Interview: Kevin Phillips talks about his new music video ‘Order My Steps’
By Randy Radic
Maryland faith-based artist Kevin Phillips recently released the music video for “Order My Steps,” a song about turning your life over to God.
Kevin Phillips started singing, like many artists, in church, followed by assembling a group called Trilogy, which eventually landed a record deal in NYC.
Since then, Kevin’s gone solo, founding his own record label – Phillips Music Group, aka PMG, which corresponds to “Praise Mighty God.”
The video, directed by DeezyTV, opens on the potent voice of a pastor, urging his listeners to listen to their hearts. Outside, a group of young men shoot craps, when the police roll up, making arrests. The visuals move on to display the power of another way of living, casting yourself and your cares on God.
As the smooth voices of Kevin Phillips and Donnie Breeze blend together, the lyrics take on delicious, cashmere textures, permeating the tune with smooth layers of R&B-flavored vocals.
Rhyme Junkie caught up with Kevin Phillips to find out about his influences, his writing process, and what he’s looking forward to.
Interview: Kevin Phillips talks about his new music video “Order My Steps”
What artists are you listening to right now?
Currently listening to Kirk Franklin, Brandy, HER, Boys II Men, MaryMary, Yolanda Adams.
What’s your favorite song to belt out in the car or the shower?
“More Than I” by Commission.
How did you get started in music? What’s the backstory there?
Started on the drums in Church. The choir director handed me the mic one day and that was it for me! It was a great feeling to have the opportunity to perform in front of the congregation. The response and feedback from them are what made me want to continue.
What musicians influenced you the most?
Vocally, I would say Luther Vandross, BB Winans, Boys II Men, and Dino from HTown.
How do you keep your sound fresh and avoid coming across as derivative?
I definitely just do my own thing. It has to feel right- it has to be natural and not forced.
What is your songwriting process? Do the lyrics come first or the music?
The music definitely comes first and I go off the feeling of the track- how the chords and sounds are arranged is what influences my concept for the song.
What was the inspiration for your new song/music video “Order My Steps?”
I just felt like the world needed something positive and uplifting to sing and bop to. These are really trying times right now in so many ways. I wanted to put a really positive message out there – you know just to let people know that if you ask God for help and ask Him to order your steps, He can make things happen for you.
What do you want people to take away from the video?
That giving your life to God and walking in faith will help you through any circumstance.
How did you hook up with Donnie Breeze?
Donnie and I both work at the hospital. Some of his buddies knew I was a singer and shared with me that Donnie was an up and coming local rapper with a lot of talent. We ended up connecting and talking through the concept I had for the song. From there we headed into the studio – I thought his rap was perfect for the song!
Who directed the video and where was it shot?
My team at Phillips Music Group directed the video, including my twin brother Keith. And my hometown friend, Dwayne “Deezy” Thompson.
How are you handling the coronavirus situation?
Just like everyone else I suppose- I have to admit I do get a little anxious. I work at the hospital so I see it all first hand. It’s been really tough.
Looking to the future, what’s next for you?
More MUSIC! More videos! I am hopeful that I can be back on stage very soon! I’m looking forward to 2021!!