Phil Collins, an iconic artist and member of Genesis, holds eight Grammy awards and has sold over 100 million records as a solo artist and with his band. Born in London in 1951, Collins developed his passion for music from a young age, recalling how his uncle crafted him a makeshift drum kit at five years old. He reminisces about his early performances in the 1960s during the English beat scene.
By age fourteen, Collins began learning to read drum music but eventually favored playing intuitively. In the 1970s, he saw an ad for a drummer in Genesis, eventually taking over as lead vocalist. After a successful stint with the band, Collins launched his solo career with hits like “In The Air Tonight.”
After 25 years with Genesis, he decided to go solo and pursue jazz and film music. In 2017, he rejoined Genesis for “The Last Domino” tour, but due to health challenges, he’ll only sing, while his son Nicholas handles the drums. Collins expressed uncertainty about continuing to tour, stating, “I’m a little physically challenged…I’m not sure if I want to go out on the road anymore.”