Introduction
Phil Collins, 74, Shares Heartbreaking Health Update Following Retirement
Legendary musician Phil Collins, 74, has delivered an emotional update on his health, marking a somber chapter in the life of the iconic Genesis frontman. Having officially retired from performing in 2022 due to serious health challenges, Collins recently opened up in an interview with Mojo magazine about his current condition and his departure from music creation.
“I keep thinking I should go downstairs to the studio and see what happens,” he shared. “But I’m not hungry for it anymore.” His statement reflects a deep sense of resignation that stems not from lack of inspiration, but from the toll illness has taken on his body. “I’ve been sick—I mean very sick,” Collins admitted.
He has long battled complications from Type 2 diabetes and a debilitating spinal injury, the latter stemming from years of drumming. Since 2007, he has suffered from vertebrae compressing his spinal cord, making it nearly impossible to hold drumsticks without pain. At one point, he even taped them to his hands just to keep playing. “Don’t worry—I can still sing,” he joked, maintaining a light tone despite the serious nature of his health issues.
Collins’ storied career began as a child actor in Oliver! on London’s West End in 1964 and took flight when he joined Genesis as a drummer in 1970 at just 19. He stepped up as the group’s lead vocalist in 1975 and helped shape the band’s golden era before launching a wildly successful solo career. His accolades include eight Grammy Awards, two Golden Globes, and an Academy Award.
In the 2022 documentary Phil Collins: Drummer First, the musician reflects on Genesis’ final tour, during which he performed seated while his son Nick took over the drums. “To suddenly not be able to do that is a shock,” he confessed.
The film, now available on YouTube, offers fans a heartfelt look at the end of a remarkable musical journey.