Phil Collins and his band Genesis are renowned for their soulful rock ballads, known for their emotional depth and impact. Collins’ artistry is so profound that it has earned him an Academy Award for his performance of “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Disney’s animated film Tarzan. This song is widely regarded as one of the finest to come out of a Disney movie.
Collins’ illustrious career is a blend of immense talent and fortunate opportunities. A pivotal moment occurred when Peter Gabriel, the original lead singer of Genesis, decided to leave the band. This departure paved the way for Collins to step into the spotlight, propelling the band to new heights of fame with his distinctive voice. According to Rolling Stone, this change was a significant turning point for Genesis, marking the beginning of their journey to superstardom.
Phil Collins was originally the drummer for Genesis
Genesis, the iconic band, was founded in 1967 by Peter Gabriel, Mike Rutherford, Anthony Phillips, and Tony Banks. Phil Collins joined the group in 1971, initially as the drummer. According to The Guardian, three of the original members still remain active in the band today. Peter Gabriel, the original lead singer, left in 1975 to pursue other interests, marking a significant shift in the band’s dynamic.
Collins, though primarily known for his role as the lead vocalist, initially played the drums. It was only after Gabriel’s departure that Collins took over the vocals, leading Genesis to new heights. Despite Collins becoming the voice most associated with Genesis, the band’s initial success came with Gabriel at the microphone. This early success was instrumental in Gabriel’s decision to leave. As Genesis was poised for record deals and tours, Gabriel, who had just become a father, found the rock star lifestyle incompatible with his personal life.
In the documentary Genesis: A History, Gabriel reflects on his decision, saying, “I felt I was becoming a sort of stereotype, sort of ‘rock star,’ or falling into wanting that ego gratification. I didn’t like myself, I didn’t like the situation, and I didn’t feel free,” according to Ultimate Classic Rock. This introspection led him to step away from the band, paving the way for Collins to take the lead and guide Genesis to even greater success.
Genesis auditioned 400 vocalists, including Phil Collins
With Peter Gabriel’s departure, Genesis faced the daunting task of finding a new lead singer. The band held extensive auditions, with Phil Collins providing backup vocals while continuing his role as drummer. However, finding the perfect match for the band’s established sound proved challenging. They auditioned over 400 vocalists, but none fit the bill.
Ultimately, Genesis realized that their ideal singer was within their ranks all along. They convinced Collins to step into the lead vocalist role. Though Collins enjoyed singing, he was apprehensive about following Gabriel, who was renowned for his theatrical costumes that matched the themes of their songs. Collins was hesitant to adopt such elaborate stage antics. As he told The Guardian, “I didn’t think I’d be very good at doing that theatrical stuff anyway. So I said: ‘Look, I can sing the songs, but anything else will be a bit of a question mark.'”
Over time, Collins became more comfortable with adding theatrical elements to his performances. He even wore a costume, albeit a simple one, for certain songs. Reflecting on this evolution, he mentioned, “I was on stage running around and talking to the audience … the only [costume] I did was ‘Robbery, Assault and Battery.’ I put on a jacket and a hat and became the Artful Dodger.”
Collins’ transition to lead singer marked a new era for Genesis, maintaining the band’s legacy while infusing it with his unique style.
Does Phil Collins still drum with Genesis?
Unfortunately, Phil Collins is no longer able to drum with Genesis. Despite the band planning at least one more tour before retiring, the 71-year-old Collins is physically unable to continue drumming due to several injuries over the years.
In 2007, Collins sustained a spinal injury, and a decade later, in 2017, he suffered a head injury. These injuries have led to nerve problems that prevent him from holding a drum stick in his left hand. Despite these challenges, Collins remains capable of singing and touring with Genesis.
While Collins acknowledges the physical toll of his age, he has not committed to retirement. His resilience and dedication to music continue to inspire fans, ensuring that his legacy with Genesis endures.
