Famba – BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – May 25/23 spotlighting new songs by @MorginMadison & @RyanLucianmusic @ZacPoor @BJonesdj & @Rudeejay x @RobbieRosenlive @Airportsmusic

Thanks to the interactions on Twitter of many fans of BTS and member JIMIN, whose “Like Crazy” (English version) is #1 on the BILLCS Top 30, my blog received more than 1,000 unique visits, and I got over 60 new followers on Twitter, almost 74,000 views of my tweet when it went to #1 on Monday, over 4,500 likes and almost 1,700 retweets. It has been an amazing week. Thanks to the very kind BTS and JIMIN fans who tweeted back, and even made a point of checking out some of the other songs on my chart.

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers has his Classic Five pop hits feature, featuring songs from 1970-71. I’ve also included my #1 song and the Fastest Riser on the BILLCS Top 30.

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

MORGIN MADISON, RYAN LUCIAN, “Stimulate”

If the intention of “Stimulate” is to keep dancers going through to late into the night, then it’s mission accomplished! Morgin Madison hails from Boise, Idaho, and after a career change to producing a few years ago, his music caught the attention of Deadmau5’s label, which released his album Living The Phantasm in 2021. His bold and anthemic remix of Tritonal’s “Out Of The Dark” resonated with me and got to #7 on the BILLCS Top 30 that year. With “Stimulate” he’s teamed up with Australian producer Ryan Lucian for a second time – their other collaboration “From The Start” is currently charting at dance music radio. “Stimulate” though is a trippy trance/techno-infused deep house track for clubs featuring infrequent male and female vocals largely used for effect. It could easily light a fire in a late night deep house set and help ignite one of those nights when dancers just won’t want to leave.

ZAC POOR, “Catapult”

L.A. based singer/songwriter Zac Poor follows up “Pink House” and the heart-wrenching “Ghost Boy” (which reached #4 at the top of the year on the BILLCS Top 30) with “Catapult”. All three singles offer up varied emotions and interesting topics, with “Catapult” about finding oneself in another potential relationship because it seems the right thing at the right time. With minimal electronic backdrop, “Catapult” showcases Zac’s formidable power and range, which I remember so well from when he covered Demi Lovato’s “Skyscraper” years ago – as good as if not better than the original. Many people will relate to this song who find them bouncing from relationship to relationship seemingly without the ability to stay with one partner. Despite all of our ups and downs, “Catapult” offers some hope when there’s an idyllic situation upon which we can build.

B. JONES, RUDEEJAY, ROBBIE ROSEN, “Face Your Fears”

“Face Your Fears” is slick eurohouse with a twist, brought to you by Spanish producer B. Jones, Italian producer Rudeejay, and frequent blog visitor, NYC singer/songwriter Robbie Rosen. The song starts off like a folk song with a classic Robbie Rosen vocal and a stunning melody that could have been forged a long, long time ago. The powerhouse synths kick in with a techno-tinged vibe, and meshing the two together, you have a potential singalong that will work just as well on the dance floor. There’s a lot of talent here too. Former “American Idol” contestant Robbie has had 11 BILLCS Top 30 chart entries including two #1’s among his prolific and vast repertoire. B. Jones is not only one of Spain’s top producers, but she is also well known throughout the world. And Rudeejay has been pleasing European audiences with memorable songs for over 20 years.

AIRPORTS, “Need U Here”

Australian multi-instrumental, producer and vocalist Aaron Lee is the force behind Airports and his latest release “Need U Here”. The song is a frenzied fireball fueled by emotion, in particular various forms of loss which Aaron has experienced himself. His fresh pop-punk style fuses with the wild energy inspired by drum ‘n bass electronic music, and shows off some impressive guitar work too. He does bring the energy level down briefly for a caring, human moment. “Need U Here” will stay with you long after it’s over thanks to an earnest vocal and lyrics that cut to the chase. Hopefully “Need U Here” will help lead Airports for a place on the international pop map.

FEATURING

FAMBA, OLIVIA SEBASTIANELLI, “40 Days and 40 Nights”

Canadian dance producer Famba continues with songs mainly geared for dance clubs with the techno-infused “40 Days and 40 Nights”, featuring Italian-English vocalist Olivia Sebastianelli, who has also recorded recently with such notables as Sunnery James & Ryan Luciano and Andrew Rayel. “40 Days” will appeal to those dance music radio curators too, who took Famba’s “Storm” to #1 a few years back. Musically, this one is a throwback to that song in some ways, which is not a bad thing, and the techno touches are appealing. Famba continues to evolve as a producer and Olivia’s voice is a solid match in “40 Days”.

MR! MOURAY, “Who’s Paying Now”

Laden with some great guitar riffs, “Who’s Paying Now” takes us three songs deep into Toronto quartet Mr! Mouray’s album What’s The Stouray, after previous singles “Cats Can’t Fly” and “Pretty In Ink”. The energetic “Who’s Paying Now” draws on the pop and punk roots of the band’s key members, veteran local musicians Simon Bedford-James and my long time friend and fellow music historian Jaimie Vernon (author of the indispensable The Canadian Pop Music Encyclopedia). Simon’s vocals give a nod to early Elvis Costello while the song’s vibrant, edgy melody transports us through the 90’s, reminiscent of bands like Toad The Wet Sprocket and the Gin Blossoms. I was pleased to see Mr! Mouray acquit themselves quite well in concert recently at a small downtown venue in Toronto, so if you have a chance to see their show do check them out.

ROWAN FLACK, “Tipsy on the Tongue”

“Tipsy on the Tongue” is another way of looking at how words get in the way when lovers have their differences. Rowan Flack is a British singer professionally trained and educated in jazz, but “Tipsy” is a pop/soul/jazz effort that will curry favour with fans of Norah Jones and Jessie Ware. It’s sophisticated but earthy, rooted in the realities of relationships. The mellow backdrop makes the topic go down easy, and allows Rowan’s style and personality to move up front. “Tipsy on the Tongue” is only Rowan’s third release following an EP and a single, but I’m sure we’ll be hearing more of her cool and appealing talent in ’23.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

Norway’s Matoma returns with American vocalist James Droll for the banger “Won’t Follow You Home”.

“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.

Added to the “Complete” version of the Dance Fever album is “Mermaids” by Florence & The Machine.

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.

“My City” is the collaboration between 24KGoldn, Kane Brown and G. Herbo from the film “Fast X”.

“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.

Neil Diamond – Cracklin’ Rosie
Three Dog Night – Joy To The World
Temptations – Just My Imagination
Smokey Robinson & The Miracles – The Tears Of A Clown
The Honey Cone – Want Ads

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

“Like Crazy” (English version) by JIMIN

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

EuroVision winner “Tattoo” by Loreen (14-4)

#BILLCSTop30 #662 – March 27/23

There’s quite a shakeup at the top in this edition, where some long-lasting favourites make room for newer ones. And three new entries keep the fresh songs flowing into the chart, and they’re all independent releases!

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.

It’s “The Only One” by Cerrone & Mercer with British vocalist Brendan Reilly that takes over at the top moving up 6-1. It’s a fantastic 70’s disco-inspired track thanks to Cerrone, the popular disco producer from that era. It’s the third #1 for fellow French producer Mercer, who reached the top last year with “Aretha” and in 2018 with “Satisfy”.

Immediately looking to challenge for #1 is British dance producer Lewis Thompson with vocalist/songwriter Clementine Douglas with “Enchanté” soaring 10-2.

Still on the rise within the Top 5 are Afrojack and James Arthur with “Lose You”, climbing 5-3.

And also landing quickly in the Top 5 is “I Go Dancing” by Canadian dance producer Frank Walker with UK singer Ella Henderson, which jumps 9-4.

Another Canadian producer, Famba, gets his fourth Top 10 entry with the techno-infused “No Sleep”, featuring Glasgow KI$$, which moves up 11-8.

UK duo Everything But The Girl also scores their fourth Top 10 entry with the drum ‘n bass-infused “Nothing Left To Lose”, which rises 13-10. Their last entry, however was right at the turn of the century, “Temperamental”, which reached #2 in 2000. Be sure to check out the video which is shot in one take.

Philadelphia duo N i G H T S could be headed for the Top 10 again with the eclectic but intriguing sounds of the brief “Boyband”, which climbs 22-16.

The beautiful house track “Fever Dreamer” by SG Lewis, Charlotte Day Wilson and Channel Tres seemed to be stuck near the bottom of the chart, but breaks into the Top 20, jumping 23-18.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is “I Feel Like Dancing” by Jason Mraz, which soars 30-20. It’s from his upcoming album Mystical Magical Rhythmical Radical Ride, and has another fun video which you should check out above.

The Highest Debut belongs to a Spanish singer/songwriter who has a similar style to Jason Mraz, but in his own unique way. The Boy From The South makes his debut on the chart with the whimsical “Amazing-Man” at #25.

His EP Metadramatic is full of great songs, most of which were released as singles and written up in these blog pages. His name is St Humain, originally from Singapore but now based in Sydney, Australia, and one of those songs, “Memento”, bows at #27.

And arriving at #28 is new Toronto singer/songwriter Tyler Lorette who shows a lot of promise with the emotional ballad “Shattered”. If you enjoy Conan Gray and JVKE like I do, then you’ll enjoy Tyler’s song too.

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

Listen to the BILLCS Top 30 Songs on Spotify! 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 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 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

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.

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 #660 – February 27/23

Martin Garrix above, and Afrojack below, from recent sets at Omnia in Las Vegas.

As I mentioned in earlier blog posts, I was in Las Vegas for an extra long weekend, where I caught both Martin Garrix and Afrojack in concert. As I don’t attend festivals, it’s unlikely I would see them in a big club setting anywhere else, so I wore myself out by experiencing the Vegas nightlife again. Equally energetic sets, Martin Garrix focused on his popular releases which caused many singalongs in the crowd, while Afrojack’s set was more of an all out party, and he even tried to share a bottled beverage by pouring a shot or so into the mouths of some audience members near the front. I wish Martin had spoken to the crowd more, but I got to hear a lot of my favourites by him including the early “Animals” and “Tremor”. And both artists are in my Top 10 this week.

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

And so Martin Garrix and JVKE hold on to #1 for a second appearance with “Hero”, which I didn’t hear in his Vegas set though it could have been played after I left at 3 a.m. JVKE is coming to my city in August, and I managed to snag a decently-priced resale ticket. “Golden Hour”, a former BILLCS Top 30 #1 which departed the chart this week, reached #10 on the Billboard Hot 100, and we’ll be hearing a lot more from JVKE in the months to come.

Although it has fierce competition above it, “Wish On An Eyelash, Pt. 2” by Australia’s Mallrat and The Chainsmokers glided up the chart 9-3. I’m not sure why more people haven’t latched on to this gorgeous and thoughtful feel good release. It’s The Chainsmokers’ 8th trip to my Top 5.

Although it’s one of the oldest songs on the chart, Zac Poor’s “Ghost Boy” still inches up a notch to another new peak, 5-4.

“Wings (I Won’t Let You Down)” by Armand Van Helden and Karen Harding climbs 7-5, becoming both artists’ 3rd Top 5 on my chart and Armand’s first since 2005’s #1 “My My My”.

It’s convenient timing due to his Vegas show that Afrojack acquires his biggest release on my chart to date as “Lose You”, with British vocalist James Arthur, soars 15-7. Judging from some recent social media posts, it appears that Afrojack and Martin Garrix may have a collaboration in the works, so we’ll see if that unfolds anytime soon.

Also nestling into the Top 10 this week are Benedict Cork’s poignant “Dream Of You” (12-9, above), which becomes his third song to reach my Top 10, and Timmy Trumpet & Tungevaag’s “La Danse”(below), which rises 13-10.

Toronto-based producer Famba is headed for the Top 10 in two weeks with his techno house track “No Sleep” (above), with Glasgow KI$$, which climbs 17-12. You can also check out Famba’s latest release, “Estar conmigo”, below.

“The Only One” by Cerrone and Mercer with vocalist Brendan Reilly, makes its presence better known on the chart by leaping 21-13. This one is a dance floor filler, so club DJ’s should get on it!

The Fastest Riser on the chart is a pop and dance delight by Canada’s Frank Walker with UK vocalist Ella Henderson, “I Go Dancing”, which vaults 29-17.

The Highest Debut of five on this chart is a surefire dance hit that could cross over to Top 40 called “Enchanté” by British producer Lewis Thompson and vocalist/songwriter Clementine Douglas. It’s Clementine’s third appearance on the chart following her work with Sonny Fodero on “Angel” (#4, 2021) and her unbilled appearance on Matoma’s “The Power” (#3), which just departed the chart. Lewis previously appeared on the chart in 2019 as one half of Just Kiddin with Cedric Gervais on “Good Things” (#2).

Kx5 get their first appearance on the chart with “Sacrifice” at #23 in collaboration with Sofi Tukker. Kaskade appeared on the chart in 2010 with his remix of Crystal Method’s “Come Back Clean” (#5), while Deadmau5 was on the chart two years ago with “Bridged By A Lightwave” (#15) with Kiesza. It’s Sofi Tukker’s 5th appearance on the chart following 2021’s #2 “Mon Cheri” with Amadou & Mariam.

At #27 is the chart debut for L.A. indie alt.pop artist Party Nails and Austin producer/vocalist Boy Sim with the pop-punk flavours of “Like U”.

Returning to the chart for the first time since 2018 is enigmatic Philadelphia alt.pop/soul duo N i G H T S, emerging from the shadows at last, with “Boyband” at #28. The song has actually been rebooted from its 2018 original release thanks to an intriguing new black and white video, above. It’s the third appearance on the chart for the duo, both of whose previous entries have reached the Top 5.

And bowing on the chart at #29 is Toronto duo Boy Aries with the hypnotic “Drive”. Boy Aries consists of singer Jordan Radics and producer/instrumentalist Turbo Bobbi. Jordan was previously part of the indie band BLAJK, which charted two songs on the BILLCS Top 30 including the #6 “Lethal” in 2017.

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 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

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! 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. The segment is also broadcast on UK National Radio at Noon EST.

#BILLCSTop30 #659 – February 13/23

All of a sudden, there is a spate of really good songs out there, which is making it difficult for me every two weeks to add new songs to my chart! Just so that you all know, besides my Top 30, I have a personal playlist in my iTunes that contains more than double those songs – yes I still buy mp3’s too 🙂 Every week, I shortlist songs for the BILLCS New Music Report on Wednesdays mainly using a private Spotify playlist, and the songs that get added to my iTunes playlist are in the running for the BILLCS Top 30 – the best of the best. And I’m always listening for songs that grab me on first listen. It’s a strategy I’ve used for years with some modifications along the way. So hopefully that gives you some insight into how the blog comes to be and what a rabid music fan that I still am.

I’m pleased to announce my latest online radio segment that has in fact been airing since November called My Retro Pick of the Week! It’s featured on “Big Daddy” Russ Horton’s massive Top 40 Timeline show at the top of the second hour, and currently airs on Saturdays on a variety of online radio stations including UK National Radio (Noon EST), Halton Hills Radio Online (4 PM EST), FM 108 (6 PM EST), and Radio GTA (Midnight EST)! The segment tells the backstory behind some of my favourite songs of the past as well as some tidbits about the artists. Some of the songs I’ve featured so far have included “Wicked Game” by Chris Isaak, “River Deep-Mountain High” by Ike & Tina Turner, “Love Hangover” by Diana Ross, “The Letter” by The Box Tops, “(I Just) Died In Your Arms” by Cutting Crew, “Endless Sleep” by Jody Reynolds, and “Reach Out, I’ll Be There” by The 4 Tops!! I may put the segments online for you to hear in the future.

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

While JVKE’s former #1 and Billboard Top 10 hit “Golden Hour” slides to #4 in its 10th and final appearance (20 weeks) on the chart, this fresh new talent is back on top, this time with Martin Garrix with their collaboration “Hero”. In an interesting coincidence, Martin’s first two songs to reach my chart, “Animals” and “Proxy” were both #1 in 2014. They, along with other talents like Daniel Bedingfield, Sam Smith, Rufus Wainwright and Matthew Koma have all achieved this feat. “Hero” has plenty of competition so let’s see how long it can hold fort at the top!

Trying to close the gap again in the coming weeks is “Black Mascara”, the haunting song by Greyson Chance from his album Palladium, which rises 5-2, becoming his third song to reach the runner-up spot, after “Dancing Next To Me” and “My Dying Spirit”, which just departed the chart after 9 appearances (18 weeks).

I always root for a good underdog, and “Ghost Boy” by L.A.-based singer/songwriter Zac Poor is just that. It moves up 7-5, and please check out the thoughtful video above, and don’t be surprised if you shed a few tears.

Also new to the Top 10 are former national Dance Radio #1 “Spiral” by NYC’s Lena Leon (11-8, above), and “Wish On An Eyelash Pt. 2” by Australia’s Mallrat in collaboration with The Chainsmokers (12-9, below). It’s The Chainsmokers’ 12th time in the Top 10!!

The Fastest Riser on the chart is “Lose You” (above) by the dynamic team of Afrojack and James Arthur, which soars 22-15. And good news for James Arthur fans. Despite him never before appearing on my chart, his collaboration with Brazil’s Alok is also the Highest Debut at #27 called “Work With My Love” (below). Both feature compelling vocals by James, and to me he has a huge future in dance music if he wishes!

I was pleased to check out Famba’s live set locally last week, and we finally got to meet up after me writing about him for the last six years! His latest and techno-inspired release is a gem called “No Sleep” featuring Glasgow KI$$, which climbs 23-17.

Arriving at #28 is “Hollow” by the terrific trio of Dabin, Kai Wachi and singer/screamer Lø Spirit. Everything about this release is next level, the producers have outdone themselves and Lø Spirit is one helluva vocalist. It’s Dabin’s second appearance on the chart. He previously appeared on best bud Illenium’s “Hearts On Fire” with Lights (#5, 2021).

At #29 is one of those songs that felled me on first listen and I would say is a ‘cousin’ of Robyn’s “Dancing On My Own”. It’s “I Go Dancing” by Toronto dance producer Frank Walker featuring British sensation Ella Henderson. It’s Frank’s second appearance on the chart – his first, with Loud Luxury and Stephen Puth called “Like Gold”, went to #1 two years ago. And Stephen (aka Puth the Younger) co-produced and co-wrote “I Go Dancing” too.

Rounding out the list at #30 is “Fever Dreamer” by British producer SG Lewis and featuring Toronto singer/songwriter Charlotte Day Wilson and L.A. rapper Channel Tres. It’s a compelling listen that is heavily influenced by classic disco, with a soulful vocal by Charlotte, and the results are tantalizing. It’s culled from SG’s latest album AudioLust and Higher Love.

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

“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

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.

#BILLCSTop30 #657 – January 16/23

It’s here! I can finally post it officially! Yes, the chart first published in January 1998, initially as the Tuned-On! Top 10 until August that year, when it increased to a Top 30. The chart has always been open to having both albums and singles appear, and in 2003, I began allowing any song from around the world to chart. In the 2000’s, I also allowed free downloads to chart, and one eventually reached #1 in 2009 (it was “Pink Cadillac” by 100 Akres and Roz Bell). Artists have never been restricted to having one song appear on the chart. And there are only two rules: A song can only remain on the chart for 10 appearances (20 weeks), unless it is in an upward moving position, and that only happened once (“Rolling In The Deep” by Adele peaked at #2 in its 11th appearance, then left the chart). I have been tempted at times to increase the chart to a Top 40 but my original preference has always held through those moments.

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

To start off this 25th anniversary celebration, I have a new #1, and it’s a song I didn’t think would initially get there, after Conan Gray’s “Yours” leapt over it, having debuted the chart after. I’m talking about JVKE’s “Golden Hour” (above), which succeeds “Yours” and gets to the top in its 8th appearance. And even better yet for the 19 year old talented pianist and songwriter, his collaboration with Martin Garrix for “Hero” (below) is the Fastest Riser, soaring 22-8. It becomes Martin’s 9th Top 10 entry too.

“Satisfaction” (above) by Darin is right behind “Golden Hour”, moving up 3-2, from his EP My Purple Clouds. And it hasn’t happened for a while, but Darin now has three songs on the chart. His standalone single “What’s The Point” bumps up 15-14, while “Memories” (below), another track from My Purple Clouds, arrives at #29.

Matoma’s energetic anthem “The Power” (above) rises another notch, 4-3, while Joel Corry’s song with Tom Grennan, “Lionheart (Fearless)” (below) climbs 7-4.

Also new to the Top 10 are Zac Poor’s emotional delight “Ghost Boy” (11-9, above, in its new black and white video), and the teaming of Illenium and MAX for “Worst Day” (13-10, below). It’s Illenium’s 9th trip to the Top 10, while MAX has accumulated 10 Top 10’s!

Immediately outside of the Top 10, recent upstarts “Black Mascara” by Greyson Chance (16-11, above) and “Wings (I Won’t Let You Down)” by Armand Van Helden & Karen Harding (18-12, below) await their placements in two weeks. Karen’s also been a regular presence in this blog recently due to a slew of top calibre new releases!

I’m skipping through the middle of the chart because in addition to Darin’s “Memories”, there are five debuts, after a number of long-lasting favourites departed the chart. And put on those dancing shoes…

One of the most creative and memorable new releases around is “La Danse” by Australia’s Timmy Trumpet and Norway’s Tungevaag, which arrives at #24. It’s Timmy’s second appearance on the chart following 2019’s #2 “World At Our Feet”. And Tungevaag is the second Norwegian producer on the chart, along with Matoma.

At #25 is a stunning cover of Talking Heads’ “Slippery People” (above) by UK producer The Shapeshifters and vocalists Ramona Renea and Fiorious from the album Let Loose. The original version is included in the Heads’ album Speaking In Tongues, but this version more closely resembles the more obscure 1984 cover version by The Staple Singers (below). Otherwise known as Simon Marlin, The Shapeshifters has previously charted twice before, last in 2006, but more importantly, with the #1 “Lola’s Theme” in 2004. The vocalists deliver excellent performances and clearly had a good time making this one.

“Lose You” by Afrojack and James Arthur bows at #27. It’s the fourth appearance on the chart for Afrojack, but a first time for James, who usually does not record dance releases but whose voice is suited immensely well for them, lending an emotional depth and vulnerable quality to “Lose You” that another vocalist likely couldn’t provide.

The fifth debut at #28 is “No Sleep” by Toronto-based producer Famba and vocalist GLASGOW KI$$. It’s Famba’s 6th entry on the chart, following last year’s “Forever”, and continues in a similar clubby vein, a few steps removed from his more pop flavoured releases which have landed him in Canada’s Top 10. Check out the original above, and the new Silver Panda remix below, which plays even more on some of the techno influences in the song.

Famba plays Club Noir (inside Rebel) in Toronto on February 4.

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

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

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! There have been some changes and they will be updated soon.

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

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

DARIN, “What’s The Point”

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

FAMBA and GLASGOW KI$$, “No Sleep”

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

LENA LEON, “Spiral”

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

AFROJACK and JAMES ARTHUR, “Lose You”

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

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

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

TELYKAST and FRANCIS KAREL, “Better Now”

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

FEATURING

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

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

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

MR! MOURAY, “Cats Can’t Fly”

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

STEVEN THAD, “Find My Way”

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

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

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

ASHWYN and NATALIE, “Pink Skies”

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

SIERRA BLAX and CHRISTOPHER WATSON, “Control”

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

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

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

“The Power” by long-time favourite, Matoma

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

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

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

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S PICK OF THE WEEK

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

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

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

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

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

THE BILLCS TOP 30 – 5-10-15-20…

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

2017

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

2012

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

2007

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

2002

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

#BILLCSTop30 #649, September 26/22

Online radio is now a bigger thing in my daily life than I ever thought it would be, and it’s a lot of fun to be back in the announcing element after many years. So be sure to check out my shows The Big 20 and Your Weekend New Music Mix, as well as my short segment My New Music Pick of the Week, every week. You can find the schedule of stations on which they air near the bottom of the home page of my blog site or go to ONLINE RADIO SHOWS after the blog post.

Jessie Ware’s “Free Yourself” shot to #1 quickly two weeks ago, and it holds tight at the top for a second appearance. It’s still kind of early to call which song might succeed “Free Yourself” at #1, but there are rumblings below.

Francesco Yates gets a personal best on the chart with “Jimi” climbing 3-2. It’s a fun track with a great guitar solo – I’m hoping he’s holding out for the right deal while we all enjoy his independent releases. But can “Jimi” hold on enough to succeed “Free Yourself” at #1?

Scotland’s LF System continue to surge up the chart with their UK #1 “Afraid To Feel”, which climbs 10-4. Is #1 a possibility in the near future?

Petawane’s ode to sweet soulful love songs, “Music”, continues to rise steadily, this time up 7-5.

Rarely does half of the Top 10 make an exodus, but that’s what has happened on this chart, allowing several songs to move up quickly.

Steve Lacy’s “Bad Habit” is the deserved Fastest Riser as it climbs 16-6. Will #1 be in reach for this one?

Fred Again.. and Swedish House Mafia rework Future’s “Turn On The Lights” as “Turn On The Lights Again” (above), certain to be a festival anthem over the next year. The song moves up 11-7 but the red hot Fred Again.. has another new one worth checking out called “Danielle (smile on my face)” below.

French producers Coopex and Charles B team up with American super-talent Robbie Rosen for the fast but fun “The Boss”, climbing 17-8. You’ll be singing along to this one as it name-check’s Diana Ross’ same-titled song from 1979.

Canadian-German duo Lola Dutronic move up 12-9 just as the summer ends with “Let’s All Dance (Our Last Summer)”.

And the Canadian Top 15 radio hit for DVBBS and Brandyn Burnette, “Summer Nights”, rises 13-10. It’s DVBBS’ fourth visit to my Top 10, and Brandyn’s 15th as a lead artist (add one to include a release under his pseudonym EMAN8).

Greyson Chance’s new album Palladium has arrived, and it’s a highly personal album of many moods and ruminations based on experiences which carved the strange path for Greyson that has finally led here. I’m still digging “Athena” (above), which climbs 19-13, but the album is chock full of songs to keep you paying attention, and one of those is the provocative “My Dying Spirit”, whose new video you can watch below. And I’m looking forward to hearing all of its songs at his show in my city in December!

Luca + Giam and Sam Merkin’s “Hold Me Down” reached #3 a while back, and their latest collaboration “Full Force” could get there too, if a 22-15 move gives any indication.

The Highest Debut at #25 belongs to the extremely infectious 80’s throwback “Celebrate” by Dutch producer Laurentius and Luxembourg singer/songwriter Khalid Oke. Emphasizing African rhythms and references, it’s a sheer delight that comes from their upcoming EP together called Jaiye.

The enduring #1 “Romance with a Memory” by The xx’s vocalist/bassist Oliver Sim exits the chart after the mandatory 10 appearances (20 weeks), and is immediately replaced by the enthralling “GMT” at #26. This is a slower, deliberately paced song with a striking story (partially an ode to London, England), carried by an excellent, sympathetic vocal by Oliver. It’s from his new album called Hideous Bastard, which also contains “Romance with a Memory”. You can also check out the minimalist extended remix by his bandmate Jamie xx above.

Canadian dance producer Famba returns to the chart for the first time since 2020 with his fifth entry, the splendid trance-influenced deep house track “Forever” at #27. Famba first appeared on the chart almost 6 years ago with the amusing “Right Here Right Now” which peaked at #2.

Singer/songwriter Lily Lane is now based out of L.A. but originally from Boston, and her song “Bad” arrives at #28. It’s taken from her EP Queen of Hearts and is led by an unmistakable, powerful vocal. Lily is also the sister of Tucker, one half of the duo Sofi Tukker.

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

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

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!

Toronto-based electronic dance producer @Fambamusic unleashes new rave-up “Forever”

FAMBA, “Forever”

You’ve got to hand it to Famba for staying true to his craft as an electronic dance producer. While he’s had considerable success with Canadian Top 40 pop hits (“Wish You Well”, “Swear To God”) and worldwide dance hits (“Storm”), the Halifax native but Toronto resident’s latest release called “Forever” is created with dance clubs and festivals in mind, now that they are all back in very well-attended business. “Forever” is powered by a fierce uncredited female vocal set to an irresistible trance-influenced deep house rhythm guaranteed to make you bounce. “Forever” should be a no-brainer for club DJ’s, as another catchy, driving dance track to keep the pace of the evening moving along.

Techno flavours pervade “Rush On Me” by @Fambamusic and @itsCloverdale and Cloverdale’s remix of “Nothing Good Comes Easy” by @FelixCartal and @Elohimmusic

FAMBA and CLOVERDALE, “Rush On Me”

FELIX CARTAL and ELOHIM, “Nothing Good Comes Easy” (Cloverdale remix)

While Toronto-based, Halifax-born producer/DJ Famba has been a force on Canadian pop radio these past few years, as well as a regular North American dance radio presence, I’m glad he’s shed the Top 40 dance flavours for some funky trance-fused electronica with his new single “Rush On Me”, made in collaboration with fellow Haligonian buddy Cloverdale for Sonny Fodera’s Solotoko label. It’s an unpredictable, wild musical ride, designed for partying in the wee hours. There’s no denying that Famba and Cloverdale have immense chemistry and “Rush On Me” has club and festival smash written all over it.

In a complete coincidence, I’ve been enjoying the various remixes of Canadian radio hit “Nothing Good Comes Easy” by Juno Award winner Felix Cartal and dance music fave, L.A. vocalist/songwriter Elohim, but it’s the Cloverdale remix that truly stands out among them. Cloverdale pulls out the pop insides of the song and restuffs it with wacky techno goodness, reshaping some of Elohim’s vocals while maintaining the song’s core integrity.

So there you have some unexpected two-for-one down low on the recent music of Cloverdale while working with the talented bunch of Famba, Felix Cartal, and Elohim.

Toronto-based dance producer @Fambamusic returns with future house-flavoured “Games We Play” with vocalists @meubrando and MKLA @okaytolove

FAMBA, BRANDO & MKLA, “Games We Play”

After the resounding success of “Wish You Well”, “Swear to God” and “Still Call You Mine” at radio in Canada and “Storm” on the dance charts, I was pleased to see Halifax-born Toronto-based dance producer Famba take a few steps back and deliver a more edgy, future house-inspired record in “Games We Play”. It’s a super-quick (2:26) ride but it’s loaded with polish and character, which is helped immeasurably by standout vocalists Brando and MKLA, who is also from Toronto. The world knows Brando’s voice quite well from singing on Loud Luxury’s “Body”, and MKLA’s voice has been showcased to terrific effect in recent releases by Steve Aoki (a cover of “Losing My Religion”) and Lukas Estrada (“Never Leave You”). More suited for clubs, “Games We Play” will need some extended remixes for club DJ’s. I first wrote about Famba in 2016 and as a next step after his EP Wishes Vol. 1, “Games We Play” continues to show the great strides he continues to make.