Charlie Puth is back at the format after a long break and our listeners and programmers are pretty thrilled. “Light Switch” (Atlantic) is the new track from this multi-talented recording artist that sketches out most of his tracks on a laptop. Not a real problem as it seems to be working out to perfection. Tate McRea has a new single that is breaking fast and furious. “She’s All I Wanna Be” (RCA) is his latest gem and I must say that I’m pretty impressed with this song. He’s one of the best new talents around and always seems to pick and record tunes that are just right for the times we are living in.

Encanto (The Cast) from the wonderful world of Disney have taken to record setting heights. “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” (Walt Disney) has charted higher than any of the past songs from the animation world and with a hit at radio now it’s going to be fun to see how much attention and box office a hit single can render. Lauren Spencer-Smith, remember this name as we are set for some great things. If her debut in “Fingers Crossed” (Indie) is any indication, there is a very bright future in the works.

Avril Lavigne has teamed up with the fabulous Blackbear for a new track that is getting plenty of attention. “Love When You Hate Me” (DTA/EMG) shows both of these talented stars in the best light possible. It is fast becoming a real favorite at both Hot AC and at Top40 as it is speeding past many at a record pace. Fireboy has joined forces with DML & Ed Sheeran for a real musical masterpiece. “Peru” (YBNL/EMPIRE) is the single that I’m talking about and the numbers on this one tell us that something very special is in the works. Ed Sheeran has been teaming up with many artists in recent weeks and it’s working.

Alesso & Katy Perry have a good thing going and make no mistake about that, “When I’m Gone” (10:22PM/ASW/Capitol) is the jam that is really picking up speed. After a bit of a slow start, it appears that all the work has been finally paying off as programmers are starting to pay attention to this solid offering. Sza is taking her charming rendition of the single “I Hate U” (TDE/RCA) out for a spin and it appears to be working. One of the strangest recording artists of our time makes another bold impression on our friends at radio and everyone from the fans to the music directors across the USA love it.

Oliver Tree has a good thing in the works that is really taking off. “Life Goes On” (Atlantic) is really a solid track and although it’s taken awhile to take hold there is no stopping this talented artist from going all the way. The ever-fabulous Glass Animals have finally broken through the ice as their current “Heat Waves” (Republic) takes flight. The perfect example of staying on a single and breaking it at the right time has proven ever so true here. The single has been out for quite a while and is finally getting the treatment it so deserves. Not to mention that this is also a solid band that works hard at what they do.

Garrett Young is back with a new single that is really taking off. This strong NMA nominee has got a real winner in “I’d Do Anything” (West Coast Collective) and the chart numbers tell the tale. John Michael Ferrari is back with a real gem. ” Masquerading In The Night” (Cappy) is another feather in the cap for this NMA nominee. John Journey also display his award-winning ways as his new “So Yours” (Most Likely Music) moves past a very crowded field.

Thom Sessa is a name that many are not familiar with but that’s all about to change. His current single in “Dance With Me” (Heavy Lift) really showcases the amazing vocal talents that he has. Quite masterful at that, and a very bright future looms ahead for him at radio indeed. DK Davis is on fire as his “My Baby’s Gone” (Route66) pulls ahead. Everybody is loving the new Gary Pratt “When It’s Our Love That’s Lost” (MTS).

This is our special nomination issue. A big congratulations goes out to all of the nominated artists that are having success at AC radio. Now it’s time to help turn the nominations into wins by your votes and support at newmusicawards.com