Trinbagonian DJ and Producer, International Stephen Phillip was recently appointed as a Senior A&R at Machel Montano’s Monk Music Group. The influencial music lover and tastemaker has been the person behind big Soca hits such as “Famalay”, “Trouble In The Morning”, “Vent” and many more and says this new position will enable him to help many other talented individuals to be elevated into the spotlight. XVibes sat with him for an insightful Q&A recently:
Q: What have you been up to since the pandemic?
A: After the pandemic I ventured into several new projects: opened a restaurant and lounge in St Lucia, started a few new event brands and dove right back into all my previous festivals and projects.
Q: How has Soca (the music and the industry) been doing since then in your estimation and based on your observations?
A: I feel like the soca industry is always changing, nonetheless, I’ve seen constant growth and development in many areas. One thing that stands out however, is the exponential development and quality of Soca coming from the other islands in the Caribbean, namely: Grenada, St Vincent, St Lucia etc.
Q: You were a pioneer of the Festival/Weekend slate of events that many promoters are trying to emulate and achieve now, what do you think is next in terms of the event dynamics and formats of the future ?
A: The Carnival and Soca festival market has grown so much over the years, that they now have significant economic impact anywhere they’re held. Development of micro economies in the business of Soca and Carnival is the future. Full time jobs, careers, schools, stores can all now be created with the sole focus around this industry.
Q: What does your new role at Monk Music entail exactly? What’s in your job description? A: My Job as a Senior A&R is to simply put great projects and talent together. Connecting the dots, song writers with producers and artist. Putting the right people together is not always a simple task. Plan marketing and promotion strategies.
Q: How can aspiring acts find you or get their music to you for a listen, review or expression of interest?
A: Any way they can connect with me! Doesn’t matter if it’s via Instagram, Whatsapp or email.
Q: What will the process be like when you do find songs you like and want to promote via Monk Music?
A: Liking the song is the first step, completing it and having the proper execution is another step that has to be discussed and agreed. Every song and strategy is different but it starts with liking it for sure.
Q: How do you feel about Trinibad, Zess and Steam music and what if anything does Monk Music plan to do with re: to those subgenres of music ?
A: Monk Music isn’t limited to any genre but we do however wanna focus on Quality rather and Quantity. We’re definitely open to working Zess and Steam as well.
Q: With Miami and Tobago Carnivals just ended and Trinidad Carnival on the horizon, what are your immediate plans and goals with re: to these key Caribbean Carnivals?
A: Again it all starts with the music. Currently we’re working on a lot of projects and we intend to keep releasing quality music that can connect and cross borders.
Q: Give us one to three names we should look out for, artistes who you already have in mind and have been observing with intent to work with soon.
A: I won’t give names but I definitely have my eyes on some new talent from Grenada and Dominica at the moment.
Q: How much is MM involved in your decision making process and in the promotion of those signed or affiliated to Monk Music?Â
A: Monk Music is an extension of MM so naturally his wisdom, experience and guidance at times can play a part in a lot of projects.
