Phil & McKayla Stacey – “More Like Him”

Released: February 18, 2025 (Missions Coalition Music Group)

4.8/5

Written by: Mike Laxton (04/02/2025)

In a recent conversation on Kingdom Builder with host Jay Heilman, Phil Stacey opened up about his latest collaboration with his daughter, McKayla Stacey, on their powerful new song, “More Like Him.” This deeply moving track not only showcases their incredible vocal chemistry but also delivers a heartfelt message about striving to reflect the love and grace of Jesus in our daily lives.

From the very first notes, “More Like Him” draws the listener in with a beautifully simple yet emotionally rich introduction. The acoustic guitar and soaring violin arrangement immediately caught my attention—as a longtime fan of strings, this opening alone set the tone for something truly special.

Phil leads the way with the first verse, delivering his signature soulful vocals with raw emotion. As McKayla joins in for the chorus, their harmonies blend seamlessly, painting a picture of how life could be transformed if we all aspired to be more like Jesus. There’s a heartfelt sincerity in their voices, reinforcing the song’s theme of grace, humility, and the impact of faith.

One of the most powerful moments in “More Like Him” comes during the bridge. The lyrics reflect on the reality of a world without mercy, posing the thought-provoking question: “What if mercy never happened?” But in contrast to this sobering reflection, the song also reminds us that we have the opportunity to be a “glimpse of heaven” to those who are hurting. This realization—that we can embody hope and freedom for others—is one of the most profound aspects of the song’s message.

During the interview, Phil shared the inspiration behind “More Like Him,” emphasizing their desire to create a song that not only resonated personally but also encouraged others in their faith. Phil revealed just how meaningful this project was for both him and McKayla—not just as musicians, but as father and daughter sharing their faith through song.

Beyond its powerful message, “More Like Him” is a song that deserves to be heard, reflected on, and played again and again. It’s one of those rare tracks that both comforts and challenges the listener, reminding us all of the importance of grace, kindness, and striving to be more like Jesus in our everyday lives.

Jay Heilman’s conversation with Phil Stacey on Kingdom Builder provided incredible insight into this touching duet, offering a deeper understanding of the song’s heart and meaning. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Phil Stacey or just discovering McKayla’s journey, “More Like Him” is a song that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.