Phil Collins ruled the 1980s.
In the decade he became one of the most recognized international music figures, often perceived as a regular bloke with no big star looks or attitude, but loaded with talent and work ethic. He sold hundreds of millions of records, both with the cult English band Genesis, where he started as a drummer in 1970, and as a solo artist through the ’80s and ’90s. Later he became known for writing soundtracks for hit movies such as Tarzan – for which he received an Oscar – and The Lion King.
Collins has been obsessed with drums since he was 5 years old. As a teenager, he tried acting, but his interest in rock music won out. He spent time with various bands until he found an ad that Genesis needed a drummer.
When the band’s lead singer, Peter Gabriel, left in 1975, Collins – who used to be the backing singer for the band – filled his shoes. Even though his style was dramatically different from the theatrical aura of Gabriel, audiences accepted the new vocalist. Collins remained with the band until 1996, but reunion tours with Genesis continued until 2022.
Collins released his first solo album, Face Value, in 1981, as a response to the failure of his first marriage. The first single from the record, “In the Air Tonight,” with its raw emotional lyrics and musical minimalism – except for the memorable drum solo – remains one of the best pop hits ever recorded. It was followed by such hits as “Against All Odds,” “Two Hearts” and “Another Day in Paradise.”
In 1996, Collins formed the Phil Collins Big Band and started touring around the world, drumming to the big jazz standards. He also became a respected producer, working with such diverse artists as Eric Clapton, Lil’ Kim and Adele. Since the mid-’90s, Collins has lived in Switzerland, where he has his home studio at Lake Geneva.
The Phil Collins Story combines a tribute concert with archival footage and storytelling. The lead singer/drummer is Seth Eliser, a multi-instrumentalist and performer from Louisiana. Just like Collins, Eliser received his first set of drums while still a child.
The experience goes over Collins’ Genesis years, his solo career and his work for Disney. It was written by Dean Elliott, who also wrote The Simon & Garfunkel Story.
The Phil Collins Story 7pm Friday, April 3. Golden State Theatre, 417 Alvarado St., Monterey. $42-$83. (831) 649-1070, goldenstatetheatre.com