Introduction
In his later years, Phil Collins — the legendary rock icon who once rocked the world with unforgettable hits — officially stepped away from the spotlight due to declining health. But as he bowed out, another Collins stepped in: his son, Nick Collins, who is now carrying on his father’s remarkable musical legacy.
A severe spinal injury in 2009 changed Phil Collins’ life forever. Once known for his masterful drumming, he was left with nerve damage that caused him to lose feeling in his fingers following surgery. At one point, he even had to tape drumsticks to his hands just to keep performing. Later complications, including “drop foot” — a condition that makes it difficult to lift the front of the foot — made it nearly impossible for him to continue playing drums.
Still, his passion for music never faded. When he could no longer sit behind the drums, Phil took to singing — and by his side on stage was his son, Nick. At just 17 years old, Nick officially debuted as the drummer for Genesis during his father’s 2017 solo tour. Phil once said, “Nick wasn’t chosen because he’s my son. He was chosen because he’s good.”
Since then, Nick Collins has only continued to prove his talent. He released new songs with his band Better Strangers, took on drumming duties for Mike + the Mechanics, and brought the Collins name into a new era of music. His journey isn’t just about rhythms and tours — it’s a powerful symbol of generational continuity, where music becomes the bond between father and son.
The story of Phil and Nick is more than just about legacy — it’s about love, resilience, and the timeless power of family. While Phil now enjoys a quieter life, away from the demands of touring, he can rest assured knowing the beat goes on in the hands of his gifted son.