Phil Collins Drummer
When you hear the name Phil Collins drummer, you might think of hit songs or emotional ballads. However, before he became a global solo star, Phil was known for his incredible drumming with the band Genesis. His rhythm, feel, and creativity behind the kit helped define the sound of multiple decades.
When Genesis lead singer Peter Gabriel left the band to pursue a solo career, Phil stepped out from behind the drums and became the band’s singer.
In the 1980’s he began a solo career and played one of the most famous drum fills of all time on the track “In The Air Tonight” from the album “Face Value”. This Fill is now one of the most recognised drum fills in history.
Check out Phil singing and playing drums on “In The Air Tonight” below.
NAME: Phil Collins
BAND: Genesis and solo artist
DRUM BRAND: Gretsch
FUN FACT: Set up and played his drums Left Handed
From Child Actor to Drum Legend
Phil Collins didn’t begin his career behind a drum set. In fact, he started out as a child actor in London. But by his teens, he had fallen in love with music—especially drumming. He studied percussion seriously and joined several bands before his big break.
In 1970, he became the drummer for Genesis. Although they were a progressive rock band with a theatrical sound, Phil brought tight grooves and tasteful fills that gave their music energy and drive. As the band evolved, so did his role.
Eventually, when Peter Gabriel left, Phil stepped up as the lead singer—without leaving the drums behind.
Unique Sound and Style
What sets Phil Collins apart is his musical touch and instinct. He focuses on groove, emotion, and musicality. Every beat serves the song.
In tracks like In the Air Tonight, his famous drum fill became iconic. That moment—a thunderous burst of toms—became one of the most recognizable fills in pop history. But what really made it stand out was the use of gated reverb, a production trick that became his signature sound.
His drumming wasn’t limited to Genesis or his solo work either. Phil played on records for artists like Eric Clapton, Robert Plant, and even jazz legend Brand X. That versatility proved his deep understanding of rhythm across genres.
The Birth of Gated Reverb
Let’s talk about gated reverb—a sound forever linked to Phil Collins. During a studio session with producer Hugh Padgham, they stumbled upon a drum sound that was punchy, echoey, and abruptly cut off. It happened by accident through a talkback mic and a noise gate.
Phil loved it.
They used the effect heavily in In the Air Tonight, giving the drums a massive, explosive quality. Soon after, gated reverb became a staple in 1980s music. Artists from Prince to Peter Gabriel copied it. But Phil made it famous.
Playing While Singing
Very few drummers have managed to sing lead and drum at the same time. Phil Collins did it with style. That alone puts him in elite company. Singing complex vocal parts while keeping solid grooves is no easy feat.
However, Phil pulled it off on stage with Genesis and in his solo tours. His coordination, breath control, and concentration were remarkable. Even when he stepped away from the drums to front the band, you could feel his rhythmic influence.
Learn to play the drums while singing @ kiwi drummer.com.
Influence on Modern Drummers
Drummers today still study Phil’s grooves. His patterns were sometimes simple but never boring. They had feel. They moved the song forward. That’s why so many professionals—from Dave Grohl to Taylor Hawkins—cite him as a major influence.
He proved as drummer that he could do it all. From the complex fills and time signatures of his early years with Genesis to his more simple groove based playing of his solo career. Phil’s drum fills, dynamics, and pocket playing shaped a generation of musicians.
Later Years and Legacy
In later years, Phil faced health issues that forced him to stop drumming. Despite that, he continued performing with the help of his son Nic Collins, who now plays drums in his band. Watching Nic carry on his legacy is a full-circle moment for fans.
Phil’s impact goes beyond technique. He inspired emotion through rhythm. His beats told stories. They shaped songs.
From Prog Rock classics to soulful ballads, his drumming left a mark.
Why Drummers Still Study Phil Collins Drummer
At Drumnuts, we believe every drummer should learn from legends. Phil Collins magic lies not just in skill but in restraint and emotion. His grooves are timeless. His fills are unforgettable.
So whether you’re just picking up sticks or gigging every weekend, take a moment to study Phil. Listen closely to how he plays. Feel his timing. Understand his space.
Because when it comes to drumming with heart, no one does it quite like Phil Collins.
