Mike Rutherford recently chatted with Smooth Radio and discussed Genesis bandmate Phil Collins’ current health struggles, saying it was a shame that Collins was more immobile than he’d ever been.
Phil had been struggling with health problems since his spinal injury in 2007, which left him with nerve damage. He nevertheless continued to take the stage over the years, only calling it quits recently in 2022 with a sold-out show at London’s 02. Collins was in a wheelchair throughout the farewell gig, claiming he could barely hold a stick when it came to drumming.
Rutherford gave a few insights into his bandmate’s current health, regrettably accepting it was a shame to see Phil more immobile than he’d ever been. However, the guitarist also noted that Collins was resting at his house and enjoying his retirement. So, even though it surely upset the rocker to see the frontman’s health deteriorating, it was a relief to know he was happy.
The guitarist on Phil’s current health:
“As you know, Phil is a bit… He’s much more immobile than he used to be, which is a shame, but at the tour, he was in good spirits. He’s fine now at home, enjoying life. He’s worked so hard over the years. I think he’s enjoying his time at home.”
He was then asked who he thought to be the better drummer out of Phil and his son, Nic Collins, who toured with Genesis in their final tour and will accompany Rutherford on his upcoming tour, Mike + The Mechanics. The rocker joked that he would always side with dads but continued appreciating Nic’s talent for drumming, praising the young musician.
Rutherford on choosing between Phil and Nic and how fun it was to see the father and son touring together:
“I always support the dads because I’m this generation. Phil’s the most amazing drummer, but Nic is fantastic too. Like his dad, but a bit different… it was really nice to have the two of them [on stage] side by side.”
It seems that Collins’ health is deteriorating, but at least he’s enjoying his retirement at his house, away from the spotlight and the curious eyes of the public and media. The rocker’s son, Nic, is undoubtedly on a mission to carry the torch as a drummer and keep the Collins family on stage.
