Phil Collins, the 73-year-old Genesis drummer and solo artist, has revealed in a new documentary series, “Phil Collins: Drummer First,” that decades of performing have left him unable to continue playing drums. Collins received his first drum at age three and began his professional career at five, developing a passion that would span over five decades.
“It’s still kind of sinking in a bit. I’ve spent all my life playing drums. To be suddenly not be able to do that is a shock,” Collins shared in the documentary.
The musician has sustained multiple injuries throughout his career, beginning with a dislocated vertebrae in his neck in 2007 that caused initial nerve damage to his hands. In 2015, his son Nick Collins revealed that his father underwent major neck surgery due to poor posture from drumming, which led to further nerve damage. Collins also suffers from a condition called “drop foot,” which requires him to use a cane for mobility and wear orthopedic shoes.
“If I wake up one day and I can hold a pair of drumsticks, then I’ll have a crack of it. But I just feel like I’ve used up my air miles,” Collins stated.
In March 2022, Collins performed his final Genesis concert in London, appearing in a wheelchair. His son Nick has since taken over drumming duties for the band, while Collins focused on vocals during their Last Domino? Tour. By 2021, Collins revealed he could “barely hold a stick” with one hand and at times had to tape drumsticks to his hands to get through performances.
The documentary explores Collins’ impressive journey from his early days as a child drummer through his success with Genesis, which he joined in 1970, and his subsequent solo career. His achievements include becoming the second wealthiest drummer globally, surpassed only by Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, with an estimated net worth of over $250 million. Collins also earned an Oscar for Best Original Song in 2000 for “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Disney’s “Tarzan.”
Genesis guitarist Mike Rutherford provided an update on Collins’ current situation: “He’s much more immobile than he used to be, which is a shame, but at the tour, he was in good spirits. He’s fine now at home, enjoying life.”
Beyond his neck and mobility issues, Collins has also battled acute pancreatitis, which required him to abstain from alcohol for several years. However, he can now enjoy a few glasses of wine without issue. His son Nick provided insight into the mindset of musicians in the ’70s and ’80s, noting they often felt “invincible,” which led to excessive physical strain.
The musical legacy continues through his family, with Nick performing with Genesis and daughter Lily Collins achieving success as the star of “Emily in Paris.” At Collins’ final concert, Lily paid tribute to her father on social media, calling it “the memory of a lifetime” and expressing endless gratitude for his inspiration.
