He is a legendary musician whose songs we have all sung. Unfortunately, he is currently ill and suffering.
Phil Collins, the legendary drummer and lead singer of Genesis, has had a storied career with immense success in the music industry.
He is one of only three artists who have sold more than 100 million records both solo and in collaboration, joining Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney. Born on January 30th, 1951, in London, England, to artistic parents, Collins was exposed to music at a young age.
At five, he received a handmade drum kit from his uncle, which included tambourines, triangles, cymbals, and small drums.
This early gift helped shape his distinct sound. Inspired by the emerging English beat scene, with bands like The Shadows, Collins frequently performed at his parents’ boating club’s social gatherings.
At fourteen, after being introduced to rock and roll, Collins bought a record player and the Beatles’ “Please Please Me.”
He practiced drumming by turning up the volume and playing in front of a mirror.
Although he took drum lessons to learn to read music, he found playing by intuition far superior. In the 1970s, an advertisement for a drummer for Genesis caught his eye.
Upon contacting them, Collins was welcomed aboard, marking the start of his remarkable music career.
As a member of Genesis and as a solo artist, Collins achieved massive success with hits like “In The Air Tonight,” “You Can’t Hurry Love,” and “I Don’t Care Anymore.”
After 25 years with Genesis, he shifted focus to jazz projects, film music, and his solo career.
However, in 2017, he rejoined Genesis for their Last Domino global tour, which was postponed due to the pandemic.
Shortly before the tour, an interview with BBC Breakfast raised concerns about his health.
Despite these challenges, the band hopes to perform together again, with Collins on vocals and his son, Nicholas Collins, on drums.
Phil Collins has faced physical limitations that have prevented him from playing the drums as he once did. He expressed regret over not being able to accompany his son on adventures. These health issues have left him uncertain about continuing to travel and perform, creating a sense of resignation and contemplation about his future.