Chisu - Kohtalon oma (FIN)

Finnish is notorious as a language that is difficult for non-native speaker to learn. Thank goodness for Google translate! Chisu is the stage name of singer Christel Sundberg who has had a successful career in Finland as a singer-songwriter. Her single Kohtalon oma (roughly translated to My own destiny) is a subtle track that packs quite an emotional punch even if you don't understand the words. The supporting video may be one of my favorites this year (and of course if comes at the end of it).

Alexandra Stan feat. Carlprit - 1.000.000 (ROM)

Romanian singer Alexandra Stan gets the title of Guilty Pleasure Pop Queen of '11. I suppose if I had given this title out last year it would have gone to Ke$ha. Who didn't have a dance at some point to this year to the addictive Mr. Saxobeat? It was an international smash! Her follow up Get Back (ASAP) wasn't too shabby either. For her latest single, Stan teams up with German rapper Carlprit for 1.000.000 (Europeans don't use the comma) which is going to be stuck in my head through the holidays.

Bossy Love feat. Kween G - Fight This Off (AUS)

Amandah Wilkinson of my fave Aussie group Operator Please is doing her own solo project at the moment, performing under the name Bossy Love. The single Fight This Off sounds like it could have been a big radio hit circa 1992. Which as a fan of 90's music, makes me absolutely swoon! I could imagine this being a track Neneh Cherry would have done. The video is low budget, but quirky and full of charm.

My Tiger My Timing - Written In Red (UK)

It shouldn't come as a surprise that I have been a fan of London based quartet My Tiger My Timing for a couple of years now and thoroughly enjoyed each track that has graced my ears, but the latest single Written In Red reaches all new levels of awesomeness. The syncopation and overall structure of the song is reminiscent of the African rumba and jazz records that I grew up listening to via my parents. Kinda like hearing an old familiar friend. It's a testament to how eclectic this band is that they are able to flawlessly incorporate such varied musical influences. Fingers crossed for a 2012 LP release from this ferocious five piece.

The Good Natured - Video Voyeur (UK)

It's another brilliant video and track from London based trio The Good Natured. Video Voyeur has a sleek and layered composition that just makes me crazy because this group hasn't burst onto the scene in a proper way even after almost three years of bubbling just under the surface. Sarah McIntosh is femme fatale to be reckoned with. I'm crossing my fingers for an album in 2012.

Daley - Smoking Gun (UK)

22-year-old singer-songwriter Daley was listed on BBC's Sound of 2011 just twelve short months ago. He didn't really make much of a splash and I would actually like to see him take off next year because he's got a unique sound and look. The world of pop needs some real talented male solo artists to come strong on the scene.

YELLE - Comme Un Enfant (FRA)

I don't know why  it took electropop dynamos YELLE nine months to release their next video but I'm just glad they did. If you haven't already picked up their sophomore LP Safari Disco Club I would highly recommend that you do so. It's a highly inspired piece of musical goodness. Comme Un Enfant (like a child) was always one of my favorite tracks in part because it has a real youthful, fun quality to it.

Donkeyboy - City Boy (NOR)

I can't tell y'all how chuffed I was to see this video make its debut today. Back in 2009 I fell head over heels for Norwegian pop band Donkeyboy and their debut album Caught In The Life. The debut single Ambitions spent a record number of weeks at #1 on the charts in Norway and UK X Factor champ Joe McElderry would go on to cover it (in a failed attempt at pop success). After hearing no new material in over two years, they are back and poised to take their act global. City Boy is just a perfect little pop song with synths that just demand you to dance. Plus the video was very produced, even though I don't quite understand what concept they were going for. Welcome back, Donkeyboy!

Charli XCX - Nuclear Seasons (UK)

Nuclear Seasons quickly became a favorite track of mine this fall when I first caught it on Fearne Cotton's BBC Radio 1 show. But it wasn't the first time I had heard from Charli XCX. She was featured in MNEK's Like A G6 refix that I posted last year. Nuclear has this shimmering 80's synth sadness and the video is like a retro VHS mind trip.

Cover Drive - Twilight (BAR)

Cover Drive is a group of talented young performers from the nation of Barbados who managed to score a top 10 hit this fall in the UK with the catchy single Lick Ya Down (that's Bajan slang and nothing raunchy). They are releasing their second single Twilight on January 22nd; a very enjoyable romantic pop song. The star of the video is their island homeland and it's full of local flavor that will leave you with a smile on your face. 

First Aid Kit - The Lion's Roar (SWE)

One of the first posts I did hear on Parlez-vous was on Swedish sister duo First Aid Kit. Johanna & Klara are out with new single, The Lion's Roar, which also happens to be the title of their upcoming sophomore album due out in 2012. This track makes me want to drink a glass of whiskey near a crackling fire in the woods. It's just so earthy, dark, and the harmonies are haunting.

Outasight - Tonight Is The Night

This song got me hooked after seeing it in a Pepsi commercial that is currently hitting the airwaves. Outasight is Richard Andrew, a New York based singer songwriter. Tonight Is The Night would fit perfectly on top 40 radio and has developed into a bit of an earworm for yours truly.

Buraka Som Sistema feat. Blaya & Roses Gabor - We Stay Up All Night (POR)

Shame on me for not featuring any Lusaphone (that's Portuguese speaking) artists on Parlez-vous Musique in the year that I've been blogging. So many thanks to my friend Amelia who is over there and let me in on this amazing group. Buraka Som Sistema have been around for five years and have found success in Portugal with their eclectic mix of electronic dance beat and African rhythms. The single We Stay Up All Night is currently in to top 10 in Portugal and propels you to do just that upon listening. It's bananas!

Ruby Goe - Get On It (UK)

Ruby Goes is a London gyal who has been bubbling for what seems like years now. I think I first heard about her back in 2008 and she's putting out some really interesting and catchy pop. Get On It is no exception and the video is far from run of the mill. Ruby is chock full of attitude with this one. He leaves you "walking like Bambi"? Ok!

CSS - City Grrrl (BRZ)

Remember back in 2007 when Music Is My Hot Hot Sex was featured in those iPod ads? Those were the days! CSS released their latest album La Liberación just this summer and here's the video for the single City Grrrl which is totally winning. It's fun, upbeat, with a bit of an edge. The video which was shot in part inside the Port Authority really compliments the song.

Yasmin feat. Ms. Dynamite - Light Up The World (UK)

The very beautiful Yasmin is out with the video for her next single Light Up The World which is out in January 2012 (first one of the new year!). I absolutely loved her last single Finish Line and this new one has a breezy drum & bass groove with the flawless Ms. Dynamite unleashing a verse. It's crazy that the video was shot in Cuba, because I've been dying to travel to the island nation all year. Wish it was easy for an American to just fly there. Damn embargos!

Culcha Candela - Hungry Eyes (GER)

Haven't posted in a while, mostly because no new music/videos have left me particularly charge these last couple weeks. Well I thought since I don't really write enough about German speaking acts I'd feature one this week. Culcha Candela are posed to release their new album Flaterate and their new single Hungry Eyes is coming in this week in the top 20. I guess they're supposed to be superheroes in the video and are being pursued by a seductive super-villaness. Don't take my word for it though.

Oh My! feat. Scrufizzer - Dirty Dancer (UK)

What a perfect little pop song this is! Oh My! are two young ladies who go by Alex and Jade and they have got something here that just works. I think it's a combination of their aesthetic and tunes that you just want to bop your head to and listen to again and again on repeat. I love how the guys in the video for Dirty Dancer are dressed like Parker Lewis from the early 90's TV show of the same name. Dirty Dancer is out in the UK on November 14th.

Ed Sheeran - Lego House (UK)

Twenty-year-old English singer Ed Sheeran's album + (yeah it's just that symbol), has been selling and adored adored by folks across the pond after debuting at number one last month. He's got this acoustic-pop thing down to a science and does it ever so well. I really hope that his people are planing on bringing him over to our shores, because the appeal would certainly cross over. The video for Lego House features Harry Potter star Ruper Grint as Sheeran's "ginger stand-in".

Rihanna feat. Calvin Harris - We Found Love

This may be one of my favorite Rihanna videos yet! The cinematography is rather stunning for the Calvin Harris produced track. It's the first cut off of the singer's new album Talk That Talk which is out November 18th. I know that it was just this time last year that we were anticipating the release of Loud and gushing over What's My Name, but as long as she and her crew keep releasing quality tracks I don't care about the length of time between LPs.

Martin Solveig & Dragonette feat. Idoling - Big In Japan (FRA/CAN)

Who didn't bounce their head at some point this year to Hello by Martin Solveig feat. Dragonette? In fact, the UK X Factor contestants performed it just this past Sunday. The French producer and Canada's finest music group are continuing their relationship of collaborating with this cut from Solveig's album Smash. It's in the same vein as Hello and is pure pop.

Le Corps Mince de François - Cool and Bored (FIN)

My bad for missing this one as the video's been out since June and it's by the eccentrically brilliant Finnish four piece that is Le Corps Mince de François, one of my faves. I posted their video for Gandhi back in December and was chuffed to hear a bit of French in Cool and Bored because despite their French name they are not of that origin nor do they usually sing in the language. Whatever tongue they perform in it doesn't matter because they're so good!

Sunday Girl - Love U More (UK)

Oh, Sunday Girl. What is going on?? It's been over a year since we first heard the sublime Four Floors and we're still without a proper album. I imagine it has something to do with the fact that though she's got an online following, it has yet to translate to any chart success. It's a real shame because I feel like Sunday Girl is one of the more unique female artists out there right now. Love U More is out December 4th.

Kelly Rowland feat. Big Sean - Lay It On Me

OK, we sense a theme here and it's sexy! Kelly Rowland once again gets down to scantily clad basics with her new video for the song Lay It On Me featuring Big Sean. Her video for Motivation, one of the summer's big hits, also featured Ms. Kelly and a bevy of young hotties in a steamy and scintillating scenario (yay alliteration!). With Kelly sitting on the judge's panel for the current series of X Factor UK, one would hope that they give her an opportunity to perform the track on a live show and send the single shooting up the charts.

The Saturdays - My Heart Takes Over (UK)

I love it whenever I see a video that was shot in Iceland, my adopted home country that I visited in 2009. The landscape is as chillingly breathtaking in real life as it is in the video for the third single from The Saturdays upcoming album On Your Radar which is out in November.

Zowie - Smash It (NZ)

It's been a while since we've heard from Kiwi singer Zowie, but she's out with a new video for the single Smash It. It's pure pop with a slight edge, and what else would you expect when she's clad in yellow DM's and wielding a huge baseball bat? No definitive word yet on when we'll be seeing an album release.

Coeur de pirate - Adieu (CAN)

Coeur de pirate (pirate's heart) is the stage name of Quebecois singer-songwriter Béatrice Martin. In 2009 she captivated much of French speaking Europe with her self-titled debut album and the single Comme des enfants (like children). It reached great heights on the French and Belgian charts and this fall Coeur de pirate is releasing the follow up, the album entitled Blonde. Adieu is the first single off the LP and the video for it is rather entertaining.

Pixie Lott feat. Pusha T - What Do You Take Me For (UK)

Pixie is a good girl gone bad in her new clip for the single What Do You Take Me For featuring American rapper Pusha T, who you may know from Kaye West's Runaway. The release of this new song is part of the promotion for Pixie's upcoming sophomore LP Young Foolish Happy which is out on November 7. With the last single All About Tonight having gone to #1 last month, this era is shaping up quite nicely for this British blonde.

Cher Lloyd feat. Mike Posner - With Ur Love (UK)

Swagger Jagger, X-Factor alum Cher Lloyd's first single, was both loved and hated by the UK public upon its release and eventual rise to #1 this summer. I feel like With Ur Love will get more people on her side, because it's pretty damn good as far as pop songs go. She's sweet, but Cher's still has that chavvy swag that has made her such a hit this past year. The single is out on October 31.

Florence + The Machine - Shake It Out

Florence Welch looks and sounds stunning in the video and on the track of her return single Shake It Out. After traversing the world for the past two years engaging fans with their debut album Lungs, Flo and company are prepping the release of the next LP Ceremonials which is out at month's end. Welch has been quoted as saying that the new record will be a bit of a departure from Lungs, which may leave some die hards delirious, but I am looking forward to another year spent under this enchantress' musical spell.

Nero - Crush On You (UK)

Coming off of their chart topping success with the single Promises, dubstep aficionados Nero are out with the latest single from their debut album Welcome Reality. The video for the song features some young Brits with the warm and fuzzys amongst some sinister goings on.

Tove Styrke - Call My Name (SWE)

Tove Styrke - Call My Name from Lampray on Vimeo.
Have you met Tove? I featured her song High & Low some time ago and her latest single Call My Name which is chock full of 80's wonder is currently top 10 in her native Sweden. Oh and fair warning, the neat video has really nothing to do with the song. But when has that stopped any other popstar?

The Wombats - 1996 (UK)

The Wombats are a band after my heart! I've enjoyed all their previous singles from their album This Modern Glitch but they've reached a new level of adoration for me with 1996. Anyone who knows me knows that I love 90's pop culture. It's a celebration of my childhood and of really interesting times gone by. The new Wombats single evokes that type of nostalgia that many of us who were kids and teenagers during that incredible decade will relate.

Lioness - Don't Tell Me (UK)

Last December some UK lady MC's made a response to the all-male Game Over collabo and they absolutely smashed it! One of them was Lioness, who made effective use of the word "masturbate" in her particular verse. The 22-year-old Londoner just came out with the video for her single Don't Tell Me and her delivery is full of that distinctly British swag that so many of us have come to love.

Kele feat. Lucy Taylor - What Did I Do (UK)

I was super thrilled to see this because last year Bloc Party frontman Kele Okereke did an acoustic performance with a mystery backing singer that just melted my heart. I am pleased to announce that the unknown woman in question is Lucy Taylor and she and Kele have collaborated on a single for his upcoming EP, The Hunter. His debut solo album was called The Boxer (I'm sensing a theme here). What Did I Do is really enjoyable slice of popstep.

The Wanted - Lightning (UK)

Lightning is the UK boyband's follow up to their smash summer #1 Glad You Came. A new album will be released in tandem with this latest single this autumn. In the video we see revelers in various stages of undress. That's one way to set yourselves apart from squeaky clean One Direction.

Waylayers - Hear No Lies (UK)

I really know very little about these fellows except that they are a trio from London and I had the good fortune of stumbling upon their music video for their single Hear No Lies. It's dreamy indie pop with a touch of electro. I'm definitely up for hearing more and getting some deets!

MNEK - If Truth Be Told (UK)

My pal MNEK, who is just coming off of seeing his co-writing efforts on The Saturdays' All Fired Up enter the UK charts at #3, is preparing his own official single release! Three years after catching the attention of music aficionados all over the web, the 16 year old will be coming out with a new edit of one of his previous works If Truth Be Told. Though he was born in the mid 90's, MNEK has a passion for 80's retro production that is really ace! If Truth be Told is out November 7th on Moshi Moshi Records.

Sean Paul feat. Alexis Jordan - Got 2 Luv U

A few months ago I was driving back from work and heard Sean Paul's hit song Temperature blasting on the radio. It got me thinking "Where has this guy been?" Well the answer is preparing his comeback and it appears to be on the right track as the single Got 2 Luv U featuring pop princess Alex Jordan is making an impression across Europe and very soon the UK and U.S.

Laidback Luke vs Example - Natural Disaster

The hits train for Mr. Elliot Gleave just keeps chugging along! His new album Playing In The Shadows debuted at #1 in the UK charts and his previous chart topper Changed The Way You Kiss Me is entering the top 10 across Europe. I really think some his music would translate quite well to American audiences and champion his arrival on our shores. Natural Disaster is the third single where we see Example team up with remix master Laidback Luke for a lush club ready jam.

Julian Perretta - If I Ever Feel Better

One of the most popular posts on my blog in the past year, was one featuring Stitch Me Up by Julian Perretta. Here we have the latest video from Julian (why he virtually a year to come out with another clip is beyond me) for the song If I Ever Feel Better. If it sounds familiar to you, that's because it's a cover a a song by rock band Phoenix. This rendition is considerably punchier and pop.

Frankmusik feat. Colette Carr - No I.D.

There's something that I can't quite put my finger on when it comes to Frankmusik's new single No I.D. that harkens back to my childhood. Perhaps it sounds like something Ace of Base would have put out circa 1995? Anywho, the track is highly likeable and could be the one that takes Frankmusik to the level of widespread recognition. His sophomore album Do It In The AM sees release on September 26th on both sides of the Atlantic.

Wynter Gordon - Buy My Love

Summer 2011 has come to an end, but I'll always remember how Wynter Gordon's debut album With The Music I Die was a substantial part of my seasonal soundtrack. Buy My Love is the third single from the LP and Wynter goes back to the 80's and plays homage to the cinematic aesthetic of that era.

Rizzle Kicks - When I Was A Youngster (UK)

Jordan & Harley aka Rizzle Kicks seemed to have come out of virtually nowhere when they went top 10 this summer with their single Down With The Trumpets. While gaining fans across Britain & the world they found themselves at #1 just two short weeks ago when Olly Murs' Heart Skips A Beat, on which they featured, went straight to the top. These guys seem to be having a lot of fun performing whilst in the midst of meteoric success. Their debut album Stereo Type is out this October.

Alex Winston - Velvet Elvis

Alex Winston is a enigmatic artist who has an appealing quality to her storytelling. We saw it with Locomotive and it continues with Velvet Elvis. I'm looking forward to checking out a full LP release from the talented chanteuse.

Marina & The Diamonds - Radioactive (UK)

Oh Marina, I never thought you would produce the type of song that would propel me to put my hands up in the air and want to go dancing! I adored Ms. Diamantis' debut album and her sophomore LP is shaping up nicely as she teases her fans with tracks from the record. Radioactive sounds like nothing from the first album and there's nothing wrong with that especially in trying to give this era a distinct sound and feel.

Mika - Elle Me Dit

Mika suffered from a bit of a sophomore slump with his last album The Boy Who Knew Too Much in 2009. One of the few places where he saw solid sales was in France and I suppose as a way of tapping that loyal following Mika has released the French language single Elle Me Dit (She Tells Me). It's rather fun and as a Francophone there's an almost instant connection for me. The video which does not star Mika does feature Fanny Ardant, celebrated French actress from one of my favorite films 8 Women.

Chromeo feat. Solange - When The Night Falls

Canada's finest come to us with an 80's electro funk banger with a little help from the lovely Solange Knowles. When The Night Falls is a superb throwback track and the accompanying video clip is both highly humorous and sentimental which you hardly see in video these days.

Bulletproof feat. Jessie G - Dub Me Crazy (NZ)

Dubstep, a jarring genre that has its roots in Britain, has permeated into musical art forms over the past decade worldwide. DJ Bulletproof who hails from Auckland has spent years bringing the sound to his fellow Kiwis and he's managed to capture them this summer with Dub Me Crazy. I know that dubstep can be difficult at times for some to handle, but Bulletproof and singer Jessie G manage to make it accesible to a diverse (pop) listening audience.

Anjulie - Brand New Bitch (CAN)

When Anjulie came out with her self-titled debut over two years ago she got a fair amount of critical attention for her alternative but still approachable brand of pop music, but it didn't really set the charts afire. Flash forward to 2011 where her single Brand New Bitch, which is admittedly more mainstream than her previous work, is climbing up the top 40 chart in Anjulie's home of Canada. I think dancepop is a genre she's legitimately a fan of and if going in that direction can garner her attention & fans then I for one say, go forth!

The Saturdays - All Fired Up (UK)

Could this be the one? Could this be the single that takes British girlband The Saturdays to #1 on the charts after the spot has eluded them for the past three years? I predict that they stand a fairly decent shot given that All Fired Up in all its ravey, hands in the air fabulousness is a departure from the gals previous releases. Pixie Lott also wants the coveted position at the top with her song All About Tonight. Which ladies of pop will reign supreme when the tracks see release on September 4th? 

Oh Land - White Nights (DEN)

Oh Land's self-titled album came out this spring and quickly received repeated plays on my iPod. Her songs have been featured on numerous TV shows and commercials and she's toured with the fabulous Sia this year. It's nice to finally see her releasing a new music video since Sun Of A Gun came out ages ago. Nanna (that's her real name) awakens in various dreams in the White Nights video. She is definitely one to check out if you're not familiar already.

Maroon 5 feat. Christina Aguilera - Moves Like Jagger

This most recent era for Maroon 5 was beginning to look like a bid of a dud. Other than Misery, they were really struggling to get bonafide hits out of their singles. Then came The Voice, which grabbed the nation's attention and brought Adam Levine & Christina Aguilera together. Both artists needed a bit of a career pick me up and have found it via the show and Moves Like Jagger. The single is currently on top of iTunes charts on three different continents and the video, which just debuted, is a tribute to the man himself and his notorious dance moves and personality.

Cherise & Nadia - This Night (UK)

Booty Luv were (are?) the music duo of singers Nadia Shepherd & Cherise Roberts. They scored several top 20 hits on the UK charts between 2006 and 2009, but after the release of their very catchy single Say It they disappeared off the pop map. Well they're back and and it appears under a new name, but no matter because the new single This Night is more of the classic infectious dancepop with which they're synonymous. Welcome back ladies!

Dappy - No Regrets (UK)

Haven't blogged in a couple weeks so it's nice to be back sharing music with y'all on the interwebs! Dappy from N-Dubz (a group I have become a fan of over the past year) is getting ready to step out as a solo artist and in a big way with his debut singe No Regrets. Everyone's betting that this one is poised for a #1 chart position and I would agree with them. The key change and use of gospel choir at the end aren't what you'd expect from Daps but it really works.

Gabrielle - Ring Meg (NOR)

Currently topping the iTunes chart in Norway is Ring Meg (Call Me), the debut single from Gabrielle Leithaug. She competed on the first season of X Factor Norway, though she didn't make it to the finals. Who cares though if you can manage a number one record. On a side note, doesn't Gabrielle look a bit like Natasha Bedingfield?

Example - Stay Awake (UK)

Stay Awake is the new single and follow up to rapper Example's UK #1 smash Changed The Way You Kiss Me. It's off of his upcoming album Playing In The Shadows and if this LP is anything like his last album, Won't Go Quietly, it stands a good shot of making it onto my list of fave albums of 2011.

Pixie Lott - All About Tonight (UK)

Victoria "Pixie" Lott has closed the book on her Turned It Up era which sold millions of records and earned her fans all over the world. All About Tonight is the first single from the brand new album and it's a lively, post-breakup anthem that could be Pixie's first #1 since 2009's Boys & Girls. In the video she's a bit of a chameleon, boldly displaying three distinct hairstyles. Plus she's got some of the best legs in pop. 

JLS feat. Dev - She Makes Me Wanna (UK)

It seems like only yesterday that the world was pumping its collective heart to Beat Again, but two years later and we have a new summer single from the boys of JLS. Produced by superstar producer RedOne and featuring Dev of Like A G6 and Bass Down Low fame, She Makes Me Wanna has quickly become an infectious track and you might catch yourself mumbling "Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh!". The single is out on July 24th with the third album to follow in autumn.

Dev - In The Dark

With Bass Down Low maintaining its chart presence in the UK and her latest feature with boyband JLS an almost certain number one, 2011 is shaping up nicely for American singer Dev. In The Dark has an almost Meditarranean holiday style groove but the video is all about the dark and sexy.

Gotye feat. Kimbra - Somebody That I Used To Know (AUS)

Can't get over how this track and video are both utterly amazing! Aussie singer-songwriter Gotye (stage name of Walter De Backer) is partnered with Kiwi singer Kimbra and the two forge gut wrenching harmonies as we are witness to a relationship falling apart. I could only imagine the hours it took to get all painted up and with such excruciating attention being paid to detail. Gotye's new album Making Mirrors is out in August.

Starboy Nathan feat. Wretch 32 - Hangover (UK)

This one here's got the potential to be one of the big party jams of summer 2011 over in Great Britain. Following up from his top 40 entry with Diamonds, singer Starboy Nathan returns with Hangover which has some decidedly American influences upon first listen. He's collaborating with Wretch 32, who after scoring a big hit this year with Unorthodox, appears to be shooting up the ladder of musical success.

Melissa Nkonda feat. VV Brown - J'ai fait tout ça pour vous (FRA)

20-year-old Melissa Nkonda may not have won Nouvelle Star, one of the biggest talent competition shows in her native France, but that didn't stop her from pursuing a music career and eventually earning a contract with record label AZ. Her lovely debut single Nouveaux Horizons went top 40 in France and Belgium this spring and for her follow up she's teamed up with one of the UK's finest, VV Brown. J'ai fait tout ça pour vous (I did all this for you) is sure to put a smile on your face.

My Tiger My Timing - Endless Summer (UK)

Coming to us after making their first of what I hope will be many appearances at the Glastonbury Festival is London based quintet My Tiger My Timing. I've been a fan of theirs since 2009 when I stumbled across their music video for the track This Is Not The Fire and was instantly hooked. MTMT have concocted a musical recipe that includes a dash of indie and alternative with a huge dollop of catchy pop that has on more than one occasion propelled to get up and dive right into the the groove. Endless Summer is their latest single which sees release on August 1st and was on my video playlist this weekend as I found myself strolling along  the banks of the St. Lawrence River in Montreal. It was the perfect background noise as I stood amongst the many frolicking tourists.

Cobra Starship feat. Sabi - You Make Me Feel...

Pop band Cobra Starship are back on the scene after having made those good girls go bad in 2009. Their new single You Make Me Feel... (yes the dot dot dot is necessary) has already gone #1 on New Zealand iTunes and I heard it on the radio for the first time here in the States on an afternoon drive. Featured singer Sabi has received much attention after appearing on Britney's Femme Fatale album.

David Guetta feat. Flo Rida & Nicki Minaj - Where Them Girls At

Tiny bubbles, no make that GIANT bubbles, are the stars of the new clip for Mr. Guetta's single Where Them Girls At, which already achieved top 10 status in much of the global charts earlier this spring. Nicki Minaj continues to astound me with her use of pop cultural references in her verses. Peabo Bryson? Really? Yes and it's brilliant!

The Sound Of Arrows - Magic (SWE)

Swedish pop duo The Sound of Arrows are putting together their highly anticipated debut LP and now we have a new single and video that really is an achievement. A brother and sister discover that all the adults in their town are gone and set forth on a mischievous adventure. The track is quite dreamy and wistful. Magic will be released as a single in August.

Darren Hayes - Talk Talk Talk

Growing up in the 90's, Savage Garden was one of my absolute favorite musical acts. I owned the only two albums that they released and wore them out. I always wanted to see them in concert and have spent the past decade since the breakup wishing that Darren & Daniel would find it in their hearts to reunite. That's probably not gonna happen anytime soon considering that the former is out with a sweet new single. Talk Talk Talk has synth layers that fit quite well on this pop tune and the video takes place in a kaleidoscope dream realm. Welcome back, Darren!

Those Dancing Days - Can't Find Entrance (SWE)

Those Dancing Days are five ladies from suburban Stockholm who make rather good indie pop. They released their sophomore album Daydreams & Nightmares earlier this year and Can't Find Entrance is the latest single. TDD reminds me a bit of 60's girlgroups if they had been more prone to electric guitar and high intensity.

Florrie - I Took A Little Something (UK)

This is definitely one of my favorite pop singles of 2011. Florrie, the still unsigned but likes it that way, performer is out with her Experiments EP and the track I Took A Little Something is excellent. It's breezy and upbeat with an accompanying video that was beautifully shot in Paris by Jason Wu with Florrie decked out in Dolce and Gabbana attire. I have immense respect for the woman as she attempts to develop a career under her own terms.

CocknBullKid - Yellow (UK)

Here's the latest video from CocknBullKid from her debut album Adulthood. The video is a literal interpretation of the song's lyrics. If you haven't already checked out her previous amazing single Asthma Attack, I would highly encourage to do so. Cheers!

Belle Amie - Girls Up (UK)

Coming to us from the most recent season of Britian's The X Factor is girlband, Belle Amie. But see, there were four of them on the show, but now it's only three. That's what happens when you don't get to the finals and folks' commitment starts to waver. Rebecca, Esther, and Sophia decided to forge on as a trio and their debut single Girls Up has sassy delivery and a catchy hook that I have gotten stuck in my head this week.

Asa - Why Can't We (FRA)

The French-Nigerian singer is out with the video for her latest single Why Can't We. It's a bright and and effervescent clip and the track itself contains Asa's signature retro 60's swag.

Lady GaGa - The Edge of Glory

This latest video from GaGa is much simpler than pretty much everything she's done in the past year, but I'm OK with that because it's strong without having to have a lot of frills which in the end can become overwhelming and confusing to the viewer. The Edge of Glory is probably the single from Born This Way which was the most instantly enjoyable. All shower no grower.

Rye Rye feat. Robyn - Never Will Be Mine

Filmed on the streets of Los Angeles, M.I.A. protégé Rye Rye releases the video for her single Never Be Mine, which is off her much awaited and delayed debut album. The single samples Robyn's 2005 single Be Mine! and the lady herself makes an appearance in the video. The song really makes my heart melt. It's heartbreak perfection.

Zoë Badwi - Carry Me Home (AUS)

Carry Me Home is the latest single from Australian dancepop chanteuse Zoë Badwi. Her debut album will see release this summer and the video is a classy affair with full length gowns at a curious masquerade ball.

Svenstrup & Vendelboe feat. Nadia Malm - Dybt Vand (DEN)

I've been listening to this pretty sweet dance track for almost two months now, but its video just saw daylight this week. Dybt Vand (Deep Water) went #1 back in April in Denmark and is a single from producers Svenstrup & Vendelboe who are responsible for many of the successful tracks from Danish Queen of Pop, Medina. Dybt Vand is just so hypnotizing in its manner without being full on trance.

Chase & Status feat. Tinie Tempah - Hitz (UK)

Chase and Status are a British duo who have sort of become the kings of dubstep and D&B in the UK with hit singles and a #2 album under their belt this past year. Hitz features Tinie Tempah, arguably the most popular British rapper in the world right now and it goes pretty hard.

The Wanted - Glad You Came (UK)

The Wanted burst onto the scene last summer with their #1 hit All Time Low and as they approach their one year anniversary it's time for a new single and album. Glad You Came has a very bright, summery, and island vibe to it and the video which was shot in Ibiza exhibits every bit of that.

Flash Republic - Devastation (SA)

Devastation is the latest single from South African electropop band Flash Republic. Once again the troupe from below the Equator demonstrate that they know how to put together a rather good pop track.

Theis - Det' slut nu (DEN)

32 year old singer-songwriter Theis has spent years writing for some of Denmark's biggest music acts and is now preparing to release his own music with his debut single Det' slut nu (The end now). The song gets the emotion across even if there is that ever present language barrier.

Nicola Roberts - Beat Of My Drum (UK)

Nicola Roberts - Beat Of My Drum from Diego Purizaga on Vimeo.

Gingers have long been the targets of ridicule and general mistrust. But in 2011, one is poised to become the new queen of British pop. 25-year-old Nicola Roberts is stepping out on her own after almost a decade in Britian's most successful girlband, Girls Aloud. Her debut single Beat of My Drum comes courtesy of acclaimed producer Diplo and is filled with pulsating beats and dance ready rhythms. The record is garnering praise from across the world of music and if it doesn't become a chart triumph I'll be thoroughly surprised.

Robyn - Call Your Girlfriend

It was this time last year that Swedish pop goddess Robyn returned with the first part of her Body Talk anthology. Twelve months later and we have the video for her latest single Call Your Girlfriend, which evokes the emotional transition from one relationship to another. The clip is a simple affair with Robyn dancing alone in a warehouse, but it works.

Katy B - Easy Please Me (UK)

Easy Please Me is the fourth single from Katy B's debut album On A Mission, an LP that came in at #2 on the UK charts when it was released last month. This latest single demonstrates the smooth and cool delivery of the young Londoner and should prove to be another commercial success in her ever increasing list of achievements.

Le Kid - America (SWE)

The bright and bubbly musical troupe that is Le Kid are just about ready to deliver their debut album which I'm sure will consist of some catchy as hell tracks which have been a trademark by these talented Swedes. Le Kid's big claim to fame this year came when they competed for the chance to represent their home nation in the stupendous 2011 Eurovision Song Contest.

Beyoncé - Run The World (Girls)

Epic. That's the word that comes to mind when I think of the single campaign and video for Queen B's song Run The World (Girls). The visual is stunning with a global, gender military aesthetic that obviously cost a bundle to assemble. The single campaign unfortunately is an "epic fail" because over a month after the debut we see Girls sliding swiftly down the worldwide charts. Will this video help provide some desperately needed juice? Only time will tell.

Parade - Perfume (UK)

Take me away to London town! I love how British this music video is. Union Jacks, the Tower of London, the river Thames, it's just so damn UK. It's perfectly suited for Parade, Britain's newest and hottest girband who are releasing their second single Perfume next month. Their debut Louder went straight to the top 10 and I'm hoping that that success is repeated because I enjoyed this tune the moment I heard the intro horns.

Aqua - How R U Doin'

In a far far distant time known as the 1990's, I was a tween with a love for pop music and amongst my collection of tunes was the Aqaurium album by Aqua. Almost a decade and a half later I still find myself drawn to the bubblegum pop goodness of this Scandinavian quartet.

Havana Brown - We Run The Night (AUS)

Havana Brown is an Australian DJ who has found recent and slightly unexpected suuccess with her single We Run The Night, which has gone to #7 on the charts Down Under. This is a track that's easily portable from daytime radio to an evening at the club.

M Pokora - A nos actes manqués (FRA)

M Pokora (the "M" stands for Matt) has been one of the most popular popstars in the French speaking world and like many artists of recent years it all began courtesy of a reality TV competition. A nos actes manqués is a cover of a song released back in 1991 and the video is a celebration of vibrant island life.

Calvin Harris feat. Kelis - Bounce

Back in 2009 Calvin Harris, DJ extraordinaire and sometime music brat, released the album Something For The Weekend that featured his #1 hit single I'm Not Alone. That was a while ago but he has re-emerged in fighting form with a track featuring newly turned dance diva Kelis. Bounce has plenty of blips and bloops and will be part of many a summer soundtrack for 2011.

Pitbull feat. Ne-Yo - Give Me Everything

My favorite bit in this song is Ne-Yo's verse on the chorus. It just makes you wanna go to a club and let loose and indeed "grab somebody sexy". How can you not have a giggle at the line "American Idol, gettin' money like Seacrest." It's practically poetry.

Cascada - San Francisco

Remember back in 2009 when Cascada's 'Evacuate The Dancefloor' would come on the radio or in a club and you would have that guilty urge to just dance? Well that's how I kind of felt after hearing their latest single. It's an ode to the bohemian 60's and America's 13th most populous city. Cheesy? Oh yeah. Catchy? That too.

Nicki Minaj - Super Bass

Darling Nicki. I'm really not sure what number single Nicki is on at this point, what with all the features and her own solo releases, but girl is on fire. The clip for Super Bass is bright, fun, and sexy; perfect for the summer months.

Lady GaGa - Judas

The Catholic League is gonna have a field day with this one! The video for GaGa's second single off the soon to be released Born This Way album is chock full of religious symbolism and iconography. Like many videos from LG, it was heavy on the fashion and eccentricities which has done nothing but serve her well over the past three years. Mary Magdalene would be proud.

Frankmusik feat. Far East Movement - Do It In The AM

Oh pretty pretty please, let this song become a big hit. Frankmusik is such an underrated singer-songwriter and he deserves much success, this track being evidence of that. How sick is that breakdown?

Chris Brown - She Ain't You

Oh Chris, why do you have to be such a public dickhead?! Just days after hearing the song She Ain't You off his new album F.A.M.E., I learned that Chris had proceeded to trash a dressing room over at Good Morning America. I fear I will continue to have a conflicting relationship with this guy until he can really get his act together. But I will say that the use of the SWV/MJ sample is pretty brilliant.

Tinchy Stryder & Dappy - Spaceship (UK)

Two of the biggest names in the UK urban music scene have teamed up for a track that has the potential to really get the summer started right. Spaceship is another one of those "came from the bottom but now I'm at the top" hip-hop songs, but the production is definitely pop influenced. The video seems to have been filmed somewhere in southern Europe, so a fair warning that travel envy might set in while watching it.

Lykke Li - Sadness Is A Blessing

I'm not even gonna try and pretend like I have a firm grasp on what's going on in the video for Li's new video for Sadness Is A Blessing, the 3rd single from her sophomore album Wounded Rhymes. She's in a restaurant with some bizarre looking folks and she performs wistful movements throughout the room. It's enigmatic and that's been part of Lykke's Li's appeal for many including myself.

Florrie - Begging Me (UK)

On the morning of the royal wedding it would only be appropriate to feature a British artist, and she's a real doozey! Florrie has been bubbling at the surface of big things ever since she started doing drumming and doing background vocals at the famed Xenomania production house. She's come out with some buzz tracks for free download and it's already time for her second EP (get on with an album already!). Begging Me is a catchy, electropop dream that instantly had me bopping and bouncing around my bedroom. It's sweet, it's fun, it's pretty damn awesome.

Kimbra - Cameo Lover (NZ)

I've been waiting for this video from Australian based Kiwi singer, Kimbra, for many moons now. Her debut single Settle Down was out last summer and Kimbra is alleged to be putting the final touches on her debut album (tentatively titled, Vows). Her soul and jazz influences are evident in the track for Cameo Lover with a suffiecient dose of pop. The video is bursting with color and quirkiness. Check it out!

Example - Change The Way You Kiss Me (UK)

Just six months after releasing the final single from his highly successful album Won't Go Quietly, Elliot "Example" Gleave is back at it with the first song from his upcoming new LP. Change The Way You Kiss Me is an uptempo, hypnotic track that will inspire many nights of raving under flashing strobe lights.

Joey Moe - Skakmat (DEN)

As you may already know, outside of the U.S. and UK, most of my readers are from the nation of Denmark and I've grown quite fond of their music scene over the last couple of years. Joey Moe is one of Denmark's biggest pop stars and he's just released his third album Fuldmåne (Full Moon). The single Skakmat (Checkmate) really caught my attention the first time I heard it and oozes of emotional pop 'n B. In addition, a rather beautiful music video was shot for the single.

Clare Maguire - The Shield & The Sword (UK)

Clare Maguire's debut album Light After Dark was released earlier this year, but has not succeeded in setting the charts on fire like many had predicted. No, that honor goes to the likes of Jessie J. and Adele. I'm not sure where her label plans on going with her given these less than desirable results, but The Shield and The Sword is superb listening material.

Fefe Dobson feat. Orianthi - Can't Breathe

My high school crush on Fefe Dobson has been rekindled as of late thanks to the success of her album Joy. The singles have charted well in her native Canada and across the blogosphere people are making mention of the pop-rock goddess. For a while in the last decade it seemed liked things were dunzo for Dobson, but this record demonstrates how wrong some of us were.

Colonel Reyel - Toutes Les Nuits (FRA)

French singer/rapper Colonel Reyel is having a good year so far with his first two singles Celui and Toutes Les Nuits (All the Nights) having gone #1 on the charts. I've checked out clips from his debut album Au rapport and they sound pretty decent. It's got a lot of zouk influences, which is a genre that originates from the French Caribbean and has gained global popularity over the years.

Natalia Kills - Wonderland

Natalia Kills  debut album Perfectionist sounds amazing! I got the chance to hear the album sampler last month and I was left thoroughly impressed. Natalia has strong pop sensibilities and knows how to write a great song. The video for Wonderland looks so high budget and tells an engaging story of conflict in a sort of fairy tale realm gone awry.

Tove Styrke - High and Low (Official Video)

What is it about the Swedes that allows them to produce some of the world's best pop music? Max Martin, Ace of Base, ABBA, Robyn, Miike Snow... the list goes on. Tove Styrke was a contestant on Swedish Idol and her self-titled debut album came out late last year. This version of her single High and Low contains excellent new production and the video is really appealing.

Britney Spears - Till The World Ends

Last week I went into a shop to pick up a copy of Britney's latest album Femme Fatale. I was so pumped to have that CD in my hand and felt as if I had been put into a time machine and sent 10-12 years in the past. I put the disc in the car player and was dancing in my seat all the way through early evening traffic. Femme Fatale is a real pop triumph that is filled with the infectious tracks that have made Spears an international icon. This era has at times appeared to be on shaky ground, but I can say for certain that I will remain a loyal listener. The video for TTWE harkens back to the video for 2001's I'm A Slave 4 U.

Kelly Rowland feat. Lil' Wayne - Motivation

Oh Ms. Kelly, you just seem to be perpetually on the verge these days. Close but no cigar! She was poised to be queen of the dance floor courtesy of When Love Takes Over and Commander, but subsequent single releases have failed to catch the public's attention. Let's turn now to Motivation. This video and tune are Sexy (yes, with a capital "S"). Here's hoping that it gathers steam and we get an album release sooner rather than later from Rowland.

Sirens - Good Enough (UK)

British girl group Sirens have been around the pop scene for a decade now, but have only had marginal success. It's a real shame that they haven't gotten more exposure, because a song like Good Enough is sublime perfection.

Nik & Jay - Mod Solnedgangen (DEN)

Nik & Jay's brand of Danish hip-hop has enticed my ears for the past two years. Mod Solnedgangen (Towards the Sunset) is their latest hit in the land of Troll dolls, but it appears the video was shot somewhere with more temperate weather whilst they were fully clothed.

Katy Perry feat. Kanye West - E.T.

I never got around to posting the video for Katy's last single Firework because I thought it was just too cheesy for a perfectly good song. With the clip for E.T., I feel as if Katy and crew somehow got what I was feeling and really brought it with this newest effort. E.T. is one of my favorite tracks from the Teenage Dream album and it is currently sitting at the top of the Billboard Hot 100. That makes it the fourth single from the LP to go #1. Impressive!

cocknbullkid - Asthma Attack (UK)

Singer-songwriter cocknbullkid (aka Anita Blay) will be releasing her long awaited debut album Adulthood this May. It will be quite the sonic triumph, I suspect. Her latest single Asthma Attack has got me under a spell and ready to take a trip across the pond.

Starboy Nathan - Diamonds (UK)

Sorry for the lack of posts, but there just seems to be a lack of tunes this month that have been able to catch my fancy. Well here's a semi-new artist to introduce to you. Starboy Nathan (born Nathan Abraham Fagan-Gayle) is a pop 'n B singer from London who scored a minor hit back in 2006 and is looking to secure another place on the charts with his new single Diamonds. He recently supported boyband JLS on their winter tour and will be opening for The Wanted this spring. Diamonds is out April 17th.

Avalanche City - Love Love Love (NZ)

Avalanche City are a six piece acoustic folk band coming to us from the city of Auckland. The guys are currently celebrating their single Love Love Love going to #1 on the New Zealand top 40. Penguins who express their unwavering dedication to each other is a beautiful thing.

Jamie Woon - Lady Luck (UK)

English singer Jamie Woon is one of the few male artists at the moment who's voice truly leaves me mesmerised. I featured his video Night Air a few months back, which I thought was one of the sexiest songs I'd heard in '10. Mr. Woon is releasing his debut album Mirrorwriting this April.

Black Eyed Peas - Just Can't Get Enough

The nation of Japan is still coming to terms with the devastating natural disasters that have left thousands dead and homeless. Pop super-group The Black Eyed Peas filmed the clip for their latest hit in the city of Tokyo. The condolences to Japan in the video's intro were a very kind gesture. May the Japanese people know peace and maintain the strength to rebuild.

Alyssa Reid feat. P. Reign - Alone Again (CAN)

Alyssa Reid is an 18 year old singer from Canada who is currently occupying the top 10 chart spot on her nation's version of iTunes. If this tune sounds at all familiar it's because it's a re-working of the 1987 #1 hit by American rock band, Heart. Even though the song is an established classic, Reid is able to give it a fresh pop 'n B sound with the help of rapper P. Reign.

Medina - Gutter (DEN)

Here's a new video from Danish queen of the dancefloor, Medina. Gutter is another one of her trademark emotional floor fillers and the clip has her puling off some interesting physical acrobatics, but I also suspect camera tricks were involved.

Dominique Young Unique - War Talk

One of the first videos I posted here on Parlez-vous Musique was by Floridian teenage singer,Dominique Young Unique. It's been a long six months since that first clip, but she's back! My only complaint about War Talk is that it's too short. We want more Dominique and soon!

Yasmin - Finish Line (UK)

I have a new pop crush! Yasmin is a gorgeous and incredibly skilled half English/Iranian DJ & singer. Her debut single On My Own entered the UK top 40 at the beginning of the year and her next release Finish Line will be out in May. The song was produced by the amazing Labrinth who seems to have the Midas touch when it comes to hit records these days. The video for Finish Line is rather beautiful as well.

Willow Smith - 21st Century Girl

Our favorite little Warriorette is back with the followup to her smash hit debut Whip My Hair. At the end of 2010 it seemed every man, woman, and child was whipping their head to the track from the youngest member of the Smith clan. 21st Century Girl goes in a more dance-pop direction, but shows every sign of making an impression on the charts and setting up Willow's LP launch. Check out the cameo from the legendary Cicely Tyson in the music video!

The Wanted - Gold Forever (UK)

The Comic Relief Red Nose Day appeal is a bi-annual event in Britain that seeks to raise money for charity. Each time around they enlist a pop act to help the cause by releasing a special single. In 2009, it was girlgroup The Saturdays. This year we've been given Gold Forever by The Wanted. I instantly liked this song when I heard it. The song is an upbeat, feel good tune that I'm certain will help raise a ton of cash for those in need.

Jennifer Lopez feat. Pitbull - On The Floor

On The Floor, J'Lo's comeback single, is not a tune I wanted to dig, but damn I'm digging it! It's the kind of song Snooki & The Situation would be getting down to at the club, but you can't help bounce in your seat when it comes on.

YELLE - Safari Disco Club/Que Veux-Tu (FRA)

YELLE - Safari Disco Club / Que veux-tu (exclusive full length edit) from Yelle on Vimeo.

Back in October, French electropop group YELLE teased us with the animated video for the song La Musique from their upcoming sophomore album. This week sees the release of the video for the single Safari Disco Club (which is also the LP's name) and the song Que Veux-Tu. It's two for the price of one. I love a bargain. This makes me extra excited to see them perform in Manhattan next month.

Sara Bareilles - Uncharted

I've been waiting ages for Sara to come out with the next single from her album Kaleidoscope Heart. She has the most incredible melodies that just put a smile on my face. For the video for Uncharted, Sara enlists the help of some of her showbiz pals including Adam Levine, Pharrell, and Ben Folds.

Katy B - Broken Record (UK)

On A Mission, the debut album from singer Katy B, will see release this April. I predict substantial success for the record. The British public has shown Katy a lot of love with her first two singles going straight into the top 10 and Broken Record will most likely continue that trend.

The Wombats - Anti-D (UK)

The British indie group are back with the video for their next single off the sophomore effort, This Modern Glitch. Anti-D has the trademark sound of The Wombats, but it comes across as an effective love song.

Take That - Kidz

I'm going to nickname this video "Close Encounters of The Manband Kind". Take That have released their second single from the Robbie inclusive album Progress. The LP was the biggest seller in the UK last year. It goes to show that a bunch of guys in their late 30's/early 40's can still be relevant in the pop game.

Jodie Connor feat. Tinchy Stryder - Bring It (UK)

Bring It is Jodie's followup to her debut single Now or Never which featured Wiley. This time she's gotten with another rapper and old pal Tinchy Stryder. Jodie sang on his summer single In My System and now he's returning the favor.

Mike Posner feat. Lil Wayne - Bow Chicka Wow Wow

With such a cheesy title that is synonymous with bad 70's porn, you would think this song would be outright terrible. But you know what, it's actually pretty smooth and has an endearing quality. The man from Duke and Weezy make a pretty good team.

Ke$ha - Blow

This has to be the funniest music video that has been released so far this year. We've got the queen of trashy pop cavorting at a dinner party with unicorns and engaging in a laser battle with TV star/Dawson's Creek alum, James van der Beek. Hilarity ensues big time! Blow is the second single from Ke$ha's Cannibal EP.

Jennifer Hudson - Where You At

After a tragic event just a few years ago, Jennifer Hudson is back with her new single and the album I Remember Me. This new period of her career will probably see Jennifer being triumphant and Where You At reminds us all why Jennifer has received all those accolades.

Sparkadia - China (AUS)

Sparkadia is actually one guy, but it used to be a bunch of people. Alex Burnett is the solo artist Sparkadia and his sophomore album The Great Impression is out later this year in Australia. The single China is an emotional piece of alternative pop rock.

Eva & The Heartmaker - Gone In A Flash (NOR)

Another band with a girl "& somebody else"? I know, I know, but trust me Eva & The Heartmaker are worth the listen. Bandmates Eva and Thomas make incredible 80's influenced pop melodies that could have been used by the likes of Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston. Their new album Dominoes was released this month in their native Norway and I look forward to hearing more from this retro duo.

Mz Bratt - Get Dark (UK)

 

Pretty little lighty, but I can get dark. Mz Bratt is one of the biggest up and coming female MC's in the UK. Her flow and rhymes are sick. Get Dark is her new single. It's kick ass. Need I say more?

The Sound of Arrows - Nova (SWE)

The Sound of Arrows are a synth pop band out of Sweden consisting of Oskar & Stefan. They've been bubbling with the potential for big things since 2009 when their song Into The Clouds became an internet favorite. Last year they did a remix of GaGa's Alejandro which was one of my absolute favorites. Nova is from their upcoming and highly anticipated debut album.

Beth Ditto - I Wrote The Book

Happy 30th Birthday! Beth Ditto is such an incomparable singer. The woman pushes the boundaries of beauty standards all while possessing a killer voice. The Gossip lead singer is releasing her self-titled EP this season. The video for I Wrote The Book is reminiscent of Madonna's scandalous Justify My Love video from twenty years ago.

Cut Copy - Need You Now

Cut Copy - Need You Now from Cut Copy on Vimeo.

No, this is not a cover of the Lady Antebellum song that won a Grammy this week. It's an original track from the new Cut Copy album Zonoscope which was recently released. The video includes an array of athletes from various disciplines on the loose. Check it out!

Britney Spears - Hold It Against Me

It's Britney, bitches! Yes, our favorite gal from Kentwood, Louisiana is finally out with the video for her much anticipated return single. The song has already shot to #1 across the globe and I personally can't get enough of it. In particular, the dubstep production in the bridge was a much welcomed surprise. It's been 12 years since Britney debuted wearing a micro mini and pigtails, but she still holds the public's attention firmly in her grasp. She'll be out with her new studio album Femme Fatale next month.

Jessica Mauboy feat. Jay Sean - What Happened To Us (AUS)

Jessica Mauboy is probably one of my favorite artists to come out of Australia next to Savage Garden and Kylie Minogue. I loved her debut album Been Waiting and was disappointed when it wasn't released stateside. Jess is currently promoting her second album, Get 'Em Girls, and What Happened To Us is its third single. It's a gentle pop 'n B love song with Mr. Feature himself, Jay Sean. The two of them actually look rather good together.

Spark - Crave (UK)

I featured teenage singer Jess "Spark" Morgan back in the fall when her debut single Revolving was released. Her second single Crave is out soon in the UK so check out the video above. By the way, it features purple lasers, just to entice you a bit.

N-Dubz - Morning Star (UK)

It's official. I really do love N-Dubz. After cautiously dipping my feet into their musical catalog I can firmly say that they are in fact one of my favorite musical acts on the British charts. Their next single Morning Star is a sentimental pop song that I'm sure will go over well with radio listening audiences even if their hip-hop base isn't exactly taken. Hey, you gotta make music that the people will listen to and buy. Morning Star is out on March 6th.

Nicole Scherzinger - Don't Hold Your Breath

Pussycat Dolls lead singer turned solo hottie, Nicole Scherzinger, is out with the video for her next single, Don't Hold Your Breath. The song originally leaked last spring when it was performed by Keri Hilson and Timbaland. I really enjoyed that version and was disappointed to learn that neither would be using it on their future albums. Nicole's people picked it out of the dustbin and gave it a new spin. I quite like this one as well, I've gotta say.

Flash Republic - Lonely (SA)

I came across Flash Republic during the summer of 2009 when I decided to explore South African music and started checking out some of their radio stations. There has long been a vibrant music scene in that nation that includes pop, hip-hop, and R&B and it's slowly but surely starting to get noticed. Singer Tamara Dey of Flash Republic has got a booming voice that is perfect for a dance music diva. The band make catchy electropop music that is sure to garner them a larger fan base in the years to come. Their album Killer Moves is out now in South Africa.

Lanu feat. Megan Washington - Beautiful Trash (AUS)

Lanu: Beautiful Trash ft. Megan Washington from The Music Network on Vimeo.
Lance Ferguson is Lanu from the band The Bamboos. He's collaborating with Megan Washington, who you may know from my list of favorite albums of 2010. Beautiful Trash is a sweet pop song that packs a punch without having to do a lot. In addition, the animated video is pretty sweet and seems ever appropriate as we approach Valentine's Day.

Zoë Badwi - Accidents Happen (AUS)

Zoë Badwi is poised to become the queen of the dancefloor with her second single Accident Happens. Her first single Freefallin went top 10 in Australia late last year and she gained a significant following. The video for this new song is also pretty good, but apparently someone tried to fire a slingshot at Zoë during filming in Sydney. Luckily no one was hurt and the music, as always, played on.

Firefox AK - Boom Boom Boom (SWE)

I was pretty chuffed when I came across this particular video. On the night of my 21st birthday, I had the pleasure of watching Firefox AK (Andrea Kellerman) perform at the Swedish Embassy in Washington. It was a terrific night and Andrea was a great performer. I even had the pleasure of meeting her after the show. She's been hard at work touring and preparing her next album, Color The Trees. Boom Boom Boom is a magical little pop song that includes all of Firefox AK's ethereal qualities.

Ayo - I'm Gonna Dance (GER)

Ayo is the stage name of singer Joy Ogunmakin. Born in Germany to a Nigerian father and Romanian mother, Ayo released her debut album in 2006 and in 2008 her second album, Gravity At Last, went to #1 on the French charts. She has since gained a large following in Europe and is set to release her third LP this year. The single, I'm Gonna Dance, just oozes cool.

Stanton Warriors feat. Ruby Goe & Hollywood Holt - Get Up

Stanton Warriors are a British DJ duo who have teamed up with singer Ruby Goe and rapper Hollywood Holt. I featured Ruby Goe back in October via her video for Beat Breaking Boy. This is such a fun party jam that deserves to be played at high volume.

Alex Winston - Locomotive

Alex Winston is a singer from the midwest United States who is getting a lot of buzz on the internet lately. She's got some great songwriting skills which can be heard on her Sister Wife EP which is out next month. The video for Locomotive may remind you of scrambled VHS tapes from the 90's.

McFly - That's The Truth (UK)

I can't believe that I'm being converted into a McFly fan, slowly but surely. Following the success of Shine A Light featuring Taio Cruz, the lads are out with the next single from the album Above The Noise. I am really enjoying this track and the video is visually interesting.

Culcha Candela - Berlin City Girl (GER)

As someone who has studied the German language I'm always a little disappointed that the music scene in the Deutschsprachige is slightly lacking. Well this new single from hip-hop group Culcha Candela has been stuck in my head the last couple days. Shout out to all the ladies from Berlin, Munich, and all locales far and wide.

Patrick Wolf - The City (UK)

English singer-songwriter Patrick Wolf will be releasing his next album Lupercalia this spring. The single, The City, is a jaunty pop number that reminds me of fun times during the summer.

Rihanna - S&M

RiRi is out with the video for the 3rd single off her album Loud. The LP has gone on to sell millions across the globe in just two months time. The video for S&M follows the overall feel of this musical era for Rihanna which is lighthearted and fun. Check out the cameo from Perez Hilton in the fetish themed clip.

Jessie J. feat. B.o.B. - Price Tag

I can't beleive how many of my American friends and family have discovered and fallen for Jessie J. via her debut single Do It Like A Dude. The girl hasn't even released anything stateside, yet. Well that's about to change real soon as Price Tag makes its way to U.S. radio. The track is infectious, has a great message, and Jessie J. can sing her ass off. Her album is gonna be a worldwide smash, mark my words!

Ola - All Over The World (SWE)

Ola Svensson is one of Sweden's most popular singers. The 24-year-old competed on Swedish Idol in 2005 and has since gone on to sell a number of records in his homeland. All Over The World, off his new self-titled album, is a dance-pop track that went to #3 on the Swedish charts.

Lykke Li - I Follow Rivers

Sweden's top indie pop lady is just weeks away from releasing her much anticipated sophomore album Wounded Rhymes. I Follow Rivers is the second single and the video is beautifully shot. Li pursues her love across a cold wasteland in the video that is a must see.

Operator Please - Catapult (AUS)

I can't believe I failed to include the album Gloves on the list of my favorite albums of 2010. My bad, folks! This Aussie posse are incredibly talented and their sound rather unique. Get familiar.

Alexis Jordan - Good Girl (Freemasons Mix)

18 year old Alexis Jordan may be from the States, but most of her success so far has come from abroad. Her debut single Happiness was certified gold in Australia and has spent the past three months in the UK top 40. Now she's ready to unleash her next single Good Girl which is featured on her upcoming first album. The radio version is decent, but those talented Dj's The Freemasons crank it up on this particular mix.

Diagram Of The Heart - If I Were You (UK)

Here's some more new British talent on which to feast your ears. I've got to thank BBC Radio 1 presenter Fearne Cotton for putting me on to these guys. Diagram of The Heart is comprised of Kye Sones & Anthony Gorry. The electro duo will be releasing their debut single If I Were You this March.

Avril Lavigne - What The Hell

The princess of pop punk is back with her first single and album in quite a number years. The clip for What The Hell is trademark Avril and reminiscent of the Girlfriend video. Yes, there's a bit of product placement in the clip which seems to be the trend in the the biz, but at least the girl is hawking her own wares.

Matt & Kim - Cameras

The Brooklyn based duo came to the public's attention two years ago thanks to their happy-go-lucky song Daylight and it's whimsical music video. The clip for their single Cameras is less whimsy and more wrath. Matt and Kim go after each other in Kill Bill style and it's all kinds of awesome. Their new album Sidewalks is out now.

CockNBullKid - Hold On To Your Misery (UK)

Those of us in the musical know have had CockNBullKid on our radars for a couple of years now. It seems that she's been on the verge of big things for quite some time and 2011 could finally be her year. CockNBullKid (real name Anita Blay) is set to release her debut album and boy are we ever anticipating it! She's part of the cadre of young, black female talent on both sides of the Atlantic who are refusing to be pigeon-holed and choose instead to experiment with genres.

Parade - Louder (UK)

What's this? Another girl band from Britain attempting to score a hit on the charts? Why yes, yes indeed. It's a pretty catchy single that I could imagine getting a lot of play. Louder is out on March 6th across the pond.

The Little Stevies - Feel It (AUS)

The Little Stevies are a folk-pop band that come to us from the city of Melbourne. Sisters Bethany & Sibylla along with their friend Robin make quirky acoustic tracks with great lyrics and catchy melodies. Their sophomore album will be released sometime in the first half of the year followed by a tour of North America. Check 'em out!

Ellie Goulding - Lights

Ellie Goulding - Lights from sergey berlin on Vimeo.
This time last year, Ellie Goulding was debuting her video for Starry Eyed and preparing to accept her Critic Choice Award at The Brits. Her debut album has since gone platinum, she's scored four top 40 hits and last fall I had the pleasure of seeing her live in concert in New York City. Lights is the next single for Ellie off her Bright Lights EP and will be released later in the winter.

Neverest - About Us (CAN)

I always enjoy featuring Canadian artists, because even though they are my neighbors to the North and are so culturally similar, Americans like myself get few opportunities to hear their music. Well then, here's Neverest. They're four guys from Ontario who are currently moving up the top 40 chart in Canada with their debut single About Us. It's a rousing pop-rock tune that could definitely be a hit in the States and elsewhere if given a chance.

Zowie - Bite Back (NZ)

With an electro sound that resembles something from the early 1980's, Kiwi singer Zowie is the latest pop lady on the block. Her debut single Broken Machine went top 10 in New Zealand in the fall and her first album is expected to be released in the next few months. To promote it, Zowie is releasing the fierce Bite Back as the next single.

Two Door Cinema Club - What You Know (UK)

I do love a rock band that can inspire you to get up and really dance. Two Door Cinema Club has been one of my favorite groups this past year for just that reason. The guys hail from Northern Ireland and What You Know is their final(?) single release from their debut terrific album Tourist History. The video ain't too bad to look at either.

Alesha Dixon feat. Jay Sean - Every Little Part Of Me (UK)

Alesha Dixon's campaign for her latest album The Entertainer hasn't exactly set the charts on fire, but the next single could give her just the boost she needs. Ms. Dixon teams up with R&B fave Jay Sean for an up-tempo number that could really make an impact on radio and ultimately in sales.

Loick Essien feat. N-Dubz - Stuttering (UK)

This track has been stuck in my head for the last couple days now. I would never have thought that I would become an N-Dubz admirer, but Dappy's rhymes are always pretty enjoyable.

Clare Maguire - The Last Dance (UK)

She's been tipped as one of the artists to watch in 2011 by a swarm of publications and for good reason. 23 year old Birmingham, England native Clare Maguire has a haunting voice that may remind you of certain female singers of the past, but she's got something that's very contemporary. Clare is releasing her debut album Light After Dark in February.

JLS feat. Tinie Tempah - Eyes Wide Shut

This could very well rival Beat Again as my favorite single release from the British boyband. Eyes Wide Shut is the third single from the lads' sophomore album Outta This World. It has unsurprisingly gone double platinum in just one month's time and is close to reaching 1 million in sales. The boys are in the midst of a sold out arena tour and managed to score the UK's biggest rapper du jour for their latest offering. This is also probably my favorite video of theirs. Kudos all around!