Breaking into dance music, any music for that matter, is difficult. Millions of dollars are spent on promoting the Rihannas and Duffs of the world (both original and dance mixes), but little attention is given to those acts on smaller labels. They don't have the funds nor manpower to make a big splash. And because dance music is such a small percentage of overall physical or download sales, life for these emerging talents is even more difficult. Don't get me wrong, I love the more popular tracks remixed by superstars like Rauhofer and Bermudez. But when I find a song that comes out of nowhere, that's pure F-U-N.

With that being said, one could argue sharing links to files for download hurts the artist because you then don't buy the record. I however find it quite the opposite. The more people who hear the music, the more they'll be interested in finding more from the artist - eventually leading to a sale. Emerging artists in the UK are a perfect example of this strategy. Many feature their music on MySpace or other forums, available for sharing, then release the single to huge numbers. The problem with dance music is that a single is rarely released (unlike the UK where they buy tons of the stuff). In that regard, highlighting such tunes on websites like PTT is a viable grass roots marketing campaign for their labels.

Now that I'm down from what could appear to be a soapbox, let's make note of the first single by Lite Lovers featuring Joanne. Going Crazy (Extended Mix) is nice, vocal house music. I love the piano riffs in the chorus along with the melodic background instrumentation. For the link, go here. Up next is Sensual by PhonJaxx and Cosi Costi. With a title and artist name like that, you'd think it might be some obnoxious, trance track. Wrong. The whispy vocals (think Dannii Minogue) and funky house with hints of electro are hot. For the link, go here.

Last but not least, in recognition of Suzanne Palmer's upcoming performance at Chicago's Halsted Market Days on Sunday, Aug. 12 at 6:00 p.m. on the Addison Stage (for more information, go here), check out Free My Love (Offer Nissim Mix) by going here and Luv 2 Luv (Cevin Fisher Mix) by going here.

Please note: the songs featured on this site are notices to links only (and mostly unavailable for purchase). I do not upload any music - I merely share the links to tracks I find interesting and noteworthy. Should you care to have the material removed, simply send me an email.