ChatGPT “I need to find a real job” – Phil Collins bids an emotional farewell to fans at his final concert.”

Phil Collins, one of the most successful artists of all time, rivaled only by legends like Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson in record sales, has left his global fanbase heartbroken after an emotional farewell concert. During this poignant event, Collins joked about needing to find “a real job” as he bowed out from four decades of performing.

Struggling with ongoing health issues, Collins performed his final show at London’s O2 Arena alongside his Genesis bandmates, Mike Rutherford and Tony Banks. The band reunited for their ‘The Last Domino?’ Tour, which had been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marking their return after a 14-year hiatus from live performances.

At the end of the concert, a visibly frail Collins stood with his bandmates and humorously told the audience, “After tonight, we’ll all have to get real jobs.” Collins has faced significant health challenges, including a 2009 surgery to repair dislocated vertebrae in his neck, which led to nerve damage in his hands.

He has used a cane since 2015 and admitted last September that he could barely hold a drumstick, with his son Nicholas Collins taking over drumming duties.

In an interview with BBC Breakfast, Collins hinted that this might be his final tour. “I’d love to [continue], but I can barely hold a stick with this hand. So, there are certain physical things that get in the way,” he said, acknowledging the reality of aging and the physical toll it takes.

Collins’s career began as a child actor, landing a major role as the Artful Dodger in the West End musical Oliver!

He joined Genesis in 1970 as their drummer and became the lead singer in 1975 after Peter Gabriel’s departure. Initially reluctant to step into the spotlight, Collins eventually embraced his role, leading the band to new heights.

In the 1980s, Collins embarked on a wildly successful solo career, becoming one of the decade’s top pop stars.

He made headlines by performing at both the Wembley Stadium and Philadelphia Live Aid concerts on the same day, raising millions for famine relief in Africa. His acting career included appearances in Miami Vice and a starring role in the movie Buster, further cementing his status as a multifaceted entertainer.

Despite his health issues, Collins continued to perform, even if seated during his concerts.

He candidly admitted to the Guardian last year that he doesn’t practice singing at home, relying instead on rehearsals to keep his voice in shape. “My health does change things, but the audience still listens and responds,” he said, reflecting on his recent solo tours.

Phil Collins’s remarkable career and enduring music have left an indelible mark on fans worldwide.

As he steps back from the stage, we celebrate his contributions to music and wish him well in his well-deserved retirement.