Jonas Blue – BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

#BILLCSTop30 #690 – April 22/24

It might be too early to say it, but I’m enjoying so many songs on this chart, that several of them may turn out to be big favourites by year’s end. But there are still eight more months to go and it’s always a tall order for songs from earlier in the year to hold their ground against ones later in the year.

NOTE: I will be on vacation in two weeks, with limited internet resources, so the May 6/24 chart will likely be published on Friday May 3.

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

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

Right now “Shiver” by John Summit and Hayla (above) has a lock on #1 and I have no idea yet as to what song will succeed it. John apparently had a great Coachella set, and has released a new festival banger called “Eat The Bass”, which you can check out below.

Jonas Blue gets a personal chart best with his Endless Summer collaboration with Sam Feldt and Sadie Rose Van as “Rest of My Life” (above) climbs to #2. Jonas previously got to #3 back in 2016 with “Fast Car” (with Dakota). And you should also listen to Sam’s recent collaboration with YouNotUs, Martin Jensen and Sam Graycalled “24K Heart Of Gold” (below).

Gryffin and Rita Ora both land in the Top 5 for the first time with the entrancing “Last Of Us”, which climbs 9-5.

Also cutting through the Top 10 quickly is “When You Can’t Resist”, the guitar-filled slice of alternative soul by Vancouver’s Diamond Café.

The Top 10 has two new highly danceable entries with David Archuleta and Willy Beaman’s “Afraid To Love” (Euphoric alternative mix, above) climbing 11-8, and Martin Garrix’s “Carry You” (below) rises 13-9 in collaboration with Third Party, Oaks (aka Winona Oak) and Declan J. Donovan. It becomes Martin’s 11th Top 10 entry.

Sweden’s Darin is in line for yet another Top 10 entry as his latest release “Electric” jumps 17-12.

Leave it to long-time faves to have this week’s Fastest Riser. Pet Shop Boys’ “Loneliness” soars 24-13 in advance of the release of their 15th studio album Nonetheless, due Friday April 26. It’s their first studio album since 2020’s Hotspot.

The two EuroVision entries on the chart are off to smooth starts. Sweden’s Marcus & Martinus climb 25-18 with “Unforgettable (above). And Olly Alexander, no stranger to this chart with his many Years & Years songs, rises 26-21 with “Dizzy” (below) for the UK. I’ll be on a cruise at sea on May 11 when EuroVision is broadcast, so I’m hoping to still watch all or part of it – maybe the ship will even broadcast it, who knows?

Jared Lee’s solo entry “Love No More” moves up 27-22 to keep pass with the two EuroVision songs.

It’s hard not to like such a faithful cover version as Rozalla’s “Lotta Love”, which rises 29-23. I’d like to start a campaign for Canadian AC and AC Top 40 stations to play the song, which happens to be 50% Canadian Content. Who’s with me??

The Highest Debut of the week is the stunning live string version of “feel less” by Juno Award winners Felix Cartal and Lights, which arrives at #25. It’s Felix’s sixth chart entry and Lights’ 4th.

Right now I can’t get enough of Benson Boone’s debut album Fireworks and Rollerblades. And while his label is pushing “Slow It Down” to follow “Beautiful Things”, I think “Slow” is getting lost in the shadows of the success of the latter. So I’m opting for the emotional and triumphant rocker “Cry”, which bows at #26.

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 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.

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

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” at www.planetradio.ca, now powered by www.xstreamrockradio.com with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. 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 the following link: 3D Variety Show.

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!

#BILLCSTop30 #688 – March 25/24

Miami Music Week was a blast as always. I saw four shows, and had my fill of EDM. It was great to see a number of familiar faces and make acquaintances with some new ones too. I have some thoughts about EDM shows and performers supporting the headliners which I’ll share on Thursday in the BILLCS New Music Report.

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

Well look who’s up top again! Benson Boone grabs his third appearance (sixth week) at #1 with “Beautiful Things” (above), which also matches how many weeks he’s been at #1 on the Billboard Canadian 100 too. The song has also inched up to #2 on the Hot 100, and I’m hoping it gets its due at the top of that chart. Benson also released a new song last week called “Slow It Down”, which you can check out below. And Benson’s upcoming album has the same name as his tour – Fireworks And Rollerblades!

The rest of the Top 5 is completely abuzz, and any of them have the potential to overtake “Beautiful Things” in two weeks – unless of course that song remains up top.

Jonas Blue and Sam Feldt with vocalist Sadie Rose Van as the “Endless Summer” project climb 5-3 with the rollicking “Rest Of My Life” (above).
Will Swinton’s fearlessly emotional alt-rocker “Harmless” (below) is also a contender, rising 11-4.
“Shiver” (below) by John Summit and British vocalist Hayla is the Fastest Riser on the chart, soaring 17-5. John Summit was all over Miami Music Week, including a show at LIV. He even played a hotel lobby during the rainstorm last Friday. Hayla gave a captivating performance of the song at the pre-show for the EDMA’s last Thursday. As I posted online, she has the potential to become the next Annie Lennox!!

““Last Of Us” by Griffyn and Rita Ora is also making short work of the chart, leaping 25-14.

The “Euphoric Alternative mix” of David Archuleta’s “Afraid To Love” and is just the uplifting tonic we all need. This collaboration with producer/keyboardist Willy Beaman jumps 27-17.

“Carry You” by Martin Garrix along with friends Third Party, Oaks and Declan J. Donovan climbs 26-19, showing that even with all kinds of hands on the songs, the results can be quite cohesive if they’re well-coordinated, and with his now many years of experience, Martin shows what a treat is in store when it’s done right.

Four new songs charge onto the chart, led by the heart-wrenching “Hopeless” at #25 by Philadelphia lo-fi pop/hip hop duo N i G H T S. It’s their fourth entry on the chart, following last year’s #6 “Boyband”.

At #26 is the brand new single by Sweden’s Darin called “Electric”. It continues in the happy pop/dance vein that started with “Can’t Stay Away” at the end of 2021. This time Darin enlisted co-writers/producers James Hurr and Paul Harris, who previously remixed “Can’t Stay Away”, apparently one of the singer’s favourites. And while it doesn’t break any new ground for Darin, it is so catchy that it doesn’t matter! And Darin’s lucky Swedish community is getting another tour from him this summer too.

“Why Should I” by American duo Z3LLA reached #1 on the national dance charts this week, just in time for them to announce that before they performed the song at the pre-show for the EDMA’s last Thursday. “Why Should I?”, debuting at #27, has immense crossover appeal to Top 40 radio, so like uncharacteristic hits like Nicky Youre’s “Sunroof” and others, “Why Should I?” should find many more new listeners this year outside of dance music circles.

The fourth debut is “The Way It Is” by Cheat Codes and Two Friends at #28. This is a dance music reboot of the Bruce Hornsby & The Range 1987 hit, interpolating its chorus into a new song that is sung by Cheat Codes’ Trevor Dahl. And like with Darin’s “Electric”, one of its co-writers is Jordan Shaw, who is the vocalist on Boye & Sigvardt’s BILLCS Top 30 #1 from 2021, “Microdose”. While “The Way It Is” marks the first appearance for the American trio Cheat Codes, it’s the fourth for Two Friends as lead artists, though they did have two prior appearances as remixers too.

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 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” at www.planetradio.ca 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 nearly 30 times during the week and you can view its schedule by clicking here. You can hear recent episodes of The 3D Variety Show at the following link: 3D Variety Show.

Energy885

FM 108

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

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

#BILLCSTop30 #687 – March 11/24

The top of the new chart is locked down with current and rising favourites, while some older ones will be departing soon and making room for more fresh new tunes.

NOTE: My next chart in two weeks will be published a day later on Tuesday, March 26, as I’ll be returning home from Miami the day before and will need a recoup day!

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

Washington’s Benson Boone claims another chart at #1 and it doesn’t look like “Beautiful Things” is gone anywhere anytime soon. Look for more new music from the rising talent before the end of March.

As I mentioned in my New Music Pick of the Week segment for “Lonely Dancers”, I fully expected Conan Gray would be touring again. And voilà! Several North American and European dates including one in my city on September 23! Ticket purchased, of course!! “Lonely Dancers” (above) climbs 4-2. You can also check out another track from Conan’s forthcoming album Found Heaven called “Alley Rose”, below.

Jonas Blue, Sam Feldt and Sadie Rose Van and the Endless Summer project give you an early dose of sunshine with the frenetic “Rest Of My Life” (above), which rises 10-5. Sam Feldt’s latest song “The Confession” incorporates elements of Nina Simone’s “Sinner Man”, which many of you will know better when it was transformed into Timbaland’s “Oh Timbaland” back in the day. Check out “The Confession” below.

BTS’ Jung Kook gets his first Top 10 entry, joining fellow member JIMIN, whose “Like Crazy” was my #1 song of 2023. The funky “Standing Next To You” climbs 11-8.

The variety in my chart mix continues with Australia’s Keiynan Lonsdale moving up 12-9 with his sultry and confident “Sit Down” from his album The Heart Defence Mixtape. It’s his second Top 10 entry, following 2018’s “Preach”.

The third new Top 10 entry belongs to NYC’s Rico & Miella, now known as Years of War. The electronic duo’s “Used To Be” is an affecting slice of emotional electronica which rises 14-10.

The Fastest Riser on the chart has come out of nowhere to become one of my big new favourites. New Zealand’s Will Swinton sees “Harmless” climb 25-11.

Bright Light Bright Light has a new duet coming soon with the fab Ultra Naté, but in the meantime his single “You Want My…” rises 17-13.

For folks o’er ‘ome, Sam Dickinson has a live showcase coming up on March 15 at the Alphabetti Theatre in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. If you’re in the area do get tickets to check out Sam in concert. In the meantime, his splendid cover of Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff” climbs 20-14. Sam follows it up with “F L E X” in the coming weeks!

On the weekend I happened to hear John Summit and Hayla’s “Shiver” at a concert at a big venue, and it sounded amazing. So it’s no surprise that the song moves up 24-17. And the clever DJ mixed it into John’s remix of “Sweet Disposition” by The Temper Trap, which I wrote about two weeks ago.

Vancouver’s Diamond Café is off to a great start as the unconventional but gripping “When You Can’t Resist” rises 27-20.

Nothing But Thieves are in a bit of comeback mode as attention starts to be given to their fun rocker “Oh No :: He Said What?”, which moves up 29-21.

“Last Of Us” is the latest, and perhaps one of the greatest, by electronic dance producer Gryffin, this time with UK vocalist Rita Ora. It arrives at #25 and is the first entry from Gryffin to chart since 2021’s “I Want Love” (#8). It’s also Rita’s first chart appearance since appearing on Tiësto and Jonas Blue’s “Ritual” (#8) in 2019.

Martin Garrix returns to the chart for a 14th appearance, following “Real Love”, with “Carry You” at #26. He’s accompanied by a load of talent on this one – British production duo Third Party, Swedish producer Oaks (the production alias for vocalist Winona Oak), and British vocalist Declan J. Donovan. It’s one of Martin’s most uplifting songs and ideal for dance music radio.

The third debut means that David Archuleta is no longer a one-hit wonder on my chart. The “American Idol” 2008 runner-up to David Cook has been embracing pop/dance music over the last few years, and his songs just keep getting better. I’ve been enjoying “Afraid to Love” in its original version, but recently David opted for remixes, and this one, which debuts at #27 with keyboard and production whiz Willy Beaman, the “Euphoric Alternative Mix”, is just the song to brighten up your day. David got to #1 in 2008 with “Crush” and I’m so glad he’s back on the chart!

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

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

At Midnight EST on Saturdays, you can also hear my 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

Energy885

FM 108

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

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

#BILLCSTop30 #686 – February 26/24

Some of my winter favourites make room for new blood on the chart with five songs debuting. Plus there is a new #1 and that housecleaning also has half of the last chart’s Top 10 exiting the top third of the chart.

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 is now updated to the last chart: BILLCS Top 30 Archive

If you follow the chart regularly, then it’s no surprise that Benson Boone gets his second #1 with “Beautiful Things” (3-1). It’s odd that I share #1 with Billboard’s Canadian Chart for a second time. “Beautiful Things” succeeds “Lovin’ On Me” at #1, which was #1 for me at the top of the year for two charts and currently sits at #16, while Benson’s previous #1, “To Love Someone” is at #5. Benson has also now reached positions #1, #2 and #3 on the chart with his songs! Sadly, I like many others could not get tickets to his April 7 show in my city.

Todd Terry, Gene Chandler, "What You Do"

Todd Terry’s “What You Do” climbs 4-3, with vocals by Gene Chandler from his 1966 release “You Can’t Hurt Me No More”, and it sits back to back with the last chart’s #1, WH0’s “Rock The Party”, which samples Todd’s 80’s dance classic “Weekend”.

The Fastest Riser on the chart clearly has sights set on #1, where Conan Gray has already visited twice, with “Yours” and “Never Ending Song”. The 80’s vibes of “Lonely Dancers” hit all the right places and the song soars 25-4.

Matoma’s “Sound of Shadows” (12-6), with vocals by British singer/songwriter JP Cooper, becomes his 5th Top 10 entry, from his album Love For The Beat.

Also no strangers to the Top 10 are The Knocks and Sofi Tukker, who climb 13-8 with their indie release “One On One” (above). It’s the 7th Top 10 for The Knocks and 6th consecutive one for Sofi Tukker. Check out The Knocks’ Mr JPatt (aka James Patterson) in collaboration with Walker & Joyce on their new release “Just Might”, below. And Sofi Tukker also have a new Latin-flavoured one with lots of vibrant drum and percussion sounds called “Veneno” (with &friends, Mari Merenda and Sophia Ardessore), which you can also check out below in its &friends remix.

Dutch producers Showtek land their 4th Top 10 entry with “Shine”, along with duo Sonny Wilson, which climbs 11-9, from Showtek’s album 360 Yellow.

And another huge jump comes from “Rest Of My Life” by Jonas Blue and Sam Feldt in their “superduo” guise as Endless Summer, with American vocalist Sadie Rose Van. It leaps up the chart 28-10. It’s Jonas’ 7th consecutive Top 10 entry.

Itching to get into the Top 10 next week is BTS’ Jung Kook, who climbs 17-11 with is slice of R&B/pop “Standing Next To You” from his album Golden. It passes the #12 peak of last year’s “3D” (with Jack Harlow).

NYC’s electronic duo Years of War (formerly Rico & Miella) continue to rise up the chart with “Used To Be” climbing 19-14.

Sam Dickinson has a new release coming called “F L E X” (the title track of his new album) and there’s also a remix on the way for his cover of Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff”, which rises 24-20.

The Highest Debut belongs to Chicago’s John Summit with British vocalist/co-writer Hayla and “Shiver”, which arrives at #24. It’s the first time on the chart for the colourful producer and his vocalist, who previously collaborated on last year’s “Where You Are”. John (along with producer Silver Panda) has also nailed a slick remix update of “Sweet Disposition” by Australia’s The Temper Trap below. The song was originally released in 2010.

Also debuting on the chart at #25 is New Zealand alternative artist Will Swinton and his engagingly different and emotional track “Harmless”. Here he sounds like a cross between Caleb Followill (of Kings of Leon) and Sam Fender. Be sure to check out the video above, filmed in one take, and be sure to watch until the ending!

At #27 is Vancouver’s Diamond Café with the Michael Jackson-styled R&B/pop of “When You Can’t Resist”. This unconventional track is lengthy but compelling, with a marvelous guitar solo. Diamond Café is the alias for Tristan Thompson, who previously charted under his own name three times as a teenager (including a #1), and has since been signed to Warner Music. And just to show further why he’s got the goods, check out a live performance of the song at the following link: Diamond Café

He’s won a bunch of Grammys and Juno Awards but Quebec’s Kaytranada finally has a great R&B/pop single in “Lover/Friend” with Toronto’s Rochelle Jordan at #28. It’s the first time for both artists on the chart.

The last debut is a first time appearance for British rock quintet Nothing But Thieves with the rollicking “Oh No :: He Said What?” at #29. It has the same fun vibe as Fall Out Boy when they are at their best.

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 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

Energy885

FM 108

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

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

BILLCS New Music Report – February 21/24 with songs from @Aysanabeemusic & @RayeZaragoza, Logic1000 @literallylogic & @Rochelle_Jordan, @Rozallab, @KaceyFifield, @JamieWebster94 & @BillyBragg, @Jettaofficial, @CorbynBesson and Ben Ellis

The music will do all the talking in this week’s diverse and unpredictable edition of the BILLCS New Music Report.

In the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host DJ Hunter’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five from 50 years ago in that wacky year for pop music, 1974. Plus you’ll find out what songs sat atop the BILLCS Top 30 over the last 26 years!

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.

AYSANABEE, RAYE SARAGOZA, “Come Out”

Aysanabee is a multi-award winning Indigenous singer/songwriter of Oji-Cree heritage from northern Ontario, near Thunder Bay. He quickly shot to national attention with his alternative radio #1 song “Nomads” from his debut album Watin, and he was the first Indigenous performer to top that chart. “Come Out” is from his forthcoming sophomore album and is a duet with Southern California Indigenous Asian-American artist Raye Saragoza. Their voices couldn’t be any more different, but each shine in their own right throughout the song, with Aysanabee’s gruff, weary-sounding voice anchoring the story while Raye is given the opportunity to let her voice soar. “Come Out” stands apart from a lot of pop music out there and is a head-turner that should see support from Canadian Top 40 and Top 40 AC radio as well as alternative radio.

LOGIC1000, ROCHELLE JORDAN, “Promises”

You may recognize Rochelle Jordan’s name as I wrote about her feature on KAYTRANADA’s single “Lover/Friend” recently, though she’s been recording for more than a decade. This time the Toronto-based singer teams up with Berlin-based Aussie producer/DJ Logic1000 (aka Samantha Poulter) for soft, slick R&B/pop that throws back to Janet Jackson releases of the 90’s. “Promises” moves along at a nice clip with its warm lyrics and arrangement. It’s a solid introduction for me to the music of Logic1000, and sometimes I think the music industry forgets how much R&B there actually is in my city with the past success of artists like Grammy winner Melanie Fiona, Canada Music Hall of Fame inductee Deborah Cox, and Divine Brown, and hopefully “Promises” and “Lover/Friend” will continue the rise of Rochelle Jordan to prominence.

ROZALLA, “Lotta Love”

90’s dance queen Rozalla has always been a favourite since her 90’s heyday with classics like “Everybody’s Free (To Feel Good)” and “Are You Ready To Fly”. The Zimbabwe-born singer came back strong with new songs in the mid-2010’s including the #1 “If You Say It Again” and “The Shadows Of The Moon” (its House of Virus remix was a BILLCS Top 30 #9). It hasn’t been remade too many times, so her cover of the Neil Young song “Lotta Love”, popularized in 1978 by Nicolette Larson, is a great choice. The song suits Rozalla’s voice so well and she sounds terrific. Producer Dan Scholes keeps the contemporary arrangement faithful to the original, but minus the yacht rock vibes. “Lotta Love” would be especially perfect for a revival on Canadian Adult Contemporary radio, and with being written by Neil Young, counts as Canadian content (or Cancon) for radio. But regardless, fans of both Rozalla and the Nicolette Larson hit version will love it.

KACEY FIFIELD, “Never Reply”

You’ve read in this blog many posts about L.A. singer/songwriter Kacey Fifield over the last few years, and how she is continually developing her sound and putting her versatility on display. Having delved mainly into electronic pop recently in recent singles “Self Sabotage” and “Vegas”, Kacey breaks away from that genre for her first 2024 release in favour of a classic pop rock, guitar-driven sound in “Never Reply”. The song is full of irony as many people tend to put on a false front after a break-up, and only they know themselves that they are really hurting inside and not in fact over it. Accompanying Kacey this time are guitarist Mike Kamerman from L.A. band Smallpools (whose new single, “Night Shift”, I wrote about last week) and producer Sam Beresford, of another L.A. band, fronted by Matthew Koma, Winnetka Bowling League. The sound is crisp and the guitar work is a stand out, and “Never Reply” shows how well Kacey’s vocals work in a classic pop rock setting. The overall result is fresh and could easily bring new fans into Kacey’s midst.

JAMIE WEBSTER, BILLY BRAGG, “Fickle Fran”

Liverpool singer/songwriter Jamie Webster is a new name to me, but I couldn’t resist taking a listen to “Fickle Fran”, which features legendary British folk/rock troubadour Billy Bragg. Jamie recently obtained his third consecutive Top 10 album in the UK with 10 For The People, which bowed at #2. I prefer my folk on the rockier side and “Fickle Fran” will appeal to fans of The Proclaimers, Hozier, Sam Fender, and the like. It’s a slice-of-life story about a merchandise vendor who has seen better days with his business, but nonetheless carries on. The lyrics try to be hopeful for him with the uplifting refrain of “the sun’s out in the city”. “Fickle Fran” has a lot of appeal for its ability to shine a positive light on the working class and Jamie and Billy together are two delightful kindred spirits.

JETTA, “sicklysweet”

Also from Liverpool, but of a totally different bent is alternative pop singer/songwriter Jetta, who has released her debut indie album Relax, The House Is On Fire. “sicklysweet” stands out on the album because of Jetta’s interesting vocal style, which alternates between a spoken-sung patter and layers of well-placed harmonies. “sicklysweet” could be about someone who doesn’t quite know what she wants in her object of affection just yet, particularly if he’s too shy or nice with angelic traits. To be fair, when we find that someone might indeed be too good to be true, they usually aren’t, so do we pay the price and indulge in some fun anyway at our own emotional expense? Jetta calls her album “a coping mechanism for not coping” and realizes listeners hearing songs like “sicklysweet” might see it as denial or acceptance. Regardless, “sicklysweet” sticks in your head and that’s usually a good thing.

CORBYN BESSON, “Love Me Better”

L.A. singer/songwriter/guitarist Corbyn Besson is one-fifth of the pop band Why Don’t We, who are currently on somewhat of a forced hiatus to due unresolved legal problems with their previous management. Until WDW resurfaces, Corbyn is one of the members undertaking solo releases with “Love Me Better”. It’s anthemic and enjoyably in-your-face and could have easily been a WDW release. Among its co-writers in fact are WDW’s Daniel Seavey (a former “American Idol” Top 10 contestant) and Jonah Marois. Well-done power pop like this never goes out of style – ask The Jonas Brothers. “Love Me Better” will please WDW fans but if you enjoy an infectious driven-sounding singalong bop, then you may find a new favourite.

BEN ELLIS, “Half The Time”

Welsh singer/songwriter Ben Ellis continues to drop clever, catchy pop songs with his latest, the brief but loaded “Half The Time”. His previous release “Guys That Look Like Me” is currently rising up the BILLCS Top 30, while the title track from his EP Ed’s House got to #8 last year. “Half Time Time” is a bit of a head-scratcher as we have a lovelorn guy continuing to pursue his object of affection, even though she’s not into him. And despite all that, and perhaps knowing better, he still would like her to change her mind. It’s really the stuff of fantasies, but Ben’s determined vocal and his crafty way of letting a short story unfold could convince you otherwise.

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.

Producers Jonas Blue and Sam Feldt have a new project called Endless Summer with “Rest Of My Life”

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

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

“Water Underground” by New Jersey rock group Real Estate

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.

“Nothing Is For Sure” by Italian producers Riggi & Piros with Nashville-based vocalist Mokita

“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” usually of the post-Beatles era – classics you need to know! Each title is linked to a Spotify stream of the song.

Wednesday – Last Kiss
Redbone – Come And Get Your Love
Brownsville Station – Smokin’ In The Boys Room
Jim Stafford – Spiders And Snakes
Aretha Franklin – Until You Come Back To Me (That’s What I’m Gonna Do)

26 YEARS OF BILLCS TOP 30 #1’s

Songs that rocked my personal chart at this time during the last 26 years.

2023 HERO Martin Garrix, JVKE

2022 BAD THINGS Louis Pax

2021 NOBODY NOTD, Catello

2020 FLAMES R3HAB, Zayn, Jungleboi

2019 CLOSURE Steve Void, Andy Marsh

2018 MY MY MY! Troye Sivan

2017 PARIS The Chainsmokers

2016 8BIT HEART (redux) Simon Curtis

2015 SLEEVE Brandyn Burnette

2014 MONEY ON MY MIND Sam Smith

2013 THE CITY River Tiber

2012 MEMORIZE ME Rune RK & DATABOY

2011 THE FEAR INSIDE Frankmusik

2010 RAIN Mika

2009 RELEASE ME Agnes

2008 CHASING PAVEMENTS Adele

2007 LOVESTONED/I THINK SHE KNOWS Justin Timberlake

2006 THUNDER IN MY HEART AGAIN, Meck, Leo Sayer

2005 THE LETTER SONG Tyler Hilton

2004 YEAH Usher, Ludacris, Lil Jon

2003 THE WAY (PUT YOUR HAND IN MY HAND) Divine Inspiration

2002 TAKE A MESSAGE Remy Shand

2001 HANGING BY A MOMENT Lifehouse

2000 FADED soulDecision

1999 EVERY MORNING Sugar Ray

1998 ANGEL Joée

#BILLCSTop30 #685 – February 12/24

The new chart is in slow turnover mode, with several favourites hanging on while others wait their turns to advance. There’s a new #1 and two new entries. Be sure to check out all of the songs!

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 is now updated to the last chart: BILLCS Top 30 Archive

Reminder: Don’t forget to click on the photos to hear the song or watch the video.

It’s one of the most fun songs out there, featuring samples from The Clash and Todd Terry, and some obvious Daft Punk inspiration (think Stardust’s “Music Sounds Better With You”), so British dance producers WH0 obtain their second #1 with “Rock The Party”. It follows last year’s chart topper “What You Need” with Swedish House Mafia’s Steve Angello. WH0 are pretty prolific and undoubtedly will have lots more coming this year for your party playlists.

“Rock The Party” bumps Benson Boone’s first #1 “To Love Someone” down to #2, but charging up right behind is his worldwide Top 10 “Beautiful Things” (above), the Fastest Riser on the chart which soars 15-3. I’m sure radio has been taken aback by the song’s massive success and have been waiting to test it out their audiences, so it has crept into the US Top 40, but I’m confident it will arrive on more radio stations within the month. As readers of this blog know from the last three years, Benson Boone is no fluke. Comparisons are being made to Olivia Rodrigo’s success in 2021, and they are pretty accurate.

Todd Terry, Gene Chandler, "What You Do"

I’ve already mentioned Todd Terry, with his song “Weekend” being sampled in new #1 “Rock The Party”, but the house master himself is back in the Top 5 now with “What You Do” (7-4), his dance rework of Gene Chandler’s 60’s soul song “You Can’t Hurt Me No More”, which looks like it may stick around for a while.

Nero’s futuristic-sounding “Truth” (above) climbs 9-7, and the UK trio are wasting no time with their comeback by releasing the follow up single, the more radio-friendly “Blame You”, which you can check out below.

Great Good Fine OK reach the Top 10 for a third time with “Blame”, which rises 13-9, and they are three-for-three! The Tiësto remix of “Let You Go” with The Chainsmokers previously reached #2, while their collaboration with St. Lucia, “Something To Believe In”, got to #4.

There’s not a whole lot of huge upward movement on the chart below the Top 10, but The Knocks and Sofi Tukker are headed towards another Top 10 entry with “One on One”, which moves up 19-13.

Keiynan’s “Sit Down” is one track that you should give some attention to. Its infectious appeal kicks in around the second or third listen and by then, you can’t get enough. The Aussie multi-talent’s track from his second album The Heart Defence Mixtape climbs 21-16.

NYC electronic dance duo Years of War have lots more music up their sleeves, but for now we can continue to enjoy the sweeping future bass of their emotional, melodic track “Used To Be”, which moves up 24-19.

The remaining three songs from the last chart are held back a bit by songs that I’m still enjoying higher above but still make good moves.

I do want to mention that Australia’s VASSY has released an independent album called Supreme, which includes the title track, an electronic empowerment anthem (which you can listen to above). Her latest dance single “Off Switch” (above), which is not on the album, climbs 26-21. It’s immediately followed by Bright Light Bright Light’s fun delight “You Want My…” (27-22, below) and Sam Dickinson’s powerful take on Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff” (29-24, also below).

The Highest Entry on the chart at #25 is the new 80’s fest by Conan Gray called “Lonely Dancers” (below). It’s a brilliant song, albeit a little on the familiar side to lovers of 80’s synth pop – the melody isn’t exactly the same as “The Safety Dance” by Men Without Hats, but it’s darn close, and the anthemic inspiration is similar. It’s produced and co-written by Max Martin and Ilya Salmanzadeh, who have a lengthy list of smashes, including Ariana Grande’s recent “Yes, And?”, and a penchant for focusing on catchy melodies. It’s from Conan’s upcoming album From Heaven.

The second new entry is by Endless Summer, the dance music project from Jonas Blue and Sam Feldt, taking a cue with a name for their project as Deadmau5 and Kaskade did with Kx5. Providing a beautiful showcase for American singer Sadie Rose Van, relatively new but already becoming a go-to vocalist having appeared on recent songs by Matoma and Sistek, “Rest Of My Life” arrives at #28 and is an irresistible dance bop.

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 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

Energy885

FM 108

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

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

#BILLCSTop30 #670 – July 17/23

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

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

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

Halton Hills Online

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

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

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

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

Addictive Energy

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

FM 108

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

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

#BILLCSTop30 #668 – June 19/23

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

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

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

Halton Hills Online

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

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

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

Addictive Energy

FM 108

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

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

#BILLCSTop30 #667 – June 5/23

The new chart is loaded and there are five debuts. There are just so many songs I’m enjoying right now that deserve to be on the chart, so some songs may go up and down the chart faster than usual in the next while. That’s not a bad thing, I just want to give all of the ones that resonate with me their due! This week, songs 8-19 are all on the rise, so there’s a bit of a log jam happening which should shake loose in two weeks.

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

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.

But here we are once again and BTS’ JIMIN scores a second appearance at #1 with the simply stunning “Like Crazy (English version)” (above), certainly one of my faves of ’23 so far. “Like Crazy” is so unlike anything out there right now that it stands out whenever it plays among a bunch of other songs. You may also have caught JIMIN’s appearance on “Angel Pt. 1” from the “Fast X” soundtrack, below, which also features JVKE and Muni Long.

Climbing 4-2 is another worldwide fan favourite, Loreen’s EuroVision winner “Tattoo”. I’m hoping a new Loreen album is in the works.

I’m not sure why Universal hasn’t championed James Bay’s top notch new third album Leap, which another one that fans are running with. The beautiful “Brilliant Still” should be a single and it rises 9-6.

New to the Top 10 are “Only One” by Niko The Kid and MAYLYN (12-9, above), a really ear-catching slice of deep house, and “Finally” by Jonas Blue and RANI (16-10, below), a new song revolving around that bassy sample popularized in Gusto’s “Disco’s Revenge”. It’s Jonas Blue’s 6th song to reach the chart’s Top 10.

Climbing 17-11 is the dark and danceable “Sun Freezes Cold” by Italy’s DJ Mirko B, who looks to score a new personal best on my next chart.

I’m pleased to see that “Forget You” by former Eleven Past One singer Daniel Richter (22-17) is bubbling under deservingly at national radio in Canada, with lots of support coming from Quebec radio stations.

The Fastest Riser on the chart is another unique one that’s going to quickly find its way to the upper reaches. Norway’s Matoma is having a fantastic year for dance music and this collaboration with US singer James Droll, “Won’t Follow You Home” rises 25-18. Watch for Matoma on tour in US cities.

Also moving up steadily is Welsh singer/songwriter Ben Ellis’ enjoyable pop track “Ed’s House” (above), which jumps 23-19. Ben has also released a follow up about meeting someone with matching tattoos called “Sofia” (below).

Making the big splash onto the chart as the Highest Debut is the latest from Conan Gray called “Never Ending Song” at #24. He sounds a lot like Brandon Flowers of The Killers to me, and it’s a fun, new wave-tinged track co-written and co-produced by Max Martin. It’s Conan’s fourth visit to the chart and follows last year’s #1 “Yours”, which was also my # 7 song of 2022.

Emirati dance producers Revelries get their 6th appearance on the chart with their fine recent deep house release “Down On You” at #26, which follows up last year’s #6 “Pulling Me Down”.

Jessie Ware’s new album That! Feels Good is a must-hear for fans of dance music with sophistication and flair, and it truly sounds like she has found a niche in pop music that fans love. “Begin Again” arrives at #27 and it’s her 13th visit to the chart overall.

Talented Swedish pop/rock trio Louis Pax return with their third chart entry called “The Road Back” at #28. While the band writes melodies that could be taken right out of the 80’s, “The Road Back” often reminds me of early 2000’s rock acts like McFly or Simple Plan. Louis Pax had my #5 song of 2022 with the #1 “Bad Things”.

Rounding out the new entries is Toronto’s Francesco Yates at #29 with “Thunderbomb”, another raucous, guitar riff-laden tune that follows up last year’s #1 “Jimi”, which was also my #8 song of 2022. It’s from Francesco’s new EP called Little Rockstar, and is his 7th visit to 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! 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

Addictive Energy

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

FM 108

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

#BILLCSTop30 #666 – May 22/23

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

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

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

Halton Hills Online

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

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

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

Addictive Energy

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

FM 108

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