Introduction
“The West Side” is an instrumental piece by Phil Collins that first appeared on his 1982 solo album, “Hello, I Must Be Going!”. While overshadowed by the album’s hit singles like “You Can’t Hurry Love” and “I Don’t Care Anymore,” “The West Side” holds a unique place in Collins’s discography, showcasing his musical versatility and his connection to jazz fusion.
This track stands out for a few key reasons. Firstly, it’s an instrumental, allowing Collins’s skills as a drummer and his musical arrangements to take center stage. It diverges from the more pop-oriented sound that defined much of his solo work, instead drawing heavily on jazz fusion influences. This connection can be traced back to Collins’s earlier work with the jazz fusion band Brand X, where he honed his skills in complex rhythms and improvisational music.
Secondly, “The West Side” is notable for its connection to the musical “West Side Story.” While not a direct adaptation of any specific melody from the musical, the song is inspired by its themes and atmosphere. It evokes a sense of urban landscape and perhaps even the underlying tensions present in the “West Side Story” narrative. This inspiration adds a layer of depth to the piece, inviting listeners to draw their own interpretations.
“The West Side” became a staple in Collins’s live performances, particularly during his early solo tours. A definitive version can be found on the “Serious Hits… Live!” concert film, where it’s often linked with another instrumental piece, “Saturday Night and Sunday Morning.” These live performances allowed Collins to further explore the song’s dynamics and showcase his band’s musical prowess. While not a commercially released single, “The West Side” remains a significant piece for understanding Phil Collins’s broader musical influences and his capabilities beyond the realm of pop hits.