Phil Collins Weighs a Potential Return to Concert Stages
The legendary musician hinted at a possible comeback tour and new music in a recent interview ahead of his solo induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Musician Phil Collins revealed in a recent interview with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame that he is contemplating a potential return to concert stages, noting that he never completely rules out future performances. Collins has remained away from the live music scene since the rock band Genesis concluded their Last Domino farewell tour in March 2022.
Reflecting on his career, the artist explained that stepping away from live audiences after a lifetime on stage is a challenging adjustment. He remarked that he frequently considers going back on the road because it is difficult to stop once you have experienced it. He also noted that any future outing would require more than just a handful of dates to be financially practical, adding that he occasionally feels his time on stage is not entirely finished.
Collins previously stepped away from touring following his 2010 Motown covers tour. When he mounted his Not Dead Yet Live tour in 2017, severe nerve damage from a spinal injury prevented him from drumming and required him to remain seated throughout each performance. During those shows, his teenage son, Nic Collins, took over drum duties. Despite these physical restrictions, the global tour proved to be a massive commercial success.
Following that success, Collins reunited with Genesis for the 2021 Last Domino farewell tour. Nic Collins once again performed on drums, and the setlist spanned the entire history of the band, including material from Peter Gabriel's era as lead singer. The final performance took place on March 26, 2022, at London's O2 Arena, with Gabriel himself attending the concert.
Shortly after the tour wrapped up, Collins faced a severe health crisis following a period of heavy drinking. He revealed to the Sunday Times in August that his organs began to shut down and his kidneys failed, bringing him close to death. Loved ones gathered to say farewell as discussions arose about placing him on life support, though he later recalled having no awareness of the situation at the time.
Fortunately, Collins made a full recovery. He shared with the BBC in January that he regained mobility and health following knee surgeries, explaining that he is able to walk with the assistance of crutches or similar support.
Alongside potential touring plans, Collins addressed the prospect of recording new material. He has not released a collection of new original songs since his 2002 album Testify. However, he told the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame that he is open to making new music again.
Pointing to his fully functional basement home studio, the musician mentioned that he has plenty of finished and half-finished musical ideas waiting for him downstairs. Concluding his thoughts on heading back into the studio, he stated that he now feels ready to give it a try.