Introduction
At 74, Phil Collins remains one of the most iconic and influential figures in modern music history. From his early days with Genesis to a wildly successful solo career, Collins has left an indelible mark on the world. In this candid, uncut interview, he opens up about the struggles of retirement, the loss of drumming, and the complex feelings surrounding his legacy.
Drumming: “It Was More Than Just Music”
For Phil Collins, drumming was never just a job — it was a deep, physical extension of himself. “Drumming was the way I communicated when words weren’t enough,” he reflects. “It was energy, emotion, and identity all wrapped into one.”
However, due to spinal injuries and nerve damage, Collins has not been able to drum for several years. “It’s like losing a part of yourself,” he says quietly. “You wake up and realize that something so fundamental to who you are is just… gone. That’s been very hard to accept.”
Despite this, Collins has tried to stay connected to the instrument through his son, Nic Collins, who has taken up drumming professionally. “Watching Nic play gives me joy. He’s got the fire. It’s like seeing my younger self again.”
On Retirement: “I Didn’t Want to Stop – My Body Did”
Phil Collins officially retired from touring in 2022 after Genesis’s final show in London. For fans, it was an emotional night. For Collins, it was bittersweet.
“I didn’t retire because I wanted to,” he admits. “I retired because I had to. My body couldn’t do it anymore. It’s frustrating to be mentally ready but physically unable.”
He adds, “There were moments on stage during that last tour where I felt like I was saying goodbye to an old friend. The audience, the lights, the connection — it’s not something you ever get used to leaving behind.”
Still, Collins holds no regrets. “We ended on a high note. We gave people one last great memory. That matters.”
Legacy: “It Wasn’t Always Easy, But It Was Worth It”
With more than 150 million records sold worldwide and hits like “In the Air Tonight” and “Another Day in Paradise”, Collins’ influence is undeniable. Yet, he remains modest when asked about his place in music history.
“I never set out to build a legacy,” he says. “I just wanted to make music that felt honest. Some people got it, some didn’t. But I stayed true to myself.”
When asked what he hopes people remember, he smiles. “That I gave everything I had. Whether behind a drum kit or at a piano, I put my heart into it. That’s all I ever wanted.”
Looking Ahead: “I’m Still Here”
Though he no longer performs, Collins hasn’t disappeared. He continues to mentor young musicians, write occasionally, and spend time with family.
“I’m still here,” he says. “Maybe not on stage, but I’m still part of the music world in my own way. And that’s enough for me.”