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Phil Collins May Never Drum Again

Phil Collins says he may never play drums again after an operation to repair dislocated vertebrae in his neck has left him unable to hold his drumsticks. Surprisingly, the Genesis drummer/frontman and solo star -- who is also unable to play the piano -- has taken an optimistic position about his predicament.

"Stuff happens in life," the 58-year-old Collins told the Daily Mirror at a Prince's Trust party earlier this week. "There isn't any drama regarding my 'disability' and playing drums. Somehow during the last Genesis tour I dislocated some vertebrae in my upper neck and that affected my hands."

"After a successful operation on my neck, my hands still can't function normally," Collins explained. "Maybe in a year or so it will change, but for now it is impossible for me to play drums or piano. I am not in any 'distressed' state -- stuff happens in life."

Collins reveals the damage was a result of his poor drumming posture during Genesis' 2007 World Tour, which caused his vertebrae to crush his spinal cord. In April 2008, Collins announced his musical retirement, telling the London Times that he had no plans to tour or make another album. He said he would be spending much of his time tending to his Alamo memorabilia collection but would continue to write songs, simply because he didn't know how to stop.

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matt

I played guitar, got a job in a studio, injured my neck in a crash, i was a passenger, idiot pop out of junction right into us, only looked one way, anyway, coucldnt use my fingers, that was 1991 i'm 41 now, still cant play, still makes me angry, but I wasn't allowed the operation, said it might have no effect or might be worse, took this is as a cover story, but atleast Mr Collins got a career before this happened to him, even as I type this my fingers of left hand bother me, would do anything to get rid of the strange feeling.

December 21 2010 at 3:30 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Marina

Phil, I wish you the best and speedy recovery. I love your music. I listen to your beautiful music every day. Have faith and I know we will see you soon. I will be the first one to buy your new CD when it comes out.
Love

March 25 2010 at 5:11 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Peter C

2 things -
I love Phil Collins
I broke four vertebraes replaced and now am back to drumming -Tell him don't give up -
Give in -- to Tao Yin exercising --- Author Michio Kuchi....

Peter C

January 22 2010 at 9:40 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
HIRUY TADESS FROM ETHIOPIA

you know i have never happy like the day phil colins the last fer well or touyr in france .i have great affection to phill collins i cant explain what is deep inmy heart about phill collins he is arealy realy best musician in the world .yes one of the best

December 17 2009 at 7:04 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
GOGO

GOD BLESS YOU PHIL.
You are the greatest drummer of the century.

September 25 2009 at 2:48 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
tonia

I know this is hard for Phil collins. He is still in my prayers always for this difficult time. I Pray for strength, and speedy recovery. I know god will strengthen his hands, but God does miracles. Because he is the heavenly father, so god bless to him always.

September 14 2009 at 10:57 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
dB

Phil is one of THE most influential drummers-let alone, singer, songwriter, performer, producer, etc., to me. My thoughts and prayers are with him for a complete recovery. Thanks for your work and we're all hopeful that we'll be blessed with some more!

September 14 2009 at 10:38 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
TGA

I have missed Phil Collins, one of the true talents of the industry. The only time I saw him perform was when he toured , as drummer, with Robert Plant. An amazing musician, songwriter, personality and cute as a button. Recovery will be tedious but hopefully completely successful. Hang in there Phil. "In the air tonight" a timeless classic. The Best!

September 13 2009 at 8:31 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
DD

My best wishes for your speedy recovery, Mr. Collins.

September 13 2009 at 8:18 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
dsrtstrx

My prayers for a speedy recovery Phil! Your music was always played in my house and, a result, my son picked up the drumsticks! Our favorite album? Genesis by Genesis! And fav song/video for the whole family? "Illegal Alien"! Too much fun there, and yes I'm Mexi!

September 13 2009 at 8:16 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply