Crash Adams – BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

#BILLCSTop30 #697 – July 29/24

There isn’t much turnover on the new BILLCS Top 30 this week, and with so many songs on the rise, there aren’t a lot of big moves except for the delightful song that is the Fastest Riser. But there’s a new #1 and maybe in two weeks after I’m back from NYC there will be more changeups happening on the chart.

Remember – my blog posts are all about DISCOVERY, so let the music in!!

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

With the mid-summer dance grooves in full effect, there’s no better artist to be leading the chart than UK singer/songwriter HAYLA with her solo single “Embers” (2-1, above). HAYLA of course was recently on top of the chart for two months with John Summit and “Shiver”. And this week she has the Highest Debut with Kygo from his self-titled album, “Without You”, which bows at #27 (below). I’m still not done – HAYLA has just released the follow-up single called “Freefall”, which you can also hear below. With this year banging away for HAYLA, I can’t imagine what 2025 might be like!

The Fastest Riser, for a second chart in a row, belongs to Sam Feldt, JVKE and Anitta with “Mi Amor” (below), which soars 18-7. It’s Sam’s second Top 10 entry, Anitta’s first, and JVKE’s 6th, joining “This Is What Slow Dancing Feels Like” (#3) in the Top 10.

New to the Top 10 are Teddy Swims’ soul-wrenching “The Door” (11-8, above) and Kygo’s second chart entry “For Life”, with vocalist Zak Abel and the legendary Nile Rodgers (12-10, below).

Nile Rodgers also appears in the incredibly infectious “Honey Boy” with Purple Disco Machine, Benjamin Ingrosso and Shenseea, and it zips up the chart 21-13.

The sombre but hopeful “Rearview Mirror” by Greyson Chance (above) is a classic example of thoughtful and authentic songs being released today by artists who are choosing to make music that is deliberately different from what is dominating the charts. It climbs 17-14, and Greyson has already followed it up with, “Haymaker”, which you can hear below.

Another artist carving out his own lane is The Boy From The South with the clever “Space Party” climbing 20-15. The video above gives you more pause for thought as to what the song is about!

The irresistible “Chocolate” by Sweden’s Jubël and NOTD jumps into the Top 20 out of the gate, rising 24-18.

Also destined to get stuck in your head is “Hotel Party”, the summer’s unofficial party anthem, courtesy of my fellow Canadians Crash Adams, and it moves up 26-21.

The second debut on the chart at #30 is the first entry for Dutch producers Lucas and Steve, noted for their collaborations with fellow European producers Sam Feldt, Afrojack, Bassjackers, RetroVision and more. It’s kind of a full circle moment as I saw a set by these guys probably back in 2019 in Miami. They team up with British producer LAWRENT and British vocalist/songwriter Jordan Shaw for “End Of Time”, which is already a North American dance radio smash. Jordan Shaw previously reached #1 with Boye & Sigvardt as the vocalist for “Microdose”.

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Halton Hills Radio Online

Listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST on Wednesdays as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs. The show also repeats on Saturday evening at 6 pm EST. You can hear recent episodes of The Big 20 at this link. My New Music Pick of the Week also debuts each week on The Big 20 until September.

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

My Retro Pick of the Week plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” which airs Saturdays at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada is currently on hiatus, and will return in September.

Energy885

Energy885 in Miramichi, New Brunswick’s Energy885 now anchors Hunter Wilbur’s “Modern Hype” on Fridays at 6pm EST, and his new show “Pyjama Party” on Saturdays at 5pm EST, which both air my New Music Pick of the Week. Energy885 is also airing my Retro Pick Of The Week as well on Wednesday and Friday mornings at 9:30 AM EST. You can hear past episodes of “Modern Hype” and “Pyjama Party” at the following link: DJ Hunter.

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!

BILLCS New Music Report – July 25/24 with new songs by Starsigns (@imyetep @manilakilla @myrnemusic), @SamSparro, Nathalie Miranda @vocalfreaknat, @KaceyFifield, @kayliox, Lucky Guess & @LoloMayhew, Jimmy Rich x Tony Daly x Victor Perry (@wallflowerperry) and @MaxSarre

It’s that time of year again where I venture to my current favourite place to visit, New York City (Manhattan). In fact on this day in both 2014 and 2018 I was in NYC. There’s no place like it and no shortage of things to do. I’ve been more than 20 times and there are always new parts of Manhattan to explore. I just pray for it not to be dripping with humidity as each day I’m there is expected to be over 30C. Because of this time away, there will be no BILLCS New Music Report next week, and the following one will appear on August 8 rather than the day before. I will have a new BILLCS Top 30 on Monday before I go.

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”. You’ll also find out what songs were in the Top 5 of the BILLCS Top 30 5-10-15-20-25 years ago! Please note that “The Musicman” James Rogers’ Classic Five is currently on hiatus.

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.

Reminder: Click on the photo to watch the video or listen to the song.

STARSIGHTS, GEORGE GLEESON, “Leo (Flicker)”

Starsights is the name of a new collective of Asian-American electronic dance producers – Surprise! It’s yetep, Manila Killa and MYRNE!! In collaboration with British singer/songwriter George Gleeson, “Leo (Flicker)” is a memorable, anthemic slice of pop/dance that finds a similar happy medium outside of harder EDM that The Chainsmokers and Coldplay discovered with “Something Just Like This”. And like that timeless record, “Leo (Flicker)” has a great vocal against an emotional early 2010’s inspired melody, while the song weaves a story about resigning oneself to the end of a relationship. In any case the Starsights collective and the resulting “Leo (Flicker)” release kind of came out of left field this month, so don’t let this one slip through the many releases out there, and I’m looking forward to another Starsights song.

SAM SPARRO, “Pressure” (RedTop mix)

I was delighted to find a Sam Sparro song on the Red Hot Organization’s latest release, the Red, Hot & Free Mixtape. Some songs simply slide under the radar, and this one, remixed by Swedish producer RedTop, was actually released a few years back, and is a worthy addition to this collection. The Red Hot & Free Mixtape also includes songs by the renown producer Arthur Baker, Bright Light Bright Light, Ultra Naté, Tituss Burgess, Imani Coppola and a remix of “Mon Cheri” by Sofi Tukker and Amadou & Mariam, a BILLCS Top 30 #2 in 2022. Like a lot of the Australia-born “Black and Gold” hitmaker’s releases, which have not been many these past few years, “Pressure” is timeless and relatable, with a slinky, funky groove that is an immediate call to the dance floor for clubs. So just let go, enjoy the great vocal, and let the rhythm take you away.

NATHALIE MIRANDA, “U Got Soul”

This week’s new songs have been full of head-turns, and after catching my attention with a Christmas song last year, London’s Nathalie Miranda has returned with an unexpected bluesy pop belter, “U Got Soul”. And looks are deceptive – currently sporting a set of flaming red hair atop her small stature, Nathalie’s vocal on this track sounds like it should be coming from someone else, but in truth she’s got a natural flair for this vibrant soulful sound. “U Got Soul” is destined to be a crowd-pleaser in concert, one that you’ll be happy to get up with to sing along or cheer. It’s one of those solid songs that gets passed around through word of mouth, so don’t be surprised if you hear more about Nathalie and “You Got Soul”. Check out its fun video, which has some inspiration from Deee-Lite’s “Groove Is In The Heart”.

KACEY FIFIELD, “Dream Girl”

The flourishing music career of Kacey Fifield continues with a punchy song about being obsessive called “Dream Girl”. Like her recent single “Never Reply” from the well-received EP Nostalgia Haunts Me, “Dream Girl” is co-written with Smallpools’ Mike Kamerman and Winnetka Bowling League’s Sam Beresford, and produced by Sam, and the amped-up rock flavour complete with fuzzy-sounding guitar work really jibes well with Kacey’s lyrics and voice. “Dream Girl” highlights the extremes to which we will go when going beyond just liking or loving something/someone does not satisfy us enough. The song has a wry sense of humour, and the overall result is positive and versatile.

KAYLIOX, CHLOE DOYON, “Off The Ground”

Quickly following up last month’s “Memory Lane”, and to be included in an EP of the same name, is Quebec dance producer Kayliox who teams up with Quebec vocalist Chloé Doyon once again for “Off The Ground”. I like how this song initially focuses on Chloé’s vocal while introducing its tech house forward synth work, then it builds auspiciously, adding more layers of seamless production until the key drop is unleashed. From that point onward, “Off The Ground” turns into a fierce rave up, and this is one that dance club DJ’s will enjoy the most, especially with an extended version. I’m looking forward to what’s next in line for Kayliox’s EP.

LUCKY GUESS, LAUREN MAYHEW, “Feels So Right”

Lucky Guess is an Indianapolis-based production duo of Samuel Schmelzer and Tom Huettner, who have been releasing music these past five years, and along the way have been solidifying worldwide DJ support, and have had releases through labels like Spinnin’ and Revealed. With “Feels So Right”, they’ve teamed up with Florida multi-talent Lauren Mayhew, who works some dynamic and playful vocal magic. “Feels So Right” is one tight tech-house banger that showcases all of its talents well – but we’re left a bit wanting after the song finishes at the 2 minute mark, so an extended version, especially for clubs, would be most welcome, and would benefit the release as a whole. As is, “Feels So Right” is enough of a sinfully sizzling rollercoaster ride that if it gets in enough of the right ears, it could be around for a while. Don’t sleep on this one!

JIMMY RICH, TONY DALY, VICTOR PERRY, “Paradigm”

It’s been a while since NYC’s Victor Perry graced these blog pages with his silky vocal and creative songwriting, but he’s back with “Paradigm” in collaboration with Italian producers Jimmy Rich and Tony Daly, with whom he recorded last year’s “Gemini”. “Paradigm” is smooth and inviting deep house release with Eurohouse flavours and a catchy refrain. In the song, Victor wants to get the object of his affection’s attention by seeing their paradigm, which is another way of wanting to look at something but through their eyes. The song moves along briskly and is available in both radio edit and extended versions as a two song single.

MAX SARRE, “Brother”

“Brother” is a cheery and warm slice of straight-forward pop music brought to you by 22 year old rising London-based talent Max Sarre. It’s an affecting song which could be as much about a relationship with a brother as it could be a best friend who’s always there for you to turn to when needed. In some ways thematically it reminds me of Coldplay’s big 2005 hit “Talk”. Vocally, Max is engaging and spot on, and “Brother” will appeal easily to fans of Ed Sheeran and Charlie Puth. Max has released about a dozen singles and two EP’s in the last four years, and “Brother” looks to be the start of a positive new era for him.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs on several online radio stations around the world, and debuts throughout the summer each Wednesday at 10pm EST on The Big 20 on Halton Hills Radio Online. “The 3D Variety Show” in which it normally debuts on Tuesdays, is on hiatus and will return in September.

Canadian duo Crash Adams are guaranteed to light up your event with “Hotel Party”

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

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

Toronto trio Valley return with “Bass Player’s Brother”

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

DJ Hunter is the host of the online radio shows “Modern Hype”, which can be heard on several online stations, and “Pyjama Party”, with both shows anchored at Energy 885. Hunter can also be heard weekdays at 2pm EST on Party Dog Radio. Hunter’s bop of the week can now be heard each week on “The Big 20”.

After her breakout with “Austin”, Dasha returns with the more straight-up country tune “Didn’t I”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

The “Classic Five” will return.

THE BILLCS TOP 30 – 5-10-15-20-25…

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

2019

1 GOOD THINGS FALL APART, Illenium & Jon Bellion

2 WORLD AT YOUR FEET, Timmy Trumpet

3 SWEAR TO GOD, Famba

4 LOVE ME LESS, MAX, Quinn XCII

5 KISS AND TELL, Mokita

2014

1 ELECTRIFY THE NIGHT, House Rockerz, Davis Redfield, Carl Man

2 TIDAL WAVE, Tristan Thompson

3 TELL IT TO MY HEART, Jason Walker, Bimbo Jones

4 LITTLE ME (Steve Smart & Wildfunk radio edit), Little Mix

5 THIS COULD BE SOMETHING, Anton Ewald, Medina

2009

1 THE GIRL & THE ROBOT, Royksöpp, Robyn

2 MANNEQUIN (Overthrill remix), Noah

3 YOU FOUND ME (Lenny B remix), The Fray

4 A DUSTLAND FAIRYTALE, Killers

5 I’M RUNNING, Misstress Barbara, Sam Roberts

2004

1 SATELLITE (Above & Beyond mix), Oceanlab, Justine Suissa

2 SHE WILL BE LOVED, Maroon 5

3 ROCK U, Laurent Konrad

4 FALLING DOWN, Ben Jelen

5 MOVE YA BODY, Nina Sky

1999

1 THE CUP OF LIFE (Spanglish radio edit), Ricky Martin

2 U DON’T KNOW ME, Armand Van Helden, Duane Harden

3 NO REGRETS, Robbie Williams

4 SHE’S SO HIGH, Tal Bachman

5 GET YOU IN THE MORNING, Crash Test Dummies

#BILLCSTop30 #696 – July 15/24

In a chart where this week the top 13 songs are holding or on the rise, it leaves a big question mark as to how it will look in two weeks, just before I head off to New York City (yup again, can’t get enough). There are several worthy candidates on the move for the top of the chart, we’ll just have to see what songs I can let go of… well a bit anyway!

Remember – my blog posts are all about DISCOVERY, so let the music in!!

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

The BILLCS Top 30 Archive: BILLCS Top 30 Archive (recently updated along with its Artist tab)

Deservedly killing it at #1 for a second appearance is “feel less (Live String Version Recorded at The Warehouse)” by Canadians, Juno Award winners, and true buds Felix Cartal and Lights. It’s one thing to make a dance track, but then to turn that track into one with orchestra and synths is a brilliant thing.

I’ve seen UK singer/songwriter Hayla in concert twice this year, and it will happen for a third time in September when she opens in my city for Kygo. Her solo release “Embers” rises 4-2 and seems most likely to succeed “feel less” at #1 – but will it? Hayla also has a new single, “Freefall”, coming soon, and both of her tracks with John Summit, the recent BILLCS Top 30 #1 “Shivers” and “Where You Are” appear on John’s new album Comfort In Chaos. She’s one of dance music’s biggest stars on the rise.

When JVKE releases music, things seem to happen in at least double the ways of other performers. His single “This Is What Slow Dancing Feels Like” (above) advances 5-3, but he’s also one of the vocalists and songwriters of “Mi Amor” with producer Sam Feldt and Latin sensation Anitta. “Mi Amor” (below) is the Fastest Riser on the chart this week, soaring 27-18, and easily one of dance music’s summer songs of ’24.

Benson Boone’s story of 2024 is also one of multiples – mainly with “Beautiful Things” reaching #1 in multiple countries around the world. He too has two songs on the chart this week from his Fireworks and Rollerblades album. “Cry” (above) – which pulls your leg with its false start – jumps 8-5, while current single “Slow It Down” (below) moves up 26-19.

It’s been a long time coming but Germany’s TheFatRat lands in the Top 10 for the first time with his enthralling single “Myself & I” featuring Canadian vocalist/songwriter RIELL. It leaps 12-7.

Three times a charm as L.A. dance producers TELYKast reach the Top 10 for the third time with “Without Your Love” climbing 11-9. It’s also the first one for collaborator Deorro and a second one for vocalist Catello. Both TELYKast and Catello have reached #1 with “Unbreakable” and “Nobody” (with NOTD).

Vanessa Williams’ first new song in 15 years moves up 14-10 as “Legs (Keep Dancing)” joins other dance favourites in her repertoire like “Work To Do” and “Running Back To You”.

Kygo’s self-titled album became one of electronic dance music’s most important releases of the year and is expected to debut in the Top 10 of Billboard’s album chart this week. “For Life”, featuring vocalist/songwriter Zak Abel and the amazing Nile Rodgers, jumps 18-12.

Hanging in among it all after his win at EuroVision in May is Switzerland’s Nemo with their flamboyant and engaging “The Code” rising 17-13.

While their track with Zerb, “Addicted”, has been a recent favourite at dance music radio in North America, “Bad Advice”, from their EP No Hard Feelings and featuring Canadian singer/songwriter ELIO, is mine, as it moves up 21-15.

I can’t tell you how many times “Honey Boy” has been stuck in my head this week. This uber-creative track by Purple Disco Machine, Benjamin Ingrosso, Shenseea, and again, the inimitable Nile Rodgers, climbs 28-21.

Another track that has been spinning in my head for days is “Chocolate” by two pairs of Swedish producers, Jubël and NOTD, which is the Highest Debut at #24. It’s Jubël’s first appearance on the chart while for NOTD it’s their second, and first since their 2021 #1 “Nobody” with Catello. I was also lucky to see NOTD perform last September when I was visiting Austin, Texas. And is it just me or do the male and female uncredited vocals on this track sound like they could be by the same person (pitched up/down)?

Also making a return to the chart after a briefer absence of less than two years is Canadian duo Crash Adams with their no-holds-barred “Hotel Party” at #26. This is their fourth appearance on the chart after making their debut back in 2020 and reaching #10 in 2022 with “Give Me A Kiss”, so yes, I have been an early-bird supporter of these guys and their energetic brand of fun!

Combining dream pop and dance music for a unique release are The Knocks and indie vocal duo Dolores Forever with “Lover”, which arrives at #27. The Knocks of course are chart veterans here, making their 11th appearance since 2012. They also got to #6 earlier this year with Sofi Tukker on their release “One On One”. I’m thinking that “Lover” marks a turning point in their career with another fine release.

Rounding out the new releases is the fourth chart entry for Miami producer GT_ofice with the banger “Ecstasy” at #28. He works again with both New Jersey producer Matthew Topper and the sensational Robbie Rosen on this track. Matthew makes his first appearance on the chart, and for the prolific Robbie – who got to #3 with GT_ofice and JAYEM earlier this year with the dance radio hit “Feels Like Us” – “Ecstasy” marks his 12th visit to 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!

Halton Hills Radio Online

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

My Retro Pick of the Week plays on Russ Horton’s “Top 40 Timeline” which airs Saturdays at 4pm EST.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada is currently on hiatus, and will return in September.

Energy885

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!

BILLCS New Music Report – July 10/24 with new songs by @CrashAdamsmusic, @FlyByMidnight, @DJSianofficial x @BobbyNourmand x David LeSal, @TravisGarland, @PLSandTYbased & Thomas Daniel, @Jottimusic, Felix Raphael, and OSKA

All-in-one talents – those who can sing, write, producer and play an instrument – seem to be more prevalent of late in the releases that I’ve heard. This should be big news to major labels, who can sign and nurture talents like this and then give them big releases. So label A&R’s should not be passively scrolling through Instagram and Tik Tok feeds so much, there needs to be a much more organic approach in order to get the right talent.

In the Report, you can also check out my pick of the week, along with a record of the week from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” zeroes in on songs from the 80’s and one from the 90’s. Plus you’ll find out what songs were rocking the BILLCS Top 30 in this week in 2017!

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.

Reminder: Click on the photo to watch the video or listen to the song.

CRASH ADAMS, “Hotel Party”

It’s been a while since I’ve written about their songs, but Toronto area duo and Juno Award nominees Crash Adams (Raf and Vince) have been killing it lately on the social media and fan engagement front, which has led to some live shows in the U.S. They continue their energized brand of slice of life songs with “Hotel Party”. And like “Give Me A Kiss” from 2022 (which reached #10 on the BILLCS Top 30), it’s a fantastic summer song in which they apologize to their neighbours for their rowdiness, but really want them to join in the fun. I first wrote about Crash Adams back in February 2020 and I’m glad they haven’t changed their vision, because we need more feel good songs in our collective lives right now. And they’ve nailed it with “Hotel Party”. Crash Adams also just announced a North American tour, which sees them play The Axis Club in Toronto on September 15 – see ya there!

FLY BY MIDNIGHT, “SuperFine”

Originally based out of Staten Island, New York, pop/dance duo Fly By Midnight – Justin Breit (Bryte) and Justin Slaven (Slavo) – have been releasing bright-sounding songs over the last six years or so, with their latest being “SuperFine”, part of a three song EP called The Race:Lap 1/3. While they’ve been honing their own sound for the past few years, they’ve previously collaborated with the notables like Betty Who, Shoffy, and Clara Mae. “SuperFine” is one of the most infectious songs of late from its very first few seconds. It’s also a great summer song, with the guys’ standout vocals leading the way atop an 80’s flavoured pop arrangement that accentuates guitars and harmonies. There’s no denying that Fly By Midnight have enormous pop potential with “SuperFine”, and if you enjoy pop/dance releases with rock elements then be sure to spread the good words about this one. Fans of groups like LANY and Walk The Moon will enjoy “SuperFine”.

SIAN, BOBBY NOURMAND, DAVID LeSAL, “Control”

“Control” is a compelling electronic dance release that’s destined for widespread play in clubs and at festivals. Once in a while a song with a spoken word vocal comes along and proves that it’s not at all a novelty. “Control” features New York City poet and MC David LeSal over the intense rhythms provided by L.A.-based producers Sian and Bobby Nourmand. David has a unique voice and when he tells you that your “body’s controlled by giant black speakers”, you’re apt to believe him! Sian, born in Ireland and raised in Spain, has been working with Sacha Robotti in the project Third Culture (USA), and it’s always nice to have Bobby Nourmand back on the darker side of electronic dance music which he creates so well. These three talents make the most of “Control” and run off with a hypnotic and highly provocative track that’s going to give Shazam a workout.

TRAVIS GARLAND, “Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)”

Comeback kid Travis Garland looks like he has a lot of songs up his sleeve, including those that aren’t his own. The L.A. performer’s interpretation of Cher’s 1966 hit “Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)” is taut and mysterious, with a soulful and inspired vocal that is only accompanied by guitar. It’s quite far away from Cher’s original and not often covered, which allows Travis to comfortably make it his own. If you enjoyed Travis’ music from his self-titled album of 11 years ago as much as I did, then “Bang Bang” is a must for you, and to anyone new to his music, it’s a great place to start.

PLS&TY, THOMAS DANIEL, “Move”

“Move” sets out to make you do just that on the dance floor, courtesy of L.A.-based dance producer PLS&TY (aka Tommy Leas) and Nashville-based vocalist/songwriter Thomas Daniel. It’s a fast-paced, snappy pop/dance track that doesn’t let up, with Thomas’ lively vocal set against a wash of stellar synths from PLS&TY. For club DJ’s, “Move” is a good one for the start of a set as it will do a great job of motivating club goers to the dance floor. The combination of talents also makes it friendly for national dance radio ears.

JOTTI, “Like You’re Mine”

In 2022, I wrote a couple of times about songs by Jot Singh, a Kansas City-born, L.A. based talent with a flair for melody. The releases were either acoustic or DIY and showcased his fine vocal tone as well. He has since rebranded himself as Jotti, and his recent single “Like You’re Mine” is a much more produced affair that levels up from previous releases and shows that he’s ‘in it to win it’. There is always room for artfully-created, straight forward romantic pop, and Jotti nails it with “Like You’re Mine” in all departments – vocal, melody, arrangement and production – and it’s all Jotti. There aren’t many solo talents like Jotti that can do it all so well, so don’t pass up “Like You’re Mine”.

FELIX RAPHAEL, “The Further We Go”

Felix Raphael is a German multi-talent – producer, songwriter, vocalist and instrumentalist, which includes guitar. He’s best known in Europe for his live performances and collaborations with other producers such as Ben Böhmer. His latest single “The Further We Go” is ear-catching for all of what Felix packs into the song’s 4:22 length. To me, it’s a progressive electronic track with classical elements and guitar that launches a drum ‘n bass groove about a minute and a half in. With a strong lead up, you can easily get hooked on its rhythm, and once we’ve heard Felix’s voice in the first half, he uses it effectively as an instrument in the last half. “The Further We Go” is tightly woven and breezes by thanks to Felix’s tight arrangement. If you enjoy music by San Holo – and it happens to be released on his Bitbird label – DROELOE, Manila Killa, or Mako, then you’ll find plenty to enjoy in “The Further We Go”, and there’s plenty of sync potential for gaming here too.

OSKA, “Forever Blue”

“Forever Blue” is a fine song to introduce Austrian artist OSKA to the rest of the world, after winning several prestigious awards in Europe during the last four years, which largely have to do with her live performances. It’s an uplifting song with beautiful guitar work about appreciating the small things in life that make us happy, whether it’s enjoying a ride in the car or the company of someone special. There are similarities vocally to singers like Olivia Rodrigo, Nessa Barrett, Lorde and Mallrat, while the production textures offer a bit of a quiver to her vocal throughout most of “Forever Blue”, which helps make it memorable. OSKA already has one album under her belt, and later this year she will be supporting Maggie Rogers and Coldplay, so 2024 looks to be a promising year for OSKA.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

“Honey Boy” by quite a collective – Purple Disco Machine, Benjamin Ingrosso, Nile Rodgers & Shenseea

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

“In The Beginning”, the title track from the latest album by ex-Klaatu member Terry Draper

DJ HUNTER’S BOP OF THE WEEK

NYC social media star Vinny Marchi performs “Lady Of The Lyre”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

“The Musicman” James Rogers is the owner and host of The 3D Variety Show, usually heard Tuesdays at 6pm EST but currently on hiatus until September. The Classic Five is “pop music 101” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

Loverboy – Working For The Weekend (1981)
The Go-Go’s – Our Lips Are Sealed (1981)
The Cars – Shake It Up (1981)
Gloria Estefan – Turn The Beat Around (1994)
Climie Fisher – Love Changes (Everything) (1987)

BILLCS Top 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2017

In the music world, seven years travels fast, but artists like N i G H T S, The Chainsmokers, Bobby Nourmand (one of my reviews this week), Martin Garrix, Andy Suzuki & The Method, and Bright Light Bright Light are all either in the BILLCS Top 30 recently or currently, or I’ve written up their new songs in a blog post. But wow at seven years ago!!

02 01 ATTENTION Charlie Puth
05 02 OUT OF MY HEAD Axel Mansoor
03 03 P A R T Y N i G H T S
01 04 WASTED MY LOVE Axel Mansoor
11 05 SILENT GAMES Lars Beck & Henri Purnell F/ Zekt
10 06 D U S T Bobby Nourmand
09 07 HEAVY-HEARTED Murky F/ Anuka
08 08 NEVER BEEN BETTER Steve Void
12 09 BYTE Martin Garrix & Brooks
14 10 THERE’S NOTHING HOLDING ME BACK Shawn Mendes
17 11 BAD DRUG Cosmos & Creature
15 12 DARLIN’ (Saxena remix) Welcome To The Hotel F/ Brandon Serafino
04 13 FALLING Alesso
20 14 L.I.L.Y. Anton
22 15 THERE FOR YOU Martin Garrix & Troye Sivan
New 16 NEW YORK PRETTY Bright Light Bright Light
06 17 RUNAWAY Spirix F/ Xuitcasecity
23 18 ASTRONAUTS Boye & Sigvardt & MAGNUS F/ UHRE
21 19 TRUTH Reeve Carney
28 20 MAGIC (Andy Sikorski remix) Sean Smith
13 21 I NEED YOU NOW (THE MORE YOU LEAVE) Andy Suzuki & The Method
16 22 LOVE LIKE WE USED TO (Young Bombs remix) Captain Cuts F/ Nateur
New 23 SECRETS The Him F/ Cub Rayan
27 24 THE MAN Killers
New 25 BIRTHDAY SUIT Dan Talevski
18 26 SIGN OF THE TIMES Harry Styles
19 27 CRUEL Eddy Faulkner
24 28 I WONDER The Him F/ LissA
25 29 WTFYWF Mahalo F/ Cat Lewis
26 30 SOMETHING JUST LIKE THIS The Chainsmokers & Coldplay

#BILLCSTop30 #655 – December 19/22

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

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

Check out my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS below too as they are increasingly tied in with this blog.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

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

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

Halton Hills Online

“Your Weekend Music Mix” has a second home on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 8pm to Midnight EST! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free. “The Big 20” also airs on this station at 6pm EST Saturdays.

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm EST with my New Music Pick of the Week which debuts every week on “The 3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. A repeat of “The 3D Variety Show” airs on Wednesdays at 7pm EST on Radio GTA. My pick of the week airs 20 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear past episodes of The 3D Variety Show at this link.

Addictive Energy (currently on hiatus until January)

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

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

#BILLCSTop30 #654 – December 5/22

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

Check out my ONLINE RADIO SHOWS below too as they are increasingly tied in with this blog.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

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

Halton Hills Online

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

Addictive Energy (currently on hiatus until January)

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!

#BILLCSTop30 #653 – November 21/22

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

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

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

ANNOUNCEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

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

Halton Hills Online

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. Be sure to listen to Hunter’s special Thanksgiving show starting at 11 a.m. EST on Thursday November 24! You can hear past episodes of Addictive Energy at this link.

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

#BILLCSTop30 #651, October 24/22

I have decided to call my new blog format the “BILLCS New Music Report” and it begins on Wednesday. This will be a weekly, more newsletter-styled format in which I will be able to cover more music than I can using the song-by-song format I’ve used for the last several years. I’ll also be able to build each blog post gradually during the week instead of deciding that day whether I will write about something or not. This will be a work-in-progress and your suggestions will be welcome to help make it more readable each week! It will also tie-in my work in ONLINE RADIO SHOWS more, since they are now a big part of my life.

I’ll be frequently reiterating that if independent artists, producers and managers who want exposure in my blog – over 13 years in existence with a tie-in to online radio – they need to communicate with me. I will however also continue to promote and write about songs/artists I discover on my own. My personal chart, the BILLCS Top 30, has been online since 1998, and I’ll continue to write it up and count it down every second Monday. The “10/10” feature, where I write about 10 songs all in one post, may find its way into the BILLCS New Music Report.

With such a strong playing field for this chart, Francesco Yates’ “Jimi” shows that it has long legs into its 8th appearance on the chart (16 weeks) and remains on top for a 2nd appearance!

It’s been very rare for a Billboard #1 to hit #1 on my chart in recent years, but Steve Lacy’s unique and memorable “Bad Habit” rises 4-2 and positions itself to perhaps do that in two weeks. Did you know Steve was part of Calvin Harris’ Love Regenerator project on “Live Without Your Love”?

It’s short and sweet but also keep your eye on “The Boss” (above) by Coopex, Charles B and Robbie Rosen (6-5) in two weeks too. It’s been stuck behind a lot of great songs these past few weeks, and is Robbie’s 2nd concurrent Top 10 along with “Stained Glass” at #7. Robbie also has a fine new dance release with none other than DubVision called “Stitch You Up” which you can check out below!

Luca + Giam and Sam Merkin waste no time following #3 “Hold Me Down” into the Top 10 as “Full Force” takes advantage of a quieter part of the chart to leap 12-6.

That also allows “Celebrate” (above) by Laurentius and Oke to make another big move and slide into the Top 10, up 15-9! In preparation for their EP Jaiye, another track called “Run” has been released which you can hear below.

“But Not Tonight” moves up 13-10 for Paul Van Dyk and Christian Burns, giving each their second Top 10’s on this chart. Paul got to #4 in 2008 with “Let Go” and Christian was the voice for Tiësto’s #3 “In The Dark” from 2007. And along with “Turn On The Lights Again”, “But Not Tonight” also becomes the second cover in the Top 10 (the original is by Depeche Mode from 1986), the other being “Turn On The Lights Again” by Fred Again.. and Swedish House Mafia (#4) (which makes a new song out of a verse from Future’s 2012 track). LF System’s “Afraid To Feel” at #3 isn’t an outright cover but prominently samples Silk’s “I Can’t Stop (Turning You On)”.

Lily Lane’s exceptional “Bad” (22-17) from her EP Queen of Hearts is definitely one to watch in the coming weeks.

The Fastest Riser is Greyson Chance’s cathartic “My Dying Spirit” (26-18) from his album Palladium. It’s hard not to be moved or enthralled by this one as you listen to it more and more.

A lot of summer favourites exited the chart, so that made room for five debuts.

In a total surprise, Charlie Puth gets his first chart appearance in the five years since his #1 “Attention” with “Charlie Be Quiet” (#24) from his new album Charlie. It’s another quick (only 2:08) track, but it’s jam-packed with the racing thoughts in your head when you have a crush on someone and want to make your move. While I’m not crazy about the layers of production he (over) adds to his voice, it’s hard not to love this one!

Positivity and unity are the driving forces behind “Together” by Capital Cities and Bobby Nourmand which bows at #26. I got burned out on “Safe and Sound” years ago so it never charted, so I get to welcome Capital Cities to the chart with this independent release. Producer Bobby Nourmand however has been a frequent visitor, with two #1’s “D E E P in NY” and the double-A sided “Subterranean/Estranged”, but “Together” is his first appearance in four years.

With every listen I adore “Yours” by Conan Gray even more. So this album track from Superache arrives at #27. I’ve been seeing the online raves about Conan’s recent concert performances, as well as the kind outreach he gives to fans, so hopefully he’ll play my city again next year. “Yours” follows his #4 “Memories”.

Toronto pop/rock duo Crash Adams returns to the chart at #28 with another track keep you smiling, “Give Me A Kiss”. It’s their third visit to the chart and follows 2021’s #11 “Symphony”. Be sure to watch the video for the song above, it’s loads of fun and set in southern California!

The fifth debut is “Loop” by Martin Garrix, DallasK and Sasha Alex Sloan at #29. It’s another sparkling collaboration that shows the ongoing evolution of Martin Garrix. He can make a banger explode any day but something more nuanced like “Loop” is always more than welcome. It’s his 11th chart entry and follows the #5 “Won’t Let You Go” from earlier this year.

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.

Halton Hills Online

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

Addictive Energy (currently on hiatus but will return)

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

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

It’s “10/10” #28: @Dimash_official @CrashAdamsmusic @hannemjoen @thehim & @brunomartini @allaboutmaggie @jayb1rdmusic @GOSofficial @ScottMagnus9 @HVNNIBVL #Holne

Fine new music releases have been bountiful of late, so it’s “10/10” time again with edition #28! In “10/10”, I write about 10 hot and fresh songs in no particular order, for your kind consideration and attention. I continue to write individual blog posts about certain songs. That does not mean that songs in the “10/10” lists are any less than those featured individually, in fact three songs from edition #27 by Petawane, Showtek and Sage Castleberry, all currently appear on the BILLCS Top 30. So you get to learn about more new music that I hear but I may not otherwise get to write about. These songs may even receive airplay on one of the many affiliate online radio stations that are learning about my blog choices and finding them good fits for my radio shows such as “Your Weekend New Music Mix” or “The Big 20”!

DIMASH QUDAIBERGEN, “Zhalyn”

He’s a superstar in his native Kazakhstan, but musically the global playing field becomes a lot smaller when you possess talents like Dimash Qudaibergen. He’s a classically trained singer, composer and multi-instrumentalist who can sing in a dozen languages. He can also reach High C notes with ease, which is always remarkable for a male performer because so few can do that. You won’t hear it in “Zhalyn” though, which means “flames” in English, and while it’s sung in Kazakh, you’ll be swept away by the enticing exotic rhythms, arrangement and Dimash’s commanding vocal. Very rarely do foreign language songs cross over into the English language music world, but “Zhalyn” warrants your attention.

CRASH ADAMS, “Give Me A Kiss”

It’s one of the brightest end-of-summer songs this year, and “Give Me A Kiss” is another winner from Toronto duo Crash Adams, their first release this year. They always come up with carefully crafted ear candy that rocks out with a goal of making you smile. The accompanying video above, which already has over a million views, is a treat as the duo, sporting matching jackets, shirts and slacks again, take over a part of L.A. to spread positive vibes, complete with the return of their sofa (this time it’s yellow). All that’s needed to complete the circle is for Crash Adams to resume playing some live gigs in the near future.

HANNE MJØEN, “I Never Told You”

Hanne Mjøen is a rising pop singer from Norway whose music is beginning to attract attention and resonate worldwide with streams approaching the 25 million mark. She also was featured on Canadian dance producer Felix Cartal’s “My Last Song” last year. “I Never Told You” is perhaps her strongest release to date, with her well-honed vocal set against a bubbly, sometimes euphoric backdrop that supports her story of confidence and being strong, knowing that you can’t always tell the people closest to you everything that goes on in your life. With “I Never Told You” leading the way, I’m sure Hanne’s songs will continue to grow and continue to reach more people through the integrity of her lyrics.

THE HIM & BRUNO MARTINI, “Before You Break”

“Before You Break” recalls those points in time where you might want more out of a relationship or situation, but realize that for the best it’s wiser to just walk away. It’s the latest release from The Him (aka Jeroen Kersters) in collaboration this time with Brazilian producer Bruno Martini. It’s a solid house release that veers to the pop side of the spectrum, with an gritty vocal by an uncredited male singer. There’s some pedigree songwriting talent (Toby Jacob and Tiggi Hawke, among others) that have made “Before You Break” happen, so if you enjoy Loud Luxury, Joel Corry or Sam Feldt, then this one is perfect for you!

MAGGIE SZABO, “Uh Oh”

Hamilton, Ontario-born Maggie Szabo has been releasing her own music for the last decade or so, with her more recent songs getting increasing acclaim, and “Uh Oh” is one of the best of them. It features a vibrant melody with a vocal that has a sweet soulful edge. The production is sheer shiny pop and comparisons to Taylor Swift or Demi Lovato would not be unreasonable. Maggie’s also been a recognizable voice on dance music releases by the likes of Schiller and BEAUZ, and as a songwriter she recently co-wrote “Slo-mo”, the Spain Eurovision 2022 entry by Chanel which won 3rd place. With all of this quality plus the bounty of songs in her portfolio over the past few years, it’s only a matter of a little more time where you’ll see Maggie Szabo on the charts.

JAY BIRD, “Catch Me Again”

Bay area producer Jay Bird returns and continues to grow with his house music tracks with “Catch Me Again”. The theme of the song is familiar and relatable – needing someone to be there for you at the worst of times – and Jay’s synth work and rhythms keep this one moving smoothly. I must say I particularly enjoy the uncredited male vocal. It’s rough around the edges at times but world-weary, and completely embraces the vibe of the song without making it a desperate plea. “Catch Me Again” will definitely leap to attention in the middle of a house set and is a particularly satisfying listen.

GATHERING OF STRANGERS, “Red and Gold”

“Red and Gold” is a rocking new anthem for you to add to your list to check out. Gathering Of Strangers is a new quintet from Manchester who channel bands like U2, The 1975 and The Killers to create a refreshing mix with many familiar elements. What is most notable though about “Red and Gold” is its high octane jubilance, which guarantees instant reaction if played live in concert. The band’s tight instrumentation and versatile vocal instills a sense that they are capable of much more than anthemic rockers, so Gathering Of Strangers is fresh and worth watching.

SCOTT MAGNUS, “Wanting You Back”

“Wanting You Back” is a song about what people who are seeking a relationship positively dread – being ghosted, particularly after everything seemed to be going along well. Manchester’s Scott Magnus is back, and as you may recall I featured him three times last year in these blog pages with unique songs that demonstrate huge potential, particularly for an artist who has to face living with ADHD, Autism and Dyspraxia daily. “Wanting You Back” expresses the emotion and confusion that’s left when someone has lied. The urgency in Scott’s vocal drives the song and the low-fi production, complete with background chatter and white noise, represents all those colliding, irritating thoughts in our minds when something like this happens, and suits the song well.

HVNNIBVL, “Never Enough”

After writing about three of his singles back in 2020, L.A.-based John Hannibal V, aka HVNNIBVL, returns with what could be his best and most accessible one to date with “Never Enough”. The Buffalo, NY native writes about a past relationship which has caused some reflection, but elects to move on, and thus “Never Enough” is actually set to a driving, upbeat melody. What has improved immensely for HVNNIBVL is the production, which no longer overwhelms, in favour of a crisp, clean backdrop that enhances the melody and arrangement. Pop music wise, fans of many artists from Charlie Puth through to The Chainsmokers will enjoy the radio friendly vibe of “Never Enough”.

HOLNE, “November Sky”

Meet Holne, an indie pop singer/songwriter/guitarist who hails from Devon, England, and his gentle track about rekindling a past relationship called “November Sky”. What sets this one apart from others is the infectious and relatable chorus, and Holne’s often slight but precise vocal. I’m not sure if this is meant to be a serious stab at getting someone back or just wishful thinking but you can decide for yourself. “November Sky” is eloquent and sincere, and will appeal to fans of James Bay, James Morrison or Benedict Cork.

#BILLCSTop30 #618, July 19/21

If you haven’t already done so, get those dancing shoes ready for the rest of the summer because there is plenty of hot dance music of all sub-genres for you to enjoy, and part of the fun is finding out about it through sources like my blog or the ONLINE RADIO AFFILIATES (see details after the post). Once again, we have a new #1 from an artist who has been to the top before and just released a new album on Friday!!

That artist of course is Denver-based electronic producer Illenium, whose fourth album Fallen Embers dropped on Friday. While not as strong a release as Ascend, it has plenty of highlights and emotional shifts that will keep you totally engrossed. Illenium’s recent single “Sideways”, which is now a North American dance radio hit – a bit surprising considering it’s usually harder than what dance radio normally plays – featuring Valerie Broussard’s stunning vocal and production partner Nurko. You can also check out the album opener “Blame Myself” below, featuring an out-of-character but bang on appearance by Tori Kelly.

Trying to get a place in line for the top is the glorious “The Feels” by Cash Cash and the amazing Alex Newell, which rises 9-4. Though not a single – a strange move by the record company – it can be found on Cash Cash’s latest album Say It Like You Feel It.

Also contending for the top is “Can’t Stay Away” by Sweden’s Darin, his first English language release in about eight years. It soars 14-7. It’s his highest peaking song since 2009’s “Girl Next Door” (#5).

I’m totally loving Greyson Chance’s quirky and infectious “Hellboy” from his album Trophies, which moves up 11-8 to become his second Top 10 on this chart following last year’s “Dancing Next To Me” (#2).

Arriving in the Top 10 for the first are social media stars Nessa Barrett and jxdn, who have two great voices that deserve attention with “La Di Die”, which climbs 13-10.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is some deep house bliss from England courtesy of Charlie Lane, Gold 88 and vocalist Kate Wild with “Give Me That” zipping up the chart 19-11.

Toronto indie pop/rock duo Crash Adams have a new personal best on the chart. “Symphony” rises 15-12, surpassing the #13 peak of last year’s “Too Hot To Touch”.

While “Myself In You” yields the pole position to “Sideways”, “Slip Away” by French producer Kislaw and NYC singer/songwriter Victor Perry continues to build momentum, up 17-13.

“You” by Regard, Troye Sivan and Canada’s own Tate McRae is one of the more distinct songs you’ll hear on pop and dance radio, and it climbs 21-15.

The “Reprise version” of Moby’s “Natural Blues” as passionately sung by Gregory Porter and Amythyst Kiah moves up 24-17, from Moby’s recent album of retooled songs called Reprise.

New Toronto solo artist CMagic5 continues to climb with her recent “Love Me If You Can” (23-18) from her independent release Ready To Run.

And look who gets the Highest Debut – Ed Sheeran!! I’m highlighting this because it’s the first time he’s appeared on my chart and “Bad Habits” is one helluva way to do that, bowing at an exceptional #20. It’s definitely one of the songs of Summer ’21. He’ll continue with the mathematically-titled albums with The Quadratic Formula, coming soon.

Premiering at #28 is one fun song that doesn’t let up, thanks to its party vibe and multi-lingual versus (sung in Portuguese, French, and African language Bambara (check out the cool video above, which just dropped today). It’s “Mon Cheri” by US dance music mainstays and Grammy nominees Sofi Tukker in collaboration with fellow Grammy-nominated Mali duo Amadou & Mariam. It’s culled from the new Red, Hot + Free album, which has proceeds going to three LGBTQ2S+ charities: The Trevor Project – http://www.thetrevorproject.org; The Ally Coalition – https://theallycoalition.org; and SAGE – https://www.sageusa.org. “Mon Cheri” is Sofi Tukker’s first chart appearance since their 2018 #1 with Benny Benassi “Everybody Needs A Kiss” and fourth overall.

The third debut at #30 is “Back To You” by Chicago electronic dance producer Aash Mehta with fellow producer Charlotte’s ephem, a terrific house track for summer that’s guaranteed to make you dance. Regular blog readers know I’ve been writing about Aash’s music for about five years and it’s his first appearance on the chart.

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 🙂

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 – currently on hiatus but returning in August, listen to the “3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers. I’m featured every Tuesday between 7 and 7:30 pm with my New Music Pick of the Week, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past as well as the occasional live segment.