Phil Collins Evolution of a musician

Born January 30, 1950 in Chiswick, London, England. Started playing drums at the age of five years.

As a teenager Collins was a member of two different bands; The Freehold and Flaming Youth. At the age of 19 he played percussion on a Beatles song titled, “The Art of Dying.

Genesis In 1970 Collins auditioned and was invited to play drums and sing backing vocals for a new developing band called Genesis.

Lead Singer and Marriage In 1975 Collins became lead singer of Genesis. Later that year he met and married his first wife Andrea Bertorelli

Divorce and Solo Career As his star began to rise with his band, Genesis, Collins’ marriage fizzled and he divorced in 1980 In 1981 Collins released his first solo album called “Face Value.”

In The Air Tonight Speculation of a cheating wife that lead to his divorce was the fuel to this dark-sounding hit single.

2nd Marriage and Musical Awards Collins married his second wife Jill Tavelman in 1984 That same year Collins received Golden Globe and Academy Award nominations for the song “Against All Odds.”

Separate Ways In 1996 Collins parted ways not only with his band, Genesis, but also with his wife of five years. He left Genesis to put more focus on his solo career.

One More Marriage In 1999 Phil married his third wife, Orianne Cevey. They had 2 sons and divorced in 2007.

Disney Success During his time away from Genesis Collins hit more success making soundtracks for Disney’s “Tarzan” and “Brother Bear.”

Injury In 2009 Collins announced that he would have to stop playing drums due to a spinal injury.

Musical Success Continues to make great music and has influenced many.