The Very First Musical Monday! (ft. Phil Stacey)

Phil Stacey, or Joel Phillip Stacey, is a 36 year old Christian artist with a passion for missions, and an even bigger passion for God. I first met Phil at the 2013 REACH Conference in Cleveland, Ohio. Before the conference, I had no idea who he was, because I don't watch American Idol. Apparently, he was a big deal on the show, but I think he's even more of a big deal now. Although Phil didn't win American Idol, he did go on to sign a record deal singing country music, but God kept pulling his heart back to the church. He had grown up in the church, with both his father and grandfather serving as pastors, so he always had a passion for worshiping God with his voice. At REACH Conference, I got to see the side of him that many American Idol fans never got to see. 
          Right before Phil and his band got into Cleveland for the tour, they were all the way across the pond singing and playing for military families in England. Soon after REACH Conference, they left for Japan. To say that Phil loves to spread the news of Jesus Christ would be an understatement. He has dedicated his whole life to it, and he wouldn't have it any way. I was able to talk to he and his band mate personally about how he's been to the murder capitols of the world, and the fact that they've made a difference there, really sparked a passion for missions in me that I knew had always been there. He helped shape me decision to take a second look at Liberty University because of their mission-mindedness. 
          Aside from how amazing of a person he is, Phil's vocals and his ability to really let his music convey a bigger message is what makes him such an amazing artist. From his first big album, Phil Stacey, to his second album, Into The Light, you can see the range with which he's working. His self-titled album features his southern drawl that would make any country fan swoon, while his second album almost completely ditches his Kentucky accent and showcases his incredibly smooth tone. 
          Since he spends so much time overseas spreading the Word to other countries, there aren't many tracks available to listen to on iTunes or Spotify, but you can check him out on YouTube to see more covers and performances! If you have an opportunity to see Phil Stacey in concert, DO IT!

Phil Stacey signed my phone at REACH Conference!