Introduction
Phil Collins: “I’m Terrible at Retirement” — The Drummer Who Just Can’t Quit
For most people, retirement is a time to slow down, relax, and enjoy life out of the spotlight. But for Phil Collins, the legendary drummer, singer, and songwriter, stepping away from music has proven to be anything but easy. In fact, as he openly admitted in a candid interview, “I’m terrible at retirement.”
Now in his seventies, Collins has had a career that spans over five decades. From his groundbreaking work with Genesis to a massively successful solo career, he has sold over 150 million records worldwide and become one of the most recognizable voices in pop and rock history. Yet despite numerous health problems — including back surgeries, nerve damage, and reduced mobility — Collins has found it nearly impossible to walk away from the stage completely.
“I’ve said it a few times before — that I was retiring,” he admitted, with a wry smile. “But the truth is, music has always pulled me back. It’s who I am.”
After his first “retirement” in the early 2000s, Collins focused on writing, including his autobiography Not Dead Yet, and spending more time with family. However, he later confessed that stepping away from music left a void that was hard to fill. “There’s something about being in front of a crowd, hearing your songs sung back to you — that’s not something you can replace.”
In 2017, he surprised fans with his Not Dead Yet tour, despite his declining health. Performing from a chair due to his physical limitations, Collins still managed to captivate audiences with his voice and emotional delivery. Then came the highly anticipated Genesis reunion tour in 2021–2022, which would be billed as the band’s final tour — The Last Domino?
Though his body showed signs of wear, Collins’ passion for music and performance remained as strong as ever. “It’s frustrating,” he said of his health. “My hands won’t let me play the drums the way I used to. I can’t move around like before. But I still have my voice, and I still have something to share.”
He also reflected on the emotional toll of retirement. Without the regular rhythm of touring, recording, and being creatively active, he felt “lost” at times. “People think retirement means peace and quiet. For me, it meant restlessness and wondering what’s next.”
Collins’ children, including actress Lily Collins, have often encouraged him to slow down and take care of his health. But the pull of music — and his connection with fans — continues to be irresistible.
As of 2025, Collins is mostly out of the public eye, but he hasn’t ruled out small projects or special appearances. “I may not do another world tour, but I’ll never stop being a musician,” he said. “That part of me doesn’t retire.”
For Phil Collins, retirement isn’t about walking away. It’s about finding new ways to stay connected to the music and the people who have loved it for generations. In his words, “I may be done with the stage, but music isn’t done with me.”