Hollyoaks star Paul Danan directs ‘Follow’ video for Bristol hip hop artist Phil Mac!
In the heart of Bristol’s vibrant music scene emerges Phil Mac, an artist whose journey from adversity to triumph encapsulates the spirit of the city’s influence on hip hop, trip hop, and drum ‘n’ bass. Raised amid the creative tapestry of Bristol, Phil found solace in the spoken word, realizing his talent for rhyming.
However, challenges with alcohol and drugs cast a shadow over Phil’s aspirations until a fateful encounter with a friend changed everything. Sponsored by a mentor, who happened to be Hollyoaks star Paul Danan, Phil found himself in a dry house, navigating the path to recovery alongside Paul, who was two years sober at the time.
What started as a shared love for rap music evolved into a unique friendship and partnership. Over daily coffee conversations, Paul playfully proposed managing Phil, setting the stage for a transformative collaboration.
Phil’s turning point came when he played ‘Follow,’ a track that left Paul astounded. The offer was laid on the table: Paul would manage Phil, secure a record deal, and even direct a music video. With a handshake and the playful exchange of “Twenty percent,” the deal was sealed.
As the duo embarked on their creative journey, an unexpected opportunity arose. Paul, approached by a filmmaker from the Bristol Film Institute, proposed a deal: an interview about his life in exchange for a music video shoot for ‘Follow,’ directed by Paul himself. The stars aligned, and the deal was struck.
However, just weeks before the shoot, a setback threatened to derail everything. Phil, facing the challenge of maintaining sobriety, found himself in a precarious situation. Paul, demonstrating the strength of true friendship, offered tough love and a lifeline, urging Phil to get sober within a week if he wanted to seize the opportunity.
Phil rose to the occasion, achieving sobriety and fulfilling the promise of ‘Follow.’ Today, Phil has a record deal and a music video, a testament to the unwavering support of a friend and mentor. ‘Follow’ is more than a track; it’s the chronicle of resilience, friendship, and the triumph of the human spirit. Phil Mac’s journey is a testament to the power of music to heal and inspire.
‘Follow’ is out now through Stray Cat Records.
