Ryan Shepherd – BILLCSMUSIC BLOG

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – September 27/23 spotlighting new songs by @BrightLightx2 #PeteCho @MarcoFoster_ #TheBoyFromTheSouth

Does music make you happy? If not it should, and perhaps you may need to find something new to listen to. All the more reason to read this week’s BILLCS New Music Report and check out the eight songs in the pop, dance and alternative genres within to see if any of them tickles your fancy in any way. I’m lucky to have so many decades of familiar music at my disposal that I can shift gears any day and pick out songs that I’ll always enjoy. For those of you whose vocabulary of songs is still growing, I especially encourage you to break down barriers with your choices and develop your own unique repertoire of favourites.

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five pop hits which wave our domestic flag in conjunction with some Canada Walk of Fame inductions that are taking place this week. And in case you missed them on Monday, you’ll learn what are currently #1 on the BILLCS Top 30 and the chart’s Fastest Riser.

The BILLCS New Music Report is 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 the photo above the artist’s name and song title to hear the song or watch the video.

SPOTLIGHTING

BRIGHT LIGHT BRIGHT LIGHT, “Down To One”

NYC-based Bright Light Bright Light continues to mine an impeccable roster of pop/dance releases with “Down To One”. BLx2 (aka Wales-born Rod Thomas) is in splendid voice in this tale about attraction to another guy for whom he’d literally use up all but one of his feline nine lives to be with. It also fits into the positive adage about having one life, so be sure to live it. The synth work shimmers, the melody glimmers, and that all makes “Down To One” a Bright Light Bright Light song that you’ll have on repeat.

PETE CHO, “Fan of You”

“Fan of You” is one of those rare songs that instantly creeps under your skin and stays there, thanks to a simple but effective hook that would resonate even more if performed in person. Chicago’s Pete Cho has crafted a warm and inviting pop release, which also features an uncredited rap two-third’s way through that fits like a glove, providing a bit of extra dimension to the song. “Fan of You” is quite different from the songs I’ve written about before either by or produced by Pete, and I’m all for following whatever path it takes him on.

MARCO FOSTER, “Movies”

Marco Foster is an NYC-based indie singer/songwriter who I’ve written about before (albeit not for several years now) and seen in concert early on in his career. After releasing a self-titled album of standards two years ago which show off his skills as an interpreter, Marco is back with new original music that seems to find his calling with the ballad “Movies”. It’s a classically-structured pop song that looks at movies through a romantic fantasy lens. The highlights are Marco’s admirable vocal and the song’s simple but effortless-sounding arrangement. “Movies” is a delight for lovers of pop ballads – they don’t often write ’em like this these days – and the many talents of Marco Foster are sure to surface in future releases.

THE BOY FROM THE SOUTH, “Man Down”

“Man Down” follows up the most recent whimsical delight from Spain’s The Boy From The South, “Amazing-Man”, which reached #3 on the BILLCS Top 30 in the spring. There’s something really refreshing about these two songs, how they combine folk-style story-telling with effervescent pop melodies and create light-hearted fun. The Boy from the South has already garnered attention in London and Mexico City for his live shows, and a video for “Man Down” is forthcoming. Thanks to The Boy’s engaging lyrics and personality, like “Amazing-Man”, “Man Down” is a grower that’s elevated into something larger than would normally meet the ear. He’s got a special niche that he’s riding that will broaden in time, so now is the perfect time to get to know the songs by The Boy From The South.

FEATURING

RYAN SHEPHERD, DARLA JADE, “Deep of the Night”

Of late, Canadian dance producer Ryan Shepherd has been crafting anthemic songs that tell a story or shape a scenario that are highly relatable to his club going audience. Witness “Hello Sunday”, which became a series of same-named Sunday afternoon small club events, and his current BILLCS Top 30 charting song “Move It (Control My Mind)”, which can easily become the centrepiece of a frenetic club set. A bright vocal by Darla Jade sets the stage for the excitement that ensues in “Deep of the Night”, which is a prime candidate to kick off a fun deep house set at 2 a.m. Ryan Shepherd continues to keep the groove steady in his second release for Sonny Fodera’s Solotoko label.

DAVID ARCHULETA, “Afraid To Love”

I’m continue to enjoy hearing Utah’s David Archuleta reveling in a fun pop/dance style, of which “Afraid to Love” is his latest release. He continues to embrace it through matching his songs with fresh and enjoyable videos. The song is about being bold at the right time to embrace your love of another person, no matter what others say or think. I’ve been writing a lot about Swedish singer Darin, with whom David has a lot in common in terms of talent, style and joyous recent pop songs. As much as I enjoy what “Afraid to Love” has to offer, I’d love to see David and his team take a few cues from Darin, and allow his voice to soar more again in future songs. In the meantime, “Afraid to Love” and its video will certainly put a smile on your face, like when David is watching old clips of himself on TV in the video, allowing him to keep his past close but grab the future with gusto.

LOST FREQUENCIES, TOM GREGORY, “Dive”

It’s been a while since a song by Belgium’s Lost Frequencies (aka Felix de Laet) has come to my attention, though his collaboration with Calum Scott a few years back, “Where Are You Now”, became a huge worldwide hit and has nary been out of the public ear. His latest collaboration with vocalist Tom Gregory (who sung on “Never Let Me Down” by VIZE, which reached #2 on the BILLCS Top 30 in 2020), called “Dive”, puts him back into deep house territory with an acoustic guitar melody blending with piano to create a satisfying backdrop for Tom’s familiar but engaging vocal. It’s hard to believe that Lost Frequencies first came to prominence with a remix of a country song “Are You With Me” back in 2015, which went to #1 throughout Europe and in the UK. “Dive” is a prime candidate for international dance music radio airplay so be sure to check it out.

TYLER GUNN, “A Million Miles”

Tyler Gunn is a new rock singer/songwriter from Toronto whose sound, like Steve Lacy and Black Pumas for example, is often an exception rather than a rule. “A Million Miles” is about confronting your feelings and making yourself “feel” – often a very individual thing to grasp and understand. The song has striking garage rock guitar sounds which recall early Lenny Kravitz, and percussion by veteran drummer Matt Johnson, who performed with the late great Jeff Buckley. Tyler’s voice gets a little buried in the soundscape, but “A Million Miles” eventually resonates with you through an intriguing young artist who clearly doesn’t want you to try and predict what he does next.

BILL’S NEW MUSIC PICK OF THE WEEK

and

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

My New Music Pick of the Week is a 5-7 minute radio segment that airs more than 30 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

Swedish language hit “Satellit” by Darin (29-21)

“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”.

It’s L.A. rock trio Cannons with “Loving You”

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.

“Cult” is by Barcelona-born, London-based talent Avi Kytes

“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.

Five Man Electrical Band – Signs (1971)
April Wine – Cum Hear The Band (1975)
Chilliwack – Rain-O (1970 or 1977)
Max Webster – A Million Vacations (1979)
Rush – Tom Sawyer (1981)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Troye Sivan gets his third #1 on the chart with the addictive “Rush”

#BILLCSTop30 #673 – August 28/23

As the music world continues to be moving at a faster pace than ever, trying to give new releases the full attention they deserve becomes challenging, so if I haven’t come to an opinion about a song after an initial listen, I’ll defer it to the following week. Regardless it keeps the chart fresh and the activity continuous. And if my top two songs hadn’t been competing with each other, the last chart’s #1 would be at the top again.

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.

So replacing Conan Gray’s brilliant “Never Ending Song” at #1 is Alesso’s stunning “Without You”, which becomes the Swedish producer’s first #1 on this chart. And it has challengers for the top in two weeks immediately below.

Benson Boone inches up 4-3 with “Coffee Cake”, a deeper cut from his EP Pulse, as last year’s “In The Stars” continues to attract attention at Top 40 radio.

Making a significant move is “Rush” by Troye Sivan, which soars 10-4. It’s definitely one of Troye’s best releases, putting him back into dance music territory with his solo releases, and now receiving traction at dance music radio. It’s from his forthcoming album Something To Give Each Other.

Francesco Yates replaces himself in the Top 10 with the chart’s Fastest Riser and his sixth visit to the Top 10, “Little Rockstar” (16-7) from the EP of the same name, while “Thunderbomb” departs the Top 10 after peaking at #9.

German Grammy winner Purple Disco Machine gets his first Top 10 with the sophisticated funky dance/pop of “Substitution” (11-8) in collaboration with French producer Kungs and vocalist Julian Perretta. It’s Kungs’ second visit to the Top 10, following 2021’s fun #2 “Never Going Home”.

Ryan Shepherd’s five entries to the chart have now all reached the Top 10 thanks to “Move It (Control My Mind)”, which advances 13-9. Vocalist Heather Janssen also picks up her second visit to the Top 10, following 2019’s “Who’s Gonna Love U” (#6). You can also check out Ryan’s recent release with Malou called “Feel So Good” below.

Hazell Dean’s bright new original dance release “100% Pure Love” continues to advance, moving up 20-13.

All of the debuts from the last chart are off to a great start, all moving up seven or more places. Leading the way is “Strings” by MAX, JVKE and Bazzi, rising 25-17. JVKE is also at #6 this week as a part of “Angel, Pt. 2”. I’m looking forward to his show today in my city too!

UK singer/songwriter Sam Dickinson’s pop/dance release “Falling” climbs 26-19. Make sure you follow Sam on your socials to find out what more is happening with this and his other upcoming releases and concerts!

GATTUSO’s third visit to this chart with “Unstoppable” (above) rises 27-20, while the debut release by American dance/electronic producer Voyajer, “Come Around” (below), climbs 28-21. You can also check out GATTUSO’s recent release “Moonlight” (with Laidback Luke and Antrex) above.

The potent deep house and soulful wallop of “What You Need” by Steve Angello and WH0 arrives as the Highest Debut at #23. Steve is the second member of Swedish House Mafia to visit the chart. Axwell had two Top 10’s in 2005-6 with “Watch The Sunrise” (#7) and “Feel The Vibe” (#2), while Swedish House Mafia of course has charted twice, with #1 “Don’t You Worry Child” in 2012, and last year with “Turn On The Lights Again” (#3, with Fred Again.. and Future). Only Sebastian Ingrosso has yet to chart as a solo artist. And mysterious British producers WH0 previously reached #12 in 2021 with “Better Day” (with Nile Rodgers and Josh Barry).

UK dance producers Marvel Riot arrive on the chart for the first time with “Want My Lovin'” (#26) in collaboration with sensational powerhouse vocalist MOYA. The song is based on the instrumental hook of Felix’s 1992 club smash “Don’t You Want Me” (which in turn was based on Jomanda’s 1990 release “Don’t You Want My Love”). MOYA previously reached #15 with UK/Irish producers Menerva last year with “You”.

Alex Sampson is a new pop singer out of Atitokan, Ontario, a small rural town north west of Thunder Bay. He has popular Instagram and Tik Tok pages, which helped him land a deal with Warner Music. His fun track “WANT YOU!” bows at #29 and reminds me a lot of one of my favourite Canadian bands, Marianas Trench.

Also making his debut on the chart is Toronto-based pop/soul singer JRDN with “What Do I Got To Do” at #30. JRDN (aka Jordon Croucher) is in comeback mode, having had big domestic radio hits in 2010 that went Gold, “U Can Have It All” and “Like Magic”. JRDN’s rich, versatile vocal is the star of this release, which is picking up steam at Top 40 radio in Canada.

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.

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.

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – July 19/23 spotlighting new songs by @Grabbitz @Toniiamusic & @officialDuncan @thevoyAJer @DylanConrique & @_AlexanderStew @Whamofficial @AJRidgeley @GeorgeMofficial

The Report is back after a two week absence, which allowed me to vacation commitment-free in NYC, though of course I was often listening to new music at the hotel when I wasn’t out seeing Illenium in concert for the second time, or giving myself the dose of that ‘buzz’ that only The Big Apple can offer. I have nine new songs for your listening pleasure this week, including a spritely remix of a UK 80’s hit that never got the same attention in North America. My absence did create a long list of songs I’m enjoying which sadly will have to be whittled down, but I expect to bring you the best of the lot in the coming weeks.

Among the features in the Report, you can check out my pick of the week, along with one from the host of online radio’s “Top 40 Timeline”, “Big Daddy” Russ Horton, plus “Modern Hype” online radio host Hunter Wilbur’s “Bop of the Week”. “The Musicman” James Rogers from online radio’s “3D Variety Show” has his Classic Five pop hits feature, which this week teleports us back to 1970-71. And in case you missed them on Monday, you’ll find out what are the #1 and Fastest Riser songs on the BILLCS Top 30.

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

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

SPOTLIGHTING

GRABBITZ, “Hero”

“Hero” is a hard-hitting and memorable progressive electronic release from L.A.-based, Buffalo-raised Grabbitz (aka Nick Chiari), who has recently been on tour opening for Dabin, and of course has collaborated famously with Rezz as well as Wooli, VALORANT, Subtronics, and Robert DeLong. It’s a song that you could associate with an unmade superhero movie, TV show or video game, and its heavy synth rhythm track just begs for accompanying images. What really makes this song stand out are Grabbitz’s verses mid-song, set only to minimal synths – and then there’s this wicked drop! The piano coda is also sublime and fitting. Dance music fans, “Hero” is certain to be one of your new favourites!

TONIIA, DUNCAN, “Broken Heart”

“Broken Heart” is the intriguing collaboration between German progressive electronic producer Toniia (aka Emre Yilmaz) and Denver-born pop/R&B/hip hop vocalist/songwriter Duncan, who at times in his career has worked with Pitbull, Timbaland and Afrojack, among many others. The song recounts those times where a relationship has just ended and the plethora of emotions that are stuck in our heads with no immediate way out. Duncan’s raw, streetwise vocal is really unique – alternately soulful, anguished, and self-loathing – while Toniia’s production is forceful when necessary, but more often is the understanding melody behind the pain of the lyrics. “Broken Heart” has been in the works for a couple of years, and Toniia and Duncan found a way to refine it and make it work even better.

VOYAJER, “Come Around”

Voyajer is talented new American dance producer A.J. Cassarella, and “Come Around” is his debut release. The energy of this track is contagious, which makes it a most pleasing and unexpected summer banger. Voyajer has quality on his mind with his organized and crisp production, with well-placed synths and beats that revolve around a splendid uncredited male vocal. The layers of effects stand out on their own rather than being submerged into a blurry melting pot, and help the vocal really soar. “Come Around” is a crackerjack start for Voyajer and I can’t wait to see where his next releases will take us.

DYLAN CONRIQUE, ALEXANDER STEWART, “Birthday Cake”

Now you might be going, wait a minute, wasn’t “Birthday Cake” released last year? Why yes it was, as a solo track which went viral by Dylan Conrique, the 19 year old San Francisco-area born singer and actress, noted for her role on TV’s “The Rookie”. It’s a gorgeous, tender multi-tissue song, written for a friend after the loss of her mother to cancer, and the addition of Toronto’s Alexander Stewart and his smooth tones to the song really enhances it and gives it another perspective with another voice. This duet is highly deserving of your attention, so don’t sleep on it!

BONUS!

WHAM!, “Club Tropicana” (Balearic Breeze remix)

To celebrate the reissue of their Singles collection on vinyl, “Club Tropicana” by Wham! is given a fresh official remix. It’s an appropriately refreshing, bubbly update of a song that never became a hit in North America, and takes us back to the pre-solo career days of George Michael, when he was writing songs that tapped into the social consciousness of youth of the day. “Club Tropicana” celebrates the good times to which we all look forward, and the majority of Wham!’s early songs hold up well 40 years later. Be sure to check out the “Wham!” documentary on Netflix, which explores George’s friendship with bandmate Andrew Ridgeley, how important they were to each other, and how critical both of them were to the success of Wham!

FEATURING

MOBIUS RADIO, “Can We All”

“Can We All” is another installment in the forthcoming Mobius Radio album project, brought to you and curated by Canadian musician and producer Dylan Hennessy along with input and inspiration from renown broadcaster Jeff Woods. The theme of the project is a pirate radio station, and I’m looking forward to the completed result. “Can We All” is a fine slice of melodic rock that showcases Dylan’s guitar work as well as an instrument called boomwhackers, which are tuned percussion tubes. The Mobius Radio album is due in August as well as a live launch in Toronto.

GRAYTheBand, K-RIZ, “‘Bit Late”

Edmonton’s Gray Ford, under his collective’s name GrayTheBand, is back with another winning track, “‘Bit Late”, from a forthcoming album. Like predecessor “All Done” (also the title of the album), “‘Bit Late” features a potent vocal by Gray that’s the calling card for this kind of soulful slice of pop/rock. Rapper K-Riz, also from Edmonton, is added into the mix with some slick verses midway that remind me of acclaimed Canadian rapper K-Os. All in all, “‘Bit Late” is another highly listenable track whose somewhat retro appeal comes off as fresh and worthy of your consideration in anticipation of the full album.

TISOKI, “Wish You Weren’t Here”

With the release of his new EP Euphoria, I dive deeper into the musical world of Bradley Edwards, otherwise known as Tisoki, after writing up another track on the EP called “Let You Down” (with Pauline Herr) a while back. And the versatility of the songs on Euphoria (with contributions from San Holo and Fabian Mazur, among others) are sure to be the honey to attract fans of all kinds of electronic dance music, though at times it’s quite unconventional. “Wish You Weren’t Here”, co-written with British electronic artist joegarratt – featured not long ago himself in these blog pages with his track “uncanny” – is a head-scratcher at start, a brisk electronic bop with some affecting vocals in the first half of the song which lay the emotional foundation. But the rest of the song draws from drum ‘n bass and is sure to make fans of that sub-genre jump and dance along. “Wish You Weren’t Here” is a grower and might become one of the favourites on the EP for Tisoki fans.

ME ND ADAM, “Best of Me”

“Best of Me” is a gritty new rocker from Austin, Texas duo Me Nd Adam, whose song “Get The Money” I wrote about almost two years ago. Since that time, Vince Winik and Adam Walker have opened for The Killers in concert, thanks to an endorsement from the band on their social media, and “Best of Me” actually emerged from a songwriting session with George Gekas of The Revivalists. While I can see why Killers fans are drawn to the anthemic, no-nonsense style Me Nd Adam puts forth in “Best of Me”, the artist whose sound comes closest to mind on this track is 2010’s alternative faves Passion Pit. “Best of Me” is solid stuff that’s meant for live performances, and is culled from Me Nd Adam’s upcoming album American Drip Pt. II.

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 25 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

The infectious and summery banger “Move It (Control My Mind)” is by two Canadians, dance producer Ryan Shepherd and vocalist/songwriter Heather Janssen

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

From the SZNZ: Autumn album, it’s Weezer with “What Happens After You?”

HUNTER J. WILBUR’S BOP OF THE WEEK

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

It’s a snappy dance bop “A Little Bit of Summer” by Nate VanDeusen, Horizon Blue and Michael Hausted

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

The Guess Who – American Woman (1970)
Carpenters – (They Long To Be) Close To You (1970)
The Shocking Blue – Venus (1970)
Edwin Starr – War (1970)
Paul & Linda McCartney – Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey (1971)

BILLCS Top 30 #1 SONG

Norway’s Matoma grabs #1 this week with “Won’t Follow You Home” with American vocalist James Droll

BILLCS Top 30 FASTEST RISER

For a second chart in a row, Alesso’s “Without You” is the Fastest Riser, soaring 17-6

#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

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.

#BILLCSNewMusicReport – June 29/23 spotlighting new songs by @RyShepherdmusic & @HeatherJanssen @projectASTRO_io @AlexSavanin

I heard several instrumentals during the last week, and two are featured in this week’s report. Never underestimate the power of a good instrumental!! You won’t hear ’em on pop radio anymore.

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, whose choices this week sample the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. And I’ll take you back to my BILLCS Top 30 from this week in 2015 – hard to believe it’s 8 years for these songs already!

The BILLCS New Music Report is 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 the photo above the artist’s name and song title to hear the song or watch the video.

SPOTLIGHTING

RYAN SHEPHERD, HEATHER JANSSEN, “Move It (Control My Mind)”

“Move It” is going to be one of this summer’s crowd-pleasing dance floor fillers. Once the song gets going it becomes irresistibly fun, and those who enjoy Fisher and Don Diablo will get into “Move It” quickly. The song teams up producer Ryan Shepherd, a regular visitor to this blog, with fellow Canadian, vocalist/songwriter Heather Janssen, whose previous collaboration “Who’s Gonna Love U” was a delight that reached #6 on my BILLCS Top 30 in 2019. Although it doesn’t slam as hard as other dance tracks, the rhythm is the key and “Move It” will help you keep your groove on.

ASTRO, “Runaway”

ASTRO is an electronic dance music collective who released their new album Los Angeles as an NFT earlier this year. It includes contributions from Reo Cragun, Tisoki, Pauline Herr, Mark Johns, Camoufly, and Lost Boy, with TWERL, Daniel Allan and helloworld all behind my featured track “Runaway”. It’s affecting, lyrical future bass-flavoured pop with a solid vocal by whoever is singing it, and ASTRO uses effects judiciously to foster the emotions in the song. Fans of Porter Robinson and Audien will particularly relish the vibe and get the most out of “Runaway”.

ALEX SAVANIN, KIRILL MALAHOV, BRANCHEY, “Strange”

“Strange” is a sophisticated-sounding slice of dance pop brought to you by Russian producer/songwriter Alex Savanin in collaboration with fellow producer and sound engineer Kirill Malahov, and Canadian singer/songwriter Branchey. The song is a co-write by Alex and Branchey, and although you may not have heard of any of these artists before, between them they have years of experience in the worldwide music business. The slick results are proof of this. Alex has written for film and TV and Branchey’s versatile and instantly appealing vocal transcends genres. “Strange” is classy and timeless, and a delightful surprise to add to your favourite pop/dance playlist.

FEATURING

AASH MEHTA, “The Prince”

When Chicago’s Aash Mehta isn’t writing complex and often romantic electronic pop, he can on occasion deliver a fun house bop, and when he does it’s a zinger, witness his 2021 release “Back To You” which got to #5 on the BILLCS Top 30. “The Prince” could easily have been quite the catchy affair just as an instrumental, as Aash uses a male voice to provide a melody without singing words over a swift house rhythm. But he aptly overlays the track with an uncredited soulful female vocalist singing a single line which is repeated, and becomes a second hook and focal point in the song that has lots of sync potential. With all of what’s going on inside, “The Prince” is toe-tapping ear candy that you’ll want to play again and again.

CID, TRUTH x LIES, “Caroline”

New York producers CID and duo Truth x Lies unite for the first time on the clever, rollicking house instrumental “Caroline”. Aside from its brisk pace, what sets “Caroline” apart from other tracks is the piano work, which is upfront and in your face, and as the groove develops you’ll find yourself completely immersed in the piano rhythm. Put it all together with its fast house beats, and you’ll know why house music started with emphasis on piano sounds back in the 80’s in its classic hooks and remixes. So “Caroline” is a fine, if perhaps indirect return to that sound, making it fresh and cool in a different way, in a collaboration that should be repeated.

CLOUDCHORD, “Shaka”

After many recordings of low-fi jazz/pop, Austin’s Cloudchord (aka masterful Emmy Award winning musician/producer Derek VanScoten) returns to dance music after a long absence for the instrumental “Shaka”. It’s actually more of a happy hybrid of both styles, leaning more in the dance vein because of its funky upfront bass playing. “Shaka” is light and refreshing, and will go down just fine on a hot summer day. It would also make superb theme music for a radio program or TV show.

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 25 times/week on online radio stations around the world.

It’s Gareth Emery with vocalist Maria Lynn in the Ben Gold remix of “Missing You”

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

“Never Ending Song” by Conan Gray has grown on our own Big Daddy a lot!

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.

Ed Sheeran teams up with red hot country singer Luke Combs for “Life Goes On”

“THE MUSICMAN” JAMES ROGERS’ CLASSIC FIVE

Smith – Baby It’s You (1969)
49th Parallel – Twilight Woman (1969)
Al Stewart – Year Of The Cat (1977)
Alan Parsons Project – Eye In The Sky (1982)
Moody Blues – I Know You’re Out There Somewhere (1988)

BILLCS Top 30 FLASHBACK CHART – 2015

My how time sometimes seems like it flies by! And Francesco Yates, Cobi, and James Bay all have songs on the current BILLCS Top 30!

06 01 I WANNA BE (FREE) Brandyn Burnette
03 02 NO WORDS Erik Hassle
01 03 CHASING STARS Corey Niles Featuring Alex Lacasse
04 04 AERONAUT Parralox
05 05 I’LL BE THERE Chic Featuring Nile Rodgers
08 06 CAN’T DENY MY LOVE Brandon Flowers
07 07 MARVIN GAYE Charlie Puth Featuring Meghan Trainor
12 08 SENSATION Antonio Giacca
19 09 SHINE Years & Years
14 10 GHOST TOWN Adam Lambert
11 11 WE ARE THE NIGHT Steve Grand
17 12 DEJA VU Giorgio Moroder Featuring Sia
15 13 HEY NOW Matt & Kim
20 14 BEAUTY NEVER LIES Bojana Stamenov
16 15 ROADS Lawson
18 16 WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT Smashing Satellites
02 17 NO TALK River Tiber
23 18 GUILTY AS SIN Dan Talevski
25 19 BETTER TO BE LOVED Francesco Yates
26 20 WALKING THROUGH THE FIRE Cobi
24 21 THIS SUMMER’S GONNA HURT LIKE A MOTHER FUCKER Maroon 5
09 22 FEVER Jully Black
10 23 HOLD BACK THE RIVER James Bay
New 24 EAST SIDE BAY Mi Disguise
13 25 STING Eric Saade
New 26 UMA THURMAN Fall Out Boy
21 27 DESIRE Years & Years
22 28 SEE YOU AGAIN Wiz Khalifa Featuring Charlie Puth
New 29 GIRL FROM SWEDEN Eric Saade
27 30 CHAINS Nick Jonas

#BILLCSTop30 #642 – June 20/22

What songs have that “sound of summer” to you that are on my chart? Two that I foresee being played loud on summer evenings are Harry Styles’ “Daydreaming” – for folks who can ease up on “As It Was” and “Late Night Talking” – and Darin’s “Superstar”. They are led by commanding vocals with effervescent melodies. It’s funny too that some songs that we might associate with summery sounds weren’t even released or popularized in the summer months, such as The Beach Boys’ “Good Vibrations”. Dance music has been my soundtrack to summer probably back to the days of disco in the 70’s. In one form or another, for me it has been inescapable!

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

Mercer’s “Aretha” gets a stunning fourth appearance at the top of the BILLCS Top 30. This has only happened twice in the last two years. The two songs were “Rain On Me” by Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande and “No More Looking Back” by Idris Elba & Inner City featuring Steffanie Christi’an. And what do those songs have in common? They were my #1 songs of 2020 and 2021 respectively. Could the same be in store for Mercer? 2018’s “Satisfy” (with Ron Carroll) was my #3 song of that year.

“Romance With A Memory” by Oliver Sim advances 6-3, with designs on #1 in two weeks. It’s slinky, Prince-like melody and a cool, sometimes droll vocal by Oliver make this one unique.

The intensity of NIVIRO and Harley Bird’s “The Edge” helps send it 8-5 on the chart. This is a rare dance tune with plenty of substance and emotion.

Benson Boone’s “In The Stars” also has sights on #1 as it charges into the Top 10, up 11-6. It’s led by a sincere vocal and interesting story that makes it so repeatable.

Two additional songs land in the Top 10. “Mind Of Mine” (above) by Danish producer Henrikz and British singer/songwriter Danny Dearden, climbing 16-9. It’s Danny’s second Top 10 following last year’s “Tell Me” (#4) with Bobby Harvey. And “don’t you wanna know” (below) by Syence and Britt Lari moves up 14-10. Syence’s previous Top 10 entry was the touching “We Won’t Leave You” with Steve Void (#7).

Continuing to make inroads on the chart is “The High” by Canada’s Ryan Shepherd with vocalist/songwriter Bella Renee, climbing 15-12. I’m delighted to find out that Ryan will be opening for Two Friends in Toronto at History on June 30 and July 1. I’ll be there on June 30 and look forward to seeing Ryan and hearing what he spins for us that evening!

Be sure to contribute to UNICEF on behalf of Ukraine if you can by purchasing a digital copy of “Unity” by Gareth Emery and Ukrainian producer Omnia, which climbs 18-13.

Although they are very different in styles, “Memories” (above) by Conan Gray (20-15) and “Let Me Down Easy (Lie)” (below) by Why Don’t We are two ballads that will endure for the summer, and will always be bookends like that for me now!

The Fastest Riser on the chart is the aforementioned “Daydreaming” by Harry Styles, which soars 26-17. The funky 60’s meets 70’s sound of the song led by another top notch Harry vocal is a jam that keeps giving.

The also previously mentioned “Superstar” by Darin climbs 27-19 and looks to find its way to the Top 10 as did its #1 predecessors, “Can’t Stay Away” and “Holding Me More”.

“Dusk” by Manila Killa and Lights continues to grow on me, and rises 28-21, with a delightful vocal by Lights.

“Crown” by Canadian producers We Are Fury featuring singers brassie and Kyle Reynolds moves up 30-23, putting some alternative electronic crunch into the chart.

The Highest Debut belongs to pop stalwart Mika, who is back with “Yo Yo” at #26, which is quite different for him with a downbeat midtempo melody, but it is a real grower. It’s from his forthcoming 6th album (excluding his compilation Storybook Vol 1), some of which he played in concert when I saw him perform in April. It’s Mika’s 11th appearance on my chart. He reached #1 with “Rain” in 2010.

At #27, it’s “Love That About You” by Arizona-based singer/songwriter McEwen. That may be a new name to you but the sound of the song is certainly familiar. That’s because McEwen previously recorded under the name Adam Tyler and charted 12 songs on this chart between 2010 and 2015, 10 of which reached the Top 10. “Love That About You” was actually recorded four years ago but is timeless and very appropriate theme-wise for this post-pandemic world. It comes from McEwen’s first album in more than seven years called 0524.

The last debut at #28 belongs to American-Puerto Rican singer/songwriter Javi with his terrific cover of Sade’s “Cherish The Day”, originally from the 1992 album Love Deluxe. Javi has consistently been making music for several years as a solo artist or as a vocalist in projects like Native Underground. This is his first song to appear on my chart however since 2010’s Monsieur Adi remix of “Situation” (#3), and a very welcome return!

In fact Mika and Javi were on my chart at this very time in 2010 (Mika with “Kick Ass”), and McEwen came along later that summer with his first entry, “Friction” (Ricardo Autobahn remix).

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! Links to all stations appear later in this section in blue.

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 Sunday mornings on Radio GTA at 2:00 AM EST, at 8pm EST on Sundays on Party Dog Radio, and then at 7:00 am EST Fridays on Unique Radio Australia!

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

Halton Hills Online

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

The 3D Variety Show by Planet Radio Canada

My New Music Pick of the Week also now airs on:

Radio GTA Wednesdays at 11:00 pm EST, Saturdays after Midnight EST, and Sundays at 3 am EST
Halton Hills Online Saturdays and Sundays at 3pm EST, and Saturdays at 7pm EST
Mix88.ca‘s “Addictive Energy” show with Hunter Wilbur on Saturdays after 9pm EST
WXNZ, community radio in Maine, Mondays after 10pm EST
Party Dog Radio, Sundays at 8pm EST
Unique Radio Australia, Fridays at 7am EST

More new affiliates are joining and I’ll update this list as I receive new information.

#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!

Toronto area producer Ryan Shepherd @ryshepherdmusic is on a hot streak with “The High” with Arizona-based singer @BellaReneemusic

RYAN SHEPHERD and BELLA RENEE, “The High”

“The High” is a decidedly different deep house track from Toronto area producer Ryan Shepherd and Arizona-based singer/songwriter Bella Renee. The song has a neat hypnotic, dreamy quality that support the different ‘highs’ that we can all go through, whether it’s being confident or just having fun. Ryan is definitely on a hot streak that began with “Hello Sunday” and was followed up last year with terrific dance tracks like “Never Give Up On You” and “All The Way Down”. Bella Renee is a rising relatively new voice on the dance music scene who has already graced tracks by MiTiS, TyDi, and RIOT. “The High” was apparently two years in the making and the wait has been well worth it. Look for Ryan on tour in select North American cities with fellow Canadian producer/DJ DLMT over the next few months.

Canadian producer Ryan Shepherd @RyShepherdmusic releases the sophisticated house of “Never Give Up On You” featuring @GeorgiKay

RYAN SHEPHERD and GEORGI KAY, “Never Give Up On You”

Ryan Shepherd returns with a solid track for late night house sets called “Never Give Up On You”. His smooth beats and darker-than-usual rhythms are a fine match for the recognizable voice of L.A. based British-Australian singer/songwriter Georgi Kay, who is perhaps better known as a solo artist (you’ll recall her anthem “In My Mind”) and songwriter than as a featured vocalist. I like it when songs can pull out all of the stops and hit many of the right buttons without dazzling us with gimmicks and other bells and whistles. “Never Give Up On You” doesn’t offer anything new thematically but it’s an immediate dance floor draw for clubs for which some remixes could be beneficial.

Canadian dance producer @RyShepherdmusic has your end of summer dance anthem with “All The Way Down” with Black Gatsby @BLKGATZ

RYAN SHEPHERD and BLACK GATSBY, “All The Way Down”

Who better to offer up a smashing end of summer dance anthem with a lot of house-meets-disco flourishes than Canadian producer Ryan Shepherd? He does so in tandem with L.A.-based pop/R&B singer/songwriter Black Gatsby, who has recorded with Zed’s Dead and Chris Lake among others. “All The Way Down” follows up Ryan’s recent success with “Hello Sunday”, a grower which was given new life through online Sunday performances by Ryan during the pandemic. “All The Way Down” is about being your best ‘you’ and celebrating that in style. It’s an obvious dance floor filler that will have fists pumping and people cheering on as we begin to take back our lives for some much needed fun times.

Ryan plays a “Hello Sunday Day Party” at Toronto’s Love Child Social House from 4 to 9 pm on Sunday August 29