Philip 7

The year 2005 witnessed the emergence of the alternative rock group Masala – a seven piece band featuring Philip 7 as lead vocalist together with some of Barbados’ most versatile musicians. With locks cascading down his back, the last thing one would expect to hear from this artist is the raw, edgy alternative rock sound for which he has become known. However, the talented Barbadian singer, songwriter and guitarist has carved a niche for himself in a musical genre not typically known for West Indian roots. As a talented and versatile artist however, Philip is not confined to the alternative sphere.

Barbadian music producer Gary Serrao of Gee Wiz Studios keenly watched Philip’s evolution over the years and that led to an introduction to Canadian music producer Derek Brin marking a significant milestone in Philip’s career. So impressed was Derek with Philip’s vocal style that they recorded the edgy soulful track "Beautiful Surprise" a song which had been penned by songwriters in a Sony/BMG songwriters camp. Then came the song’s reggae remix which was recorded by the legendary Clive Hunt at Harmony House, Jamaica.

Philip complemented the single with a glossy, international quality music video produced by Stuart Hall of Creative Junction and shot on location in Barbados. This single catapulted Philip’s career and in January 2008, the local music industry endorsed his talent by awarding him "Best Rock/Alternative Artist" at the 3rd annual Barbados Music Awards. With the success of "Beautiful Surprise", Philip put his faith and talent in the hands of the track’s masterminds for another series of recordings. Barbadian producer Gary Serrao and Canadian based international producer Derek Brin began to work on follow up singles and crafted the alternative tracks “Nothing Left to Say” and “Unconditional”. These were followed by “Blame It On Love” which was in heavy rotation on both local and regional radio stations.

As momentum continued to build, the team quickly returned to the studio for another phase of recordings, this time with the assistance of Canadian songwriter Rupert Gayle and internationally recognised engineer Andrew Dawson. Philip then returned to Barbados to work with Anthony Hoyos and Chris Allman of Slam City Studios on the single ‘Space and Time’ and he followed up with another Stuart Hall directed music video. By August 2008, Philip’s journey led him to Kingston, Jamaica the reggae capital of the world where he had the opportunity to record with some of the island’s leading producers including Jeremy Harding (2hard Records), Stephen McGregor (Big Ship Studios), Donovan Germain (Penthouse Records) and Clive Hunt (Harmony House). Drawing on the depth of knowledge he gained from his co-writing sessions with Rupert Gayle, Philip quickly adapted to the new environment to pen and record a number of reggae singles. Later that year, he returned to Jamaica to shoot his first reggae music video for the single ‘Looking For’ with director Jay Will (Game Over).

With over 20 recorded singles, Philip took on the arduous task of narrowing down a selection to 12 tracks to release his debut solo album titled ‘Masala’. He maintains that the Masala album is a true reflection of the musical journey which he has travelled throughout his life. It represents his diversity and draws on several musical influences which have helped to shape him into the unique artist he has become.

Philip’s appeal goes beyond being a vocalist and in December 2008, he landed an endorsement deal with international eyewear company Oakley to become the first Caribbean artist selected by the company.

Since 2008 Philip has toured extensively promoting his music in the UK and across the Caribbean. Most recently broke new ground in the US market after a performance with his band at the NACA (National Association of Campus Activities) in St. Louis Missouri. So impressed were the agents that Philip 7 and the band have secured a series of dates across the US University and College circuit.

When he is not travelling, Philip 7 performs weekly with his band at Mc Brides, a popular nightspot in Barbados and at private parties and hotels across the island. The existence of talent has never been in dispute for Philip, but the new phase of his career will focus on Philip 7 the entire product.

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