Phil Collins gave fans a rare update about his health in the newly released documentary Phil Collins: Drummer First.
This health update comes a full two years after the legendary star retired from playing drums. The documentary, released on December 18th, delves into Collins’ current health status. He said he is unable to continue playing the drums, which is his greatest passion.
“It’s still sinking in a little bit,” he admitted in an interview filmed in October 2022. “I’ve spent my entire life playing the drums, so to suddenly not be able to do that anymore is shocking,” Collins said.
The 73-year-old singer and musician said he has been playing the drums since he was five years old. Decades later, he said, “Playing the drums took a toll on my hands and feet.”
“If I’m not as good at what I’ve been doing, I’d rather just relax and do nothing,” Collins says.
BERLIN, GERMANY – MARCH 7: British singer and drummer Phil Collins of the band Genesis performs live on stage during a concert at the Mercedes-Benz Arena on March 7, 2022 in Berlin, Germany Show off. (Photo by: Gina Wetzler/Redferns) Getty Images
Phil Collins, Frankie Valli and Bob Gaudio at the Actors Fund 2006 Gala at Cipriani in New York City, USA. (Photo by Tim Grant/WireImage)
MIAMI BEACH, FL – NOVEMBER 15: Singer and drummer Phil Collins performs at the 4th Annual Dreaming on the Beach at the Fillmore Miami Beach on November 15, 2018 in Miami Beach, Florida. Attend the gala. (Photo by Desiree Navarro/Getty Images)
BERLIN, GERMANY – JUNE 7: British singer Phil Collins performs live on stage during a concert at Olympia Station on June 7, 2019 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Frank Hohensch/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI – NOVEMBER 29: Phil Collins of Genesis performs on “The Last Domino?” tour at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan on November 29, 2021. (Photo by Scott Legato/Getty Images)
“If you wake up one day and can pick up a drumstick, you’ll be able to play right away. But I feel like I’ve used up all my air miles,” he said.
Colin’s son Nick spoke about the impact the Genesis star’s career had on the drummer’s body. He acknowledged that his father had dedicated his life to his music and is now paying the price through the toll it has taken on his physical health.
“Musicians and band people generally thought they were invincible,” Nick said in the documentary.
“I think my father’s true nature is that he feels like he’s a drummer, that he’s invincible, that he’s going to do what he has to do. But I don’t know if that will cause much damage in the long run. I don’t understand.”
Nick also followed in his father’s footsteps and became a drummer. He said his father “had major surgery on his neck.” [in 2015] This was due to years of playing drums and bad posture. ”
Collins also suffers from foot drop, which causes him to lose sensation in one leg and requires a cane to walk. (Related: NFL legend Randy Moss asks for prayers amid health battle)
Mr. Collins retired from playing drums in March 2022.
“Phil Collins: Drummer First” is available to stream on YouTube.
