VALLEY COUNTRY: Phillip Thomas Kellogg

Phillip Thomas Kellogg has wanted to visit the mall for two weeks. But he's been busy.

Busy writing his debut album in Nashville. Busy opening for Willie Nelson Nov. 2 at the South Padre International Music Festival. And busy continuing to hone his country vocals and guitar.

But last weekend, he had a few spare hours while in Nashville, and he finally made it to the mall. If things continue like this, however, it might be a while before the Harlingen 20 year old makes it back. His country career seems poised to explode.

Playing since he was young, performing weekly since 2007.
Hometown: Raymondville
Current town: Harlingen
Upcoming show: 9:30 p.m., tonight and Saturday at Wink's Saloon in Brownsville.
Sounds like: Clint Walker + Mark Chesnutt x ‘80s rock
Favorite brand of guitar: Gibson's Les Paul
www.myspace.com/phillipthomaskellogg

Cowboy cred: 4 cowboy hats

How does a Valley crowd differ from a regular country crowd? I'm from the Valley, so I've always gotten a different response from a Valley crowd because I'm from there. I've always had a great response from the Valley.

As a country musician, how do you relate to Tejano music? I grew up listening to Tejano. I wasn't a really big fan of it, but I give it respect. They're musicians too. It's not like they're pushing a button to make the music. They're picking away to make that music. They're just as talented as any other musician.

What's your dream gig? To headline the Dodge Arena. 

Where do you expect country music to take you? I've never expected it to take me anywhere, but I just want it to take me as far as I can go.