Introduction
Phil Collins: “I’m Terrible at Retirement” — The Music Never Truly Stops
For a man who once said he was retiring, Phil Collins has had a remarkably busy post-career life. Now 73 years old and battling significant health issues, the legendary Genesis frontman and solo icon admits that he’s “terrible at retirement” — and fans around the world are grateful for it.
Despite multiple official retirement announcements over the past two decades, Collins has repeatedly found his way back into the studio, onto the stage, or in front of a camera. His love for music, his commitment to his legacy, and his connection to his family — especially his son, Nic — have kept him closer to the spotlight than he ever expected.
“I’ve retired more times than Frank Sinatra,” he once joked. “But it’s harder than people think.”
Here’s a look into the restless retirement of one of music’s most enduring figures.
The First Retirement: 2002
In 2002, Collins shocked fans by announcing that he would be stepping back from the music business. After decades of grueling tours, hit albums, and intense media scrutiny, he said he wanted to focus on family — and escape the pressure of the spotlight.
At the time, Collins was in his early 50s and had already accomplished more than most musicians dream of: multiple Grammy Awards, an Oscar, chart-topping albums, and a role in one of the most successful bands of all time, Genesis.
But stepping away wasn’t easy. Even as he disappeared from the tour circuit, he found himself quietly composing music, collaborating on film projects (such as Disney’s Tarzan), and eventually returning to the stage.
Health Challenges: A Complicating Factor
Collins’ attempts at retirement have been complicated by his ongoing health problems, including back surgeries, nerve damage, and complications from a dislocated vertebra. These issues have left him with limited mobility — he can no longer play drums and often performs while seated.
These conditions contributed to his most serious withdrawal from music in the early 2010s, when he announced that he was truly done — not just from performing, but from the industry altogether.
“I physically couldn’t do it anymore,” he admitted in a later interview. “I thought maybe it was time to let go completely.”
But even then, the music never stopped calling.
The “Not Dead Yet” Tour: A Surprise Comeback
In 2017, Collins launched the “Not Dead Yet” Tour, named after his autobiography — a tongue-in-cheek reference to rumors about his declining health and supposed retirement. To the surprise of many, he was back on stage, performing hits like “In the Air Tonight”, “Against All Odds”, and “You’ll Be in My Heart”.
The tour was a massive success, selling out arenas across Europe and North America. Fans were emotional, cheering Collins on as he performed from a chair, no longer behind the drums, but still captivating audiences with his voice and presence.
“I may not be able to drum,” he told the crowd, “but I can still sing.”
The tour proved that while he might be physically limited, his passion for music and performing had not faded.
Genesis Farewell Tour: One Last Time
Collins rejoined Genesis for one final reunion tour — “The Last Domino?” — which wrapped in 2022. It was an emotional journey, not only for Collins and his bandmates Tony Banks and Mike Rutherford, but for generations of fans who grew up with Genesis’ music.
His son, Nic Collins, played drums in his place, marking a symbolic passing of the torch. Watching Nic on stage, Phil beamed with pride — a father seeing his legacy carried forward, both musically and personally.
“Having Nic on stage with me gave me the strength to keep going,” he said. “It’s not the same, but it’s beautiful in its own way.”
The tour was billed as a farewell — a final bow. But Collins, true to form, stopped short of saying he was done forever.
Restlessness in Retirement
In interviews, Collins has admitted that being idle is not in his nature. He’s a songwriter, a storyteller, and a creator at heart. Even if his body can no longer keep up with the demands of touring, his mind remains active.
He’s considered working on archival projects, releasing previously unheard recordings, or collaborating with other artists in behind-the-scenes roles.
“I still write. I still think about melodies. That part of me isn’t retired,” he said in a 2024 interview. “And maybe it never will be.”
Collins also continues to support his children’s careers, particularly Nic’s work as a drummer. The younger Collins has earned respect in his own right, not just as “Phil’s son,” but as a talented musician with a bright future ahead.
A New Chapter, Not the End
Though Collins spends much of his time now focused on his health and enjoying life at a slower pace, he doesn’t see retirement as an end — more like a shift in tempo.
He lives quietly, surrounded by family, reflecting on a career that has spanned over 50 years. But he remains open to the occasional project or public appearance. And he still writes — sometimes just for himself, sometimes for the world.
“Music is who I am,” he said. “I don’t know how to stop being me.”
This perspective has made Collins a beloved figure not just for his past accomplishments, but for his authenticity and vulnerability in later life. He’s not trying to cling to fame — he’s simply following the rhythm that has guided him all along.
Legacy in Motion
Even as he steps further into retirement, Collins’ influence is everywhere. His songs continue to be streamed by millions. Artists cite him as a major inspiration. And documentaries and retrospectives continue to revisit the groundbreaking work he did both as a solo artist and as part of Genesis.
Whether he’s officially “retired” or not, one thing is certain: Phil Collins’ presence in the world of music is far from over. It lives on in his recordings, in his children, and in the hearts of fans who grew up with his voice in their lives.
He may joke about being “terrible at retirement,” but that’s because the music never truly leaves you — not when it’s been your entire life