Martin Phillipps
Martin Phillipps was a celebrated New Zealand musician and songwriter, best known as the frontman of the influential indie rock band The Chills. Born in 1961, he navigated a complex life marked by personal struggles, including addiction and health issues, which informed his poignant songwriting. Despite these challenges, Phillipps experienced a late-career renaissance with critically acclaimed albums, leaving a lasting legacy in the music world. His recent posthumous release, 'Spring Board,' showcases previously unrecorded songs that highlight his remarkable talent and enduring spirit.
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Recent news mentions
Grant Robertson stepped up to MC the funeral of The Chills' Martin Phillipps.
Grant Robertson: ‘Everybody I see looks better when they stop in politics than they did when they were in it’
New Zealand· 2025-08-26
Martin Phillipps was a fan of Concord amplifiers and left one to David Kilgour when he passed away.
Might of the Concord: The kiwi-made amp beloved by local guitar heroesNew Zealand· 2025-05-09
Martin Phillipps, who steered his vision of The Chills from the early 1980s until his death last July at 61, was among our most accomplished and unique songwriters.
New Chills album is Martin Phillipps’ last gift of spirited indie rockNew Zealand· 2025-03-04
