Jonas Blue – Page 2 – BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – May 17/23 spotlighting songs by #LouisPax @BensonBoone @Frankmusik @FrancescoYates @Gustaphmusic @ForrerRemo

My current music discoveries, including submissions to the blog, are on overload, which is hardly a bad thing, but it may prevent me from writing about songs that I like that stand out a little less than those that do appear in this weekly report. This week I’ve got 10 songs, with 6 in the spotlight, including two from this past weekend’s highly enjoyable EuroVision contest.

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 1975. What was I listening to 20 years ago in the early days of the BILLCS Top 30? You’ll find out below as I flash back to my chart from 2003 – so hard to believe what was number one!

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

LOUIS PAX, “The Road Back”

Hailing from Malmō, Sweden, pop/rock trio Louis Pax return with their own take on 80’s inspired songs with the longing of “The Road Back”. Last year, Louis Pax soared right to #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 with the irresistible pop confection “Bad Things”, which also placed #5 on my year end list, and was followed by a few additional singles, including “Ophelia” which reached #9 on my chart. “The Road Back” has the band back in tight form with a song about finding your way back to love again after a relationship ended where the other person felt love was “synthetic”. Singer/guitarist Oscar Reingsdahl’s gentle and earnest vocal style continues to score big time, and even though the band draws from a myriad of influences, the sound of Louis Pax is refreshing and commands your attention. Louis Pax’s EP In Case I Don’t See Ya (Part 1) arrives on June 1.

BENSON BOONE, “Coffee Cake”

Like his previous BILLCS Top 30 chart entries “In The Stars” (which got to #2) and “Before You”, Washington singer/songwriter Benson Boone continues to be a young balladeer of the moment with a number of similarly touching songs on his new EP Pulse. But with uptempo songs like “Coffee Cake”, he showcases more of his other pop side. “Coffee Cake” immediately stands out for its wonderful lyricism which transports you to the various scenes of the song as you can visualize it unfolding. It’s about someone longing for love or companionship but not yet prepared to make his move, preferring to have fleeting company at the local diner while he people-watches. As a good songwriter does, Benson lets you get into his head so he can get into yours, and by doing so lets you know that at some point or another we’ve all those scenes where he takes you in “Coffee Cake”.

FRANKMUSIK, “Doreen”

I try to keep up with Frankmusik’s aggressive current one song per month schedule, since his releases are of impeccable quality and document the work of an incredibly talented indie artist who continues to take the time to please his many fans. “Doreen” is certainly one of his better releases, a vibrant electronic pop release with a driving rhythm and a top notch vocal. When songs like “Doreen” leap out from your speakers amidst a lot of other new music, then you know it’s a keeper. Like “Remains” and “The Half Moon Came Up In The Sky”, “Doreen” ranks right up there with some of Frankmusik’s best music from the 2010-2014 era.

FRANCESCO YATES, “Chanel”

Toronto’s Francesco Yates has quickly released a third consecutive single, another punchy rocker called “Chanel”. This one’s a steamier release that includes some lines that are song title pop culture references (“that don’t impress me much” and “livin’ la vida loca” for two). It’s accompanied by a video that showcases Francesco and some young lovelies flirting and teasing before the camera, which is obviously all intended to be leading up to … something (that we don’t get to see of course). As might be expected, there are a few raucous Francesco Yates screams and some dandy guitar riffing. With previous splendid songs like “Jimi” and “Thunderbomb”, I’d recommend not sleeping on whatever album or EP release that Francesco has in the cards for us soon.

GUSTAPH, “Because Of You”

REMO FORRER, “Watergun”

This year’s EuroVision song contest yielded a number of entertaining performances and some very good song choices, even though, to me, going into it open-minded, the winner ended up obvious – one of my current favourite songs, “Tattoo” by Loreen. Two completely different songs that I was drawn to have held my attention through repeated listens, and they are the 90’s dance-flavoured “Because of You” by Belgium’s Gustaph, and “Watergun” and its touching call for peace and unity by Switzerland’s Remo Forrer.

“Because of You” is a new queer dance anthem whose roots are in the C+C Music Factory and Crystal Waters releases of the 90’s. It’s all about the freedom to love whoever you want, and Gustaph showed off his fine voice and magnetic stage presence on the EuroVision stage. “Because of You” is deserving of international exposure because of its timely lyrics and because Gustaph is simply meant to be performing in front of a wider audience.

“Watergun” is a softer, poignant anti-war song that will resonate with any listener, thanks to the powerful and versatile tones of 21 year old Remo Forrer. Remo previously won the Voice of Switzerland contest in 2020, and clearly has innate talents that led him to EuroVision. I think the more playful and dramatic competition was a little too fierce for “Watergun”, but like Rosa Linn’s “Snap”, which became a worldwide smash after finishing 20th at last year’s contest, if the public hears something they enjoy, then it will take hold of it and run with it. Thanks to Remo’s beautiful performance, “Watergun” is well-deserving of international exposure.

FEATURING

WINGTIP, BRE KENNEDY, “Down (Exit Song)”

“Down (Exit Song)” is a surprising change of pace for Brooklyn-based producer/DJ Wingtip (aka Nick Perloff-Giles), who usually records electronic pop. It’s a charming and unconventional acoustic duet with Nashville-based singer/songwriter Bre Kennedy which documents a relationship … well sort of … between a couple who don’t really know what they want from each other. There seem to be too many obstacles in the way so perhaps the resolution is to “break your heart over breakfast”. The vocals and melody are instantly memorable, so “Down (Exit Song)” is well worth adding to your favourite alternative pop playlist.

CLOVERDALE, “Lifted”

Halifax producer/DJ Cloverdale returns with a simmering and bold slice of techno-house called “Lifted”. This is an ideal track for club DJ’s to spin at the height of a busy evening and will be sure to keep dancers on the floor. It’s all about the rhythm and the beat under flashing lights and lasers, with some sliced-and-diced repeated female vocals creating additional intensity. Cloverdale has tailor-made “Lifted” for clubs, and his fellow producers and DJ’s should not hesitate to add this one into their mixes.

AMNES, “Otaku”

One thing that electronic and dance music lovers may not realize is that when producers create a full length instrumental track, there is usually a back story behind it. Last month I introduced you to perhaps the most accessible track of Belgian producer AMNES’ new EP Nur called “stamina” featuring L.A. singer artemis orion. The rest of the tracks on Nur are indeed instrumental, but the pervading themes throughout the EP as a back story are reflecting, rebuilding and re-energizing. AMNES apparently spent a long time not interacting with others, and Nur ultimately is about perseverance and being ready to put on your A-game. “Otaku” was previously released as a single and is a future bass-inspired progressive house track which club DJ’s would enjoy when bridging a set between mid-tempo and faster mixes. AMNES is one of the most creative new producers on the scene, which you can also hear in his recent remix of San Holo’s “Don’t Look Down”.

HONEY GENTRY, “Under Taurus”

“Under Taurus” is an electronic pop ballad about growing into adulthood and developing your own ideals and path, instead of choosing to follow what others want you to do. Honey Gentry is a new UK-based singer/songwriter with an EP, Different Water, arriving on May 23. “Under Taurus” is quiet, deliberate and ambitious – its middle section may be a touch too slow – and Honey’s pristine, angelic voice provides an interesting contrast to her song in similar ways to Lana Del Rey and Tori Amos in their songs. So “Under Taurus” is clearly directed at the thinkers among us, particularly those who prefer to act on their thoughts regardless of what others may think, say or do.

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.

With its infectious (if borrowed) hook, “Finally” by Jonas Blue featuring RANI is a whole lotta fun!

“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.

“Called To Hear Your Voice” by Jesse Clegg, the son of the late and legendary Johnny Clegg

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.

“Soldier, Poet, King” is a contemporary folk/pop tale by NYC’s Vinny Marchi

“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.

Doobie Brothers – Black Water
LaBelle – Lady Marmalade
Hamilton, Joe Frank & Reynolds – Fallin’ In Love
David Bowie – Fame
Silver Convention – Fly Robin Fly

BILLCS Top 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2003

In this chart, you’ll see that I charted Mis-Teeq’s “Scandalous” a year before its North American release. Such were the days before You Tube and streaming! You can see where all the songs peaked and how many charts they appeared on in the BILLCS Top 30 Archive.

08 01 BRING ME TO LIFE Evanescence featuring Paul McCoy

03 02 CLOCKS Coldplay

01 03 THE REMEDY (I WON’T WORRY) Jason Mraz

NEW 04 YET ANOTHER DAY Armin van Buuren featuring Ray Wilson

05 05 GATES OF MIND Sterbinszky & Tranzident featuring Jewls

02 06 AT THE END iio

06 07 ROCK YOUR BODY Justin Timberlake

23 08 DUST.WAV Perpetuous Dreamer [aka Armin van Buuren]

10 09 DREAMS DJ Icey

11 10 MUNDIAN TO BACH KE (Beware of the Boys) Panjabi MC

04 11 JUST THE WAY I’M FEELING Feeder

15 12 SCANDALOUS Mis-Teeq

18 13 GET BUSY Sean Paul

07 14 GIVE YOU LOVE Original 3

29 15 MAKE LUV Room 5 featuring Oliver Cheatham

19 16 LOSING GRIP Avril Lavigne

17 17 AMERICAN LIFE (Felix Da Housecat remix) Madonna

21 18 PEACEKEEPER Fleetwood Mac

22 19 HEAVEN Live

09 20 VENUS (MEANT TO BE YOUR LOVER) Cor Fijneman featuring Jan Johnston

NEW 21 IN DA CLUB Beyoncé

28 22 LIKE A STONE Audioslave

13 23 BEAUTIFUL Snoop Dogg featuring Pharrell Williams and Uncle Charlie Wilson

NEW 24 WHERE IS THE LOVE Black Eyed Peas featuring Justin Timberlake

14 25 BREATHE (remixes) Blu Cantrell featuring Sean Paul

12 26 I DON’T WANNA STOP ATB

NEW 27 PUMP IT UP Joe Budden

NEW 28 BLINDED (WHEN I SEE YOU) Third Eye Blind

20 29 AM I ON YOUR MIND Oxygen featuring Andrea Britton

NEW 30 MR. BARTENDER (IT’S SO EASY) Sugar Ray

#BILLCSTop30 #665 – May 8/23

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO SHOWS

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

Radio GTA

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.

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – April 19/23 spotlighting songs by @JonasBlue & RANI, Sophia Habib & The Cloud Orchestra, @Meduzamusic & @PoppyBask @FrancescoYates

On the topic of AI (artificial intelligence) in the music industry…

In the coming weeks, there will be a lot of discussion in the music industry about AI and how it is currently being used. Right now there are no boundaries, so some producers are using it as an opportunity to flood streaming platforms with prefab releases by fake artists in their attempts to make big bucks.

I think this will soon all come crashing down, as platforms add in checks and balances. I do wonder about You Tube, because this clearly doesn’t violate their current policies and could soon affect them greater than they imagined. I think if AI is used properly and some governance is established, then it will undoubtedly be amazingly useful. But to take advantage of it like a new toy is not what the better-than-average music listener wants or needs.

I urge the music industry and all of the platforms to move swiftly with those checks and balances, and leave the toying around to those bedroom producers that have the time for it. Humans for the win!

*********************

Among the other 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, which this week runs the gamut through the 1980’s. And you’ll also see what songs debuted on the BILLCS Top 30 from 2018 to 2022 too!

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

JONAS BLUE, RANI, “Finally”

As is becoming more frequent these days, “Finally” is a new original by UK dance producer Jonas Blue that is written around a familiar song excerpt from the past. The original source is from American singer Harvey Mason’s 1979 R&B/dance release “Groovin’ You”, but the dance community and most of the pop world will recognize it as the hook from Gusto’s 1996 smash – except in the US – “Disco’s Revenge”. But as is the case with exceptional production, that hook is just the icing on the cake as the original song beautifully sung by Rani can easily stand on its own. “Finally” should have no problem finding its way up the national dance radio charts and getting it on in clubs for the rest of the year.

SOPHIA HABIB, THE CLOUD ORCHESTRA, “Lifeline” (live)

If you enjoy your contemporary electronic pop mixed with a real orchestra, then lend your ears to Sophia Habib’s original song “Lifeline”. Yes, this is a live recording which you can witness in its video above, and you know when a singer sounds this good that she can pretty well write her own ticket for whatever kind of record she wants to record. Sophia is a Netherlands-based vocalist who studied at the Rotterdam Conservatory of Music. Her off-the-floor vocal here is pristine, and the first song to pop into my head for a comparison was Beyoncé’s “Dangerously In Love” and her ballads from that era. Then along came thoughts of Kelly Clarkson, Tori Kelly and others who have a lot of power in their voices, but can easily switch to softer and sometimes suspenseful singing. “Lifeline” is an unapologetic story about looking for love and not needing anyone’s approval. Its candor is very inviting and Sophia Habib clearly has much more to offer.

MEDUZA, POPPY BASKCOMB, “Upside Down”

Italy’s Grammy-nominated production trio Meduza steers away from their pop-house revelations for “Upside Down” in partnership with UK singer/songwriter Poppy Baskcomb, who has recently worked with Tiësto, Joel Corry, and Jess Bays among others. “Upside Down” is vibrant and fresh techno-house whose sharp and infectious synths will vibrate right through you. Poppy’s vocal basks in the confusion of the moment, and it will all work together marvelously late at night under the bright dance floor lights.

FRANCESCO YATES, “Thunderbomb”

With guitar ablaze again after the immensely enjoyable “Jimi”, one of my 10 faves of 2022, Toronto’s uber-talented Francesco Yates returns with another edgier song than previous releases, the appropriately and ferociously titled “Thunderbomb”. This new one will certainly sound fab in concert as Francesco rips through his impressive guitar work, and fans who enjoy anyone from The Jonas Brothers through to Bryan Adams will get a kick out of it. It’s obviously inspired by the likes of Prince, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin and of course Mr. Hendrix, so be sure to crank “Thunderbomb” up to 11.

FEATURING

ALOK, SOLARDO, “Over Again”

Following up his recent high-powered collaboration with James Arthur, “Work With My Love”, Brazil’s Alok continues with a subtler house track, “Over Again”, in collaboration with UK producers Solardo, fresh off of their fan favourite from last year with Tiēsto, “I Can’t Wait”. Although “Over Again” isn’t a long song, I enjoy how it takes its time to get where it needs to go. The uncredited male vocal is supremely showcased in the first part of the song to help momentum build, and in the second part, it provides a much darker edge to “Over Again” which will simply slay club goers in the middle of a set.

BENJAMIN RUSSELL, “Frontier”

Because the video is available, you’re getting an advance taste of Montreal multi-talent Benjamin Russell’s new album Frontier, due on April 26 in the form of the title track. Frontier follows up his first release of 2023, Something In F Minor with fellow producer and musician Rob Stuart. And while electronics form the backdrop of “Frontier”, its fanciful story-telling vocal style will appeal to folk music fans too. “Frontier” actually revisits a song Benjamin released in 1996, and what’s appealing lyrically is the wonder in the protagonist’s “quest” for friendship and love. “Frontier” is ultimately a song that makes you feel good about yourself, and that your hopes, dreams and visions should not be ignored, particularly if eventually you wish to act on them.

MARK LEE, “Love To Be Loved”

Formerly of the Grammy Award winning band Third Day, Georgia’s Mark Lee is back with a gentle new original called “Love To Be Loved”, which might give you all kinds of misplaced déjà vu. I say “misplaced” because if it was released in the early 1980’s, the song would be keeping some great company in similar sounding smashes of the day by the likes of Dan Fogelberg, Paul Davis, or Christopher Cross. And that’s not a bad thing at all because Mark recovers a somewhat lost but successful pop sound and updates it in a solid new song. You’ll appreciate the genuine lyrics in “Love To Be Loved” about never ending love which fit like a glove over a chord progression which Mark says was waiting years for the right lyric.

K3SS, SALLY OH, “Please Don’t Lie”

“Please Don’t Lie” is an atmospheric, often taut mix of deep house and trance, which is the latest release for up-and-coming San Diego producer K3SS. American-Asian singer Sally Oh provides a versatile vocal that starts as a simple request of the title words, but as the song develops the tone becomes more directive – as in “if you keep lying, you’ll lose me”. The arrangement is full of stop and go that totally works, and deep house fans will be mighty happy with all of the big bassy beats.

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.

Melodifestivalen winner and EuroVision entry “Tattoo” by Sweden’s Loreen

“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.

Scooby-Doo fans rejoice! San Diego alternative performer Scoobert Doobert with “Gonna Go To Japan”

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.

20 year old Australian-Thai singer/songwriter Gabe Watkins with “choose u everytime”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

George Harrison – I Got My Mind Set On You
Pet Shop Boys – Domino Dancing
The Police – Don’t Stand So Close To Me
Glass Tiger – Someday
Duran Duran – The Reflex

BILLCS TOP 30 CHART DEBUTS 2018-2022

2022:

27 PUNCHING BAG Victor Perry

28 don’t you wanna know Syence featuring Britt Lari

2021:

23 LEAVE THE DOOR OPEN Silk Sonic

25 I WANT LOVE (Cat Dealers remix) Gryffin

27 MOON Chris Blue

2020:

16 ALL ON YOU Super Duper

24 SO READY (The Brothers Macklovitch remix) Raphael Saddiq

26 BUMMED Chet Porter & Alison Wonderland

2019:

25 RECOGNISE Lost Frequencies featuring Flynn

26 KISS AND TELL Mokita

27 WEEKEND Saxity

28 WILD Final DJs featuring Bright Light Bright Light

2018:

22 BUTTERSCOTCH Robotaki featuring Jamie Fine & FALCXNE

25 BETTER WITH YOU Jesse McCartney

26 LOST IN JAPAN Shawn Mendes

27 BE LIKE YOU Whethan featuring Broods

28 HURT YOU The Weeknd featuring Gesaffelstein

29 CAUTIOUS (Famba remix) Tyler Shaw

#BILLCSTop30 #637 – April 11/22

This new edition of the chart was a particularly tough one to compile. It’s because there’s so much music out there that I enjoy, even beyond those songs that I write about. So what happens is that the songs now move up and down and off the chart quickly. The oldest songs now in my Top 30 are 16 weeks old (8 appearances) – from the first chart of this year! – and just about any artist with a song on the chart for 10 weeks (5 appearances) has already released one or more songs in follow up. Songs deserve a longer shelf life – the maximum a song can remain on my chart is 20 weeks (10 appearances), and songs don’t reach 10 appearances very much anymore. The music industry currently alludes that the more you write and release, the more money and exposure you might get. At one level perhaps that’s true, but I don’t think that’s the case at all with most indie artists. This is a model that is fracturing that the music industry will have to mend soon. It means burnout – physical and financial – for indie artists, and a short life span for some very worthy songs.

That being said, there’s a new #1 and four debuts!

Make sure you read about my ONLINE RADIO AFFILIATES (see details after the post)!

Washington electronic duo Odesza achieve something rare on the chart – two consecutive number ones, nearly four years apart, which are their only chart appearances to date. Their jaw-dropping rework of Bettye LaVette’s 1965 R&B hit “Let Me Down Easy”, as “The Last Goodbye” (which will be the title of their upcoming album) charges up the chart 4-1, following the lead of their now-classic “Loyal” in the Fall of 2018. And yes, I’ve got my ticket to their concert in my city on their summer tour. Watch the magnetic video performance above too.

That means “High” by The Chainsmokers holds at #2, but it’s in great company, because next to their three number ones on the chart, it becomes their fourth #2, following “Let You Go”, “Sick Boy”, and “Everybody Hates Me”. Their new album So Far So Good arrives on May 13.

Frankmusik’s gorgeous “The Half Moon Came Up In The Sky” advances 6-3, becoming his highest reaching chart entry since 2013’s #1 “Map”.

One of the most melodic pop singles out there is “Don’t Wake Me Up” by Jonas Blue and Why Don’t We, which rises 7-5. It’s the second Top 5 entry for Jonas Blue, following 2016’s “Fast Car” (#3).

The Fastest Riser on the chart soars 25-8, and it’s “Aretha” by French dance producer Mercer. It’s his third Top 10 entry on the chart.

“Oxygen” climbs 11-9, becoming the 4th Top 10 on the chart for German producers Saxity, and it’s also their third Top 10 with Victor Perry on vocals. For Victor however, it’s his 13th Top 10 entry. Still, it’s hard to beat a team like this!

Rounding out the Top 10 is “Reflection”, a deep cut from Years & Years’ deluxe edition of the Night Call album, which moves 12-10. It’s Olly Alexander’s 10th song to reach the Top 10.

“Hold Me Down” by Italy’s Luca and Giam with vocal by Florida’s Sam Merkin is quickly becoming one of the chart’s highlights as it rises 19-11.

Florence Welch hasn’t sounded as good in years as on “My Love” (above), from Florence & The Machine’s upcoming album Dance Fever. The song climbs 28-17, and was recently remixed simply as the “Dave Glass Animals Remix”. You can check out what a fine job Dave did below.

“Tuff” by VASSY and gt_ofice is a fun national dance radio hit and moving up the chart nicely, as it advances 27-21.

To the surprise of no one, the highest debut on the chart belongs to Harry Styles with the magnetic “As It Was” at #25. It now has the task of following 2019/20’s “Lights Up” and “Adore You” to the top of the chart. Think Harry can do it again? “As It Was” also continues to prove what a great voice he has. It’s from his forthcoming album called Harry’s House.

At #27 is “First Time” by L.A.’s Damon Sharpe in collaboration with the #1 future house producer/DJ in Asia, Tokyo-based VIVID. “First Time” follows up last year’s “15 Minutes” (#5) by Damon with The Disco Fries.

“Fall Into Me” is destined to be an inescapable progressive electronic song of the summer for festival goers and fans of its L.A.-based producers, NGHTMRE and SLANDER, and its vocalist, Dylan Matthew, who all appear on the chart for the first time. “Fall Into Me” bows at #28.

Completing the chart at #30 is Toronto area native Ryan Shepherd with vocalist Bella Renee on their single “The High”. It’s Ryan’s fourth chart entry, and he’s playing an already sold-out show at The Garrison in Toronto on May 7 with LUN and Glass Petals.

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO AFFILIATES

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. And on Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm 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! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free, now brought to you by the Appalachian Pub & Eatery in Georgetown, Ontario!

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada – I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm with my New Music Pick of the Week on “The 3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments. A repeat of “The 3D Variety Show” now airs on Wednesdays at 7pm EST on Radio GTA . NOTE: The show will not air on April 12 and 13.

My New Music Pick of the Week also now airs on Radio GTA Wednesdays at 11:00 pm EST, Saturdays and Sundays at 3pm EST, on Halton Hills Online on Saturdays and Sundays at 10pm EST, on Mix88.ca‘s “Addictive Energy” show with Hunter Wilbur on Saturdays at 9pm EST, and now on WXNZ, community radio in Maine!

#BILLCSTop30 #635 – March 14/21

The pace of the music industry is not letting up, and with festival season setting in, I expect tons of dance music to flood the market. It’s making it harder to choose new songs for a Top 30 every two weeks, but after 24 years it will continue (he says, turning on new tunes to listen to hehe)! I’ve always intended for songs to have a long stay of 5+ appearances (10 weeks) and only rarely does that not work out. So I’m not sure if shorter stays on the chart will prevail on the chart for some songs, so I’ll wait on that. In any case, there’s a new #1 and four more debuts!

Make sure you read about my ONLINE RADIO AFFILIATES (see details after the post)!

Darren Hayes returns to #1 for the first time since 2007 with the intensely beautiful “Let’s Try Being In Love” (above). It’s his 5th #1, following 2002’s “Crush (1980 ME)”, and 2007’s “Step Into The Light”, “Me, Myself & I” and “How To Build A Time Machine”. It looks like Darren is planning much more new music to release this year, in addition to his already announced Australian tour, as he has quickly followed it up with 80’s flavoured, Prince-influenced “Do You Remember” (below).

The Chainsmokers continue to move up with “High” (above) climbing 6-4. It’s the current #1 song on dance radio right now, and they also have followed it up quickly with “iPad” (below).

Martin Garrix, Matisse & Sadko and John Martin soar 9-5 with “Won’t Let You Go”. It’s Martin’s 6th time in the Top 5. He’ll also be playing just about every festival around this year – you’ll recall he was sidelined with a fractured leg a few years back which prevented him from touring.

Frankmusik appears in the Top 10 for the first time since 2014’s “Dear Nicole” (#6) with “The Half Moon Came Up In The Sky”, which vaults 16-8.

Jonas Blue and Why Don’t We also both return to the Top 10 with their collaboration “Don’t Wake Me Up” rising 13-9.

While “Sweet Talker” leaves the Top 10, Years & Years moves up 15-10 with “Night Call” (above), the title track from the album. And there’s also another deep cut on the rise as the Deluxe Edition-only “Reflection” (below) jumps 26-18.

“Careless” by Mahalo, Milkwish and Lena Leon climbs 18-11, and is finally starting to make inroads on the dance radio airplay charts.

The Fastest Riser on the chart, not surprisingly, is Odesza’s massive “The Last Goodbye” (above), which revamps Bettye LaVette’s 1965 single “Let Me Down Easy”, to extraordinary effect. The song rises 23-13, and Odesza has already followed it up with another promising release with vocalist MARO called “Better Now”, below.

One bright indie release on the chart that should not be overlooked is Gabe James’ charming “Gracie”, which continues to make its way up the chart, moving 19-16.

Jully Black’s latest single, the empowerment jam called “No Relation” (above), moves up 28-20. She’s also recently released a duet with Grammy and Juno Award winner Dan Hill called “Something More”, below.

The Highest Debut at #24 has been around for a while, but it’s a song that just keeps giving. It’s the rollicking deep house track from the UK’s Shadowkey and Jordan Jane, “Prisoner”.

Italian producers Luca + Giam debut at #25 with the incredibly catchy 90’s flavoured house track “Hold Me Down” featuring singer Sam Merkin.

L.A.’s Michael Medrano makes it a two-fer on the chart as his collaboration with Funk LeBlanc of the “Dance Floor Version” of “It’s Your Thing” arrives on the chart at #27. It’s back-to-back with his #5 “I don’t wanna talk about love” (#26).

The fourth debut at #30 is a second visit to the chart for Glass Petals, the dance production side project for Felix Cartal and Johnny Jover, with “Leave Your Mind Behind”.

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO AFFILIATES

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

My New Music Pick of the Week also now airs on Radio GTA Wednesdays at 11:15 pm EST, Saturdays and Sundays at 3pm EST, on Halton Hills Online on Saturdays and Sundays at 10pm EST, and now on Mix88.ca‘s “Addictive Energy” show with Hunter Wilbur on Saturdays at 9pm EST.

#BILLCSTop30 #634 – February 28/22

The shortest month in the year has come and gone as quickly as ever, but it’s jammed packed with new music, some of which I hope to feature in the coming two weeks. In the meantime, there’s no shortage of activity on the new chart which features four unique new entries!

Make sure you read about my ONLINE RADIO AFFILIATES (see details after the post)!

I’m excited for what Swedish pop/rock band Louis Pax will bring us in 2022, as the 80’s inspired “Bad Things” continues in a second appearance at #1! This quartet with a diverse set of influences and the amazing lead vocals of Oscar Reingsdahl did a Q&A on Instagram last week and offered up an acoustic version of their recent single “Spanish Rain”. You can check out the new lyric video for that song below, with a follow up single expected soon!

Right now “Bad Things” is keeping #1 away from Darren Hayes’ “Let’s Try Being In Love” – a pretty hard thing to do – which moves up 3-2. The singer is currently in his native Australia and was a judge this weekend at their EuroVision entry contest.

The Weeknd’s 80’s soaked “Less Than Zero” from the Dawn FM is one to watch as it climbs 7-3. Somewhat surprisingly, it becomes The Weeknd’s second highest entry on my chart, next to 2016’s #1 “Starboy” with the now re-formed Daft Punk.

“High” is a song that invades my head and stays there for a long time whenever I play it. So, accordingly, The Chainsmokers have the Fastest Riser for the second chart in a row, soaring 16-6. Up next for the guys amid touring is the follow-up single “iPad”.

Martin Garrix gets his first Top 10 on my chart since 2018’s “High On Life” with “Won’t Let You Go” (14-9), in collaboration with Russia’s Matisse & Sadko, and vocalist John Martin, who obtains his second Top 10 a little over 9 years after Swedish House Mafia’s #1 “Don’t You Worry Child”.

Rounding out the Top 10 is UK queen of house Karen Harding, whose “Sweet Vibrations” climbs 12-10, becoming her 6th Top 10 entry since the end of 2020.

“Don’t Wake Me Up” by Jonas Blue and Why Don’t We climbs 19-13 and has designs on the Top 10 next week.

Years and Years has the rare feat of having three songs on the chart right now. While “Sweet Talker” peaked at #2 on the last chart, the title track (above) from the album Night Call climbs 20-15. And Olly Alexander’s voice has never sounded better, full of poise and control, than on the album track “Reflection”, which is only available on the deluxe versions of Night Call. “Reflection” (below) arrives on the chart at #26.

“The Half Moon Came Up In The Sky” (above) may be an inauspicious release for Frankmusik, but it’s turning out to be one of my favourite songs by him, as it climbs 24-16. He is currently re-recording his 2009 album Complete Me, and you can check out the first tastes of this new work “In Step Completed” and “Better Off As 2 Completed” below.

“Careless” by Mahalo and Milkwish featuring the recognizable voice of Lena Leon climbs 25-18, and is certainly one of the best and most infectious deep house tracks on release right now.

We definitely weren’t ready for Odesza’s first release in four years (aside from their Bronson collaboration). I guess “Loyal” (which reached #1 on this chart in 2018) was a jumping off point for dabbling in early R&B and fusing it with the duo’s progressive sounds. So they took Bettye LaVette’s 1965 R&B hit “Let Me Down Easy”, in full collaboration with the now-76 year old singer, and created the new epic “The Last Goodbye”, which arrives on the chart at #23. This one must be listened to multiple times to be appreciated. The depth of production and reverence for its source is extremely impressive, and by my ears, Grammy Award-worthy.

Next up at #27 is “Cold Shoulder”, the debut chart entry from mystery American dance producers Electric Polar Bears with UK singer/songwriter Katie Sky. This one has it all – top notch production, a distinct vocal, and engaging songwriting. The EPB’s are known for their entertaining live sets, and of course they wear polar bear disguises on their heads.

The fourth debut at #28 is chart-returnee Jully Black with “No Relation”. It’s the striking Canadian talent’s first chart entry since 2015’s “Fever” (#8). It’s also Jully’s 8th chart entry, and they go back to 1999’s “Rally’n” (#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.

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

ONLINE RADIO AFFILIATES

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

#BILLCSTop30 #632 – January 31/22

The winds of change are upon this chart with lots of activity in the Top 10, plus five debuts, one of which crashes onto the chart in the Top 10, something that used to happen in the earlier days of the chart, but not so much in recent years. Regardless of how busy the chart is, the only way for a song to get on the chart is that if I truly enjoy it a whole lot. That is the only criteria. Then they find their way up and around the chart in their own good time.

Just a quick note about my New Music Pick of the Week segment. It now airs on four separate online radio stations! These are segments that usually last between four and a half and seven minutes, depending on the length of song being featured. If you participate in or own an online radio station, feel free to connect with me if you’re looking for additional programming like this!

Make sure you read about my ONLINE RADIO AFFILIATES (see details after the post)!

Getting a second appearance at #1 is the standout track “Unbreakable” (above) by TELYKast and Sam Gray. You can check out singer/songwriter Sam Gray on the brand new Armin van Buuren single “Human Touch” (below) too!

Cutting quickly to the chase by moving 6-2 is “Sweet Talker” (above) by Years & Years and Galantis, culled from the new Years & Years album Night Call, which debuted at #1 in the UK last Friday. And with the release of that wonderful album, you’ll find the title cut (below) debuting on this chart at #28. Galantis also continues an awesome series of singles with their latest “When The Lights Go Down” (also below), a collaboration with Canadian duo DVBBS and Australian singer Cody Simpson, well worth checking out too.

Jay Bird gets a personal best on the chart as his recent single “Float”, with TWSTD ZOO and Harley Bird, climbs 5-3. The song passes the #4 peak last year of his track “Escape”.

The Fastest Riser on the chart for the second time in a row is the supremely catchy “Bad Things” by rising Swedish pop/rock band Louis Pax, soaring 14-4. The band’s follow up single “Spanish Rain” arrives later this week.

Another really infectious dance single, “i don’t wanna talk about love” by L.A.’s Michael Medrano, climbs 9-5.

“Kiss Of Life” rises 11-9 becoming Kylie Minogue’s 9th Top 10 on this chart (her first since 2015) and Jessie Ware’s 10th.

Exploding onto the chart at #10 is “Let’s Try Being In Love” (above), the most welcome first solo single by Darren Hayes in 10 years. It’s a lush, sophisticated song about self-realization that is accompanied by a video, somewhat inspired by the film “Call Me By Your Name”, which has an ending that will generate some tears. “Let’s Try” is Darren’s 13th Top 10 on this chart and the song to keep an eye on in the next two weeks. It accompanies his recent feature on buddy Louis La Roche’s song “Cold To Me” (below), which moves up 13-12.

The Weeknd’s two chart entries from his excellent Dawn FM album will continue to make waves in the coming weeks. “Less Than Zero” (above) moves up 22-16, and the single “Sacrifice” (below) climbs 27-21.

The Chainsmokers are back with the first single from their upcoming fourth album. The song is “High” (#26) and it premiered on Friday with an entertaining video, unless you’re afraid of heights. The guys are back in form with a new song that straddles pop and dance genres quite aptly. It’s their first chart appearance since 2019’s “Do You Mean” and their 12th overall since 2015.

British dance producer Jonas Blue often takes you to unexpected places with his songs that end up becoming long time favourites. A great example of that is his first hit, a poignant cover of Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car” (which reached #3 on this chart) that leaves the original intact while giving off its own unique impression. Jonas Blue’s 5th chart entry is “Don’t Wake Me Up” at #27, and once again features an unanticipated collaboration with L.A. pop/rock band Why Don’t We. The energy in the song is contagious and it works well. Why Don’t We were on this chart a year ago with their first entry “Fallin’ (Adrenaline)”, which reached #8.

The fifth debut at #29 is from L.A.-based, Colorado-born indie pop/rock artist Gabe James, whose talent and charm goes a long way with “Gracie”, evident in the visualizer video above, from his recent EP City of Lost Angels.

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

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

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

ONLINE RADIO AFFILIATES

Radio GTA – listen to The Big 20 from 10pm to Midnight EST as “The Musicman” James Rogers and I bring you the latest in new songs. And on Saturdays and Sundays from Noon to 6pm 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! It’s a different mix from Radio GTA’s show, and like that one it is also commercial free, proudly brought to you by Symposium Cafe Restaurant & Lounge in Georgetown, Ontario!

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada – I’m featured Tuesdays between 7 and 7:30 pm with my New Music Pick of the Week on the “3D Variety Show” with “The Musicman” James Rogers, and I also join occasionally for looks at music from our past through some live segments.

My New Music Pick of the Week also now airs on Radio GTA Wednesdays at 11:15 pm EST, Saturdays and Sundays at 3pm EST, on Halton Hills Online on Saturdays and Sundays at 10pm EST, and now on Mix88.ca‘s “Addictive Energy” show with Hunter Wilbur on Saturdays at 9pm EST.

#BILLCSTop30 #597 – September 28/20

This week, the BILLCS Music Blog turns 11! And this week I will be working on a new project that will support the blog and chart, and a great deal of new music and artists, if it all works out. So watch for more news on that front.

In the meantime, the new chart had four new entries while the upper region continues to look similar to the past four weeks of music.

What will Joel Corry do next for dance music, following the success of “Lonely” and “Head & Heart”, which continues at #1 on my chart for a third appearance (six weeks). Collaborating with co-writer and singer MNEK was definitely a blessing, and I hope they will reteam in the future. In the meantime, who will be next?

“Dancing Next To Me” by Greyson Chance is a dance anthem for anyone who’s been cheated or denied their opportunity to be with someone of mutual attraction. It moves up 3-2.

Greyson or the song at #3 seem poised to challenge “Head & Heart” in two weeks. And that song is “Undo My Heart” by Karen Harding & Digital Farm Animals, climbing 4-3. This one can go side-by-side with the likes of “Nobody’s Supposed To Be There” or “Un-break My Heart” in my books!

Also moving up from 6-5 is “Naked” by another dream team, which is British producer Jonas Blue and NYC singer/songwriter MAX. Both artists had huge events this past week. Jonas performed the virtual show Electronic World this past weekend; long-time fave and chart veteran MAX released his new album Colour Vision, and performed all of the songs virtually (and solo, where there are usually collaborators). Check out MAX’s amazing song with BTS’ Suga called “Blueberry Eyes” below.

UK indie singer/songwriter Benedict Cork has more new music this week just ahead of the release of his new EP Piano Tapes Vol. II. “One Last Song” continues its upward movement, rising 10-8. Watch for “Wild One” on Wednesday!

Giiants obtain their second Top 10 on my chart with their latest single “Waiting For You”, which climbs 13-9. They previously reached #3 with “Small Talk”. And of course two of the members, Cam and Adam, also recorded as DATABOY, who had three #1’s here in the last decade.

The Fastest Riser on the chart, for the second time in a row, is a blazing instrumental that will make you get out of your seat and move! That is mission accomplished for “House Is Happiness” by Germany’s Stan Sax, which soars 18-10!

L.A.-based trio Fames have a catchy winner with “scared of the dark”, which moves up 25-20.

“We Are Home” by Florida-based singer/songwriter Lauren Mayhew and Moroccan producer Mariline moves up a brisk 27-22. It’s also the second entry on the chart for indie dance label Tipsy Records!

The Highest Debut on the chart is the first entry for Sweden’s Pawl & Discrete with the irresistibly infectious, snappy house track “Type Like That”, which arrives at #24. It’s also the first release on the chart for dance label LoudKult.

Returning for the first time to the chart as a solo artist since 2011 is Sweden’s Agnes Carlsson with “Fingers Crossed” at #26. She of course was part of Avicii’s belated but amazing “Tough Love” last year, which got to #3. Agnes’ “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” was her last solo entry, which reached #7, but her first entry in 2009, “Release Me”, went to #1.

Debuting on the chart are the brothers Lynch, Ross and Rocky, aka The Driver Era, with the beautiful “Take Me Away” at #27. When she was a pre-teen, my daughter was a big fan of Ross’ TV show from early last decade, “Austin & Ally”, and I became acquainted with his music and additional talent by taking her to a couple of shows by his family band R5. Since then Ross has developed quite a resumé as an actor – I watch him in episodes of “The Chilling Adventures Of Sabrina” – and as a singer, even recording with the likes of dance producers Tritonal a few years ago. The Driver Era is a cool alternative pop/rock project that deserves to flourish.

The fourth new entry is by another one of my chart veterans, Bright Light Bright Light, who has been going strong in my music world since 2010! With the recent release of his fourth album Fun City, there is so much great music from which to choose, but the unbridled anthemic joy of “It’s Alright, It’s OK” resonates with me and it arrives at #28. It’s a collaboration with a trio of talented women from Montreal called Caveboy. The first single from Fun City, “This Was My House”, peaked at #5 this past summer.

A reminder that the music from my chart and blog are featured regularly on the new online radio station Radio GTA. You can hear their Big 20 on Wednesday evenings with ‘The Musicman’ James Rogers and listen for songs from the chart too 🙂 Scroll down the station’s main page to listen to lots of variety from across the decades! I’m the new music consultant for the station so you can expect even more in 2020 🙂 You can start by joining Radio GTA’s new interactive Facebook group too!!

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

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

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

Want to see what I’ve been listening to and charting for the past 22 years? Rummage through the BILLCS Top 30 Archive (where you can click on the link within) when you have a chance!!

#BILLCSTop30 #595 – August 31/20

In less than a month, it will be Autumn! But I’m not going to say goodbye to the summer and all of the great new music that it has given us, despite our ongoing COVID-19 circumstances.

There is a switch-up at the top, and it’s a big one! Joel Corry and MNEK soar from 6 to 1 with “Head & Heart”. This banger is one of the biggest hits of the year in the UK and on dance radio in North America. This year has been full of songs like “Head & Heart” which have great hooks or choruses.

Victor Perry obtains his highest placing in this chart as the enthralling “What I Deserve” (above) climbs 3-2. In the wondrous never-ending slew of new music by or featuring Victor, check out his new song with British producer Ficci called “Gone” (below). This electronic alt.soul is a perfect accompaniment to Victor’s solo EP Rewind.

“Dancing Next To Me” by Greyson Chance (above) also climbs up a notch from 4-3. Literally, it would be #1 had two stronger songs not been in front of it, so it’s a very ‘high’ #3! Also check out Greyson’s latest single, inspired by his personal and ongoing battle against anorexia, called “Bad To Myself” (below).

Toronto’s Francesco Yates will be following up his Superbad EP with more new music in September. In the meantime, “Bad Decisions”, the fun second single from that EP, holds at #5, and it’s Francesco’s highest ranking song on the chart to date.

Both Jonas Blue and MAX are back in the Top 10, this time together with “Naked” rising 12-8.

Florida-based progressive electronic producer Trivecta acquires his first Top 10 on this chart with “Leave It All Behind” (featuring vocalist/co-writer Fagin) moving up 11-9.

The Fastest Riser on the chart puts three huge bangers in the Top 10. Next to “Head & Heart” and “Rain On Me” there’s “Undo My Heart” by British artists Karen Harding and Digital Farm Animals. It vaults 23-10.

“Carry Me” by Canadian producer Dezza and vocalist/co-writer Mike Schmid continues to show resilience and climbs 17-11.

Right behind two weeks in a row is manic Australian producer/DJ Fisher with the irresistible “Wanna Go Dancin'”, rising 18-12.

In any other week, the beautiful “One Last Song” by UK indie singer/songwriter Benedict Cork, would be the fastest riser as it climbs 26-16. More new music is coming from Benedict this week!

It’s steady as it goes for another UK indie singer/songwriter, Jazz Mino, as her thoughtful and unique point of view in “Like A Drunk Girl” moves up 20-17.

L.A.-based production trio Giiants settles comfortably in the Top 20 as “Waiting For You” (above) rises 24-18. Even newer from Giiants is their collaboration with Disco Fries on “Believer” in a Giuseppe Marcellino remix (below).

While the more experimental nature of Troye Sivan’s new songs is certainly interesting, I had to wait for the arrival of his new EP In A Dream to find a song that’s as captivating as in either his albums Bloom or Blue Neighbourhood. The simply gorgeous title song, “In A Dream”, bows at #26. It’s Troye’s 8th song to appear in this chart.

If you want dance music that is nothing but sheer fun, then look no further as German producer Stan Sax’s “House Is Happiness” arrives at #27. It’s an instrumental full of saxxy goodness and a slamming beat. While Stan has been on the chart before as part of Saxity and, more recently, in his other pseudonym of ZEROBADDAYS, he has appeared on the chart one other time under the current moniker when he gave a refreshing remix to Fabian Luttenberger’s “Vague”, which got to #10 in late 2016.

The third debut belongs to new Philadelphia trio Time For Three with the beautiful “Vertigo” at #28. The lead vocal alternately reminds me of Steve Perry of Journey or Dennis De Young formerly of Styx. Love the strings arrangement!

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

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

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

Want to see what I’ve been listening to and charting for the past 22 years? Rummage through the BILLCS Top 30 Archive (where you can click on the link within) when you have a chance!!

#BILLCSTop30 #594, August 17, 2020

This chart marks the week where I close the door on my career in education in human resources. It’s a bittersweet feeling, especially during these strange times where you can’t say goodbye to people in person, though that will happen later.

This also opens the door for me to spend more time with music and working on music projects. I’m looking to help individuals or businesses fill a gap with whatever knowledge and skills I can bring to table. If you’re interested in talking with me more about it, you can drop a line to me in one of the following three places: On Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook.

Getting back to the new chart, the Top 2 hold steady, but there’s a lot of movement, and for the first time in quite some time, there are 6 new entries. Songs are going up and down the chart faster than ever because of the volume of great new music out there.

Locked in at the top though is Lady Gaga & Ariana Grande’s “Rain On Me” (above), now in its 4th appearance at #1. It’s the first song to obtain 4 appearances (8 weeks) at the top since “Push” by Kazaky last Fall. Also staying put at #2 is “Never Let Me Down” by VIZE and Tom Gregory (below), which is starting to break out on dance music radio in the US.

Victor Perry’s lovely and sad “What I Deserve” (above) glides up to #3, to tie with “Sail” (with Levi) as his highest charting song to date. Now it’s in a battle with the top two when they start to weaken a bit. A new release featuring Victor’s vocal is “Ma Cherie” (below) by Swedish producer Behmer, who was also involved in the recent cover of Modern Talking’s “You’re My Heart, You’re My Soul”, which also featured Victor’s vocal. This is a delightful slice of Eurodisco that sounds very little like our Victor, with his vocal pitched down, though you can certainly recognize his phrasing and some of his vocal qualities amid the production.

Another one to keep your eyes on is “Head & Heart” by Joel Corry and MNEK, still at the top of the UK charts, as it climbs 10-6. It’s actually a perfect compliment to the top two songs so we’ll see what happens.

Rufus Wainwright has his first Top 10 hit on this chart since 2007 as the whimsical “You Ain’t Big” (above) rises 13-9. Right behind it is Canadian pop/R&B singer/songwriter Tafari Anthony with the cutting lyrics of “Centerfold” (below), which moves up 12-10.

My discussions are limited for the songs on the rise, but the Fastest Riser on the chart belongs to two gents who are no stranger to the chart, but had never worked together until now. UK producer Jonas Blue and US singer MAX make a formidable pair as “Naked” soars 21-12. A bit of behind the scenes trivia: One of its songwriters is the much-praised Ed Drewett, who has been a co-writer on huge hits by One Direction (“Best Song Ever”), The Wanted (“Glad You Came”), Little Mix (“Black Magic”), and even more Jonas Blue (“Rise”).

Two recent debuts also make promising moves. “Wanna Go Dancin'” by Australian dance producer Fisher (above) climbs 25-18, while UK indie singer/songwriter Jazz Mino rises 28-20 with her lyrical gem “Like A Drunk Girl” (below).

The Highest Debut on the chart, like “Rain On Me” and “Head & Heart” is one of the ‘bangers’ of 2020. It’s “Undo My Heart” by British dance singer Karen Harding in collaboration with co-songwriter and co-producer Digital Farm Animals (aka Nick Gale). “Undo” arrives on the chart at #23. It’s Karen’s first appearance, but the second for Digital Farm Animals, who got to #11 with Alan Walker and Noah Cyrus on “All Falls Down” two years ago.

L.A. based trio Giiants return to the chart for the first time in over two years with the insanely catchy “Waiting For You” at #24. Their earworm “Small Talk” previously reached #3, and in another incarnation, members Cam and Adam (as DATABOY) topped this chart three times in 2011, 2012 and 2013 respectively with “Just Once”, “Dreams Are Gold”, and “Memorize Me” (with Rune RK).

The title song from Jessie Ware’s elegant electronic dance/disco album “What’s Your Pleasure” arrives at #25 to join “Save A Kiss”, which peaked at #3 two weeks ago.

UK singer/songwriter Benedict Cork, who has written for Adam Lambert and others, returns to the chart with his engaging ballad “One Last Song” at #26. Benedict’s “Breaking Hearts” reached #3 last Fall.

If you couldn’t get enough of The Brothers Macklovitch’s remix of Raphael Saadiq’s “So Ready” like me – it peaked at #4 here a while back – then you will equally enjoy the first official single from les bros Canadiens (who are A-Trak and Dave from Chromeo) which is a soulful slice of house music called “Give Love To Get Some” (featuring vocal by Leven Kali) at #28.

After going viral during the past few years with the now-club staple “U Got That”, Atlanta duo Halogen return to the chart for the first time in almost three years with “The Reason”, featuring vocalist and songwriter Kelli-Leigh, at #29. Halogen’s “Can’t Resist” previously peaked at #14.

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

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

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Want to see what I’ve been listening to and charting for the past 22 years? Rummage through the BILLCS Top 30 Archive (where you can click on the link within) when you have a chance!!