Michael Jackson has come to life and decided to join Justin Timberlake for the trip back. The two make beautiful and earthly music together in “Love Never Felt So Good” (Epic/Sony). Our music and program directors just can’t seem to get enough of this single. Ariana Grande is fast becoming the hottest female at radio the days. She pleads her case further as the track “Problem” (Universal Republic) begins pulling in some rather dramatic numbers. Paramore are having quite the run these days. Everybody (including me) is just loving their “Ain’t it Fun” (Fueled By Ramen). It’s a rather sarcastic offering that has all the chart power of a music anthem leading right into Summer. Colbie Caillat is back at it and that is always a good for AC radio. “Hold On” (Universal/UMG) is her latest and this one could move her to greater heights provided the label makes it a priority. She has a lot of competition however with the ever powerful and strong Katy Perry. “Birthday” (Capitol) is Katy’s latest and this one is pulling in the spins like there’s no tomorrow. She appears to have yet another big winner on her hands. Also make sure you check out the latest from Andy Grammer. He’s one of the best kept secrets at radio and that could all change with the release of “Back Home” (S Curve/EMI).

Newcomer Jennifer Ashley is making quite the name for herself at radio. Her single release of “Back Where We Started” (SNMG/RED) is being greeted with open arms and for good reason, it’s just that good. The group Kongos are also causing quite a commotion at radio. “Come With Me Now” (Epic/Sony) is their latest and the response for this track according to our radio panel has been overwhelming. ZZ Ward has an excellent single out at radio. “Last Love Song” (Hollywood) is the one that everybody seems to be talking about. We’ll see how it all plays out in the coming weeks but so far so very good. Sam Smith is setting the music world on fire. It’s all thanks to the single “Stay With Me” (Capp) that is brilliant. MacLear & Quinn continue their winning ways as their “Only One For Me” (Meg) moves ahead of the pack. British recording artist Ed Barker who teamed up with Lance Ellington for the song “When You Smile” (EBR) is headed right where it belongs – to the top of the charts. It’s the perfect Spring into Summer smash. Newcomer Giulia Nahmany is set to break “big time” at radio. Her debut single “Girl To Change Your World” (Goldline Records) is the end title in the new Michael Damian directed “Love By Design” set for release soon. This young lady shines with a powerful vocal performance for a release that is just in time for Summer.

Radio will be thrilled to have a new “top of the hour” song to help brighten their playlist. Recording artist Benzo has a big story in the works. His debut single “Heart Beat” (New Terra) is the gem that everybody is talking about. This is a very talented guy that is also set to release a brilliant EP in the coming weeks. We’ll keep you apprised of all of his actions right here in this very column. Are you ready for the Naked Cowgirl? Well she’s ready for you as
her debut single “He Taught Me How 2 Love” (Sexy Records) gets set to take flight. Marsha Jewell has been at #1 with her stellar “Butterfly” (Jewell Lane) for a number of weeks. She’s set to release “Tomorrow” from her “I Love ” CD and the world is excited. Bad Mary continues their winning ways as their debut single. “Better Days” (Dead Pill) is such a bright time for radio and it continues to move at a very rapid pace towards the top of our chart. I’ll have more on the best of this grand AC format next time right here. To our CMA Festival friends, we’re so thrilled to have you here for all of this great music action.