Phillips was born in Leesburg, Georgia, the son of and Phillip Sr. and Sheryl Phillips (née LaDon). He grew up in Sasser and Leesburg, and attended Lee County highschool. He graduated from Albany Technical school with a serious in Industrial Systems Technology, however missed the graduation ceremony owing to his obligations to yankee Idol.Prior to showing on yankee Idol, he worked at his family's pawn look.
Phillips said his favorite singer is Jonny Lang, and alternative favorites embody John Butler, Dave Matthews and Damien Rice.He described his music as "jazz and rock different sound". Phillips was mentored by lasting friend and brother-in-law Benjamin Neil.
