- Bryon Harris
Phelo The Great
Phillip Anthony Driskell, II, aka Phelo The Great, is an American “SPOTH” (Sophisticated Prophet of the Hood), a businessman, and a military veteran. Phelo exhibits selflessness, strength, courage, and pride. The mission of the Phelosophy EP 2018 Collaborative of Nashville, Tennessee is to create and present exceptional experiences that enrich the artistry of SPOTH’s who make a positive impact on humanitarian work. Phelo wants to spread recognition of hood arts and artistry and the value of humanitarian organizations helping these communities.
What got you into music?
What got me into music? Well, I must say that is a great question because I gave great thought to this question to find my true answer. What got me into music had to do with nothing specific. I believe music is in my DNA. I answer this way because as I sat in thought I realized no one forced me to do a just say no to drugs rap in the sixth grade. No one forced me to join the gospel choir and band in seventh grade. No one forced me to join the drum squad in eighth grade, which continued throughout high school. I always loved music and enjoyed playing instruments and joined the band flight in the U.S. Air Force. I started composing music while enlisted in the Air Force but still as a hobby never as a career. I didn't really get serious about establishing music as a career until 2014. In February of 2014 I lost my mother to cancer and a month later my daughter was born and that's when it all hit me. I asked myself, "If your job were to fire you today, how are you going to provide for your daughter"? I then pulled my desktop out the garage that had my recordings on it and began reading and researching the steps I needed to learn to make a career in the music business and I'm here now walking and grinding daily to honor the decision I made.
What is your favorite part about being an artist or band? Songwriting, performing, recording, etc.? Tell us why.
My favorite part about being an artist is the entire process that goes into creating the song. First, the production. I enjoy listening to beats to find that one that speaks to my soul. The track influences my soul on what topic to write about. I like to refer to the production as the "Father". Next, you have the composition or lyrics. The lyrics must complement the production to produce a hit song. I have found that songs written with emotion respond well amongst consumers. I like to refer to the composition as "Mother". Now when the composition (Mother) is combined with the production (Father) then a song (Baby) is created. I am in love with this entire process from beginning to end.
Can you tell us what being in the recording studio is like for you?
Yes. Being in the recording studio is like a temporary escape from reality. When I'm in the studio, which I like to call the Lab it's as if I have no problems at all. I am in a place of peace when I'm in the booth delivering my thoughts and sharing my "PHELOSOPHY", which is available now on my website, with the world.
As an artist or musician, are there any obstacles you have had to overcome or obstacles that you are facing right now in your career?
Yes. I believe everyone no matter what level they reach will always have obstacles it's called life. One of the obstacles I had to overcome is listening to the new wave of hip hop artist today. I respect them as individuals living the dream, but I haven't been able to put their songs in my playlist yet but still listening. Presently, the only obstacle I'm facing is capital. So, we are putting together some fund-raisers and campaigns starting with the PROJECT SPOTH campaign in April.
Who do you admire most in the music scene today and why?
In the music scene today, I would say I most admire anyone who is in control of their own career. I have respect for the independents those who own their masters as well as their brand and name.
If you could be granted one wish, right now, as an artist, what would you ask for?
If I could be granted one wish, right now, as an artist, I would ask to be able to make a satisfying living from my music. I don't have to be famous! I have never written music for fame, but I do expect to make a living off my music it's a business and I plan to profit.
What is on the horizon in the next year for you?
On the horizon for Phelo The Great in the next year we will be on a world-wide tour starting in the Caribbean. I will have new music for my love ones with some industry features. I plan to do some independent films as well, so stay tuned for that. I own a radio network, so I plan to have some more shows on the 4E Radio Network. I am in a group as well called "TG" which stands for The Group. TG has a great sound and some great singles set to be released this summer.
To date, what do you think your best song is? Can you describe the song for us and what makes it great?
To date, the best song to me is "Hey Momma". Hey Momma, was a dedication to my mother, whom I loss to cancer in 2014. Hey Momma, can be found on my first release "The Coming of Phelo The Great", released in 2017.
Tell us where fans can access your music.