A new documentary called “Phil Collins: Drummer First” came out on Wednesday. It tells the story of Phil Collins, a famous musician who played drums and sang for many years. In the film, Phil talks about how playing music for so long has hurt his body.
Phil, who is now in his seventies, showed his hands and legs to the camera and said, “The drumming has made my hands and legs tired and sore.” He became famous with a band called Genesis and later made big solo songs like “In the Air Tonight” and “You’ll Be in My Heart” from the movie “Tarzan.”
Phil used to love playing drums, but now it’s hard for him. “I’ve spent my whole life drumming,” he said. “It’s strange to not be able to do it anymore.” He even decided to stop performing, which means he’s retired now.
What’s wrong with Phil Collins? His son, Nic Collins, helped make the documentary and explained that Phil has had some injuries. Years of drumming hurt his back and neck, and he had a big surgery on his neck. Nic also said Phil has something called drop-foot, which makes it hard for him to lift one of his feet. “He can’t feel his foot much, so he can’t play drums like he used to and needs a cane to walk,” Nic shared.
Back in the 1970s and 1980s, when Phil was super famous, drumming was a big workout. Bands like The Who and Metallica moved a lot on stage, and Phil did too. Now, since he can’t drum the way he wants, he’d rather rest. “If I can’t do it as good as before, I’d rather not do it,” he said. But he added, “If one day I can hold drumsticks again, I’ll try!”
In 2021, Genesis did their last big tour. Nic played drums instead of his dad, while Phil sang sitting down. Tony Banks, another Genesis member, said they changed the show a little so it still worked great with Phil seated.
Phil’s family is full of talent. Nic plays drums, and Phil’s daughter, Lily Collins, is a famous actress in “Emily in Paris.” Even with his challenges, Phil’s music and family keep his story alive!
