Legendary musician and former Genesis drummer Phil Collins recently discussed his health struggles. He opened up in a conversation about why he can no longer play the drums. His statement, “I’ve used up my air miles,” reflects his health’s toll on his body.
Health Struggles That Changed His Life
Collins, best known as a drummer, has had significant health struggles recently. He suffered a spinal injury in 2007 that left long-lasting damage that has made doing physically demanding tasks difficult. This injury caused nerve damage that resulted in severe mobility problems, which made playing the drums impossible for him. His case has grown progressively worse, he added, leaving him unable to maintain his prior level of energy.
Phil had neck surgery in 2015 that “stemmed from all those years playing drums and bad posture,” according to Nic. Phil also suffers from drop-foot, meaning one of your feet has no sensation. That condition caused the singer to use a cane.
A Difficult Journey for the Iconic Musician
“I’ve spent all my life playing drums,’ Collins, 73, admitted in Phil Collins: Drummer First, which Drumeo released on Wednesday, December 18. Not being able to do that right now all of a sudden, it’s shocking,” Collins has voiced irritation with those restraints.
He has said that he can hardly hold a drumstick anymore. He continued, “If I can’t do what I did as well as I did it, I’d rather relax and not do anything,” he told the cameras. “If I wake up one day and I can hold a pair of drumsticks, then I will have a crack at it,” he said, “I just feel like I’ve used up my air miles.”
Fans who loved his powerful performances are heartbroken to see their favorite drummer struggle so much. He has continued to release music, though, relying on his son Nic to take on his role in live shows.
Reflections on a Lifetime of Music
His remarkable career included decades of iconic hits and live shows. He acknowledged that his grueling touring schedule and physical demands might also have contributed to his health problems. His reference to “using up his air miles” is a metaphor for his body’s inability to take the rigors of drumming anymore.
The Oscar winner received his first plastic drum at age 3, which changed everything. Collins was playing music for his family two years later. “It was something I could sit at, and I thrashed along to the TV set,” he recalled.
Genesis embarked on its final tour in 2021, its first in the U.S. since 2007. During most of the tour, Nic drummed in place of his father while Collins sang seated.
Fans Continue to Show Support
As he faces this painful stage, fans worldwide have firmly supported Collins. His ability to adapt and continue performing in some capacity demonstrates his resilience. His legacy is being commemorated on social media in tributes, if not in life, alive and well.
Future Plans Amid Challenges
Even if he can no longer play the drums, Collins remains concentrated on other facets of music. His songwriting contributions and unique voice continue to captivate audiences. He has stayed close to his passion while accepting the reality of his situation. His courage and determination inspire fans and fellow artists alike.
