Josh Phillips

Josh Phillips is a musician from North Carolina, with connections to Long Island and Asheville. He is a member of Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band and Josh Phillips Folk Festival.

Early life and background

He is born and raised on a 25-acre farm in Sanford, North Carolina. Baseball is his first major focus, and at fifteen he is invited to Atlanta Braves training camps. He plays baseball for Pfeiffer University and Pitt Community College before knee injuries end his playing career.

Music career

After leaving baseball, Phillips begins writing and recording music. He posts his first song, “Blessings,” on YouTube after making a challenge to continue if 500 people watch it within 24 hours; the song reaches 600 views in its first 12 hours. His music is described as urban country with hip hop delivery, and he says he aims to make songs that stand apart rather than follow straight country or southern rock.

His stated musical influences include Garth Brooks, George Strait and Hank Williams, Jr., as well as AC/DC, Led Zeppelin, Three Doors Down and Eminem.

Recognition and style

Phillips wins the 2012 Lee County Fair Battle of the Bands from a regional field of submissions. His audience is described as broad, with fans ranging from young women to jocks, car enthusiasts and people associated with Harley-Davidson culture.

Management and releases

He signs with Ikon Music Management in Winston-Salem, and plans for an EP debut are in place around that period.