Cobi – BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

#BILLCSTop30 #681 – December 18/23

It’s hard to believe in some ways that this is my last chart of 2023! Music now travels into our grasp at superspeed, and it’s hard to push pause long enough to enjoy the songs before the next sensation comes along. Towards the end of next week, I’ll begin publishing my Top 93 of 2023 and I’ll also be working on the accompanying radio program for the Top 30 of the year. Despite what I just said, for some reason there wasn’t a lot of turnover on the chart this year, and no song reached below #19. I’ll continue to honour my rule that songs can remain on the chart for up to 10 appearances (20 weeks), which only 10 songs achieved this year 😮

Here’s the link to the online version of the chart: BILLCS Top 30

Here’s the link to my Spotify playlist of the chart: BILLCS Top 30 Chart Playlist

Check out my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS below as they are increasingly tied in with this blog. As most of you know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded.

A couple of songs charge up the new chart, while we have four hopefuls arriving just in time for the new year. As well, a singer becomes the oldest living person to appear on this chart through a rebooted version of one of his minor chart records.

In the meantime, Bright Light Bright Light continues to rule the chart with the irresistible “Down To One”, in the same way that he did exactly 10 years ago with the always stunning “An Open Heart”.

One of those songs that makes short work of the chart actually soars 25-3 as the Fastest Riser, and that’s Jack Harlow’s insanely catchy and quick “Lovin On Me”, a number one both in the US and the UK, and in the Top 10 at Top 40 radio now. This isn’t the usual for me but I enjoy how playful and droll it is, and Jack’s delivery and flow are so smooth. A number one contender for the first chart of ’24? You betcha!! Jack also appears at #12 with Jung Kook on their collaboration “3D”.

“Top of the World” is one of many immensely infectious house tracks to grace the chart this year, brought to you by Swedish producer John Dahlbäck and Nashville-based vocalist/songwriter Davis Mallory, and climbs 5-4. Even better to make it this high on the chart, the song’s an independent release, like 40% of other songs on the chart.

Also a stalwart indie release with a great story angle is “Fan Of You” by Chicago producer Pete Cho, which climbs 7-5.

Miami producer Gt_ofice has two songs in the Top 10 this week. “Feels Like Us” (above), with fellow producer ALWZ SNNY and singer/songwriter Robbie Rosen, is a national dance radio Top 40 hit and leaps 12-6 over his other track “Can’t Deny” (with JAYEM and Alix Robson, below), which is up 9-8. “Feels Like Us” is Robbie’s 8th Top 10 entry.

Martin Garrix and Lloyiso move up 11-7 with their dance radio #1 “Real Love”, becoming Martin’s 10th Top 10 entry overall.

Electronic dance producer Audien gets a personal best on the chart as “Superhero” rises 13-9.

The other huge move on the chart belongs to British dance producers WH0, as “Rock The Party” has arrived at exactly the right part of the year to become a dance club favourite. It zips up the chart 28-10, just as WH0’s other track on the chart, the former #1 “What You Need” with Steve Angello, departs the Top 10. If you heard my New Music Pick of the Week segment last week, you found out that WH0 are now unmasked as Rob Chetcuti (who has been producing songs under a myriad of aliases) and Tom Cross.

Just outside of the Top 10 is Australian rockers Moonwood, who keep getting better and better with each release. “Curfew” climbs 16-11 and comes from their very good EP Curfew Hours.

If you follow Benson Boone’s socials, you may think like me that he has yet another big ballad on the way. I personally can’t get enough of them, and his latest release “To Love Someone” moves up 20-15.

L.A.-based singer/songwriter Cobi is off to a great start with a bluesy rock ballad from his recent EP Sugar Man called “Where We Belong”, which climbs 27-21.

Leading off the debuts is Veteran British progressive electronic trio Nero, who are back with their first new music in five years with the huge and bold “Truth”, which is the Highest Debut at #26. It’s their first appearance on this chart.

Next at #27 is the highly influential house music master Todd Terry with “What You Do” at #27. This song co-bills veteran pop/R&B singer Gene Chandler, age 86, who is best known for his 1962 #1 smash “Duke of Earl” as it transforms a minor single by Gene from 1966 called “You Can’t Hurt Me No More”. Gene becomes the oldest living person to appear on this chart. And Todd was on the chart five years ago exactly with his future #1 with A-Trak, “DJ’s Just Gotta Dance”.

At #28 marks the third appearance on the chart and first since 2015 for NYC duo Great Good Fine OK with “Blame”. GGFO is back in fine form with their brand of soulful dance/pop led by an exceptional Jon Sandler vocal.

Rounding out the debuts at #29 is veteran Dutch dance production duo (and brothers) Showtek with fellow Dutch denizens Sonny Wilson (a duo led by the same-named singer) and “Shine”, from Showtek’s recent album 360 Yellow. This is a bright, anthemic house track that stands apart from the rest on the album. It’s Showtek’s fifth appearance on the chart, which goes back almost 10 years exactly with their future #1 “Cannonball (Earthquake)” (with Justin Prime and Matthew Koma).

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs. The show also repeats on Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. EST and Sunday mornings at 2:00 AM EST. You can hear recent episodes of The Big 20 at this link.

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my new “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my “Retro Pick of the Week” plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my New Music Pick of the Week which debuts every week on “The 3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. A repeat of “The 3D Variety Show” airs on Wednesdays at 7pm EST on Radio GTA. My pick of the week airs more than 30 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Addictive Energy

This is a weekly show hosted by Hunter Wilbur that airs on several online stations and will be newly anchored at Miramichi, New Brunswick’s Energy885 starting in January!! You can hear recent episodes of Addictive Energy at this link.

FM 108

You can also listen to my “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules are up-to-date.

BILLCS New Music Report – December 13/23 spotlighting songs by @Cobimusic, @TheKnocks & @SofiTukker, Benjamin Russell & Rob Stuart @mtl_bar, Eric Rivero x @PuFFcornmusic x @RobbieRosenlive, @MaxEhrich & Thad Beaty @musicthatmoves1, and Nathalie Miranda @vocalfreaknat

As the music business winds down for the rest of the year, my regular blog posts will also be wrapping up next week, but will be followed by my Top 93 of 2023 and a concurrent Top 30 of 2023 radio special, which will air on select online radio stations. More about that to follow in the coming weeks! In the meantime, among my six selections this week in the Report, there are two new Christmas songs for your holiday playlists and celebrations.

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 which focus on harder and more progressive well-known songs from the 70’s. And you’ll also find out what songs were in the Top 5 of the BILLCS Top 30, 5-10-15-20 years ago!

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

COBI, “Sugar Man”

L.A.-based singer, songwriter and producer Cobi is back with a new EP, from which comes the title track “Sugar Man”. He’s one of my most written-about performers this year because of the ongoing development of his own sound, as well as the sheer quality of his indie releases. It’s a bluesy guitar-laden, well-sung rocker shrouded in mystery about a benefactor called Sugar Man who doesn’t come through to follow up and help when it’s needed. The EP also features five tracks, two about which I’ve written, the ballad “Where We Belong” (currently charting on the BILLCS Top 30) and “Good Morning”. You can hear from all of the songs in the EP how invested Cobi is in his music, and your time spent with them will be rewarded with some new favourites.

THE KNOCKS, SOFI TUKKER, “One on One”

In the free-flowing world of dance music, performers can almost always return to their home base of collaborators, and thus we have the first collaboration in a few years from NYC production duo The Knocks and their one time protégés, Sofi Tukker (who I saw together in concert in 2016). “One on One” is classic house music with a heavy old school disco groove that could have easily fit on The Knocks’ album 55 (and that 2015-16 era will make its comeback, mark my words!). Sophie Hawley-Weld’s vocal has only gotten more assured over the years, as was clearly evident on 2022’s WET TENNIS album, and the production has a lot of nice robust layers that enhance how polished the song sounds overall. The Knocks and Sofi Tukker are all so good at their craft and “One on One” just makes it sounds easy, which should generate immediate appeal for both clubs and dance radio airplay.

BENJAMIN RUSSELL, ROB STUART, “Driving Hollow”

Toronto-based producer/songwriter Rob Stuart and Montreal producer/singer/songwriter Benjamin Russell have made the most of 2023 releasing several projects, and their new four song EP Brighter Light follows up their earlier collaboration, Something in F Minor. I was drawn to “Driving Hollow” and its big, bass-filled, progressive electronic sound, reminiscent of work by Peter Gabriel (“Sledgehammer” and “Digging in the Dirt”) and Mike Oldfield (“Five Miles Out”). The story in “Driving Hollow”, as sung vividly by Benjamin, seems to be in a futuristic sci-fi setting, where something foreboding is in store for us if we don’t watch how we’re driving, as we’re told in cryptic electronic messages by what might be a “Nineteen Eighty-Four”-like government official. It’s an absorbing if unresolved listen that uses driving as a metaphor for how we navigate relationships.

ERIC RIVERO, PuFFcorn, ROBBIE ROSEN, “Lost In Love”

“Lost In Love” is an early 2010’s throwback to the big room house sound of the day, reminiscent of early work by the likes of Alesso, Hardwell and Deadmau5. It’s brought to you by Chicago-born producer Eric Rivero, Taiwanese producer PuFFcorn, along with the prolific NYC singer/songwriter Robbie Rosen, currently riding up the BILLCS Top 30 with “Feels Like Us” (which is also Hunter Wilbur’s Bop of the Week, see below). It’s great to hear Robbie in this kind of a throwback setting, and the producers have created a tight, textbook flow for the song, whose euphoric melody, hand-in-hand with the positive theme of the lyrics, will keep listeners smiling and club goers dancing.

I don’t usually write about Christmas music, but you can feel free to add these two new ones to your favourite Christmas playlist.

MAX EHRICH, THAD BEATY, “All I Want Is You” (Big Sky remix)

A while back, I wrote about the recent affable hip hop/pop single by singer, actor and dancer Max Ehrich called “Backroads”. Although noted for his work years ago in TV soap opera “The Young & The Restless”, Max completed two film projects lately, “Southern Gospel” and for TV, “A Cowboy Christmas Romance”. “All I Want Is You” is the feature song for the latter film and veers away from the trendier sound of “Backroads” in favour of a country-flavoured, mostly acoustic ballad that this time shows off the natural timbre in Max’s affecting vocal. It’s a straight-forward, well-written song supported by veteran Nashville guitarist, producer and hitmaker Thad Beaty, who has worked mostly with Sugarland over the years but has appeared on stage with numerous A list stars.

NATHALIE MIRANDA, “Bring My Baby Back”

The absence of a loved one over the holidays, for one reason or another, can often be a let down, and Nathalie Miranda’s energetic plea to Santa Claus, “Bring My Baby Back”, is a breezy and uplifting request. A diminutive presence with a voice that packs a wallop, Nathalie hails from the UK and is of Greek Cypriot heritage. Her vocal in “Bring My Baby Back” reminds me of versatile 80’s performers Melissa Manchester or Vonda Shepard, and she has also recorded in Spanish (check out her recent single “Terremoto”). In the end we all hope our wishes like in “Bring My Baby Back” get granted which would make it a Merry Christmas indeed.

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.

“Rock The Party” by WH0 will certainly be appropriate for a lot of New Year’s Eve celebrations!

“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”.

UK alternative band Bad Sounds with “Beggin'”

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.

“Feels Like Us” is the new national Top 40 dance radio hit by Gt_ofice, ALWZ SNNY and Robbie Rosen

“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.

Alice Cooper – Welcome To My Nightmare
Jethro Tull – Bungle In The Jungle
Black Sabbath – Iron Man
Deep Purple – Smoke On The Water
Genesis – Ripples

THE BILLCS TOP 30 – 5-10-15-20…

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

2018

01 LOYAL Odesza

02 DJ’S GOTTA DANCE MORE A-Trak featuring Todd Terry

03 FIREWORKS Mercer

04 PHANTOM OF THE DANCE FLOOR Kiesza featuring Philippe Sly

05 CRAWL OUTTA LOVE (PatrickReza remix) Illenium featuring Annika Wells

2013

01 AN OPEN HEART Bright Light Bright Light

02 WHAT’S GOING ON Monsieur Adi featuring A*M*E

03 CAN’T HOLD BACK Anton Ewald

04 EASY Travis Garland

05 I HAVE A NAME Osvaldo Supino

2008

01 NEVER AGAIN The Midway State

02 RELAPSE Jesse McCartney

03 LET IT ROCK Kevin Rudolf featuring Lil’ Wayne

04 HOT MESS Sam Sparro

05 FROZEN Tami Chynn featuring Akon

2003

01 ROCK STAR (Jason Nevins remix) N*E*R*D

02 I FEEL LOVE Blue Man Group featuring Venus Hum

03 DEEPEST BLUE Deepest Blue

04 THE FORCE OF GRAVITY BT featuring JC Chasez

05 VIBRATE Rufus Wainwright

BILLCS New Music Report – December 6/23 spotlighting new releases by @Showtek & #SonnyWilson, @djToddTerry & #GeneChandler, @Kungsmusic & @Shadow_Child, @Matomaofficial & @JPCoopermusic, @obeyANTAGONIZER, @DenizKoyumusic, @TheMovingStills and @BlackHertz_ & _HOZHO_

The music business typically winds down at this time of year for a few weeks, with charts being awash in holiday music. While on occasion a major artist drops a big record in December, the rest of the industry perks along with plenty of new releases to check out. This week there’s house music, progressive electronica, and indie rock among the reviews, while picks of the week comprise a rock ballad, a cover of a Canadian classic, and an acoustic folk track. So there’s lots of variety – open your ears and dive in!

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 featuring songs from the 1980’s. And in case you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what are my #1 song and the Fastest Riser in the latest edition of the BILLCS Top 30.

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

SHOWTEK, SONNY WILSON, “Shine”

Veteran Dutch producers Showtek finish out 2023 with the slick house track, “Shine”, which reunites them with Dutch duo Sonny Wilson, from their album 360 Yellow. It’s same-named singer Sonny whose amiable, R&B-flavoured vocal gives “Shine” the positive, anthemic lift that it needs to stand out in a club or festival set. Showtek have two sides to their persona which work well – the fun, party-loving brothers who sometimes offer us a striking dance novelty, and then the more serious producers who know their craft that has been honed after than 20 years, ultimately breaking out around 2009 worldwide. Now Las Vegas draws, Showtek have accumulated a wide repertoire and “Shine” is another astute addition to it.

TODD TERRY, GENE CHANDLER, “What You Do”

The master of house himself, Todd Terry, continues to be extremely prolific, but still crafts songs that allow for instantaneous reaction, like “What You Do”. Featuring the classic R&B voice of the Duke of Earl himself, Chicago native Gene Chandler, it retools one of Gene’s minor releases, a 1965 track called “You Can’t Hurt Me No More”, bringing its essence to an entirely brand new audience for their dancing pleasure. “What You Do” is an imaginative, concise release that shows that few producers can match the 30+ years of skills and experience that Todd Terry continues to bring to the dance music scene.

KUNGS, SHADOW CHILD, “Changes”

“Changes” is a vibrant collaboration between French dance producer Kungs (who latterly reached #8 on the BILLCS Top 30 with Purple Disco Machine on “Substitution”) and British house producer Shadow Child. It’s their take on a classic 2002 house song of the same name by Sandy Rivera, which it samples, and rides heavily on a catchy synth hook that will give club goers a workout. “Changes” is for totally letting yourself go when you want to groove to some inspiring early 2000’s-flavoured house music.

MATOMA, J.P. COOPER, “Sound of Shadows”

With the release of his first album in five years, Love For A Beat, Norway’s Matoma has come off of one of the best years in music in his career, with fantastic songs like “Won’t Follow You Home” (with James Droll, a BILLCS Top 30 #1) and “The Power” (with an uncredited Clementine Douglas, which reached #3 on the BILLCS Top 30) included in the release. But he didn’t give away the store entirely, saving a few tracks for the album’s release, including the potent “Sound of Shadows”, reuniting him with singer/songwriter J.P. Cooper, who you also know from many European and dance music hits with people like Astrid S and Craig David, as well as his own solo Top 10 UK releases like “September Song” plus Jonas Blue’s #2 UK smash “Perfect Strangers”. J.P.’s gritty and soulful vocal is a perfect companion to the urgency of being alone in “Sound of Shadows”, and its chorus of “now you’re gone” will stay in your head for days. Matoma is now back in full dance music mode and the diverse selection in Love For A Beat works beautifully.

ANTAGONÏZER [AWAY and Crywolf], “Bow Down”

ANTAGONÏZER is a collaboration between two L.A.-based unique talents in the progressive electronic world, AWAY (Dan Alm) and Crywolf (Justin Taylor Phillips). Of the two, I’m only familiar with Crywolf, having seen him in concert years ago for an intense and memorable set, but the music of ANTAGONÏZER on their EP Omniviolence is best pitched to fans of artists like Nine Inch Nails, Front 242, NERO, and early DeadMau5. It’s not entirely my go-to style of music, but I appreciate the EP which is rich with variety and synthesizer wizardry, and “Bow Down” for me is the most memorable track with its foreboding, dark sound. ANTAGONÏZER is certainly a partnership worth repeating.

DENIZ KOYU, “Astral”

Deniz Koyu has been a mainstay on the European dance music scene for over a decade, playing every major festival there and collaborating with the likes of Alesso, Gryffin, Nicky Romero, and Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike. His crazy-infectious, propulsive deep house track “Goin’ Down” (with Twoloud) got my attention back in 2015 and became a BILLCS Top 30 #1. As you might have gathered from its title, “Astral” is a spacy but highly danceable instrumental that one could visualize being played at a festival under the stars to magical effect. Just when you think “Astral” is coming to an end, it rebuilds 2/3 of the way through with one of those ‘you gotta wait for it’ breaks. “Astral” is great, imaginative, 90’s techno-inspired fun (I keep thinking of the Chemical Brothers’ early work) that will appeal to club goers as much as it will to progressive electronic listeners, and help spread his recent work to a wider international audience.

THE MOVING STILLS, “Westside”

Australia seems to be a current incubator for indie rock talent, and judging by the calibre of fresh music from Oz this year, it shouldn’t take long for it to spread to the rest of the world. The Moving Stills hail from the central area of New South Wales, a quartet which has released its first album called Wabi Sabi. The group aims for an authentic, friendly sound, and “Westside” is a perfect example of what they are achieving. It’s a song about being on the road, which is exactly where they are heading again in January and February, touring the east coast of Australia. Vocals and instrumentation are all on point, and if you’ve enjoyed the songs of other Aussie indie rock artists this year, then the music of The Moving Stills is just the ticket.

BLACK HERTZ, HOZHO, “Ego”

Brazilian electronic producer Black Hertz and Portuguese producer HOZHO have combined forces for their three song EP Psyche. It’s a largely progressive electronic instrumental effort that’s meant to be an immersive and personal experience into your own psyche, with songs titled “ID”, “Ego” and “Superego”. “Ego” impressive as the song builds from a vibrant instrumental, adding vocals and some nifty effects to create a track that will stick under your skin after it’s over. The rest of the EP isn’t as well-suited for the more casual listener and requires your full attention, but if progressive electronic music is your thing and you’re looking for something a little different to explore, then the full Psyche EP is for you.

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.

L.A.-based performer Cobi is back with the rock ballad “Where We Belong” from the EP Sugar Man

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

Canadian superstar quartet The Trans-Canada Highwaymen interpret The DeFranco Family’s 1973 smash “Heartbeat – It’s A Lovebeat” from their album Explosive Hits Vol. 1.

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.

It’s Nashville trio The Arcadian Wild with “Dopamine” from their album Welcome

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Sting – If You Love Somebody Set Them Free
Paul Young – Every Time You Go Away
Rod Stewart – That’s What Friends Are For
Joe Jackson – Steppin’ Out
Simple Minds – Don’t You (Forget About Me)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Bright Light Bright Light obtains his 7th #1 with “Down To One”

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Benson Boone is back with another stellar ballad, “To Love Someone” (28-20)

#BILLCSTop30 #680 – December 4/23

I’ll have one more bi-weekly BILLCS Top 30 in two weeks, which will also be the last chart of 2023 for me. I’ll also be working on my year end list and a pre-recorded online radio show to accompany it, so watch your socials for more details about that. If you’re curious, you can find previous year end lists from 2009-2022 on the following link to my Google sheet.

Here’s the link to the online version of the chart: BILLCS Top 30

Here’s the link to my Spotify playlist of the chart: BILLCS Top 30 Chart Playlist

With his strongest song in recent years, frequent chart visitor Bright Light Bright Light notches up a record seventh #1 “Down To One” moves 3-1. Coincidentally, Bright Light Bright Light was #1 exactly 10 years ago with the magnificent “An Open Heart”, which was his fourth chart-topper. “Down To One” will be a part of his fifth album, likely coming next year.

Michael Medrano follows “Down To One” 4-2 with “Disco Sleaze” in its “raw and uncut” mix, which is just so much fun and has the 70’s disco spirit embedded in its groove.

Felix Cartal and Karen Harding move up 5-4 with “Need Your Love”, which becomes a personal best for Felix on the chart and matches the peak of Karen’s earlier chart entry this year with Armand Van Helden, “Wings (I Won’t Let You Down)”.

Chicago producer Pete Cho’s “Fan Of You” breaks into the Top 10 and makes a nice 12-7 jump.

Miami producer Gt_ofice gets his first Top 10 entry with “Can’t Deny” (above), which features NYC producer JAYEM and British vocalist/songwriter Alix Robson, and climbs 11-9. Coming up quickly not far behind is Gt_ofice’s second entry, the Top 40 national radio hit “Feels Like Us” (18-12, below) in collaboration with ALWZ SNNY and vocalist/songwriter Robbie Rosen.

Dance club and festival favourite Audien looks to grab his second Top 10 entry following this year’s “Antidote” (which peaked at #10) with “Superhero”, which soars 20-13.

Australia-based rock quintet Moonwood also make a sharp upward move with “Curfew” (22-16) from their top notch EP Curfew Hours.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is “To Love Someone” by Benson Boone, who is getting a great rep as a contemporary balladeer, though he can rock out just fine thank you too. The song leaps 28-20.

The last chart’s two very different remaining debuts are also off to fine starts. Windsor, Ontario performer MELØ climbs 29-23 with the poignant new wave-influenced rock track “Memento” (above), while NYC producer Lohrasp Kansara’s sparkling cover of ALY-US’ 90’s house staple “Follow Me” (below), featuring a potent vocal by Norman Alexander, rises 30-24.

Leading off three debuts, in a surprising arrival at least to me, is Jack Harlow’s UK #1 “Lovin on Me”, which bows at #25. It also joins his collaboration with BTS’ Jung Kook on the chart, “3D”, which rises 17-14. I’m not a huge fan of hip hop but Jack’s tracks are usually quite likeable, and I’m enjoying both the flow and humour in “Lovin on Me”, which reminds me of late 90’s hip hop artist Mase. The vocal hook in “Lovin on Me” is sped up slightly and sampled from the 90’s release by Cadillac Dale called “Whatever (Bass Solique)”.

Next at #27 coincides with the arrival of a new EP. L.A.-based, Minnesota-born Cobi returns to the chart for the second time this year with “Where We Belong”, which follows the #5 “Telepathic Powers” as kind of a similar companion piece. Cobi’s new five song EP is called Sugar Man and includes “Where We Belong”.

The third debut belongs to British masked dance producers WH0 with “Rock The Party” at #28. It joins “What You Need” (with Steve Angello), which departs #1 after two appearances at the top (four weeks). “Rock The Party” will certainly do that, with prominent samples of Todd Terry’s 80’s house classic “Weekend” and The Clash’s “Rock The Casbah”.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my new “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my “Retro Pick of the Week” plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

Addictive Energy

This is a weekly show hosted by Hunter Wilbur that airs on several online stations but is anchored at Mix88.ca on Saturdays beginning at 8pm EST. You can hear recent episodes of Addictive Energy at this link.

FM 108

You can also listen to my “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules are up-to-date.

BILLCS New Music Report – November 8/23 with new releases by @Cobimusic #Trans-CanadaHighwaymen @NeroUK @MattBoylanSmith @CapitalCities @JerinJamesmusic #LouisPax and @Koussmusic

Recently, Spotify announced that it will demonetize tracks with 1,000 plays or less, which will come as a shock for those folks who have got used to casually adding their latest work to streaming platforms for listeners to find. I think this is a good thing because there are other platforms for independent performers to grow their audiences, to the point where their songs can attract enough people on streaming services to make a bit of money. Another new policy also puts a stop to individuals spamming Spotify’s platform with other recorded stuff that isn’t music, as well as fining distributors and labels for adding fraudulent product to the service.

Independent artists struggling to get 1,000 plays on a song will have to resort to more promotion of their music to blogs and influencers as a prelude to streaming platform play. Those who are serious about it will not give up. Those who have been adding their songs to Spotify just on a whim will need to do a rethink.

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, which take us back to the 1986-87 era. And in case you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what songs are #1 and the Fastest Riser on the latest BILLCS Top 30.

As you may have noticed last week, I’ve decided to no longer use the words “Spotlighting” or “Featuring” because in truth all of the songs are worth checking out, or else I wouldn’t be writing about them!

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

COBI, “Where We Belong”

“Where We Belong” is the powerful ballad companion piece that I’ve been awaiting from L.A.-based singer/songwriter Cobi for his song “Telepathic Powers”, the dreamy, bluesy release from earlier in the year which reached #5 on the BILLCS Top 30. “Where We Belong” is the kind of song that draws a hush over a crowd. With the majority of the song solely piano and voice, its grounded story is comforting and reassuring to those who are feeling lost and alone, driven by Cobi’s passionate vocal. And just wait for Cobi’s lucid guitar work later in the song to really lift it up and bring it home. Don’t miss this one.

TRANS-CANADA HIGHWAYMEN, “Undun”

The Trans-Canada Highwaymen is a new Canadian supergroup comprising biz veterans Moe Berg (Pursuit of Happiness), Chris Murphy (Sloan), Craig Northey (The Odds) and Steven Page (ex-Barenaked Ladies), which means that their album of covers of largely Canadian hits, appropriately titled Explosive Hits Vol. 1 (love the K-Tel-inspired cover art!), is well worth checking out. While these talented guys put their spin on a variety of pop songs by April Wine, Michel Pagliaro, Paul Anka, The Stampeders, and even a well-done update of the DeFranco Family’s 1973 smash “Heartbeat – It’s A Lovebeat”, it’s their take on The Guess Who’s 1969 international hit “Undun”, with lead vocal by Steven Page, that stands out the most. The spirit and urgency of the original are there, minus the psychedelic undertones of that era, and Steven’s vocal is outstanding. All of the guys get their opportunities to shine on the album, which is highly recommended for any of their fans as well as lovers of Canadian music in general.

NERO, “Truth”

For many long-time electronic music fans, British trio Nero ranks with the best artists in the genre. They’ve been together for over 20 years, and their most recognizable work appeared over a decade ago, culminating in a Grammy (along with pal Skrillex) for best remixed (non-classical) recording of their UK #1 smash “Promises”. Their second album Between II Worlds became a North American #1 electronic dance chart hit in 2015, and after that members worked on solo projects and raised families. Only last year did they surprise fans and resurface on Deadmau5’s tour, and have since started releasing new music again. The propulsive dubstep banger “Truth” follows up “Renegade” (with R.L. Grime) and comes from Nero’s upcoming long-awaited third album Into The Unknown. It’s a busy, clever track that will jar you with its push-pull rhythm and otherworldly vocal. “Truth” is a gleaming, futuristic forecast of what electronic music has in store for us.

MATT BOYLAN-SMITH, “The Only Eyes I’ve Ever Known”

It’s been a while since I first introduced you to indie Australian singer/songwriter Matt Boylan-Smith, who is back with his lovely tribute to family, “The Only Eyes I’ve Ever Known”. As much as it fits alongside the folk-pop of artists like The Lumineers, “Only Eyes” has wider appeal, a cross between Newton Faulkner and Ed Sheeran with a few dashes of The Waterboys and The Proclaimers. Matt’s songwriting leaves you hanging on each verse as his story unfolds, and the chorus becomes a singalong that you’ll wait to hear again and again. Folk-influenced pop has been making great strides these past few years to get back into the public consciousness and stay there, instead of being led by a handful of successful one-off’s, and artists like Matt will help it get there.

CAPITAL CITIES, “Skeleton Man”

L.A. based duo Capital Cities follow up their first releases in about 5 years, “Together” (with Bobby Nourmand, reached #12 on the BILLCS Top 30) and “Summertime with U” (with former member Spencer Ludwig, which I also wrote about a while back), with the danceable bop “Skeleton Man”. Its bright and funky synth pop melody accompanied by trumpet – courtesy once again of Spencer Ludwig, who may as well use “Safe and Sound” as his middle name – as well as xylophone effects that are part of a bounty of sounds and flourishes for you to absorb. Ryan and Sebu keep it light with bone references throughout. Smooth production and fluid harmonies make it easy to invest some time with “Skeleton Man”. The group has made the song available on their website for free download for now so get it while you can by clicking on the following song title: “Skeleton Man”.

JERIN JAMES, “Wildfire”

“Wildfire” follows up L.A.-based electronic producer Jerin James’ recent release “Fly Away”, which I wrote about a while back, and both come from his forthcoming album. “Wildfire” is an imaginative and melodic track featuring an uncredited female vocalist singing a brief set of lyrics that frame the song. It has loads of sync possibilities for scenes in video games, action films or documentaries. “Wildfire” develops a distinct impression for the listener as the vocal evolves into a convincing and compelling distorted effect, and ultimately lets us conjure up whatever appropriate imagery will go with the flow.

LOUIS PAX, “this is not america (i heard it on the news)”

Swedish pop/rock trio Louis Pax return with a new EP called in case I don’t see ya, pt. 1, which includes the previous singles “The Road Back” and “in case I don’t see ya”. “this is not america” is a thought-provoking song depicting contemporary America as seen through the eyes of Europeans on the news. America is often seen as the example to follow for the rest of the world, and the song is critical about whether or not that should be the case. Sometimes the most obvious path is not the one to take and we need to reflect and choose what’s right for us regardless of popularity. So yes, “this is not america” seems a little more downbeat than usual to start, but the melody and Oscar Reingsdahl’s vocal make it rise part way, allowing the song to finish on a high, upbeat note. Louis Pax continue to portray themselves through their music as a tight often introspective band that wears its good intentions on its sleeves.

KOUSS, ANNA KLINE, “Can’t Go Back”

As readers of this blog will know, you were first tipped off to “Can’t Go Back” by my online radio buddy Hunter Wilbur, who designated it as his Pick of the Week a few weeks back. And with repeated plays at my end, I’ve found that I’ve been enjoying it too. Kouss is a DJ/producer and multi-instrumentalist from south Florida who experienced being signed to a major label as part of a band. An accident in 2020 left him unable to play drums for an extended period, during which he developed his production skills. “Can’t Go Back” is actually Kouss’ debut release, a slick pop/dance single for him featuring a fine vocal from Nashville-based, Ohio-born Anna Kline, who has written hundreds of songs and is a sought-after top-liner. The result is a catchy slice of ear candy that you’ll find yourself playing on repeat. It’s always nice to be in on a debut single and “Can’t Go Back” is off to a solid start for Kouss.

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.

“Curfew” by Australian indie rock quintet Moonwood from their EP Curfew Hours

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

“Gone Forever” is by Windsor, Ontario artist MELØ

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.

“Big Sky, MT” is by Nashville-based acoustic trio The Arcadian Wild

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Robbie Robertson – Somewhere Down The Crazy River (1987)
Billy Ocean – There’ll Be Sad Songs (To Make You Cry) (1986)
Bruce Hornsby and The Range – The Way It Is (1986)
Atlantic Starr – Always (1987)
Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam – Lost In Emotion (1987)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Steve Angello & WH0’s “What You Need” is the chart’s new #1

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

Bright Light Bright Light’s “Down To One”, accompanied by a fun horror movie-themed video, rises 12-5 as the Fastest Riser for a second chart in a row

#BILLCSTop30 #670 – July 17/23

While I have NYC on my mind from my trip there during the last five days, when I saw Illenium, Reeve Carney, and Andy Suzuki & The Method play shows, as well as a Mets baseball game, I’ve been hashing out a new chart too. Some early summer favourites have had their time, and the Top 10 is all abuzz with activity, so in the coming weeks there will be another big influx of new blood. In the meantime, there’s also a new #1 and three debuts!

My New Music Pick of the Week radio segment has two new radio station adds, while my Retro Pick of the Week has one, and those schedules on my blog’s home page will be updated this week.

Check out my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS below too as they are increasingly tied in with this blog. As most of you know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded.

Norway’s Matoma played a pool party this weekend in NYC, and though I didn’t get to that show, he obtains his first #1 on this chart with Nashville vocalist/songwriter James Droll, “Won’t Follow You Home”. Matoma first charted with “False Alarm” – with vocal by now-huge talent Becky Hill – back in 2016. Matoma already has a newly released fiery follow up to “Follow” called “Don’t Give Up On Me” (with vocalist Sadie Rose Van), below.

Gliding up the chart 9-3 to no surprise is “Never Ending Song” by Conan Gray, which could challenge for #1 as early as in two weeks.

Jonas Blue has his third Top 5 entry on the chart with “Finally” (featuring RANI) climbing 5-4. Only his lovely cover of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” (with Dakota) has gone higher, reaching #3 in 2016.

Cobi’s gorgeous rock ballad “Telepathic Powers” (above) climbs 7-5, and you can check out his latest release, the summery rocker “Good Morning”, below.

The Fastest Riser for the second chart in a row is Alesso’s “Without You”, a throwback to the effervescent arpeggio-laden melodic house tracks of ten years ago, and it soars 17-6, becoming his third Top 10 entry.

The Canadian dance music force of three – DLMT, Luis Torres and Rico 56 – advance 14-7 with “Wildfire”. It’s DLMT and Rico 56’s first time in the Top 10, but Luis Torres’ second after reaching #1 in 2016 “Care For Me” as a part of Dzeko & Torres (with Hellberg).

Emirati dance production duo Revelries grab their fourth Top 10 entry as “Down on You” rises 16-8.

The Disco Fries pick up their fifth Top 10 entry in collaboration with Miami producer Eche Palante as “Give Me Your Soul” (above) climbs 11-9. You can also check out The Disco Fries’ recent collaboration with Ferry Corsten and Leon Stanford called “Love You Loud” below.

And the fourth new Top 10 entry is indie Welsh singer/songwriter Ben Ellis with a throwback to teenage years that we can all relate to called “Ed’s House”, which moves up 13-10.

JIMIN’s “Like Crazy” may have left #1 after 4 appearances at the top (8 weeks), but his collaboration with JVKE, Charlie Puth and Muni Long on “Angel Pt. 2” has liftoff and zips up the chart 24-15.

You may yet see more from Francesco Yates’ Little Rockstar EP arriving on the chart in the coming weeks, but in the meantime the rollicking “Thunderbomb” climbs 21-16.

Arriving as the Highest Debut at #26 is “Move It (Control My Mind)” by Ryan Shepherd featuring vocalist/songwriter Heather Janssen. The pair previously charted with their collaboration “Who’s Gonna Love U”, which reached #6 in 2019. It’s also Ryan’s fifth chart entry.

Following his recent supporting role in TV’s “The Idol”, Troye Sivan has released a fantastic new dance record, “Rush”, in advance of his upcoming album Something To Give Each Other. “Rush” bows at #27 and is his 10th chart entry!

Rounding out the debuts is the infectious Canadian #1 Alternative Chart track “Blame Brett”, the recent single from Juno Award-winning Toronto quartet The Beaches. It’s the gals’ first time on the chart.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my new “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my “Retro Pick of the Week” plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my New Music Pick of the Week which debuts every week on “The 3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. A repeat of “The 3D Variety Show” airs on Wednesdays at 7pm EST on Radio GTA. My pick of the week airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Addictive Energy

FM 108

You can also listen to my “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules are up-to-date.

#BILLCSTop30 #669 – July 3/23

This is one of those weeks when a lot of songs I love are either in holding patterns or are inching their way up my chart. Of course, there are a few requisite big jumps, and four promising debuts round it all out!

It’s gonna take me a long time, if ever, that I tire of JIMIN’s “Like Crazy” (English version), as the song (above) remains at #1 for a 4th appearance (8 weeks), the longest so far for any song this year. To boot, “Angel, Pt. 2” (below) from “Fast & Furious: The Fast Saga”, which includes his contribution alongside great vocals by JVKE, Charlie Puth and Muni Long, is the chart’s Highest Debut at #24. Besides being JIMIN’s 2nd chart entry, it’s JVKE’s 3rd and Charlie’s 6th. And alongside these releases, plus BTS’ “Take Two”, bandmate Jung Kook’s “Still In Love” (also below) – originally released three years ago – has been kickstarted again on streaming platforms, so you never know what will happen!

2023 is a great year for Norway’s Matoma as “Won’t Follow You Home” (with vocalist/songwriter James Droll, below) climbs 3-2 and positions itself to succeed “Like Crazy” at #1, perhaps even in two weeks. It’s Matoma’s highest peaking song to date, surpassing the #3 peak of “The Power” from earlier this year.

Atlanta’s Niko The Kid also gets a personal chart best this week as “Only One” (featuring MAYLYN) climbs 7-6.

Right behind is Cobi’s “Telepathic Powers”, another unique song that’s gonna have long legs with me, and it climbs 9-7. Be sure to check out his top notch album Love In The Wildwood.

New to the Top 10 are: Conan Gray’s “Never Ending Song” (above), which is zipping up the chart 13-9, becoming his third Top 10 entry following last year’s “Memories” and #1 “Yours”; and “Antidote” (below) by Audien & Codeko with vocals by J.T. Roach moves up 11-10.

Two extremely catchy electronic dance songs to keep your eyes on are “Wildfire” (above) by my fellow Canucks DLMT, Luis Torres and Rico 56, climbing 18-14, and Emirati producers Revelries’ “Down On You” (below), which rises 20-16.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is Alesso’s stunning “Without You”, which soars 26-17 and probably won’t be tamed for a few more weeks.

Adam Lambert gets his 6th chart entry with his splendid cover of Sylvester’s “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” in collaboration with UK producer Sigala (aka Bruce Fielder) at #26. It’s Adam’s first chart appearance in over three years, and Sigala’s first entry on the chart.

Washington’s Benson Boone lands on the chart for a third time with the engaging “Coffee Cake” (#28) from his new EP Pulse. It’s a really well-rounded release, with a top notch vocal and a great story. Benson got to #2 on the chart last year with the melt-worthy “In The Stars”.

And at #29 Cash Cash are back on the chart for the first time in two years with “Bleach (Move On)” at #29. This song constitutes a bit of a new, more pop-oriented direction for the trio, who are extremely popular on the dance club circuit and regularly perform in Las Vegas. The vocal by band member Jean Paul Maklouf reminds me a lot of Danny O’Donaghue from The Script except with an electronic backdrop. Don’t sleep on this one! Cash Cash got to #1 in 2021 with “The Feels” featuring newly minted Tony Award winner Alex Newell.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my new “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my “Retro Pick of the Week” plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my New Music Pick of the Week which debuts every week on “The 3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. A repeat of “The 3D Variety Show” airs on Wednesdays at 7pm EST on Radio GTA. My pick of the week airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Addictive Energy

FM 108

You can also listen to my “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules are up-to-date.

#BILLCSTop30 #668 – June 19/23

Have you decided on what your summer song of ’23 will be? Or maybe you’re waiting for a release to arrive soon? Last summer I had three songs that continuously had my ears perked up – “Daydreaming” by Harry Styles, “Dusk” by Manila Killa and Lights, and “Superstar” by Darin. This year, one of those songs is definitely my current #1, with at least two others in the running, but I think I’ll have to wait till mid-summer to decide.

Once again it’s “Like Crazy” (English version) by JIMIN (above) which rules my chart, getting a third appearance (sixth week) at #1. There are others making noise on the chart, but “Like Crazy” could continue at the top two weeks from now. What other songs might join it as one of my songs of summer? One that’s not even on the chart that also features JIMIN is “Angel, Pt. 2” in collaboration once again with JVKE and Muni Long from part one, but this time Charlie Puth is on board. And it’s just wonderful! Check it out below.

One of those songs making noise and a contender for a song of summer is “Won’t Follow You Home” by Norwegian producer Matoma and American singer/songwriter James Droll. The song soars 18-3, matching Matoma’s highest peaking song to date, “The Power”, which got to #3 earlier this year. Matoma is indeed having a very good year, making the best music I’ve heard from him to date.

I’m looking forward to seeing his show in my city in August, and James Bay climbs 6-4 with “Brilliant Still” from his third album Leap. It’s his third song to reach the Top 5, following “Pink Lemonade” (#2) and “Chew on My Heart” (#5).

Jonas Blue’s “Finally” (10-6) featuring RANI is another great summery song, thanks to its bass synth hook popularized in the 90’s by Gusto’s “Disco’s Revenge”.

Also new to the Top 10 are songs that are personal chart bests for both artists. DJ Mirko B climbs 11-8 with the deep Eurohouse of “Sun Freezes Cold” (above), while American bluesy rock singer Cobi rises 16-9 with the ear-catching and beautiful “Telepathic Powers” (below) from his album Love In The Wildwood. It’s Mirko’s 2nd Top 10 entry and Cobi’s first, though Cobi’s previous band Gentlemen Hall also got to the Top 10 twice.

Conan Gray’s “Never Ending Song” is another smoking hot song right out of the gate, and zips up the chart 24-13. I’ll be very happy if his next album release contains more uptempo songs like this one.

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

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

Leading the trio of new releases is Alesso’s “Without You”, which arrives at #26. It’s Alesso’s fourth visit to this chart with his best showing to date being 2017’s “Falling” (featuring an uncredited vocal by Tove Lo), which peaked at #4. With its sensational and uplifting retro melodic house vibe, I think “Without You” will soon find its way to the Top 10.

Next at #27 is “Substitution” by German Grammy Award winning dance producer Purple Disco Machine – he won last year for remixing Lizzo’s “About Damn Time” – and French dance producer Kungs. It’s Purple Disco Machine’s first visit to the chart, and Kungs makes his second appearance following 2021’s #2 “Never Going Home”. What, you mean I never charted his classic “This Girl” in 2016″? Well, uh, nope – somehow it never resonated with me until long after it peaked, so it missed the chart. Fortunately there aren’t too many like that over the last 25 years!

The last new entry at #28 is the shimmering “Missing You” by Gareth Emery featuring singer Maria Lynn, which sparkles even more in its rousing Ben Gold remix. It’s Gareth’s fourth chart entry, and his now signature song, “You’ll Be OK”, was #1 on this chart exactly three years ago.

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

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

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my new “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my “Retro Pick of the Week” plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my New Music Pick of the Week which debuts every week on “The 3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. A repeat of “The 3D Variety Show” airs on Wednesdays at 7pm EST on Radio GTA. My pick of the week airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Addictive Energy

FM 108

You can also listen to my “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

For other details about all of the shows, such as dates and times of broadcasts, go to my home page and scroll down to the bottom right side! The schedules are up-to-date.

#BILLCSTop30 #666 – May 22/23

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

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

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

Check out my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS below too as they are increasingly tied in with this blog. As most of you know by know, I host 3 online radio shows – The Big 20 and two iterations of Your Weekend New Music Mix – and produce 2 online radio segments – my new music and retro picks of the week – that are all pre-recorded.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my new “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my “Retro Pick of the Week” plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my New Music Pick of the Week which debuts every week on “The 3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. A repeat of “The 3D Variety Show” airs on Wednesdays at 7pm EST on Radio GTA. My pick of the week airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Addictive Energy

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

FM 108

You can also listen to my “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

#BILLCSTop30 #665 – May 8/23

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

The top of the chart has settled down a bit but there are several vying for their shot at the top.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

On Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm EST I bring you “Your Weekend New Music Mix” six hours of commercial-free music from the 2000’s including many song choices from this blog.

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my new “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s amazing “Top 40 Timeline” oldies show.

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free.

“The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays, and my “Retro Pick of the Week” plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my New Music Pick of the Week which debuts every week on “The 3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. A repeat of “The 3D Variety Show” airs on Wednesdays at 7pm EST on Radio GTA. My pick of the week airs more than 25 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Addictive Energy

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

FM 108

You can also listen to my “Retro Pick of the Week” on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.