Act name: Matt Philips

I am mainly a solo singer but I am involved in two groups also. I perform with my own band on occasions and I am also one third of Tameka Jackson and the Miracles. We perform all over the country alongside some of the big Motown stars such as the Temptations and Ray Lewis.

When and where did you being performing? I became a solo singer eight years ago, at the age of 28. Previous to that, I was working as a prison officer.

What is your sound and who are your influences? My sound is mostly Motown and soul. I like to include modern soul and R&B into my set as well. My influences are Luther Vandross, Marvin Gaye and The Drifters.

What is the biggest gig you have played to date? I have been lucky enough to perform for some star names in my career. My performance for Mike Tyson gained me some press all over the UK and in the USA. Since then I have gone on to perform for many stars in the boxing world, such as David Haye, Nigel Benn and Roberto Durán. Frank Bruno was quoted as saying, "This guy sings like Luther Vandross" after an event we did together in Wigan. I have also performed live on Sky TV along with an hour-long interview about my life and career. I have also performed in front of 14,000 people at a Preston North End football game. When working with Tameka Jackson and the Miracles we perform in large arenas for the Butlins holiday group which are mostly sold out.

If you are not already, is it your ambition to become professional? I became a full-time professional eight years ago. However I still consider myself quite new to the game and there is a lot still to learn and achieve.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? In 10 years time I would love to be doing what I am doing now. That is performing at Weddings and corporate events. I also would like to be performing gigs backed by my live band. It is great to have the freedom to perform solo, as part of the group or with the band. I would really like to keep busy which is the main thing.

Upcoming gigs? As most of my work is performing at people’s weddings or private events, I do not have many gigs where the public can attend. However i am pleased to say that I will be performing at the Macron Stadium wedding fayre on September 14. I will also be celebratring Christmas in my home town of Westhoughton where I will be performing at the Brinsop Arms party nights throughout December.