Joan As Police Woman - The Magic

I really can't tell what the hell is exactly going on in the video for The Magic, but that doesn't take away from how great the song sounds. Joan As Police Woman aka Joan Wasser is an American singer-songwriter who's been in the business for a couple decades now and has gained a following in Britain. Her new album The Deep Field will be out in the UK on January 25th.

MNEK/Charli XCX/Mercedes - Like A G6 (refix)

Back in October, I introduced you to my pal and music phenom, MNEK. I posted his awesome refix of Simply Red's Fairground and now he's come with a re-interpretation of one of the year's biggest hits. MNEK is joined by two fellow London up and comers, Charli XCX and Mercedes. This "refix" is the kind of tune I would throw on at a party and have folks dancing up a storm. Check it out!

Her Majesty & The Wolves - Stars In Your Eyes

You would be forgiven for not immediately knowing who Kimberly Wyatt is. The Pussycat Dolls were a worldwide pop force, but in the end it was Nicole Scherzinger who came out as the most notable of the bunch. Well, the group has since split up and Kimberly (who was one of the members if you haven't figured it out) has formed the duo of Her Majesty & The Wolves along with Spencer Nezey. Stars In Your Eyes is their first single and is out in January in the UK.

Brooke Fraser - Betty (NZ)

Brooke first came to my attention during my sophomore year of college when her song, Artihmetic, was used in a Grey's Anatomy fan video that I happened to stumble upon late one night. Her background is actually in gospel/Christian music which you wouldn't be able to necessarily tell because the lyrics to her songs cover a range of subject matter. Fraser's latest album, Flags, went to #1 in her native New Zealand where it was certified double platinum.

Chipmunk feat. Chris Brown - Champion (UK)

Chipmunk is one of the youngest rappers who's hit the British mainstream, but he's gathered quite a following. He's got several top 10 singles under his belt including a #1 for his song Ooopsy Daisy, which came out last year. As he readies the release of his next album, Chipmunk has joined forces with public enemy Chris Brown for the track, Champion. The video was shot last month in Miami.

Talay Riley - Sergeant Smash (UK)

Sergeant Smash is the second single from British singer/songwriter, Talay Riley. I featured his song Humanoid back in September and Smash is another electro tinged pop gem. This guy pens songs for some big acts so he should really have the same status.

Maroon 5 - Hands All Over

Hands All Over is the third single and title track from Maroon 5's latest album. The song has a 80's rock feel to it and the video looks like it might well have fit in during that era.

My Favorite Albums of 2010!

2010 is finally coming to a close so I wanted to compile a quick list of the albums that were a part of my personal soundtrack for the past twelve months. Here's hoping that 2011 will bring even more splendid musical offerings.

M.I.A. - /\/\ /\ Y /\

Favorite Song: "It Takes A Muscle"

Marina & The Diamonds - The Family Jewels

Favorite Song: "Hermit the Frog"

Mark Ronson & The Business INTL - Record Collection

Favorite Song: "Bang Bang Bang (feat. Q-Tip & MNDR)"

Ke$ha - Animal/Cannibal

Favorite Songs: "Your Love Is My Drug" & "The Harold Song"

Sia - We Are Born

Favorite Song: "Clap Your Hands"

Diana Vickers - Songs From The Tainted Cherry Tree

Favorite Song: "Notice"

Janelle Monae - The ArchAndroid (Suites II & III)

Favorite Song: "Cold War"

Washington - I Believe You Liar

Favorite Song: "Underground"

Example - Won't Go Quietly

Favorite Song: "Two Lives"

Tinie Tempah - The Disc-Overy

Favorite Song: "Wonderman (feat. Ellie Goulding)"

Ellie Goulding - Lights/Bright Lights

Favorite Songs: "This Love (Will Be Your Downfall)" & "Human"

Kate Nash - My Best Friend Is You

Favorite Song: "Later On"

Nicki Minaj - Pink Friday

Favorite Song: "Save Me"

Robyn - Body Talk

Favorite Song: "Hang With Me"

Kylie Minogue - Aphrodite 

Favorite Song: "Get Outta My Way"

Christina Aguilera - Bionic

Favorite Song: "Monday Morning"

Game Over (Female Takeover) (UK)

Last month I posted the video of the gathering of some of Britain's biggest male MC's collaborating on a remix of Tinchy Stryder's track Game Over. The single spent several weeks in the UK top 40, but now the ladies want their chance to work the beat. Oh boy, was I ever impressed! I was somewhat familiar with some of these women, but I certainly want to hear more after getting a glimpse of this. Female rappers in the UK are demonstrating some serious talent and deserve all the recognition of their male counterparts.

In order of appearance: Ruff Diamondz, Amplify Dot, Envy, Cherri V, BabyBlue, RoxXxan, Lioness, Mz Bratt, and Lady Leshurr

Tone Damli feat. Vinni - Stuck In My Head (NOR)

I can't believe I haven't posted a song by a Norwegian artist in the three months I've been writing this blog. Well, Tone Damli is a great artist to feature. Back in the winter of 2009, Tone competed in the finals to represent Norway in the Eurovision Song Contest. Her song Butterflies was an excellent submission, but she lost out to Alexander Rybak and his fiddle. Alexander ended up winning Eurovision that year. Stuck in My Head is her new single and I actually like the mix of singing/rapping even if it's coming from the cool streets of Oslo.

Natalia Kills - Activate My Heart

A couple weeks ago I introduced y'all to singer Natalia Kills and her song Mirrors. She's unleashed a video for the track Activate My Heart which will be on her debut album out in the new year. It's a real pop corker,  this one!

Medina - Addiction (DEN)

Medina - "Addiction" - Official video from :labelmade: on Vimeo.

Parlez-vous Musique gets a lot of hits from Denmark so I'd like to take the time to thank those folks. Mange tak! Medina's album Velkommen til Medina has done very over the past two years and spawned a number of hit singles for the Danish beauty. Her latest, Addiction, is riding high as the #1 song in that country.

ceo - illuminata (SWE)

ceo - illuminata from Modular People on Vimeo.

ceo is Eric Berglund. He's a producer/singer from Gothernburg, Sweden who is also a member of the electronic duo the Tough Alliance. The guys have released quite a few records, but Eric decided to go solo for a while and that's when ceo was born. His debut album White Magic came out this summer and the single lluminata is another great example of how Swedes excel at this thing we call pop.

Shy'm - Prendre l'air (FRA)

Prendre l'air (get some air) is the album title track and latest single from French pop & R&B star Shy'm (pronounced sh-eye-m). The 25 year old was born in Paris to an Antillean father and French mother and began performing at a young age. In 2006 she released her first album Mes Fantasies (My Fantasies) which went platinum in France. Prendre l'air is her thrid album after 2008's Reflets.

Human Life - Wherever We Are

Human Life is an electro/house outfit that consists of musicians Josh, Rachael, and Matt. They have released their single Wherever We Are which includes some delicious remixes and have been touring around Europe this fall. The video for the track features the story of two young women who fall in and out of love. Don't you love when a music video actually tells an engaging story? Plus, Rachael's vocals sound absolutely lovely.

Fugative feat. Mz Bratt & Wiley - Go Hard (UK)

Go Hard is the latest single from English rapper Fugative. That's the stage name of 16 year old Harry Byart. I feel like this kid could appeal to a bunch of different audiences considering he does what some might call hip-pop. If only he just got the right amount of media attention; especially with this latest track where he teams up with MZ Bratt (who's verse is pretty amazing) and grime legend Wiley. Go Hard is out on January 3rd.

Crush - Your Illusion (FRA)

Crush is the brainchild of musicians and songwriters Nicolas and Pierre who met the beautiful and talented Sophie to make superb electro-pop. Your Illusion is their first proper single release and is a full-frontal dancefloor stomper.

Fe-nix - Red Light (UK)

Here's more girl band love from Parlez-vous. It's a Sin City inspired video and stars former Blue member, Lee Ryan. Red Light is out in the UK on January 24th.

Wonderland - Not A Love Song (UK/IRE)

There appear to be a bevvy of new girl bands coming out in the near future to fill the slots that have been made vacant by acts like Girls Aloud & The Sugababes. Wonderland are a quintet of Irish & British gals who are being managed by X Factor judge Louis Walsh. Walsh has been the man behind some of the biggest pop groups of the past 15 years so Wonderland have a good start it seems. Not A Love Song has an almost country music twang that is pleasing to my urban dwelling ears.

Diddy-Dirty Money feat. Swizz Beatz - Ass On The Floor

I'm not sure why a video was released for Ass On The Floor seeing as it's not currently scheduled to be released as a single. Well it sure as hell should be because the track is rather good. The banging drums, Dirty Money's vocals, and Swizz's overall production just work. Last Train to Paris is out today at all good retailers.

Sheryfa Luna - Yemma (FRA)

21 year old Sheryfa Luna was the winner of Popstars in France back in 2007. It's a sort of Idol talent show, in case you were wondering. She's since released three albums and the latest one features the single Yemma. It's a sweet song about a mother-child relationship that I heard on French radio last week and instantly fell in love. The guitars are especially nice alongside Sheryfa's angelic voice.

Frankmusik - The Fear Inside (UK)

The very talented Frankmusik first came to my attention in 2008 when he released some singles from his debut album Complete Me. He was touted by the press to be one of the new faces to watch in 2009. Unfortunately, things didn't catch fire as many may have thought would for Frankmusik. That didn't quell his desire to make and release fantastic electro-pop and evidenced by his new single Fear Inside. Here's hoping that 2011 will be the year when the world really takes notice.

Scarlett Belle - Loverboy (AUS)

Scarlett Belle are the latest girl group from Australia and one of the few duos that have debuted on the pop scene (R.I.P. Mini Viva). I enjoyed their first single Closure this summer and Loverboy is their latest offering. My one complaint? Ease up on the auto-tune, ladies! It's still a solid track without the robotics.

Tinchy Stryder feat. Melanie Fiona - Let It Rain

Tinchy must have a pretty sizable video budget because just weeks after releasing the video for Take The World he's releasing a video for the track Let It Rain. It features the fabulous Melanie Fiona and can be found on Tinchy's new album Third Strike.

Dr. Dre feat. Akon & Snoop Dogg - Kush

Kush is the first single from Dr. Dre's third and alleged final album, Detox. The last time Dre released an album I was in the 6th grade and Bill Clinton was still President, just to give you some context. Kush is pretty radio friendly and has already entered the Billboard top 40.

Dev feat. The Cataracs - Bass Down Low

You couldn't really avoid hearing the hit single that was Like A G6 in 2010. The big club-party anthem surprisingly found fans across different musical tastes and was able to reach #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Credit goes partly to Dev and The Cataracs. With Bass Down Low, these lot prove that they will be having us chest pumping and grinding for many months to come.

Carte Blanche feat. Kid Sister - Do! Do! Do!

The duo of Carte Blanche have teamed up with Chi-town's finest, Kid Sister, for the bouncy and wonderful Do! Do! Do! It's got a late 80's/early 90's party sound and the animated elements also add to that feel of days gone by. Oh, and Kid Sister did her scenes while in Paris. Chouette!

Michael Jackson feat. Akon - Hold My Hand

During the holiday season, I am not always the biggest fan of some of the traditional Christmas musical offerings. So this new single for the Michael Jackson posthumous album actually gets me in a bit of a feel good mood. Plus, it makes me nostalgic for the King himself.

Tinie Tempah feat. Kelly Rowland - Invincible (UK)

Tinie Tempah feat Kelly Rowland - Invincible (Official Video) (www.freshmusic.er.cz) from Scrattchy on Vimeo.

What a year it has been for Tinie Tempah. He's had three songs in the UK top 5 (two of which went to #1). His debut album The Disc-Overy has been certified platinum and rumor has it that some folks in the U.S. are interested in bringing this talented guy over to our shores in the near future. The Invincible video is kind of a celebration of these triumphant 12 months.

Adele - Rolling In The Deep

She's back! The critic's darling and multi-platinum selling chanteuse, Adele, is back with a brand new single and album titled, 21, which will be out in February 2011. Back in 2008, when I first heard Hometown Glory I was positively spellbound. Adele is one of those artists whose voice and lyrics can make you feel a range of emotions and I love her for it.

Bonjay - Stumble (CAN)

Bonjay are the duo of Alanna Stuart and Ian Swain aka Pho. Hailing from Ontario, these Canucks make dancehall based tunes that melange with some slamming electro and indie sounds as well. Bonjay's track Stumble, which is featured on their Broughtupsy EP, has had me swaying my hips this autumn. A full length album better be in the works because I'm craving some more tunes from these two.

Cee Lo Green - It's OK

It's OK is the second single from Mr. Green's album The Lady Killer. What a year it has been for Cee Lo! When I think back to 2006 I always remember how much I loved Crazy by Gnarls Barkley. When I think back to 2010, Fuck You will fill me with some warm and fuzzy nostalgia.

Guy Sebastian feat. Eve - Who's That Girl (AUS)

Guy Sebastian was the first winner of Australian Idol almost 8 years ago and has had quite a successful career since then. He's just released his greatest hits collection and Who's That Girl is the promotional single. It's currently #2 on the Aussie charts.

Mr. Hudson feat. Kanye West - Anyone But Him

I was disappointed when Mr. Hudson released only two singles from his album Straight No Chaser back in '09. I think he has a really cool, unique sound and deserved much bigger success than what was actually realized. His appearance on Jay-Z's 'Young Forever' was particularly nice. It seems that a video has been released for the song Anyone but Him which was supposed to be the 3rd single almost a year ago.

Tove Styrke - High & Low (SWE)

Tove Styrke - High And Low by alienhits

What you need to know about Tove:
-She was a contestant on 2009's Swedish Idol.
-She's just released her debut album.
-Her voice is pretty awesome and her tunes are quite listenable.

Pet Shop Boys - Together

Pet Shop Boys, "Together" from Peeter Rebane on Vimeo.

Together is the new single off the duo's greatest hits album. Pet Shop Boys are one of the biggest acts of all time and they continue to remain relevant over 20 years after scoring their first hits. The video was shot in Tallinn, Estonia and features students from the city dance school.

Natalia Kills - Mirrors

Natalia Kills is 24 year old actress and singer/songwriter Natalia Cappuccini. This English gal is going to draw a lot of comparisons to Lady GaGa in part because they've both worked with godfather Akon and have striking visuals to their synth pop. But I gotta say that Natalia comes across more subdued and dare I say, approachable?

Le Corps Mince de Francois - Gandhi (FIN)

LCMDF: 'GANDHI' from The Line Of Best Fit on Vimeo.

I first heard the music of Le Corps Mince de Francois (which translates to Francis' Thin Body) last year when their song Something Golden was featured on the Kitsuné Maison compilaion. The band is made up of of sisters Emma and Mia who hail from Helsinki and dabble in quirky, electrified pop music. Some have even gone as far as to call them a female Passion Pit. The video for the super catchy Gandhi features a bunch of weird clips including that of Marshall Applewhite. He was the leader of the Heavens Gate cult back in the 90's who all killed themselves while wearing Nike's and waiting for a comet.

Ke$ha - We R Who We R

Who would've thunk that the girl with a unit of currency in her name and glitter on her face would be one of the most successful artists of the year. Well it happened. We R Who We R is the first single from Ke$ha's new EP, Cannibal, and it's already gone straight to #1 across the globe. She's trashy, American, and all kinds of poptastic.

Sia - I'm In Here

Sia's latest album We Are Born was hands down one of my faves of 2010. It was funky, danceable, as well as highly emotional at times. I thought she was done releasing the singles, but apparently not since I'm In Here has just been given a video. The track has been reworked a bit to emphasize the piano and Sia on a plane is cool to watch.

Far East Movement & Roger Sanchez feat. Kanobby - 2Gether

I was not feeling FEM's latest single with Ryan Tedder, Rocketeer, but this is right up my globetrotting, pulse pumping alley. The sample of the B-52's Love Shack was a welcomed surprise.

Rihanna - Cheers (Drink To That) (Oke Shameless Retouch)

 

I just got done listening to Rihanna's new album Loud this weekend and I can say that it's not half bad. It's certainly a departure from her last LP, Rated R. The track Cheers (Drink To That) get a reworking from UK DJ Tom Oke. There's something almost 90's & retro about it, but I can't quite pinpoint. Anywho, I've had it on reply today thanks to Popjustice. Trivia Alert! The song sample Avril Lavigne's yodel from her 2003 hit I'm With You.

Diddy-Dirty Money - Coming Home

I am actually looking forward to checking out the tracks on Diddy's 'Last Train To Paris' after hearing Coming Home and loving Hello Good Morning this past summer. The video for the single finds Diddy, Dawn, and Kalenna walking pensively through a deserted wasteland. The gold teeth were a bad touch, but everything else is just peachy.

Chasing Pluto - Hold On (UK)

This next band is not signed to a record label at the moment which is kind of ridiculous because they have serious record selling potential. Chasing Pluto is Jamal Hadaway and Corinne Shields. They're two long time musicians based in London with skills and a penchant for making stunning pop music. They're a bit like La Roux if the unseen Ben Langmaid were to make appearances. Hold On immediately struck me with its powerful sound and rather impressive music video. Chasing Pluto are making moves folks, so watch this space!

The Wanted - Lose My Mind (UK)

The newest Brit boyband on the block are back (I like alliteration) with the 3rd single from their self-titled debut album. I've been enjoying this track this week and pieces of it seem to borrow from Kings of Leon's 'Use Somebody'.

Keri Hilson feat. Rick Ross - The Way You Love Me

Just a couple weeks after revealing the sweet video for Pretty Girl Rock, Keri unveils the clip for the much harder and sexier The Way You Love Me. Let me just say that Ms. Keri is looking very nice! She's joined in her ride or die squad by JoJo, Dawn from Dirty Money, and Faith Evans. Check 'em out!

Adrian Lux - Teenage Crime (SWE)

Here's a video from Swedish DJ Adrian Lux. The video about a middle aged woman who goes out on the prowl is actually pretty captivating against the hypnotic beats.

Japayork - Teenagers (UK)

Japayork is the stage name of 23 year old singer/songwriter/remixer/graphic artist Nick Blank. His name is a combination of Japan and New York, two places he lived prior to settling in London. Teenagers is an electro party jam that I am really loving at the moment. Japayork sometimes hits melodies that are reminiscent of Mika, don't you think?

Jamie Woon - Night Air (UK)

Lush, mysterious, sleek, sexy. Those are the words I would use to describe Jamie Woon's single Night Air. The London newcomer uses dubstep rhythms to accentuate his soulful vocals to produce a winning combination. I am really loving this track after first hearing it on DJ Annie Mac's show on BBC Radio 1 a few weeks ago.

Pixie Lott - Can't Make This Over

Pixie Lott is back with the second single from her re-packaged album Turn It Up Louder. Can't Make This Over is a ballad about being unsure whether to get back with someone after a breakup. With the video, the emphasis is on "back" as we see Pixie and her mates moving backwards during a night out.

Joe McElderry - Someone Wake Me Up (UK)

Joe McElderry won last year's edition of The X Factor. For you Americans, that's like American Idol, but older people and groups can compete as well. His album Wide Awake came out last month and now Disney has decided to use the track Someone Wake Me Up for the upcoming film Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of The Dawn Treader. Seeing as it's a sea faring film, Joe finds himself pretty drenched in the video.

Taio Cruz feat. Kylie Minogue - Higher

Taio Cruz (Feat. Kylie Minogue) - Higher from DJBEVAN on Vimeo.

The man in black, Taio Cruz, is back with his winter single Higher. He's recruited pop diva extraordinaire Kylie to help him on the verses. I'm not much of a car aficionado, but after watching the video I desperately want to go cruising in a black BMW. This version of Higher will be released in the UK & Australia while another version featuring Travie McCoy has been made for U.S. audiences.

Cheryl Cole - The Flood (UK)

The Flood is the second single from Cheryl's album Messy Little Raindrops, which went #1 a few weeks ago. It's kinda funny that Take That currently have a hit on the charts with the exact same title. I guess songwriters have been really inspired by disastrous weather lately?

SoundGirl feat. Twizzle - I'm The Fool (UK)

Here's another new act that I believe could have a lot of success in 2011. SoundGirl consists of Nikki, Olivia, and Izzy, three young women from London who perform upbeat pop and R&B. They have been working with the likes of Xenomania, one of the most prolific production houses in the UK. SoundGirl will be touring with Pixie Lott up & down Britain this winter. Along with rapper Twizzle who comes in for the middle 8, the ladies are poised to release their debut single I'm The Fool this spring.

Jesse McCartney - Shake

Jesse McCartney is a guilty pleasure of mine. Back in 2008, I listened to him in my car on the way to & from work, pretending I was actually listening to Chris Brown to diminish some embarassment I felt. Well Jesse is back with a new album and video for the first single, Shake.

Barbarellas - Body Rock (IRE)

Body Rock - Barbarellas from Barbarellas on Vimeo.

Edele and Keavy Lynch are twin sisters from Ireland who were formerly members of the girl band B*Witched. Back in the late 90's the group scored a hit stateside with C'est La Vie, which had already been a chart topper in Britain. B*Witched disbanded in 2002 and I thought the girl's were never to be heard from again. Well, they're back! The Lynches are now performing as Barbarellas and they've ditched the Disney bubblegum pop for some sexy synths.

Kelis - Brave

Brave is the 4th single from the album Flesh Tones. It's one of my favorites. In the video, we find Kelis in a simple white space, emoting. Splendid.

Jodie Connor feat. Wiley - Now Or Never (UK)

Jodie Connor is finally stepping out on her solo stuff after being featured on two big UK singles this summer, In My System by Tinchy Stryder and Good Times by Roll Deep, the latter going straight to number 1. The video kind of has an American feel to it which isn't a bad thing because, who knows, it could become a crossover success. But I do kind of wish that Wiley himself could have made an appearance.

Bruno Mars - Grenade

I have to say that I think I may actually prefer Grenade to Bruno's smash debut single, Just The Way You Are. The attraction was certainly more instant. The chorus is quite lovely and the accompanying video is one of the most interesting I've seen this year.

Kylie Minogue - Better Than Today

Kylie Minogue - Better Than Today
Uploaded by EMI_Music. - Watch more music videos, in HD!

Kylie has been inspired by Pac Man of all things for the video for her third single off the #1 album Aphrodite.

Aggro Santos feat. Kimberley Walsh - Like U Like (UK)

Brazilian born singer/MC Aggro Santos must have an affinity for women named Kimberly who were in girl bands, because this is the second time he's collaborated with one. His debut single Candy with Kimberly Wyatt of The Pussycat Dolls went top 10 in the UK this summer. This time Aggro has teamed up with Kimberley Walsh of Girls Aloud, Britain's most successful female group of the past decade. No word yet as to when Like U Like will be released. Not anytime soon I imagine, because Aggro is currently in the jungle competing in I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here.

Wynter Gordon - Dirty Talk

  Dance diva Wynter Gordon has released a new video for her single Dirty Talk. The previous edition had a fantasy element that just didn't seem to go with the bass pumping sexiness of the track. Wynter's latest version is styled much like her clip for the Freemasons song, Believer and fits perfectly. Dirty Talk is off of the EP,  The First Dance.

Tinchy Stryder feat. Bridget Kelly - Take The World (UK)

Tinchy just debuted the video for his winter single, Take The World. The track is off the Brit rapper's new album Third Strike, which dropped this week across the pond. Bridget Kelly is an up and coming New York singer signed to Jay-Z's Roc Nation label. I really enjoyed her vocals alongside Tinchy's verses. UK, stand up!

Charlotte Church - Logical World (UK)

Logical World is the second single lifted off of Charlotte's new album, Back To Scratch, which is out now in the UK. The Welsh singer is styled rather beautifully in the video which provides the visual to a solid acoustic-pop track.

OneRepublic - Good Life

Good Life is the fourth single from the band's 2nd album, Waking Up. Ryan Tedder's songs can sometimes be hit or miss for me, but this is a sure hit. Plus, the setting for the video is so quaint that I wished I could be transported there.

Gorillaz feat. Daley - Doncamatic

Our favorite animated troublemakers Gorillaz our back with a fun retro track. Check out singer Daley (who I thought was female based on his voice) as he navigates a submarine through uncharted waters.

Lykke Li - Get Some

Lykke Li is back after taking some time off and heading to the studio to prepare her sophomore album. Youth Novels was one of my fave albums of 2008 and I've been dying to hear new material from Li. After releasing Get Some as a free download last month, she's up and made a music video for it, and it's pretty damn cool.

Sleigh Bells - Riot Rhythm

Sleigh Bells "Riot Rhythm" from Bo Mirosseni on Vimeo.

Sleigh Bells always come out with really interesting concepts for their videos that border on the odd and intense. The clip for Riot Rhythm features what I believe might be one of M.I.A.'s 'Born Free' gingers being skillfully tutored in how to beat an 80's computer at chess. It's all so wonderful.

Update: Sleigh Bells have confirmed this is a fan video, but are 100% down with it :)

Rihanna feat. Drake - What's My Name

This is one track that I have instantly loved this season and have been playing quite a bit. I'm not usually a Drake fan, but I think his verse works well in this song. And of course, my crush on Rihanna has only grown stronger. What's My Name is also riding high as the #1 song on the Billboard Hot 100. Rihanna's album Loud is out later this month.

Keri Hilson - Pretty Girl Rock

Pretty Girl Rock is the second single off of Keri's sophomore album, No Boys Allowed. The LP is out in December. In the video, Hilson pays homage to black female performers of the past. Can you guess which one's?

Ellie Goulding - Your Song (Elton John cover)

Before she re-releases her spectacular debut album, Ellie is teaming up with UK department store John Lewis to sell some stuff for the holidays including this cover of Elton John's classic hit from the 70's. Your Song will be featured in ads for the retail giant, and on a side note, doesn't Ellie just sound and look amazing?!

Cascada - Night Nurse

Cascada, arguably one of the biggest Eurodance acts on the planet, is back with their new single Night Nurse. I still have Evacuate The Dancefloor ringing in my ears from summer '09. I have no idea what is going on in the video (butterfly metaphor?) but it's certainly something I'd dance to if I were clubbing in say Frankfurt or Amsterdam.

Jessie J - Do It Like a Dude (UK)

It's that time of year when the leaves change color, the air gets nippy, and we look towards a promising new year and all the new acts that will be debuting albums. Meet Jessie Cornish, who goes by the name Jessie J. The British singer-songwriter is partly responsible for Miley Cyrus' smash hit single Party In The USA (love or hate her for that one). Jessie has worked with some of the biggest names in the business and acquired quite a bit of attention despite not having properly released a record. That's all about to change with Do It Like A Dude. The track packs a punch and I've definitely had it on repeat this week.

Raghav feat. Kardinal Offishall - So Much

It's nice to see a South Asian pop artist on the scene seeing as there are so few who've hit the mainstream. Raghav was born in Toronto and raised in Calgary of Indian descent. In 2003 he scored a major label record deal and has since had a number of hits on the UK charts. For his latest single, Raghav has teamed up with Labrinth, one of the most in demand producers in Britain along with fellow Canadian artist, Kardinal Offishall.

Caro Emerald - Stuck (NDL)

The retro sound & look that have been a fixture in music the last couple years is the domain of Dutch jazz singer, Caro Emerald. The 29 year old from Amsterdam studied at the city conservatory and last year her debut album Deleted Scenes From the Cutting Room Floor spent a  record number of weeks at #1 on the Dutch charts. She came just short of surpassing Thriller for the top honor. Nevertheless, Caro channels 1940's big band sounds that are playful and she adds contemporary twists that are ever so charming.

Natasha Bedingfield - Strip Me

Strip Me has been featured in the trailer for the new romantic comedy Morning Glory. It's the totally cliche story of a young woman in the city who overcomes challenges to succeed in her professional and personal life. Snooze! But the the song is pretty uplifting and I've had it on repeat for the last couple weeks. This may be my favorite song of Natasha's since These Words back in high school.

N.E.R.D - Hypnotize U

Some of you may have seen N.E.R.D debut this track on Letterman a couple of weeks ago. They had a bunch of American Apparel looking models seated while Pharrell hypnotized them into a trance. Well that performance may have been inspired by the video or vice-versa. Hypnotize U is off of N.E.R.D's latest album, Nothing, which was released yesterday.

N-Dubz - Girls (UK)

N-Dubz are a British rap/R&B trio who have had a string of hits the last two years over in the UK. They recently signed a record deal here in States and are recording an album that will appeal to us Yanks. Girls is the 2nd single off their new album, Love.Live.Life.

Tinchy Stryder feat. Giggs, Pro Green, Tinie Tempah, Devlin, Chipmunk, Example - Game Over

Two weeks ago, Tinchy Stryder performed a track from his upcoming album, Third Strike, at the MOBO Awards in Liverpool. Joining him on stage was a collection of some of the most popular British rappers of the year. Needless to say, it was much talked about across the pond. Well it appears Tinchy and crew have also decided to film a clip. I'm well pleased, innit!

Don Diablo feat. Dragonette - Animale (NDL/CAN)

Who knew that orange slices were actually a narcotic? Dutch producer and DJ extraordinaire, Don Diablo, has collaborated with my fave Canadian electro-pop group Dragonette for this ferocious new track. Animale is getting a lot of radio play in Belgium & The Netherlands after being featured in promo ads for another fave of mine, So You Think You Can Dance.

Jenifer - Je Danse (FRA)

Jenifer is a 27 year old singer-songwriter from Nice who has achieved quite a bit of success in her native France as well as in Belgium & Switzerland. I first heard her music when I was in Brussels six years ago on vacation. Jenifer's latest album is entitled Appelle moi Jen (Call Me Jen). The lead single Je Danse (I Dance) has got an upbeat synth sound and the video is really fun.

Alesha Dixon - Radio (UK)

Radio is the second single to be released from Alesha's upcoming album, The Entertainer. I could actually imagine blasting this and belting the verses while driving in the car. The video features a young couple who just can't seem to get along and it leads to some serious consequences.

Darin - Lovekiller (SWE)

Darin is one of my favorite male pop vocalists out of Sweden. Lovekiller, which is the title track of his latest album, sounds like it belongs as the theme of a James Bond film. It's got a choir, strings, and a booming chorus. In the video, Darin is out for justice after being murdered at the hands of his supposed lover.

Miami Horror - Holidays (AUS)

Miami Horror have been steadily churning out the singles/videos from their debut album, Illumination. Holidays really makes me want to attend and dance at a backyard barbecue. Too bad that it's the middle of autumn. The video features the love story of a girl and her Dr. Zoidberg-looking boyfriend.

Katy B feat. Ms. Dynamite - Lights On (UK)

One of the most talented new acts to debut this year in the UK has been Katy B. The 21 year old Londoner is a graduate of the famed BRIT School (think Adele, Winehouse, Kate Nash) and completed a degree in Popular Music at Goldsmiths, University of London. Though signed to an independent label, Katy managed to score a top 10 UK hit this summer with Katy On A Mission, a rather groovy, dubsteppy banger.  Now she's teamed up with the legendary Ms. Dynamite for what's sure to be another hit for the newcomer.

Nicki Minaj - Right Thru Me

When I first heard Right Thru Me a couple of weeks ago, I was surprised at how sentimental Nicki Minaj could be. Your Love gave us a taste, but Right Thru Me struck a real chord with me. The acting in the video could use some work, but the overall eye candy makes up for that. Nicki's album, Pink Friday, is out on November 22nd.

Nelly feat. T-Pain & Akon - Move That Body

Move That Body is the latest single off Nelly's upcoming album, Nelly 5.0. It's nice to see Nelly coming back to prominence, seeing as his music was part of the soundtrack of my adolescence. It's also kind of nice to see T-Pain. Where has he been?! I like this track a lot more than Just A Dream and would file it under "Weekend Party Jams" on my iTunes playlist.

Robyn - Indestructible

Robyn 'Indestructible' Official Video

Robyn | Myspace Music Videos

It appears that Robyn has come to the end of what has been a rather successful campaign for her three album masterpiece, Body Talk. I think Robyn is one of the most innovative and engaging artists at the moment and it's been so nice seeing her get recognition for it around the world. I've been a fan of hers since I was 9, so I've been a member of the Robyn army for some time now. Indestructible is the single release for Body Talk Pt. 3 which comes out in November.

Julian Perretta - Stitch Me Up (UK)

Julian Perretta is a British artist, but at the moment he is finding his success among French audiences. I discovered Julian's music last year courtesy of his debut single Wonder Why, which was also one of my favorite videos of 2009. The song went to #6 on the French charts this year. I think he kind of sounds like a young Elton John.

will.i.am & Nicki Minaj - Check It Out

Say what you want about Nicki Minaj, but she is one of the most fascinating artists currently on the scene and I have surprisingly found myself to be quite a fan over the past year."Guilty pleasure" is the term I'd use. I absolutely live for her clever word play! The video for Check It Out is quite an assault on the eyes, I suppose both good and bad.

Afrojack feat. Eva Simons - Take Over Control (NDL)

He's a world renowned DJ and she's an up and coming pop artist who sang one of my favorite songs of 2009. Together, they have created a track that is getting folks moving all over the world, because Take Over Control is doing as its name suggests, on dance floors across the globe this month. Oh, and they're both Dutch, which is awesome!

i SQUARE - Hey Sexy Lady

i SQUARE consists of four members who go by Briddy, MJ, 10 Beats, and Destiny. They have all previously worked in the music industry as writers, producers, or dancers and after teaming up with P. Diddy as their executive producer, they're ready to unleash their debut single. Hey Sexy Lady fits perfectly in the current music landscape. It's infectious dance pop that's club ready and appeals to a variety of audiences. 

Washington - The Hardest Part (AUS)

I have been listening to Washington's debut album, I Believe You Liar, since this summer and I absolutely love it! She is a fantastic storyteller and her songs are always whimsical and contemplative. Megan Washington grew up in Papua New Guinea and Brisbane, Australia. She was previously trained at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music. I Believe You Liar has been one of the most successful debut albums from an Aussie artist this year.

Starshell - SuperLuva

Starshell is the first female artist signed to Mary J. Blige's Matriarch Records label. The newcomer has previously penned tracks for Kanye West & Mary J. but is now moving in front of the camera and the microphone. SuperLuva is her debut single, written by GaGa & produced by Fernando Garibay. The song & video are both 80's inspired, as evidenced by Starshell's homage to Kelly LeBrock in Weird Science.

Zebra & Giraffe - The Inside (SA)

Zebra and Giraffe are an alt-rock band based in Johannesburg. They released their debut album in 2008 which scored a number of top 10 hits on the South African charts. The Inside is the title track to their latest album and the video is futuristic and kind of menacing, but I will admit also slightly confusing.

Oh Land - Sun Of A Gun (DEN)

Compose
Oh Land "Sun of a Gun" from Oh Land Music on Vimeo.

Oh Land was trained at the Danish Royal Ballet Academy, but chose to pursue music full time following an injury. She performed at last year's SXSW where she caught the attention of some American record company folks and is putting the finishing touches on her first U.S. release. Her vocals are dramatically sweet and the video's aesthetic is rather the same.

Chris Brown - Yeah 3x

I'm always skeptical now of everything Mr. Brown puts out 'cause I'm not really in his "support camp". Yeah 3x is off his new album and is definitely a dance pop affair that I predict could do well on both sides of the Atlantic. Little kids, bright colors... this is quite a departure from the video of his latest hit single, Deuces.

Spark - Revolving

Spark is the stage name of 18 year old singer, Jess Morgan. She could definitely be an artist to look out for in 2011. She's got some rather nice vocals supported by an electropop sound. Revolving is her first single which sees release on November 15th in the UK.

Asa - Be My Man (FRA)

Asa (pronounce ASHA) is a French singer of Nigerian descent who I discovered almost 2 years ago, courtesy of her amazing debut album. Asa is back with her sophomore album and in Be My Man she channels a 60's soul groove.

Paralells - Dry Blood (CAN)

Parallels - Dry Blood (Official Video) from Parallels on Vimeo.

Parallels is a trio from Toronto that have been together since 2008. Their sound is electronic with some space disco thrown in, which is always a fun combination. They released their debut album, Visionaries, earlier this year. The video for Dry Blood is pretty awesome. The song is kind of addictive.

Burhan G feat. Nik & Jay - Tættere På Himlen (DEN)

One thing I love about music is that it's a universal language. Case in point, I don't speak a word of Danish, but that doesn't stop me from enjoying Tættere På Himlen (Closer To Heaven). That's what Google translate is for, folks! It's currently the #1 song in Denmark. The video has got a lot of pop stars in the flesh, so be warned & enjoy! Haha!

Willow Smith - Whip My Hair

Willow Smith is on the brink of turning 10 and she's got the planet buzzing with her debut single, Whip My Hair. The song is catchy and the video is visually brilliant. I love the message that she conveys and she comes across as a highly intelligent and likable girl. Go on, Willow! Shake off those haters & whip that hair!