Nils Has Radio's Most-Played Song In 2005

If you haven't heard the song called "Pacific Coast Highway" by Nils, you should do yourself a favor.

That song by the veteran session player new to the smooth jazz scene in 2005 has been named the U.S.'s No. 1 smooth jazz single for 2005 by Radio & Records, a trade publication serving the radio industry.

The song was No. 1 for seven weeks. Although saxophonist Richard Elliot’s hit single called “People Make the World Go Round” took the top spot for 11 consecutive weeks, Radio & Records’ year-end chart is based on the total number of times a song is played, or “spinned.” “Pacific Coast Highway” was played almost 1,000 times more than the No. 2 song, Soul Ballet’s “Cream.” Nils’ current single, “Summer Nights,” also made the chart at No. 99 for the year. Coming in at No. 3 behind Soul Ballet is guitarist Tim Bowman’s “Summer Groove,” followed by “Pick Up the Pieces” by saxophonist Kenny G, “Two of a Kind” by saxophonist Michael Lington and “Let It Free” by saxophonist Dave Koz.

Rounding out the top 10 singles of the year are saxophonist Boney James’ “Stone Groove” with Joe Sample on piano, “Thursday” by saxophonist Steve Cole, “Nightlife” by saxophonist Paul Taylor and “XXL” by saxophonist Euge Groove.