Phil Cristian

Who is Phil Cristian?

Phil Cristian aka Magic Cristian is an American keyboardist and singer.

Phil Cristian was a member of the Micki Free Band, managed by Diana Ross and produced by Gene Simmons of Kiss. The Micki Free Band, which also featured bassist Jon Brant, toured with Diana Ross as her opening act in 1981.

He is best known for being 'Magic' Cristian, the touring keyboardist and background singer for the rock band Cheap Trick. He was the first keyboard player to tour nationally with the group between 1982–1985, as mentioned in Cheap Trick's biography. His first recording experience with the band came in 1984, recording demo versions of the song "Love Comes" and the title track for the movie "Teachers". He also played keyboards and sang backup on the "Up The Creek" movie soundtrack, making a cameo appearance in the accompanying video as well.

In 1986, after signing a songwriting deal with a small record company, he wrote and co-wrote songs for the 1987 album Flamingo Orkestra featuring Cynthia Manley. The album was co-produced by Stevie Wonder alums Robert Margouleff and trumpeter Steve Madaio. A demo of one of his songs featured a duet with Billy Preston and Sharon "Muffy" Hendrix, a backup singer for Barry Manilow and Tom Jones.