Phil Collins, the acclaimed former frontman of Genesis and prolific solo artist, has signaled the end of his storied music career, stating he no longer wishes to create new music due to serious health issues. At 74, Collins shared his reflections with Mojo magazine, saying, "I keep thinking I should go downstairs to the studio and see what happens. But I'm not hungry for it anymore. The thing is, I've been sick, I mean very sick." These comments not only mark the conclusion of his artistic endeavors but also reveal the debilitating impact of his health struggles.
Having toured for the final time with Genesis in 2022, Collins faced tremendous physical limitations and performed from a chair. This shift highlighted the severity of his well-documented health issues, which include type 2 diabetes and complications from spinal injuries sustained over many years of drumming. Collins lamented, "I can't even hold the sticks properly without it being painful; I even used to tape the sticks to my hands to get through. Don’t worry, I can still sing.”
Collins’ battle with health problems has been long and arduous. After initially expressing concerns about his well-being, he revealed the extent of his spinal injury, which he first mentioned publicly back in 2009. He described how his vertebrae had been crushing his spinal cord due to the drumming position he had maintained for decades. Collins noted, "It’s still kind of sinking in... To suddenly not be able to do [drumming] is a shock."
His contributions to the music scene began at the young age of 19 when he joined Genesis, replacing drummer John Mayhew. The group has since become known for numerous hits, from "Invisible Touch" to "I Can’t Dance," establishing themselves as one of the giants of rock music. Meanwhile, Collins’s solo career exploded during the 1990s with tracks such as "Another Day in Paradise," securing him eight Grammy Awards and several Billboard Music Awards.
While touring, Collins had to make accommodations for his condition, with his son Nic stepping up to fill the drumming role during Genesis' farewell tour. Nic’s involvement during this significant moment offered both emotional support and continuity for the band's legacy. Collins shared the sentiment of attending the tour as “a rite of passage,” emphasizing his deep connection to the band he helped shape.
Reflecting on his remarkable career, Collins commented on the challenges of retirement, stating, "If I can’t do what I did as well as I did it, I’d rather relax and not do anything." This statement encapsulates the mature recognition of his limitations and the resolve to step away from the limelight when it no longer brings him joy.
Collins’ legacy is mottled with unforgettable music and performances, yet his recent health issues have overshadowed his retirement announcement. With no plans for future recording or performing, Collins seems content with the interpretation of his health dictation his career’s conclusion. His heartfelt discussion of these matters has brought fans together who both celebrate his past achievements and share compassion for his current struggles.
Despite his health-related retirement, Collins remains hopeful. While he may never roam the stage again or create new music, the timeless impact of his work will continue to resonate. He said, "If I wake up one day and I can hold a pair of drumsticks, then I’ll have a crack at it." For now, what remains is the quiet reflection of a man whose-time-honored melodies filled stadiums and hearts around the world.