Introduction
Phil Collins’ Former Bandmates Have A Lot To Say About Him
For over five decades, Phil Collins has been one of the most recognizable figures in the music world — not only for his solo career but also for his integral role in Genesis. While his voice and drumming have become legendary, it’s the thoughts of his former bandmates that offer a deeper, more personal perspective on the man behind the music. And when they talk about Collins, it’s with a mix of admiration, respect, and, at times, heartfelt concern.
Genesis, formed in the late 1960s, went through several transformations, but it was Phil Collins who stepped up as lead singer after Peter Gabriel’s departure in 1975. Guitarist Mike Rutherford and keyboardist Tony Banks, who’ve known Collins for decades, have been vocal in recent years about their deep appreciation for his talents — and their sympathy for his health struggles.
“Phil is a force of nature,” Mike Rutherford said in a 2022 interview. “Whether he’s behind the drums or in front of the mic, he brings an energy that’s hard to describe. We all knew he was special from the beginning.”
Tony Banks echoed those sentiments, crediting Collins not only for helping to transform Genesis into a more commercially successful band in the ’80s but also for carrying much of the emotional weight in their music. “Phil had this uncanny ability to turn complex musical ideas into something people could feel. That’s rare,” Banks said.
However, recent years have cast a different light on the band’s dynamics. With Collins’ ongoing health issues — including nerve damage, back surgeries, and a visible decline in mobility — the reunion tour “The Last Domino?” took on a bittersweet tone. Although Phil was no longer able to play drums and performed seated, his bandmates praised his courage and commitment.
“It’s not easy for him, and yet he shows up and gives everything,” Rutherford said. “That takes guts.”
At the same time, Peter Gabriel, who left the band before Collins rose to frontman fame, has also weighed in. Though the two haven’t worked closely in decades, Gabriel has repeatedly praised Collins’ contributions. “Phil brought a different kind of emotion to Genesis,” Gabriel once remarked. “He made it his own — and he did it brilliantly.”
Some former collaborators, however, have also reflected on the pressures Collins faced — both from within the band and the spotlight. His decision to juggle a solo career with Genesis’s massive success led to tensions at times, though they were often smoothed over by his work ethic and sense of humor.
Now, with Genesis likely having played their final shows, Collins’ bandmates seem to be looking back with more warmth than ever.
“Phil gave more than most people ever knew,” Banks said. “And if people think of Genesis, they think of Phil — and that’s well deserved.”
Whether remembered as a drummer, singer, songwriter, or friend, Phil Collins clearly left a lasting mark — not just on fans, but on those who stood beside him for decades