Introduction
Recreating Phil Collins’ Iconic Drum Kit — And Watching Him Bring It to Life
For fans of 1980s music, few drum sounds are as instantly recognizable as the thunderous fills from Phil Collins. Whether it’s the explosive break in “In the Air Tonight” or the tight, punchy grooves that defined his solo work and time with Genesis, Collins’ drum kit played a massive role in shaping the sound of an era. So, what happens when a group of passionate audio engineers, vintage gear collectors, and master drum technicians come together to rebuild the exact setup Phil used at his peak?
That’s exactly what we set out to find — and the result was nothing short of magical.
The Vision
Our mission was clear: rebuild Phil Collins’ most iconic drum kit from the ground up — not just to display it, but to hear it, feel it, and, most excitingly, watch the legend himself sit behind it once again.
Using a combination of archival footage, tour photos, and interviews with former techs and bandmates, we pieced together every detail of his rig. From the classic Simmons SDS-V electronic pads to the custom Gretsch shells and signature Zildjian cymbals, every component had to be period-correct. Even the trigger modules and microphone placement were replicated to match the original studio and stage setups used during the “Face Value” and “No Jacket Required” tours.
The Build Process
Rebuilding this legendary kit wasn’t just about sourcing vintage gear — it was about recreating a feeling. The electronic pads were particularly difficult to find, and many of the original Simmons units are now rare or non-functional. Thankfully, with help from collectors and restorers, we located working units and refurbished them to full performance condition.
The acoustic drums were built to the same specs as Phil’s Gretsch setup, complete with concert toms — a signature element in his sound. Every nut, bolt, and drum head was chosen to match the tone and texture of his 1980s recordings.
The Moment of Truth
Once the kit was ready, there was only one thing left to do: invite Phil Collins himself to test it out.
Despite recent health challenges that have limited his ability to perform full shows, Phil was visibly moved when he saw — and heard — the kit brought back to life. Sitting behind the drums, he played the famous “In the Air Tonight” fill, and for a few moments, time stood still. The sound was unmistakable — punchy, gated, rich — just like the records.
A Legacy Preserved
Rebuilding Phil Collins’ drum kit wasn’t just a tribute — it was a celebration of a sound that defined a generation. For the team involved, it was a labor of love and an opportunity to honor a musician whose rhythms and textures left an indelible mark on modern music.
Hearing those iconic tones again — with Phil himself at the helm — reminded us all why his drumming continues to inspire musicians around the world.