Album Description – MCMXCVII by Philip Anthony (2019)
MCMXCVII is a bold, introspective debut from Philip Anthony that blends raw lyricism with cinematic soundscapes to chronicle a personal and spiritual evolution. Named after the year he first learned of his desire to rap, the album is a reflection on identity, faith, and the world we live in—unapologetically honest and deeply human.
Anchored by standout singles like “Truth Be Told” and “Finally Made It,” MCMXCVII captures the tension between conviction and doubt, protest and prayer. Philip Anthony's storytelling is sharp and unfiltered, layered over soulful trap and boom-bap-inspired production that nods to the golden era of hip hop while sounding distinctly current.
Whether he’s confronting systemic injustice or digging through the layers of his own journey, MCMXCVII introduces Philip Anthony as an artist with something real to say—and the craftsmanship to say it well. This album laid the foundation for everything that would follow.