1) James Bay – Need The Sun To Break
Beautiful song from James’ début album ‘The Chaos and The Calm’.
2) James Bay – Hold Back The River
It took me longer than most to recognise how great this song is but I’m there now! Love how the song builds and James’ vocal performance is incredible.
3) Simply Red – Fake (Single Mix)
The album version of this is great too but the single mix is more club friendly. Great song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tI1_2gh40U8
4) Stereophonics – Maybe Tomorrow
Such a soulful, great song which always reminds me of the summer. Love Kelly Jones’ raspy vocals and there’s something quite haunting about this beautiful song.
5) Circa Waves – Talking Out Loud
Another awesome song from Circa Waves’ incredible début album. Powerful and irresistibly catchy chorus and I love the chords in the verses too.
6) New Radicals – Someday We’ll Know
Best known for their song ‘You Get What You Give’, this was the follow up single before Gregg Alexander terminated his band to focus on producing and writing for other artists. This was later covered by legendary duo Daryl Hall & Jon Oates. Sweet acoustic-based song. Love this.
7) Adam Levine – Lost Stars
Gorgeous song from the ‘Begin Again’ soundtrack sung by Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine and written by Gregg Alexander. Many will only know this track through The Voice UK winner Stevie McCrorie but the original really is worth a listen.
8) Semisonic – Secret Smile
One of the best pop hits from the 90’s. Just an awesome song.
9) Robbie Williams – Me and My Monkey
Paranoia-infused, bizarre and humorous, this is one of Robbie’s best songs of his career, an album track from ‘Escapology’. Upon its release, critical response to this track was mainly of confusion but most interpretations consider this a metaphor for Robbie’s dual personality when sober and high/drunk. It’s clever and Rob’s storytelling is just amazing.
10) Robbie Williams – Handsome Man
A self-parody by Robbie, this is an awesome song ridiculing his own fame and success. Witty lyrics as always and a catchy and explosive chorus too.