Phil Collins candidly opens up about the challenges he faces since stepping away from drumming, highlighted in the recent documentary, "Phil Collins: Drummer First." The celebrated musician retired in 2022, marking his final performance with the band Genesis in London.
In his new documentary, Collins shows a complex mix of emotions about no longer playing the instrument he has loved since childhood, Fox News reported.
The documentary, filmed in late 2022, gives viewers a personal insight into Collins' career and the toll years of performing have taken on his health. It traces his journey from receiving his first drum at age three to joining Genesis in 1970 and performing at legendary venues over the decades.
Throughout his drumming career, Collins has struggled with various health issues that have ultimately influenced his decision to retire. Years of playing took a toll on his body, affecting his hands, legs, and back. Problems such as "drop foot" and bad posture have made walking difficult, necessitating the use of a cane for mobility.
The drumming icon first disclosed in 2009 that his vertebrae were crushing his spinal cord, a condition exacerbated by the drumming position. Despite these complications, Collins exhibited sheer determination to perform, going so far as to tape drumsticks to his hands to continue playing.
Nevertheless, as Collins noted, the realization that he could no longer perform at his previous level marked a turning point in his career. If he cannot reach his previous standards, he would rather step back and seek a more peaceful existence.
Collins's Closing performance took place on March 26, 2022, at London's O2 Arena, where he shared the spotlight for the last time with his Genesis bandmates. This final concert was a significant moment for the musician and his fans. In a heartfelt message, he acknowledged the end of an era for Genesis, humorously noting the need for "real jobs" once the tour wrapped up.
Phil Collins expressed, "Tonight is a very special night. Of course, we're playing in London. It's the last stop of our tour, and it's the last show for Genesis. It's difficult for us to believe that you still came out to see it. I guess after tonight we've all got to get real jobs."
Despite the challenges he faces, Collins's achievements in the music industry remain monumental. His career, built over decades of recording and touring, sets a benchmark for drummers and musicians worldwide.
Nic Collins, Phil's son, provided valuable insight into his father's driving force throughout his drumming journey. He reflected on the perception of his father as being both a drummer and invincible, though time proved that such relentless dedication has its consequences.
This acknowledgment by those closest to him underscores the reality that even legends like Collins eventually face the physical repercussions of such a demanding career. However, hope remains that one day, Collins might pick up the drumsticks again, if only to test his abilities once more.
Collins has metaphorically noted that he feels as though he has "used up my air miles," suggesting he has given all he could to drumming. Yet, in moments of optimism, he muses that if he ever awakens capable of holding drumsticks without pain, he would consider drumming again.
Reflecting on the entirety of Collins's journey, the documentary "Phil Collins: Drummer First" serves as a tribute to his exceptional talent and passion for drumming. Friends and fellow musicians, like Leland Sklar, maintain hope that Collins could return for one more performance.
As fans and compatriots wait, the story of Phil Collins in the film serves to honor his legacy and contributions to music. With his drumming days concluded, Collins now focuses on maintaining his health and navigating life post-performance.
In summary, "Phil Collins: Drummer First" reveals the raw emotion and challenges faced by Collins, documenting the physical toll drumming exacted upon him. His retirement from Genesis marks a significant endpoint in a storied career. Despite his struggles, Collins remains a revered figure, with hopes of perhaps one day revisiting the drums that shaped his life and legacy.
