Phil Collins, a singer, drummer, and songwriter, achieved fame as the lead vocalist and drummer of Genesis and for his successful solo career. Known for hits like "In the Air Tonight" and "Against All Odds” Collins' work spans rock and pop, making him one of the defining artists of the 1980s when he was everywhere, so much so it was a bad joke. Though he announced his retirement several times, he continues to perform sporadically and his music remains a staple in popular culture.
Phil Collins Career Highlights
1951
Birth - Philip David Charles Collins was born on January 30 in Chiswick, London, England.
1970
Genesis Drummer - Joined the rock band Genesis as the drummer and backup vocalist.
1975
Lead Singer of Genesis - Became the lead singer of Genesis after Peter Gabriel left the band.
1981
Solo Career Debut - Released his first solo album "Face Value” featuring the hit single "In the Air Tonight."
1984
"Against All Odds" - Achieved solo success with the song "Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)” which became a major hit.
1985
No Jacket Required - Released the album "No Jacket Required” which included hits like "Sussudio" and "One More Night."
1988
Film Debut - Acted in the movie "Buster” and released the successful single "Two Hearts" for its soundtrack.
1996
Departure from Genesis - Officially left Genesis to focus on his solo career.
1999
Tarzan Soundtrack - Composed and performed songs for Disney's animated film "Tarzan” earning an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "You'll Be in My Heart."
2010
Genesis Reunion - Participated in a reunion tour with Genesis.
2016
Return to Music - Announced his return to music with the "Not Dead Yet" tour.
Phil Collins’ Bands
Genesis (1970-1996, 2007, 2021) - A progressive rock band where Collins served as drummer and lead vocalist.
Solo Career (1981-present) - An illustrious solo career parallel to his tenure with Genesis.
Phil Collins Grammy Awards
Phil Collins has received multiple Grammy Awards
- Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male - "Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)" (1985).
- Album of the Year - "No Jacket Required" (1986).
- Best Soundtrack Album - "Tarzan" (2000).
3 Most Famous Phil Collins Songs
1. "In the Air Tonight" (1981) - Known for its iconic drum break and haunting atmosphere, it's a staple of Collins' solo career.
2. "Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)" (1984) - A powerful ballad that became one of his signature songs.
3. "You'll Be in My Heart" (1999) - A heartfelt song from the "Tarzan" soundtrack that won an Academy Award.
Phil Collins Quotes
I’ve spent a good part of my life being misunderstood. People don’t understand the guy who shouts his songs."
On Music
Music is something that should speak for itself, straight from the heart."
Phil Collins Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Divorce Settlements: Collins has had a few high-profile divorces that have been widely covered in the media, including a costly settlement with his third wife, Orianne Cevey.
- Health Issues: Collins has faced significant health challenges, including nerve damage that has affected his ability to play the drums.
- Tax Exile Rumors: There were rumors that Collins moved to Switzerland to avoid high taxes in the UK, which he has denied.
- Collins vs. Gabriel Era: Fans of Genesis often debate the merits of the Collins-led era versus the Peter Gabriel-led era, showcasing his lasting impact on the band.
- "In the Air Tonight" Urban Legend: There's an urban legend about the song "In the Air Tonight" being about Collins witnessing a drowning, which he has debunked multiple times.
- Disney Collaboration: Collins performed "You'll Be in My Heart" in multiple languages for the international release of "Tarzan."
Phil Collins ratings
