“I love the songs of my friend Phil Madeira.
His lyrics celebrate life and love
while acknowledging the heartbreak inherent in both;
they always make me smile.”
-Emmylou Harris
BLISS
Album Design: JuLee Brand
Phil Madeira’s latest record “Bliss” is the exuberant followup to “Open Heart” and “Hornet’s Nest”, and completes a trilogy of albums that chronicle his journey from a devastating loss, through the stages of grief, and finally, the celebration of new life and love.
The veteran songwriter (Alison Krauss, Garth Brooks, Keb’ Mo’) and Emmylou Harris sideman retreated to the studio in 2021 with his longtime friends, bassist Chris Donohue and drummer Bryan Owings (both members of Emmylou’s Red Dirt Boys) and produced a stunningly joyous record.
With his heart ever on his sleeve, Madeira’s latest record reveals the joy of finding a soul mate. The musical influences are all over the map: To be sure, his jazz-blues influences are still present, but the record swings back to the Americana genre that has provided his launch pad; there are traces of Prine and the Beatles, and even Steely Dan.
FIND IT ON ITUNES
This limited edition CD/LP Is packaged with its original title Phil Madeira & Friends: A Mercyland Christmas. Each CD/LP will have a Mercyland Bird Sticker and a Mercyland guitar pick enclosed while supplies last.
Phil Madeira—”Funky Covers" of Classic Songs
Jazzy covers of Dylan, Beatles, Prine, JT, Cockburn, Joni, Newman, Stevie Wonder, Jackson Browne, and Bobbie Gentry
Thanks to all backers!
Phil has played on hundreds of records by major recording artists from Amy Grant to Keb' Mo' to Garth Brooks, and Mavis Staples. Known for his keyboard and accordion work, he also records on guitar, lap steel, and backing vocals. Hammond Organ, Piano, Mellotron, Accordion... just about anyone can hire Phil through Soundbetter.
GOD ON THE ROCKS
"This gritty, gutsy, funny, moving, insightful spiritual memoir not only introduces a gifted writer (who also happens to be a stellar musician), but it also exemplifies a growing phenomenon on the American religious landscape, an emerging spiritual ethos that defies standard labels and has the feel of our best roots music."
— Brian D. McLaren, author and speaker
MENTORING / PERSONAL DIRECTION
I have always had an affinity for people, and have always been intrigued by the story each of us carries; most of my songs, stories, and writings revolve around the human condition. Life has naturally (or perhaps supernaturally) brought me friends and strangers who have needed my silence, my ear, and what wisdom my journey has brought me. I am familiar with loss and grief; death and sorrow. I’m familiar with rejection and misunderstanding. I am familiar with the struggle of wanting my voice heard and of having my work witnessed. I work in person or via Facetime or Zoom.
From a few friends —
“Phil is very insightful and encouraging. He listens and gives practical steps and suggests tools to improve the quality of my everyday life. I very much appreciate his intuition, deep knowledge and sincere integrity. He has an innate ability to meet you where you are and communicate effectively and productively. “ — J.T. ~ Designer
“At one of my lowest times, Phil Madeira came alongside. If you listen to his music you can see his ability to dig deep… maybe that’s what gives him empathy, pastoral and insightful traits. Above all, I felt I could trust him with a broken heart.” — S. ~ Musician / Author
“I called Phil during a difficult time. He helped me give myself permission to talk about a traumatic incident that I carry. Just by asking the right questions and listening to me, Phil helped me find a sense of peace with my history. He has a calm and soothing presence which is helpful to let your emotions flow.” — W.S. ~ Hospital Nurse