Phil Stacey: Idol Finalist's New CD

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Phil Stacey: Idol Finalist's New CD

Phil Stacey's Christian label debut, Into the Light, brings the artist full circle, from his early days of singing gospel music before gaining national prominence as a top five finalist on the sixth season of the hit television show American Idol.

After the competition, Stacey toured with the American Idol finalists on a 55-city tour and appeared on Oprah, Live with Regis & Kelly, The Tonight Show, Ellen, The Today Show, Larry King Live and Nickelodeon's MeTV.

Although having a strong gospel music background, Stacey was offered a chance to try out his country leanings by signing with Disney's Hollywood Records for his first post-Idol release, the self-titled Phil Stacey (2008).After connecting with Provident Music Group President Terry Hemmings at an event honoring Michael W. Smith, Stacey opted to follow that country release by plunging into Christian music on Into the Light.

"Given the recent past, it's understandable that people are quick to ask me about the musical side of what I do," Stacey said. "I enjoy talking about the music, too. In fact, I love it. But the biggest hope I have is that what I do will help draw people to God—whether that's through the songs I write; how I conduct myself on stage; or, more importantly, the ways I relate to other people. Everything I did with American Idolhas readied me for this platform and this album. This is where I feel at home and I can't wait for people to hear these songs."

Stacey's Christian label debut was guided by producer Brown Bannister (Amy Grant, Mandisa, Steven Curtis Chapman) and includes the debut radio single "You're Not Shaken," as well as "One," "It's Gotta Be Love," "Some Kind of Love" and a cover of Rich Mullins' "Hard to Get," one of Stacey's favorite songs.

"Working with Phil was such a gift," Bannister said. "It's been a long time since I've produced someone with his abilities as a writer and vocalist. This distinctive, powerful voice is a breath of fresh air in this market."

A bonus track, "Old Glory," showcases Stacey's patriotic leanings, no surprise to those who know the artist is member of the Navy Reserves. Stacey enlisted after the events of 9/11.

"I wanted to support the effort against terror," Stacey said. "I was proud of my dad, who was a veteran and fought in Vietnam."