Legends Never Fade: Phil Collins’ Drum Return After 10 Years Is a Moment Fans Will Never Forget

Phil Collins, the legendary voice and rhythm behind “In the Air Tonight,” has faced more than his share of challenges in recent years. Health issues have kept the 73-year-old Genesis icon away from the drums that once defined his sound — and his identity. But in a deeply moving new video from Drumeo, Collins is seen sitting behind his iconic Gretsch tom kit for the first time in over 10 years, if only for a moment.

Collins has been dealing with health complications since a spinal injury in 2007 left him with lasting damage. Among the symptoms he’s battled is “drop foot,” which affects his ability to lift the front part of his foot, along with chronic neck pain — a condition not uncommon among lifelong drummers. These physical limitations made it nearly impossible for him to continue playing the instrument that helped shape modern music.

“Drummer First”: A Tribute to the Music, the Man, and the Legacy

The emotional moment was captured in a new Drumeo documentary titled Phil Collins: Drummer First. The film explores Collins’ legendary career behind the drum kit — from his groundbreaking work with Genesis to his unforgettable solo performances — while also taking an honest look at how his health has shaped his later years.

Much of the documentary centers around Collins’ son, Nic Collins, a talented drummer in his own right and current member of the band Better Strangers. In the video, Nic and Drumeo host Brandon Toews lovingly piece together Phil’s vintage drum kit — the same one used during the iconic 1992 We Can’t Dance tour.

Once assembled, Nic sits behind the kit and pays tribute to his father by playing the legendary “In the Air Tonight” drum fill — a moment that echoes across generations. Although it wasn’t the original kit used on the studio recording, its emotional significance is clear.

Nic also reflects on his father’s technique, suggesting that the positioning of the kit may have contributed to Phil’s posture-related issues and long-term neck pain.

A Quiet, Powerful Moment

Toward the end of the video, Collins himself quietly approaches the drum kit. Sitting behind it, he taps gently on the drums — not to perform, but to reconnect with a part of his soul that’s long been at rest.

After a few soft strokes, he smiles and says, “That’s enough of that,” before standing up and stepping away.

It’s a small moment, but one that speaks volumes. For fans who have followed his decades-long career, it’s a reminder of Collins’ enduring spirit — and the deep connection between an artist and their craft.

You can watch the full Drumeo documentary, Phil Collins: Drummer First, now on YouTube.