Phil Collins described that period of his life not as being "blackout drunk," but as treating red wine like water. "Get up in the morning, have a glass of wine. Watch TV, read a book, have another glass of wine," he told Prog magazine, describing his past daily drinking habits. "Some people's bodies can take it. Mine gave out."
The former Genesis frontman and drummer says he hasn't had a drink in three years. "Health-wise right now, I'd say A1, one hundred percent," he said. "I've put in the work—physical therapy three times a week to build my strength back up. Everything's good."
Collins previously revealed that he was hospitalized due to illness in November 2023, was briefly discharged, then readmitted within weeks, with the entire treatment process spanning seven months. His condition took a dire turn in April 2024, prompting his family to rush to Switzerland, fearing he wouldn't pull through. He gave Prog more details about his condition at the time: "My kidneys and liver were waving the white flag. I was close to death, but I didn't realize it—I just thought I was sick."
Earlier this year, he also revealed he now requires 24-hour in-home care to manage his medications and mentioned he's had five knee surgeries, describing that period as "difficult, interesting, and frustrating." He's said recently that he feels much "healthier" than before, but has ruled out performing at this November's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony. "To do something like that, you need to be in top shape—you can't just walk out there. You need rehearsal, and if you haven't been singing, your voice will be shot," he explained, though he added he would "consider" returning to live performance in the future.
Collins will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist, having previously been inducted in 2010 as a member of Genesis. Other inductees in this year's class include Oasis, Iron Maiden, Billy Idol, Sade, Luther Vandross, Wu-Tang Clan, and Joy Division/New Order.
When it comes to new music, Collins sounds far more open than he used to. "I'd never say never now," he said. "I've got a little studio, and I'd like to go in there, poke around, see what happens. There's stuff that could be finished, stuff that's already finished. So it's not entirely out of the question."
Meanwhile, Collins is preparing to release a 45th anniversary edition of his debut solo album, Face Value, titled Face Value (Full Value). The 4LP vinyl box set includes half-speed remastered tracks, demos, unused songs, and previously unreleased live recordings. It's set for release on September 18 and is now available for pre-order.
