Initially playing at parties and small venues, the group began writing music during this time, with Ernesto becoming the primary songwriter.
In addition to being another vocalist, Kayode Adeyemo acted as a second bassist and keyboardist, primarily during live performances, though he did contribute instrumentally to the group's early studio albums,[3] and more occasionally on future recordings.
This lineup stayed intact for the next 12 years, honing a sound that was also shaped by various producers, including Lionel Job, Keith Diamond, Bernard Edwards and Teddy Riley (in addition to the bandmembers' own contributions to production).
In 1979, the band secured a national recording deal and released their self-titled debut album, Starpoint!
"[4] Co-written by band members Kayode Adeyemo and Ernesto Phillips along with R&B musician/producer Keith Diamond, the tune also became Starpoint's first of several R&B top ten hits.
[3] In 1987, the band released their follow-up album, Sensational, which featured a third top ten R&B hit, "He Wants My Body".
In 2000, Ernesto Phillips began working with singer-songwriter Terry Cole (Sly Boots) and signed him to his label, Longevity Records.
[1] The Ernesto Phillips Scholarship for Talented Youth was established in his memory and as a tribute to his efforts in helping younger children to realize their ambitions of becoming musicians.
Milli Vanilli's accompanying American album, titled after the hit single, also featured a song composed by Ernesto Phillips, entitled "More Than You'll Ever Know".
[8] His family established the George McKenzie Phillips, Jr. Fund for Mental Health and Drug Abuse Rehabilitation in his memory,[9] reflecting his dedication and contributions to these fields as a counselor in his post-Starpoint career.