Phil Collins Shares An Update On His Rare Health Condition
Phil Collins, the iconic musician renowned for his work with Genesis and solo hits like “In the Air Tonight,” has provided a rare update on his health, shedding light on the challenges that have led to his retirement from drumming.
In the documentary “Phil Collins: Drummer First,” filmed in October 2022 and released on December 18, 2024, Collins candidly discusses the physical toll that decades of drumming have taken on his body.
He reveals that he can no longer play the drums due to health issues affecting his hands and legs, including a condition known as drop foot, which has left him with no sensation in one of his feet.
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Reflecting on his inability to drum, Collins states, “It’s still kind of sinking in a bit. I’ve spent all my life playing drums. To suddenly not be able to do that is a shock.”
He further explains, “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. But I just feel like I’ve used up my air miles.”
Collins’ health struggles have been ongoing, stemming from a spinal injury in 2007 that damaged vertebrae in his upper neck, leading to nerve damage. Over the years, he has also dealt with acute pancreatitis and has been using a cane since 2015 due to his condition.
Despite these challenges, Collins embarked on “The Last Domino?” tour with Genesis, which concluded in March 2022. During this tour, his son, Nic Collins, took over drumming duties.
Nic acknowledges the physical toll that years of drumming have had on his father, noting, “I think it all stems down to playing drums and the issues that he’s had with his back… He had a big surgery on his neck that stemmed from all those years playing drums and just bad posture and stuff, which caused him to have drop foot.”
Phil’s daughter, actress Lily Collins, paid tribute to her father and brother after attending the band’s final concert in London.
She expressed her gratitude on social media, writing, “To have witnessed this last show was truly the memory of a lifetime and an event I shall hold in my heart forever. Endlessly grateful doesn’t begin to do it justice.” She added, “Thank you dad for being such an inspiration, and thank you @nic_collins for making me the proudest sister there is.”
As Collins reflects on his illustrious career and the impact of his health on his ability to perform, he remains hopeful about the future. He mentions that if his condition improves, he would consider playing the drums again. For now, he is focusing on his well-being and cherishing the memories of his contributions to the music industry.
“Phil Collins: Drummer First” is available for streaming on YouTube, offering fans an intimate look into the life and career of the legendary musician.
