In a full-circle moment nearly two decades in the making, American Idol alum Phil Stacey joins his daughter McKayla Stacey—also an Idol alum—for the release of their heartfelt new song, “More Like Him.”
Fans of American Idol may remember Phil Stacey’s unforgettable audition in 2006—the same day his daughter McKayla was born. Fast forward to 2025, and the father-daughter duo has not only shared the Idol stage but is now releasing their first collaboration, a powerful song with a message of love, compassion, and faith.
“It’s so special to be able to share an experience like this with your kid,” says Phil, who finished in the Top 6 of American Idol Season 6. “People who remember my season watched me miss her birth when I auditioned. Then, the moment she’s eligible, we’re suddenly on the show together.” The pair appeared on the show together in 2024, when McKayla auditioned.
For Phil and McKayla, “More Like Him” isn’t just a song—it’s a mission.
“We’ve been wanting to do a song together, but we wanted it to be special, a life statement. Like, if we spent our lives and could only say one thing, what would that be? This song captures what has driven us, sustains us, and continues to inspire us—and that is the person and work of Jesus and the invitation to continue His mission here on earth,” said Phil Stacey.
“I grew up watching my dad do shows around the world and fell in love with music because of the way it’s able to bring people into a single moment and a shared heart,” says McKayla Stacey. “With all the division and negativity around us, we wanted our song to invite people into a shared heart of love and compassion, and I think ‘More Like Him’ does that.”
Adding to its significance, “More Like Him” was written specifically for Safe Families for Children, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting children and keeping families together. Phil and McKayla will be performing a series of concerts this year to raise awareness and support for the cause.
Produced by Sam Hart and released under Missions Coalition Music Group, “More Like Him” is available now on all streaming platforms.
