Rachel Platten appears to have broken the one hit wonder syndrome and is making no apologies about it.  “Stand By You” (Columbia) is fast becoming a radio anthem. She has taken the empowerment movement to another level with this bright and infectious song. I’m happy to report that Seal is back at the format. “Every Time I’m With You” (WB/WEA) is his latest and it’s great to hear him back at the AC format. Elton John wants back in on the action and why not. The master of pop is taking the single “Looking Up” (Island) out for a spin and our music and program directors just can’t seem to get enough of it. Elton is also one of the most re-current artists at AC radio and has been for quite some time.

Tori Kelly is back at it and in a very big way at that. Her new “Hollow” (SchoolBoy/Capitol) single is quite an amazing track. She may have been dissed as a former American Idol contestant but has come back to prove them all wrong. Keep your eyes and ears wide open for the multi-talented Tori Kelly as she is set to break with even more amazing tracks. And speaking of amazing, Jimmy White is back at the format and in a very big way. His new “Michaela” (828) has been at the top of our “most added” column for several weeks running and radio is all over this single. Jimmy returned to radio after a bit of a break during this past holiday season with his re-release of “I Wish You Peace” which topped many holiday lists. With this new single expect a banner year for Jimmy White.

The KAJ Brothers are rocking the music world and doing it in style. Their rendition of  “The Way You Look Tonight” (Living Fuel) is stunning. The production is first rate and the vocal performances second to none. You can expect some even bigger weeks ahead for this masterpiece as we get closer to Valentines weekend. Remember that you read and heard about the KAJ Brothers first, right here on the pages of New Music Weekly.  Mirage Box is back at the format with one of their best to date. “Secret Smile” (Growlyman Endeavors) is such a homage to the 70’s and 80’s that it’s hard to pin point just what era it reminds us of. I really love the sound of a good trombone ala Chicago and their vocal arrangement is out of this world. Move this up your list as soon as you can.

Newcomer Victor Solomon is taking the radio world by storm and make no mistake about it. His new “I’m Not Your Boyfriend” (Ind) is as catchy as anything out there so far this year. He is from the great state of Colorado and continues to produce and write very crafty songs. Look for more to come from the multi-talented Victor Solomon. The young and ever so talented Airy Jeanine is on fire at radio from AC to Top40. Her new “Do You” (Kmina Entertainment) single is ever so brilliant. The production is first rate and her vocal performance is Grammy ready – I just love this single. Michael Stosic is getting raves for his new “Welcome Home” (MiSto Music) track and make sure to spend some time with it.

Andy Matteo is getting play for “She’s Already Here” (Ind). John Ratliff continues to dazzle with his current “U” (Ind) single. Eileen Carey is taking us to church with “Faith” (RolleyCstr Music) and inspiring the masses. Brandy Moss Scott has a new gem in “Oh How It Hurts” (Heavenly Tunes) that is already topping our “Most Added” column.  Chuck Murphy continues his magical ways as “One More Time” (One West) moves towards the top of the charts. The single has hung in there strong and for good reason. Joey Canyon is also “on fire” as his amazing “Life Without You” (Glo Dot) makes magic at multi-formats.

This is a very special CRS and NMA Awards issue. Check out the many well deserved nominations in this issue and there are some very talented artists at that. We are also honoring stations, programmers, labels and industry professionals. You can really help rock the vote on our main website and that will make all the difference in the final outcome so get busy people.  It’s that time of year to band together and render support to all of these great artists. I will have more for you on the greatest hits at AC radio right here next time.