to rock music fans even more than “Sell My Soul”, while still capturing progressive electronic music fans’ attention with its rich production which would sound fantastic in a stadium setting. With a big nod to Pink Floyd, the song starts with two minutes of instrumentation before Ashwyn’s vocal kicks in to tell the story about looking outside of the box while routine and history repeat themselves. Amid the beautiful instrumentation are the sounds of a live string quartet orchestrated by Spanish composer Pedro Osuna. “Déjà Vu” is all about mystery, quality and experience, and the real instruments give the song warmth and depth. It’s hardly what you might have expected after “Sell My Soul” and might be a transitional release as a result, but there’s no denying that Ashwyn’s music can stand apart from the rest and hold its own.

Get to know the music of India’s @Ashwynmusic with “Sell My Soul”

ASHWYN, “Sell My Soul”

At only 20 years old, Bangalore, India producer and musician Ashwyn Sriram already kickstarted his platform in pop music as a teenager as electronic dance producer Astra. Even with the support of Hardwell and a release on the producers Revealed Recordings, it was not enough for Ashwyn to get to the heart of what he really wanted to record. Already an accomplished electronic guitarist, Ashwyn has been releasing songs since 2019 rather quietly under his new guise, with growing additional support from Nicky Romero and Axwell as well as Rolling Stone magazine. “Sell My Soul” is a classic story about what you trade off and get back in return, and whether or not it’s worth it. The gentle vocal gives way to some terrific guitar work which makes “Sell My Soul” all the more memorable. As a producer, Ashwyn knows how to make a song flow, filling the gaps with interesting instrumentation and sounds. Currently studying at the Berklee College of Music, Ashwyn has plenty of new music coming, so stay tuned for more.