Phil Collins, the renowned Genesis drummer and vocalist, has disclosed that he now needs constant medical care due to ongoing health issues which he has been dealing with for nearly two decades.
In a revealing interview with UK broadcaster Zoe Ball, the 74-year-old artist stated that he relies on a 24-hour live-in nurse to ensure he takes his medication correctly. The frank discussion provided a stark look at the physical impact years of performing have had on the British rock legend.
“I’ve had challenges with my knee. I had everything that could go wrong with me did go wrong with me,” Collins told Ball.
The musician has had five knee surgeries, resulting in only one functioning knee. He now uses crutches or requires assistance to walk, a significant change for someone who spent years delivering dynamic performances from behind the drum set.
But Collins’ health problems are not limited to his mobility. He contracted COVID while in hospital, and his kidneys started to fail as multiple issues occurred at once. Collins acknowledged that his kidney problems were a result of a lengthy period of heavy alcohol consumption. He explained that his daytime drinking and subsequent falls contributed to his kidney issues, which necessitated significant medical intervention.
The multitude of health problems led to Collins spending extensive time in the hospital. However, he recently celebrated two years of sobriety, an important milestone in his recovery.
Collins’ health struggles started in 2007 with a spinal injury, which triggered a series of medical problems. He had neck surgery in 2009, followed by another spinal operation in 2015, but the surgeries resulted in persistent nerve damage. This nerve damage led to a condition known as drop foot, which hinders the ability to lift the front part of the foot, causing it to drag while walking.
The nerve damage also greatly affected Collins’ ability to execute his signature skill: drumming. He can no longer properly grip drumsticks, effectively ending his career as one of rock music’s most notable drummers. Collins also has type 2 diabetes, adding another complication to his intricate health situation.
In 2022, Collins retired from performing after Genesis’ final farewell tour. During the tour, he performed while seated, and his son Nic Collins assumed the drumming responsibilities. This role reversal symbolized a significant passing of the baton within the Collins family, as Nic took on the position his father had held for many years.
Despite the physical constraints and the emotional impact of retiring from performing, Collins maintains a philosophical perspective on his circumstances. When asked about potentially returning to music, he hinted at unfinished music projects that might eventually be released.
Collins’ career accomplishments underscore his profound influence on popular music. He has received eight Grammy Awards, including album of the year in 1986 and record of the year in 1991. His Oscar-winning song “You’ll Be in My Heart” demonstrated his ability to create emotionally powerful ballads that surpass genre limitations. In 2010, he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Genesis.
Throughout his career, Collins sold about 150 million records, first with Genesis and later as a solo artist. His unique voice and innovative drumming style shaped the sound of 1980s pop and rock music, inspiring numerous musicians who followed in his footsteps.
Collins, father to five children including actress Lily Collins, is set to turn 75 on January 30 and continues to manage his health issues.
The final episode of the BBC Eras podcast featuring Collins will be aired on January 26, potentially offering fans one of their last comprehensive interviews with the legendary music artist.
