How Phil Collins Became Genesis Vocalist After Peter Gabriel’s Departure From Band Revealed

Phil Collins' talent helped Genesis continue their legacy after Peter Gabriel's departure from the band.

The emergence of Genesis in 1967 saw the band's original lineup take over the music industry. Initially, Gabriel led the group and performed alongside Mike Rutherford, Anthony Philips, and Tony Banks.

A few years later, Collins joined the band as its drummer - but he soon took over Gabriel's position.

Phil Collins Became Genesis Vocalist Despite 400 Aspirants

In 1975, Gabriel announced his departure from Genesis after weeks of rumors that a disbandment might occur. At that time, a spokesperson from the1 band's managing company said the frontman decided to leave to focus on "other literary and experimental interests outside of music."

As a result, Genesis held auditions to find its new vocalist and welcomed over 400 aspirants to follow in Gabriel's footsteps. But after weeks of efforts, the members decided to hail Collins as its new lead singer.

From there, the drummer established his name and expanded his empire as Genesis' new lead vocals.

However, the musician was not confident enough to step into Gabriel's shows despite having a talent for singing. According to The Guardian, Collins also did not want to dress up during performances like what Gabriel used to do when he kept on wearing theatrical costumes that aligned with their songs' themes.

After a few more attempts, Collins accepted the role and got more theatrical with his performances naturally.

"I was on stage running around and talking to the audience," the drummer-turned-vocalist said. "The only [costume] I did was Robbery, Assault and Battery. I put on a jacket and a hat and became the Artful Dodger."

Genesis' Retirement

Decades after Genesis went through lineup changes, Collins joined Rutherford and Banks during the band's final tour.

At the band's The Last Domino? Tour at O2 Arena, they formally confirmed that Genesis was over for good. Collins, who remained seated throughout their performance, told the fans that it would be the last show for Genesis since they needed to focus on their real jobs.

For the last time, the drummer stood up and walked off the stage with his bandmates, marking the last time he ever performed after revealing that he had been physically challenged due to his health condition.

He told BBC Breakfast how he could barely hold a stick after suffering a spinal injury. He explained that his vertebrae had been crushing his spinal cord due to his drumming position.

Tags

Phil Collins, Genesis