Artist description The Matthew Phillips Band was hand-picked by songwriter Matthew Phillips to showcase the songs he has written. Their sound varies as different people sing lead vocals. The project band records in a studio in Goodwell, Oklahoma -- just south of Guymon. They produced a limited-edition demo CD, but at present their music is only available from MP3.com. The band has disbanded, but may get back together for future projects. Although Matthew plays guitar and has sung at talent shows and churches, his main interest is writing songs for a wide audience to enjoy.

Music Style Country

Musical Influences Hillbilly, Rockabilly, Country and Western

Similar Artists Roy Orbisson, Elvis Presley

Artist History Matthew Phillips was born in Fort Smith, Arkansas and grew up around the Ozark and Kiamichi Mountains of Arkansas and Oklahoma. He now lives on a ranch near Gate, Oklahoma. "My dad's family was a defining hillbilly family: he grew up with fourteen siblings in both remote areas of the Colorado mountains and then the Ozarks of Arkansas. Although he had brought our own family more into the modern age by stepping out into the world as a cowboy, truck driver, and railroad man, I can remember visiting my grandparents up in the hills and having to learn about out-houses because they didn't have an indoor 'water-closet.' For a kid who's been spoiled by one, this was a pretty spooky experience to learn you aren't supposed to wait until the middle of the night to feel the need! Please do not be offended by my use of the word "hillbilly". I do not consider "hillbilly" a derogatory label. My idea of a hillbilly (and I should know) is a more rugged type of character with "country smarts" rather than high-society intellectualism. The song "Rock-A-Billy By" was inspired by the fact that, growing up, my family would get together and combine a lot of musical talent into sort of a late night hillbilly jam session. Some of the songs I heard I've never heard anywhere else! Both of my parents sang and played. But I do not consider myself an accomplished singer. And being as particular about music as I am, I would rather write songs and enjoy seeing better talents perform them! That would be a thrill."

Group Members Lead vocals sung by various band members – see song info. Glen Kingsland ( Drums / Percussion ), Steve Banks ( Bass and lead Guitars ), Steve Banks, Malcolm Sanders ( Rhythm and Accoustic Guitars), Vic Ashmead ( Steel Guitar ), Malcolm Sanders ( Banjitar ), Doc Boyer ( Keyboards ), Jimmy Young ( Fiddle), Rick Scott ( Harmonica ), Wayne Comer ( Saxaphone ), Iris Banks, Cindy Bennett, Matthew Phillips, Malcolm Sanders ( Background vocals)

Instruments Accoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Steel Guitar, Bass, Drums, Banjitar, Keyboard, Fiddle, Harmonica, Saxaphone

Location Knowles, Oklahoma - USA

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