Adele is back on the AC40 with yet another music masterpiece. “Water Under The Bridge” (XL Recordings/Columbia) showcases additional strengths that she has and just when you thought she may have peaked you can forget about it. John Mayer is back at the format and that is always a good thing. His new “Love On The Weekend” (Columbia) is at the top of the add list from many of our music and program directors and that is no real surprise. John fits the format perfectly and hopefully he’ll stay focused and no worry so much about all of his personal situations. Only time will tell on that one.

Kaleo has a hit building strong at radio. “Way Down We Go” (Atlantic) is the gem that we are talking about and this track will be well worth your time. Lukas Graham is as hot as any new male artist at Hot AC radio. “You’re Not There” (WB/WEA) gives us an even better look from an artist that should be around for a long time to come. We’ll see how this track plays out in time but so far so very good. Shawn Mendes is another young male artist that is just killing it at radio.  “Mercy” (Island) is his latest and greatest and what an amazing run this kid has had in such a short period of time. Thank you social media and You Tube.

Kelly Clarkson is always the darling of AC radio. One of the busiest female recording artists around juggling family and career, she keeps the music fires burning ever so bright as her new “It’s Quiet Uptown” (RRP/Atlantic) takes flight. Recording artist  James Arthur is getting his music groove on and make no mistake about that. “Say You Won’t Let Go” (Columbia) is the gem that we are talking about. The song is a breakout hit and our radio panel tells us that the response on this new one is off the charts.

If it’s close to Christmas time, there is no better format to embrace than that of AC radio. Neil Diamond is out and about for the holidays and that’s always a welcome sight. He’s taking his “Cherry Cheery Christmas” (Ind) out for a spin and is visiting a good many of the national talk shows as well. Sarah McLachlan has released “Have Yourself A Merry Little Xmas” (Arista/RLG) just in the nick of time and our music and program directors are all over this one.  Julie Ingram has “Door Bell Party” (Longshot) out and about. Michael Rapp and his “Christmas Is For Kids” (Stage Too) is becoming a real classic. Adrian Bal is celebrating big time with “Yuletime” (Bal). Terry Barber is breaking with “Christmas Once More” (Revolv Music) and for crossover fun check out newcomer Johnny Dan and his brilliant “A Truck Driver’s Christmas” (Big Hammer) that is really out of this world.

Brandy Moss Scott has had a banner 2016 and make no mistake about it. She a serious consider for this year’s New Music Awards just as her new “Hello Stranger” (Heavenly Tunes) breaks big time all over radio. Chuck Murphy should also be on your list for some NMA nominations as his new “Peace Be With You” (One West) breaks big time from this format to Country and Top40.  Jimmy White has also had an amazing 2016 and his new “Miserable Man” (828) is closing in on the top of the charts in record time.

Andy Grammer has a good thing going as “Fresh Eyes” (S Curve/EMI) continues to build strong. One Republic are back with yet another hit in “Kids” (Mosley Music/Interscope). John Ratliff and his band Receptacle have had a stellar 2016. Their single “Oh My” has been the surprise hit of the year so far according to many. Wrabel also needs to be applauded for the work on “11 Blocks” (Epic).

Newcomer Renee Zawawi who dazzled us with her debut hit “Happy Hour” also deserves your love and attention. Her new “Mom” single is the talk of the town and for good reason, it’s stunning.   This is our very special Best of 2016 and Holiday Special. All of the artists and bands in this issue should be considered for this year’s New Music Awards. This is also our year-end issue. Have a very Merry Christmas and an even better 2017.