Introduction
Phil Collins Hopes Celebrity Admirers Will Inspire a New Generation of Fans
Phil Collins, the legendary British singer, drummer, and former Genesis frontman, has long been revered in the music world. From his chart-topping solo hits like “In the Air Tonight” and “Against All Odds” to his groundbreaking work with Genesis, Collins has shaped pop and rock music for decades. Now in his seventies and retired from touring due to health challenges, Collins finds himself watching his legacy grow—not just through his classic recordings, but through the love and admiration of a surprising group: celebrity fans.
In a recent conversation with music industry insiders, Collins reflected on how a younger generation of artists and entertainers have publicly embraced his work—and how he hopes their enthusiasm might introduce his music to an entirely new audience.
Celebrity Endorsements as a Modern Music Lifeline
“I’m genuinely touched when I hear people I’ve never met talk about my songs as a big part of their lives,” Collins said. “Especially when it’s coming from musicians or actors who weren’t even born when I released my first records.”
Indeed, the list of high-profile admirers is impressive. Artists like Adele, Drake, Beyoncé, and Kanye West have all name-dropped or sampled Phil Collins’ songs. In fact, In the Air Tonight has been reimagined, remixed, and referenced across genres—proving its timeless appeal.
Even pop culture moments, like the viral YouTube videos of people hearing the infamous drum solo for the first time, or the TikTok trend of teens reacting to his music, have breathed new life into Collins’ catalog.
“People often talk about going viral as something for new artists,” Collins noted with a smile. “But I went viral in my sixties. That’s quite something.”
From Generational to Cross-Generational
While Collins’ core fanbase includes those who grew up with him in the ’80s and ’90s, he’s increasingly aware of how younger listeners—some discovering him through movies, shows, or social media—are engaging with his work.
“I think what makes me most hopeful is that the music still speaks to people,” he said. “If someone listens to ‘Another Day in Paradise’ today and it makes them stop and think, then the song is doing what I hoped it would do—regardless of their age.”
Celebrity fans like Lorde, who once said Collins inspired parts of her songwriting process, and Harry Styles, who called Invisible Touch a “perfect pop album,” are now among those helping bridge that gap between generations. Collins is humbled by their praise and sees their recognition as more than just flattery.
“When an artist like Harry or Lorde mentions you in interviews, it’s not just kind words—it’s an invitation to their fans to dig deeper,” Collins said. “It’s like they’re passing the baton.”
The Role of Sync Licensing and Pop Culture Moments
Phil Collins’ music has enjoyed a second life thanks to film, television, and advertising. His tracks have been featured in major productions such as Miami Vice, American Psycho, Rick and Morty, and even the Gorilla chocolate commercial from Cadbury that became a phenomenon in its own right.
“There are kids who know me only from the gorilla playing the drums,” Collins laughed. “But that’s okay. If it gets them to listen to the whole track—or even better, the album—then I’m happy.”
Beyond humor, Collins believes that emotional resonance plays a big part in why his music continues to attract new listeners. “There’s something about heartbreak, loneliness, or even anger that just doesn’t age,” he added.
Hope, Legacy, and the Next Wave
At this point in his life, Collins is focused less on releasing new music and more on nurturing his musical legacy. He admits that health concerns have forced him into a quieter phase of life, but that hasn’t dulled his creative spirit or his interest in what happens to his music after him.
“I won’t be touring again, that’s for sure,” he confirmed. “But I do hope that my songs continue to mean something to people—even if they discover them years from now.”
That’s why Collins takes so much joy in seeing celebrity fans embrace his work—not for the spotlight, but because they serve as natural ambassadors to younger listeners.
“If someone hears ‘Take Me Home’ because their favorite actor or influencer posted it, and they feel something, then that’s magical,” he said. “That’s the real gift of music—it travels through people.”
Looking Ahead: A Family Affair?
Interestingly, Collins’ own son, Nic Collins, has stepped into the music world and even played drums for Genesis during their farewell tour. Phil has publicly expressed pride in his son’s talent and hinted that perhaps the “Collins legacy” may live on through more than just recordings.
“Nicholas is his own person, and I never wanted to push him into music,” Collins said. “But seeing him behind the drums on stage—it was emotional. Maybe one day, someone will go see him and discover me through him. That would be a beautiful full circle.”
Final Thoughts
For Phil Collins, legacy is no longer just about platinum records or sold-out tours. It’s about connection—about passing on stories and sounds from one listener to the next. Whether it’s through a famous voice praising his lyrics or a viral video breathing new life into an old song, Collins remains hopeful.
“Music has always been a bridge,” he concluded. “If someone walks across it to find my songs because of a celebrity they admire, then I welcome them with open arms.”