True Inspirational Stories Fueling ‘Good to be Alive’
“Good to be Alive” weaves a narrative of resilience and hope through the stories of real individuals grappling with mental health challenges. The driving force behind this music video is Phillip Enkey, a multifaceted artist serving as the writer, producer, and performer of the song.
The origins of “Good to be Alive” stems from a poignant experience in Phillip’s life when a close friend lost her husband to suicide. Reflecting on his own moments of contemplating suicide, he wrote lyrics that encapsulate the message he wished he could convey to his past self. “It’s good to be alive,” became the anthem, an affirmation of life in the face of despair.
The cast of the music video includes William Enkey, Kate Gabbitas, Angela McMullin, Jordan Jarman, Tate Gifford, and Sam Kalt. Each member playing a role and sharing their genuine experiences lending authenticity to the project.
Phillip’s favorite part of the production was the interviews with William, Kate, and Angela. He expresses a deep appreciation for the unique and moving stories they shared, emphasizing that what viewers witness in the music video is only a fraction of their profound narratives. For Phillip, the process of meeting these individuals and translating their stories into a visual medium is the most sacred and insightful aspect of his creative endeavors.
Making a music video isn’t the easiest thing to do. “Good to be Alive” faced challenges with financing being a significant hurdle. Phillip personally finances each project and, with only $750 raised out of the $2,000 goal four days before production, anxiety loomed. A timely donation of $1,500 from former Marine and Entrepreneur Edward Peugh saved the day, a gesture inspired by a Marine whose life Edward had once saved from suicide.
When asked if he would do anything differently, Phillip stands by the project, expressing love for the song, the video, and everyone involved. For him, it was the best he could do.
For aspiring individuals interested in entering the production space, Phillip encourages a bold approach—jump in headfirst, make a mess, and network until finding mentorship. He highlights the abundance of opportunities for volunteers, extras, or interns and suggests joining local Facebook groups to stay connected with the industry.
To stay informed about future projects, audiences can follow Phillip Enkey on various social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok. His website, https://www.phillipenkey.com, serves as a hub for all his content. “Good to be Alive” is an official selection of the Utah International Film Festival, where it will be screened at Maven Cinema in American Fork, UT.
