What’s your stage name and where are you from?
My stage name is Phillip Saint John, and I’m from Hastings, Minnesota.
What’s the story behind your stage name?
I saw Kendrick Lamar wake up and want to use his own name. I thought so for myself after a couple of weeks.
Describe your musical journey in three sentences.
Elevation, truth, and empowerment from my inner journey have brought me to where I am. Dedication to my craft helped me make projects I brought to life for many years. Constant growth has created new ways for me to inject my music with flavor and love.
Share an interesting experience you had while creating your latest track.
I met a producer on YouTube from Poland, and after a couple of months of talking, I decided to write an EP over her tracks. She ended up visiting in August and even added more vocals and flute to the project. We just released our first single “Radiant” together in August.
What message do you want to convey through your music?
Healthy masculine energy that brings light and wisdom to the listener through impactful rapping and heavenly soul singing.
Tell us about a challenge you faced during production and how you overcame it.
I initially recorded a demo with a friend, and he said to release it. I wasn’t convinced. Eventually, I found a new engineer who gave me vocal harmonic training for my background vocals and helped add lush elements to my track “Radiant.”
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
I would collaborate with Anna Wise. Her creativity is boundless, and her music knowledge is top-tier.
Where do you see your music taking you in the next year?
I see myself finishing a new album after this EP, creating events that bring together the community, and leveling up from a grant-funded performance I have at the beginning of next year.
What’s the next big step for you as an artist?
Probably creating a cohesive and compelling music video that solidifies my artistry more or finding a band to tour with if it aligns.
Are there any other promotional opportunities you’re looking for to boost your visibility?
I think I just need to do that work myself if I can. It’s more satisfying, and I’ve realized how much the industry has changed since 2019.
Where can we hear/watch your most recent work?
Spotify/YouTube.
What is the best way to contact you if fans want to give feedback or if other artists/producers want to collaborate?
Instagram: @Phillipsaintjohn.
