Phil Collins, the legendary British singer-songwriter and former frontman of Genesis, has opened up about his deteriorated health and retirement from music, expressing concerns about his ability to perform and create new work. The 74-year-old artist revealed to MOJO magazine, "I keep thinking I should go downstairs to the studio and see what happens. But I'm not hungry for it anymore." Collins, who officially announced his retirement from live performances three years ago, attributes his lack of desire to serious health issues.
After his final gig with Genesis at London’s O2 Arena in March 2022, where he performed seated due to his declining physical condition, Collins reflected on the challenges posed by his health. “The thing is, I've been sick, I mean very sick,” he said. His struggles began years earlier, following complications from his 2007 spinal injury and the onset of type 2 diabetes, which affect his ability to play drums.
Collins’ retirement came as no surprise to many, as he previously described difficulties such as feeling pain when attempting to grip drumsticks. He recounted, “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.” This painful reality made his absence from the stage more palpable during Genesis' final tour.
The last concert with Genesis, billed as the band’s farewell, took place at the O2 Arena, and it was marked by Collins' weakened physical state. While his son Nic, who stepped up to fill the drummer's role, showcased his musical talent, Collins' frail state was evident as he performed from a chair. Fellow Genesis member Peter Gabriel noted, "Phil wasn’t in as great a shape as he used to be, but they did a great job,” highlighting the poignant nature of the event.
Collins has long been revered for his work as both the drummer and frontman of Genesis, particularly after stepping up to lead the band following Gabriel's departure in 1975. During the '80s, he achieved remarkable success as a solo artist, boasting hits like "Against All Odds" and "Sussudio," alongside earning distinguished accolades, including eight Grammy Awards and numerous other honors.
Despite his remarkable achievements, the toll of performing consistently over decades visibly impacted Collins’ health. “Drumming has taken its toll on my hands and legs,” he explained, sharing the emotional difficulty of coming to terms with the loss of his ability to play. With accumulated health issues, including drop foot, which severely limits his mobility, Collins has resorted to using a cane for assistance.
The emotional strain of stepping back from music has weighed heavily on Collins. His documentary, "Phil Collins: Drummer First," released on YouTube, captures his reflections on losing the ability to perform as he once did. "It’s still kind of sinking in," he admitted as he surveyed his long-held drum kit, expressing the shock of adjusting to life without playing the drums. “If I wake up one day and I can hold a pair of drumsticks, then I’ll have a crack at it,” he reflected, yet he simultaneously noted, “But I just feel like I’ve used up my air miles.”
His son Nic echoed this sentiment, providing insight on fatherly pride and the stark reality of Collins’ health. “Musicians, people in bands, had this thought they were invincible... But you don’t know it's gonna take a toll long term,” he stated, emphasizing the psychological and physical challenges faced by performers like his father.
Though Collins remains famous for his music, his recent struggles reveal the hidden complexity of life as a performer. Despite his desire to transition away from music-making, Collins has not lost his passion for performing altogether. "Don't worry, I can still sing," he quipped, showcasing he still has the drive to share his voice, if not through drums.
Today, as Phil Collins takes a step back from his illustrious career, his experience resonates deeply within the music community and among fans. His candid insights reflect not just the challenges of aging as an artist but also the lasting impact of his contributions to music. Though his health may have changed his path, the legacy he has created continues to resonate around the world. For Collins, it's not just about the music left to make but also about cherishing the incredible experiences and the joy of having created throughout his lifetime.