Phil Collins, the legendary drummer and frontman of Genesis, has provided a rare update on his health and retirement, sharing poignant insights into the challenges he has faced since stepping away from the stage. The 73-year-old musician, who officially retired in 2022 after a 50-year career, opened up in the newly released documentary Phil Collins: Drummer First, which premiered Wednesday on YouTube.
“It’s still kind of sinking in,” Collins admitted in an interview featured in the documentary. “I’ve spent all my life playing drums. To suddenly not be able to do that is a shock.”
The statement reflects the bittersweet reality of a man whose life has revolved around music from the tender age of five.
A Lifetime Behind the Kit
Collins’ journey with music began early, with drumsticks in hand by age five. Over the decades, his mastery of rhythm and melody defined Genesis’ sound and brought him solo success with hits like In the Air Tonight. But the physical toll of relentless drumming eventually caught up with him.
Years of playing, compounded by bad posture, led to significant health challenges. His son, Nic Collins, who has stepped into his father’s drumming shoes, observed, “Musicians, people in bands in general, had this thought that they were invincible. But you don’t know it’s gonna take a toll in the long run.”
The wear and tear became undeniable. Collins underwent major neck surgery in 2015, which impacted his mobility and left him grappling with drop foot, a condition that makes lifting the front part of the foot difficult. Drumming became nearly impossible, and Collins now relies on a cane to walk. Despite his health struggles, Collins maintained his signature candor, saying, “If I can’t do what I did as well as I did it, I’d rather relax and not do anything.”
The Challenges of Letting Go
Retirement wasn’t a decision Collins took lightly. The physical limitations that forced him to stop drumming were compounded by an emotional reckoning. In a candid moment during the documentary, he reflected on the profound void left by no longer being able to perform.
“If I wake up one day and I can hold a pair of drumsticks, then I’ll have a crack at it,” he said. “But I just feel like I’ve used up my air miles.”
The reality of his retirement became more apparent during Genesis’ farewell tour, The Last Domino? in 2021. Appearing on BBC Breakfast alongside his bandmates, Collins spoke about his declining stamina and the frustration of being unable to play at the same level. “I’m kind of physically challenged a bit, which is very frustrating ’cause, you know, I’d love to be playing up there with my son.”
Nic Collins, now 23, played drums for Genesis during the tour, a poignant passing of the torch. “There’s this kind of sense of ‘you’re a drummer, you’re invincible,’” Nic said in the documentary. “But even my dad had to come to terms with the fact that the body has its limits.”
A Legacy Cemented
Phil Collins’ impact on music is undeniable. With over 150 million records sold, countless awards, and a career spanning five decades, his contributions to rock and pop are monumental. Even as his health has declined, his music continues to resonate with fans across the world.
The release of Phil Collins: Drummer First offers a rare opportunity to hear Collins speak about his life and career in his own words. The documentary delves into his passion for drumming, the sacrifices made for his craft, and the enduring influence of his work. It’s a heartfelt tribute to an artist whose rhythms have shaped the soundtracks of countless lives.
The Human Toll of Stardom
Collins’ story is a reminder of the physical and emotional toll that a life of relentless touring and performing can take. His candid reflections on his struggles provide a window into the vulnerability of even the most iconic figures. While fans may lament his absence from the stage, Collins himself seems at peace with his decision.
When asked about the future during The Last Domino? tour, he admitted, “I don’t know if I want to go out on the road anymore.” The sentiment underscores his desire to prioritize his health and well-being in this chapter of his life.
Despite stepping away from the limelight, Phil Collins’ legacy is secure. His music, his artistry, and his honesty continue to inspire fans and musicians alike. And as the world watches Phil Collins: Drummer First, it’s clear that while he may no longer hold the sticks, his rhythm will echo for generations.
