Legendary musician Phil Collins has opened up about his ongoing health challenges and their impact on his musical career in a candid interview with MOJO magazine. The 74-year-old Genesis frontman, who retired from drumming in 2022, revealed the depth of his medical struggles.
"I keep thinking I should go downstairs to the studio and see what happens. But I'm not hungry for it anymore," Collins shared. "The thing is, I've been sick. I mean very sick."
The eight-time Grammy winner hasn't released new original material since his 2002 album "Testify," with his last studio effort being the 2010 covers collection "Going Back." During Genesis's farewell tour in 2022, Collins performed seated while his son Nic, 23, took over drumming duties.
In the recently released documentary "Phil Collins: Drummer First," the artist reflected on the emotional toll of being unable to play his instrument. "It's still kind of sinking in a bit," Collins admitted. "I've spent all my life playing drums. To suddenly not be able to do that is a shock."
Collins, who began playing drums at age 5, explained that decades of performing have affected his hands and legs. He currently suffers from drop foot, a condition resulting from a previous back operation that impacts his ability to walk. A neck surgery in 2015 further complicated his physical capabilities.
Despite these challenges, Collins maintains a pragmatic outlook. "If I can't do what I did as well as I did it, I'd rather relax and not do anything," he stated. "If I wake up one day and I can hold a pair of drumsticks, then I'll have a crack at it. But I just feel like I've used up my air miles."
The musician's honest revelations provide a poignant glimpse into the reality of aging and health challenges in the music industry, marking a new chapter in his storied career.