Rory Phillips
Eastern Riverina Arts
Rory Phillips is a talented, emerging musician whose ‘old soul’ presence has captivated audiences for years. Based in the Snowy Valleys, Phillips has developed a sound that blends folk, blues/roots and alt-country, with his gift for the guitar setting him apart as a promising artist in the Australian music scene.
Since beginning his journey in music from a very early age, Phillips has gained recognition through performances at various festivals, the NSW Schools Spectacular, as well as from sharing the stage with acclaimed artists such as ARIA winners Sara Storer, Fanny Lumsden, Shane Nicholson and William Crighton. In 2023 he achieved two career highlights in being invited to open for Grammy Winner, Billy Ocean, at his Canberra show, and being named the 2023 NSW Folk Federation Young Folk Artist of the Year. Fans can catch Phillips performing solo, or performing as part of the band for Australiana legends, The Bushwackers, country queen, Sara Storer, or local rock band Wild Tracks.
Known for his dynamic playing and wisdom beyond his years, Rory Phillips continues to evolve artistically while building connections with audiences and musicians alike. He is excited to share his music with new listeners and old friends, locally and beyond.
Links
I Don’t Need No Doctor Rory Phillips – lead guitar and backing vocals
Artwork description
I Don’t Need No Doctor, 2024
Credits:
Rory Phillips – lead guitar and backing vocals
Andrew Wortes – guitar and lead vocals
Jordan Ironside – drums
Carter Ironside – bass
(collectively we are the band Wild Tracks)
Composed by: Nickolas Ashford, Jo Armstead, Valerie Simpson
Videographer: Grant Hardwick Videography
Audio: Palmer Productions
Artist Statement
I recorded this piece for a NSW HSC Music Encore submission. It was one of my 4 performance pieces and I chose it as it allowed me to showcase versatility to the markers, with jazz harmony and blues improvisation in my playing. The arrangement is inspired by the ‘Where the Light Is’ version of the song (‘I Don’t Need No Doctor’), played by John Mayer and his band, an evolution of the original Ray Charles version.