After living the typical, hard, fast and furious rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle for years, he quit alcohol, became vegan, and keeps extremely fit – obvious by the chiseled abs and toned physique he proudly shows when performing on stage, and rightly so.

I had the lucky opportunity to ask Phil a few questions on behalf of our curious men here in Singapore – it’s never too late guys!

Giving Up Bad Habits For Good

What was your ‘wake-up’ call to adopt a healthier lifestyle?

When I gave up drinking I seemed to have at least 2 extra hours a day and tons more energy, so I started running.

What were the major changes to your diet and fitness regime?

They are constantly changing. I stopped eating meat for ethical reasons, actually after I watched the original “Texas Chain Saw Massacre,” but changed to vegan for more health related reasons.

Can you tell our readers the 3 top benefits to your life/health since you made the changes?

I’m healthier, stronger, feel younger, play better guitar, write better songs, and have more focus. And I could keep on going but in general I feel like superman at 57 and I didn’t when I was 25.

And the 3 biggest challenges?

No challenges and I certainly don’t miss recovering from hangovers. And the last time I ate meat, over 32 years ago I wanted to throw up. So for me personally it’s a win-win. But everyone is different.

Dealing With The Past As A New Man

Being vegan, what are the foods you miss?

Initially I missed chocolate, cheese, and ice cream. But I’ve discovered amazing coconut ice creams, glorious vegan chocolate (most dark chocolate is vegan or dairy free) and vegan cheeses. So I’m all good.

How do you stay healthy on tour with all the old temptations around?

I don’t see being ill as a temptation and the key to staying healthy is consistent activity and trying to mainly eat foods that heal and don’t poison. Plus, there’s so much free time and that’s when I’d rather workout than lay on a couch or go to a bar. Having said that I do have the odd junk food vegan meal.

What advice would you give to your head-banging 25 year old self?

It’s coming. Learn from your experiences, follow your gut feeling and realize we’re all a work in progress.

Advice For Older Men

Any advice to our 50+ men out there who might need a little encouragement?

Yeah, don’t believe your body decays from age. It ages and atrophies from lack of care, activity and poisoning your own well. But the choice is yours. It takes a little more work as we age but nothing we can’t handle as long as we keep in a constant state of slight modification.

Thanks for your time Phil, I’m sure this will inspire many people to look after themselves a little better.

Thanks. Save that goodness.

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