Phil Collins Reveals the Heartbreak of Leaving Drumming Behind Due to Health Issues

Phil Collins is opening up about the difficult reality of stepping away from drumming after more than five decades behind the kit. In the newly released documentary Phil Collins: Drummer First, the 73-year-old music legend revealed he can no longer play the drums due to health issues that have taken a toll on his hands and legs.

“I’ve spent all my life playing drums. To suddenly not be able to do that is a shock,” Collins admitted in the heartfelt documentary.

After an illustrious career drumming for Genesis and solo tours dating back to the ’80s, Collins officially retired from playing in March 2022, following his last performance with Genesis. Reflecting on his decision, he explained, “If I can’t do what I did as well as I did it, I’d rather relax and not do anything. If I wake up one day and I can hold a pair of drumsticks, then I’ll have a crack at it.”

Collins admitted that the reality of his condition is still sinking in. “I just feel like I’ve used up my air miles,” he shared.

His son, Nic Collins, who stepped in to play drums for Genesis during their final shows, shed light on his father’s struggles. “Musicians, people in bands in general had this thought that they were invincible,” Nic said. “I think that’s really what it is with my dad, just this kind of sense of you’re a drummer, you’re invincible, you do what you do. But you don’t know it’s gonna take a toll in the long run.”

Phil Collins joined Genesis as their drummer in 1970, helping the band rise to legendary status before they went on hiatus in 2000. Their reunion in 2006 reignited the magic, culminating in their final show in March 2022. That night, Collins was joined on stage by Nic, while his daughter, actress Lily Collins, cheered him on from the audience.

Phil’s immense contributions to music will never be forgotten, but the legend now faces a quieter chapter in his life.