Memphis Music Legend’s Son Jerry Phillips Debuts Album ‘For the Universe’

Memphis Music Legend’s Son Releases Debut Album

This fall, the bustling music city of Memphis has been buzzing about a new artist making waves on the scene. Jerry Phillips, son of the legendary Sam Phillips, has just released his debut album, For the Universe, and it’s already hitting notable milestones. Just this past September, it was reported as the 20th most-played record on playlists curated by the Independent Blues Broadcasters Association (IBBA). Not too shabby for a debut, right?

Following in Famous Footsteps

For Jerry, stepping into the spotlight is a wild but exciting ride. You see, he comes from a rich musical history—his father Sam was not just any figure in the world of music; he was the pioneer behind the famed Sun Records label. Growing up, Jerry was surrounded by musical giants like Charlie Rich, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Howlin’ Wolf. His childhood was indeed a front-row seat to the birth of rock and roll.

Yet, Jerry’s journey wasn’t a straight path paved with gold. Far from it! This debut isn’t merely a product of his family legacy; it’s a tapestry woven with his own experiences, emotions, and learning curves. Think of his music as a throwback to the rock and roll of yesteryears, with fresh twists that make you feel something deep down inside. As Jerry puts it, “The album rocks, it cries, it sighs, it slinks, and it winks!” And his voice? Oh boy! It reminds listeners of Charlie Rich but shines with its own captivating uniqueness.

The Beauty of the Phillips Recording Studio

One of the coolest things about For the Universe is where it was recorded—the iconic Sam Phillips Recording Service. This studio, which started its life back in 1960, has been lovingly maintained by Jerry and his late brother, Knox. They may have upgraded some equipment, but so much of the original charm remains. Producer Scott Bomar says the vibe in there is like stepping into a time warp; a vintage yet modern sound encapsulating decades of musical history.

As Jerry reflects on the studio’s importance, he shares, “People that are true-to-the-core musicians come to places like Memphis to separate themselves from all the *bullshit* that’s going on in the world.” And boy, is that true! It’s a magical space that invites each artist to be free and authentic, a sentiment that resonates strongly in Jerry’s work.

More Than Just a Family Name

Despite the heavy weight of expectation with a last name like Phillips, Jerry isn’t one to dwell too much on the past. He recognizes the legacy but focuses more on what lies ahead. “I wouldn’t say I’m the most confident person, you know what I mean? But making this record has helped me a lot,” he admits, and you can sense the honesty in his words. He’s not just a Phillips—he’s carving out his own path in the music world.

From Rebel to Rockstar

Along the way, Jerry’s had his ups and downs, battling his own demons throughout the years. Even as a young man, he felt the urge to rebel against the family business and sought different ventures. But after years of putting music on the back burner, he found a new spark, largely due to the influence of friends and colleagues. The pandemic and the loss of his brother Knox pushed him to embrace his musical calling with fervor.

Now, with For the Universe under his belt, Jerry is ready to take on the world as the *lead* of his own band. His future looks bright, and as he unravels his journey, listeners can look forward to more amazing music stemming from his fascinating life. Memphis has given him roots, but the sky is truly the limit for Jerry Phillips!

Author: HERE Memphis