Did You Know?

"Did You Know" that on July 13, 1985 Phil Collins was the only artist to perform in both London and Philadelphia for the history-making concerts called Live Aid? 

You actually probably DID know this.

In today's "Did You Know" post we look back on an event that is inextricably and forever tied to Phil Collins, Live Aid.

Live Aid took place 37 years ago today. I remember it like it was yesterday, I was 15 going on 16. My "cool" Aunt let me and my two friends come over to her house in Anaheim, California, to watch the concerts (my parents did not get MTV in our house). We stayed up ALL night the night of July 12, 1985, so we could watch the UK live feed of the London show. 

I remember being so excited to see U2 and The Who. Of course also David Bowie, McCartney, Sting, Queen and Phil Collins were also acts to get super excited about.

I remember being so annoyed with the MTV coverage. During the middle of a song, they would cut to show Alan Hunter or Nina Blackwood bobbing their head to the song. Infuriating! I also remember being annoyed when I had to sit through bands I did not know or like, poor Status Quo leaps to mind. As an American, I was just unaware of them. LOL! Once the Philadelphia show started, coverage was split and they would cut away say from David Bowie for example, to show some hardly known band in Philly, the Hooters come to mind. Like really MTV? I remember it all so clearly. 

I LIVED for Live Aid. 

I could probably have been a college professor that lectured on Live Aid! 

All these years later, it's interesting to look back.

In the context of Phil Collins, his contribution to Live Aid was really incredible. Not only did he play both cities LIVE, he also played with multiple artists. To hear Phil tell the story, his day started out like any other person's day, he and his wife had childcare issues. Daughter Joely, (who wanted desperately to go to the show, as a young teenager at the time; Phil says she STILL hasn't forgiven him for not taking her) and son Simon needed to be dropped off with Phil's Mom June who would look after them while Phil, and his then wife Jill, made their way to Wembley Stadium.

The plan was that after Phil's performance in London, the pair would helicopter to Heathrow to catch the Concorde flight to JFK airport in New York City, take yet another helicopter to Philadelphia's JFK Stadium, just in time for Phil to take the stage not once, not twice, not three times - but four times there (ultimately he did just three appearances, keep reading to find out why). The Concorde flight was not chartered for Phil, it was the regularly scheduled flight, this is why he had to go to JFK rather than right to Philly.

The other passengers on the plane all seemed to know what was happening, except one, Cher! Yes, Cher was on the flight and approached Phil a short time after taking off. He was shocked she did not know what was happening, and in a very funny story that he tells, Cher asked him "can you get me in [to the show]?" His response to her was "you are CHER, just ring up the promoter and I am sure they will let you in."

In addition to performing as a solo artist, Phil had agreed to appear on stage three more times in Philly; to drum for his dear friend Eric Clapton, drum for what became the reunion of Led Zeppelin, and he'd agreed on the day to also sing in the USA for Africa ensemble at the end of the Philly show. But due to fatigue (of Jimmy Page mostly I think, more on that later) he headed back to the hotel, after being up for 23 hours, thus only doing three appearances, not four in Philly.

Also on this flight was Kal Rudman, publisher of the radio industry staple, Friday Morning Quarterback, which helped stations make airplay decisions. Rudman was interviewed by the Philadelphia Daily News in 2015 about this and shared that he thought Phil was excited to see him on board, “Phil later told me that when he saw me [on the plane], he died and went to heaven." Rudman continued, "Here he was, sitting next to the guy who determined whether his records were going to live or die. He was rather tongue-tied and nervous.” Interesting. I wonder if Phil remembers it that way? Phil does not strike me as the tongue-tied nervous type. If ever get the chance to interview him, I'll be sure to ask.

Now, about that Jimmy Page comment from earlier. To this day, it's said that Page still"blames" Phil for Zeppelin's, shall we say....interesting...performance that day. Right. I've watched the footage. Thankfully I saved, (and then ultimately transferred over to DVD) my original VHS tapes of both shows that I recorded live off the TV broadcasts. I think it was like 15 VHS tapes. There are moments when it appears that Phil is miming the drums. Phil has since shared that drummer Tony Thompson (formerly of Chic) who was also brought in to drum, was not interested in working in the "dual drummer" way Phil had done with Genesis, and that it just wasn't working. Once Phil realized what was happening, short of leaving the stage, which he could not do, he just tried to stay out of Thompson's way, and hoped that the train wreck going on around him would end soon.

But it continued backstage. After the performance, the interview with MTV's Alan Hunter was at best bizarre. If you have never seen it, Google it. It's super cringe worthy. Led Zeppelin has done all they can to eliminate that performance from the earth. They did not give permission to have it included in later VHS and DVD releases of the show. No disrespect to the Zep guys, but Plant was not in form to sing that night, and Page was stumbling around. Phil Collins had NOTHING to do with it. He even tried to rescue them during the Hunter interview. To this day, Page continues to make snide comments implying Phil was the reason for their more than lackluster performance. It's a thorn in Phil's side for sure, I think mostly because it is just so not true.

But on to more pleasant topics.

After wowing the 72, 000+ fans in Wembley Stadium early in the day, July 13, 1985 playing two of his biggest solo hits on piano, "Against All Odds" and "In The Air Tonight" and with Sting who joined Phil for his song "Long Long Way to Go and Sting's "Every Breath You Take," Phil Collins jetted off (literally) to the US. He performed to an estimated 89,000+ crowd in Philadelphia, where he played a duplicate set of his two solo songs, a set on drums with Eric Clapton, and an unimaginably bad and uncomfortable set with Led Zeppelin, ending the day almost a full 24-hours later, exhausted in a hotel room in New York City where he switched on the TV to catch the end of the show. And who was there on stage with a mic? None other than Cher! Phil wondered if she'd gotten his assigned part in the USA for Africa song. A fun side-note; it was Cher who was the presenter at the 2000 Oscar's ceremony when Phil won for Best Best Original Song (You'll Be In My Heart, from Disney's Tarzan).

July 13, 1985 was a history-making day in general, and for Phil Collins who was experiencing the height of his massive rise to solo-success fame in 1985, it was certainly a day to remember. He was by far the story of the day, the press absolutely loved the dual-continent darling that he was that day. But somehow, when Phil looks back on it, it seems that (at least to hear him talk about it) he thinks some people (other musicians mostly) thought his Live Aid activity was ego-driven or attention seeking. That his ubiquity started there and just became all to much by the end of the decade.

I never ever saw it that way, and all these years later I still think how absolutely cool it was that he did what he did --flying from the UK to the US to perform at both shows in the same day. 

It's just an AWESOME thing to have done. 

And it never occurred to me that it was about ego or anything else. Ever.

Anyone who may have leveled those accusations were probably 

just jealous they were not asked to do it.

His vocal performances in both cities were spectacular. There is a version of the London-played "Against All Odds" where the music is stripped away and you can hear just his live voice which is so spectacular, and unlike anyone else. He frets about the single bum note that he hit during the song (when his finger slipped off the key from being sweaty). I didn't notice it back then, I know that for sure. So why it plagues him to this day is a mystery to me, I actually think it makes it more special-- after all, we got to see that delightful smile of his at that moment. I actually love to watch that.

I love Live Aid. I always will. A brief tangent. Tony Banks (of Genesis) shared a really interesting thought in a few interviews actually. He thinks that the kind of music you like, and the artists you are most devoted to for your life, are those you discover when you are between the ages of say 13-17 (I cannot remember the exact ages he has quoted, but something like this), and I agree with him. I also think that people in my generation (I was born in 1969) and those just a little older, and a little younger, have lived through the best music era we will ever see. Say from the rise of the Beatles in about 1964, up through the early 1990's, this is the BEST music ever. Clearly my opinion, and I am sure many people would want to debate this.

But back to Live Aid. The roster of bands that performed at the shows was so spectacular, we are not likely to see such a spectacle ever again. There are many people who cite Queen's performance as the greatest ever live set of music. How about U2's compelling version of "Bad"? Phil's "Against All Odds," the "Hey Jude" finale in London? Epic, all-time amazing. 

It's is the music of my life, 

and the bands that make my heart sing and ache all at once. 

Written by Traci Baker

I'd love to hear your Live Aid memories, favorite performances and to hear your opinion about Phil doing both shows that day.

#getphilvotedin (I mean Live Aid ALONE is reason enough!)

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Against All Odds - Live Aid (Wembley)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7A8NgPVizP4

#getphilvotedin

This "Did You Know" post is all about Face Value, the groundbreaking masterpiece that began to propel Phil Collins from Rock Star drummer/singer of Genesis into Global superstar.

It was mid-1980, and Phil began to write and record in the master bedroom of his home, Old Croft, in Shalford, Surrey. His master bedroom home studio featured his Auntie Daisy's 1820's vintage straight strung Collard & Collard piano, a Fender Rhodes piano, a Prophet-5 synthesizer, a (now famous) Roland CR-78 drum machine, an 8-track tape machine and of course a drum kit, which was eventually cast aside for the CR-78. He did not set out to record a solo album, rather, he was pouring his heart into writing; processing the emotional rubble that resulted from that difficult time.

The album was filled with intensely personal songs, and the album cover itself featured an extreme close up of Phil's face...'Face Value'... the cover was not an ego-filled effort, rather his idea was to bring you into his head. So personal, Phil took on the meticulous task of writing the track listings, liner notes and even the legal information of the round label at the center of the record in his own hand-writing. A practice that he would continue on all his solo records through 1996.

The record features, in my opinion, a surprisingly wide array of styles, incorporating the Motown-inspired Phenix Horns, and a few other people you may have heard of...Eric Clapton and Alphonso Jones. With Ballads of woe, despair and anger, like If Leaving Me Is Easy and You Know What I Mean (one of my personal favorite Phil songs) and the haunting In The Air Tonight, to hopeful love songs like This Must Be Love and Thunder and Lightning, to the seemingly upbeat, yet never-far-from those break-up feelings, I Missed Again and the faster, more fun version of the Genesis song Behind The Lines (lyrics by Phil, music by the band), this album has it all. And apropos to Phil's love of the Beatles, the record closes with a lovely cover of the Beatles Tomorrow Never Knows, sort of. That is at least what the track listing wants you to believe. If you didn't know this before, here is a fun fact for you... the album actually ends with a hidden track, Phil singing Somewhere Over The Rainbow. Yep. How is that for tugging at the old heartstrings?

What he ended up making was a record that changed music, literally. The now famous "gated drum sound" on In The Air Tonight pioneered by Phil and producer Hugh Padgham, first heard a bit when Phil played on Peter Gabriel's solo song Intruder, is the world's most famous drum break and has influenced countless musicians, producers, writers and fans alike.

The album, released on February 13, 1981, on Virgin Records in the UK and Atlantic Records in the US and elsewhere, was an almost instant success, much to the surprise of Phil and his Genesis band mates Mike Rutherford and Tony Banks who found out that In The Air Tonight had reached reached No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart while they were in the studio writing and recording the 1981 Genesis album Abacab.

Face Value reached No. 1 in the UK, Canada, and other European countries, while peaking in the top ten in the US. "In the Air Tonight" became the album's biggest hit, reaching No. 2 in the UK, No. 1 in three other countries, and becoming a top-twenty hit in the US. Sales of the album exceeded five million in the US and went five-times platinum in the UK and ten-times platinum in Canada.

Face Value is widely rearguard as Phil's greatest solo work, although he has said Both Sides is his favorite of his solo records. Many contemporary artists cite Phil and this record as a major influence.

In my opinion, there is no doubt that this record alone, and it's significant influence on music, is well enough to qualify Phil for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame consideration -- and we are just getting started. There is so much more to come in future posts about why Phil should be inducted.

What do you think about Face Value?

What is your favorite track on the record? And Why?

Please note that the above is written by me, and is my opinion when stated. If there are facts that you feel I may have gotten wrong please let me know and I can research and get corrected if needed.

Written by Traci Baker

Did you know that one of Phil Collins' Solo albums has the same name as a Marx Brothers song?

It does, and that is... "Hello, I Must Be Going." The Marx Brothers song appeared in their 1930 classic film, Animal Crackers. But as far as I know, that is where the similarities end.

This "Did You Know" post is all about Phil's second Solo album, 

Hello, I Must Be Going.

Hello, I Must Be Going was released on November 5, 1982, on Virgin Records in the UK and Ireland, on Atlantic Records in the US, and on the WEA label elsewhere in the world. Just a little more than a year-and-a-half after the release of the ground-breaking Face Value, this follow-up release carried a lot of pressure for Phil. For one, he wasn't sure he would even make a second solo album, but when it was time, would people expect it to be like Face Value? Would it meet with the same success, same critical acclaim? It's the classic sophomore dilemma.

Much like Face Value, this album did draw from Phil's personal life, but then that would become his signature; songs that are directly reflective of what was going on in his heart. He has said "I am someone who writes from the heart, not the head." So no filters, just raw emotion and storytelling.

He looks back on this period and acknowledges the last thing he wanted to do was to make a second "divorce album," but at the time, that was what he was going through, so he really had no other choice. 

Generally though, there is definitely a little more 'f-you' on this album. Songs like "I Don't Care Anymore," "I Cannot Believe It's True," and "Do You Know, Do You Care," all kind of speak less about pining away for love to return, and more about...you did me wrong and I'm going to tell the world.

This album had a strange trip as far as singles go. Phil acknowledges he wasn't necessarily ready to make a second record, and he wondered if that was also the case for the listening public too.

 The record company decided that "Thru These Walls," would be the first single. It was released in October 1982 in the UK, just prior to the album release. Admittedly a song with a slightly odd subject matter, it did not fare well in the charts, reaching only #56 on the UK charts and in the US, Atlantic Records declined to even release it as a single.

The idea for the song came to him, as Phil shared in an interview, while he was on tour. His then wife Jill was with him, he was sound asleep after having performed a show that night, she was woken to the sound of the couple in the hotel room next door being, shall we say, amorous. When she told him the story the next morning, the idea for "Thru These Walls" was born. Back to the single and it's lukewarm reception....Was that fear he had about this sophomore effort failing really coming true?

Come on! This is Phil Collins we are talking about; of course not.

No, the Motown classic, "You Can't Hurry Love," redone masterfully (and aided by the very popular finger-snapping video that features all-Phil, all the time), reached #1 on the UK charts and #10 on the US Charts. The success of this single actually managed to push the album to #2 in the UK, although it remained the only real "hit" from this record.

Over time, other songs became fan-favorites, especially when played live. Songs like "The West Side" and "It Don't Matter to Me," both prominently featuring the Phenix Horns (and spectacular drumming from Phil) became staples of the live shows, as did one of my favorites, "I Don't Care Anymore." Speaking of live shows, something else this album spurred along is the first-ever Phil Collins Solo Concert Tour.

The Hello, I Must Be Going Tour visited Europe and North America just as the album was being released in November 1982 and lasted through February 1983. The live shows featured a fantastic group of players that included the great Chester Thompson on drums, and long-time friend Daryl Stuermer on guitar. In addition, Phil was able to persuade the four men who made up the Phenix Horns (from Earth, Wind & Fire) to tour, giving the shows an added punch of energy, beyond the already incredible powerhouse energy that Phil Collins brought to the stage every time he performed.

As I shared earlier, one of my all-time favorite Phil songs, and the one that opens the album (in a way setting the tone of this record), is the fantastic, "I Don't Care Anymore." This song did well in the US, reaching #39 on the Billboard charts, and giving Phil his very first Grammy nomination (for Best Rock Vocal Performance, Male) in 1984.

Many people believe this song is a direct f-you to his first wife, and in his live performances of it, that definitely seems to fit the bill. One of my very favorite live Phil performances EVER is this song from Live at Perkins Palace in 1982. (Link to it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVS5X5Aw3yQ) I cannot take my eyes off of the screen as he sings this song. It's compelling to the millionth power. I believe every word he is saying there, and I personally think he is really feeling those emotions back then, 

or he was at that show anyway.

Critical reviews of this album were mixed, but then that seems to be the case for much of what Phil did at this point, and beyond, for whatever reason. Generally though, it is acknowledged that this album was a growth in production and transitioned Phil's love of R&B nicely into his work. Critics aside, Phil's music delighted his fans and many of the songs on this record remain fan-favorites today.

Recently, I sat down to re-listened to it in it's entirety. And I found that songs I had once skipped over were the ones I resonated with more. Songs like, "Don't Let Him Steal Your Heart Away," for example. The depth of feeling; despair, anger and love --all at once-- in those words and music. It may be because I am older now, and have more life experience to "get it" - but it gave me more empathy and care for an artist who I already loved. It gave me a new appreciation for him as a human being 

(vs. just the guy on stage I admired all these years). 

Thank you Phil Collins for giving us so much of yourself. 

I hope you will take the time to re-listen to this fantastic album. It really does hold up. This November it turns 40. 

Written by Traci Baker

Post Script:
Writing that last line made me weepy. Where did all those years go? 

Ah...the familiar pangs of nostalgia. 

Hello, I Must Be Going Album Track Listing:
1. "I Don't Care Anymore"
2. "I Cannot Believe It's True"
3. "Like China"
4. "Do You Know, Do You Care?"
5. "You Can't Hurry Love"
6. "It Don't Matter to Me"
7. "Thru These Walls"
8. "Don't Let Him Steal Your Heart Away"
9. "The West Side"
10. "Why Can't It Wait 'Til Morning"

Do you have a favorite song from this album?

I hope this provided you either some new information about Phil and this album, or if not, made you remember something you may have forgotten. All of my "Did You Know" posts are being written and shared to help exemplify why I believe that Phil is so deserving of the recognition by his peers in music - to be nominated and voted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist. I hope you will join me and sign our petition https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/740/675/981/ and keep participating on this page.

#getphilvotedin

Today’s “Did You Know” Post is all about No Jacket Required. Did you know that the album title "No Jacket Required" had to do with a real life experience that Phil had? And not just once, but twice. I will get to all that in due course. Let’s first start with the record...

"No Jacket Required"was the third solo album from Phil Collins. Released in late January/early February 1985 on Virgin Records in the UK and Ireland, Atlantic Records in the US and Canada, and WEA Records in rest of the world, this album became one of the biggest-selling of all time. No one, least of all Phil, knew it would be the monster hit it became. 

Worldwide the album has sold more than 25 Million copies, with nearly half of those numbers coming from US sales, where more than 12 Million were sold. In Canada, more than 1 million, in Germany 1.5 million and in the UK nearly 2 million. "No Jacket Required" was listed on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's "Definitive 200" list in 2007; even though they have not recognized his work as a solo artist by nominating and inducting him – yet. Phil Collins’ time is coming. Soon. #getphilvotedin.

I recently had a chance to chat with long-time Phil solo tour touring bassist Leland Sklar, and Leland shared that during the 1985 “No Jacket Required” Tour, the band, and Phil, were somewhat shocked to see the sell-out crowds as the tour began, they had no idea just how huge it was all going to become. To hear more of that conversation, please visit www.podcast.getphilvotedin.com to hear the podcast interview my friend and co host Kathy Steffen and I did with Leland. You can also watch the interview on our You Tube Channel, https://getphilvotedin.comfor links.

In 1985 "No Jacket Required" reached No. 1 in 10 countries; the UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, Norway, New Zealand, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the US. It was packed with hit singles, including “Sussudio,” that went to No. 1 on the US Charts and “One More Night,” that was No. 1 in the US and Canada. Other hit singles from the record included “Take Me Home,” “Inside Out” and “Don’t Lose My Number.”

The album cover for "No Jacket Required" was once again a close-up of Phil’s face, but this time the red and orange back-lighting and sweaty-looking Phil was meant to convey just how “hot” this album of more up-tempo/dance songs was (as opposed to the “love songs” guy he felt he was becoming known for). Phil shared that in addition to a little natural sweat, the rest of his look on the cover was achieved with glycerin that was sprayed onto his face to make him look all the more hot and sweaty. To be honest, I never even noticed he was sweaty-looking on the cover.

Phil was in fact so hot in 1985, three Phil-songs that weren’t even on this albumhad heads turning, two of which charted No. 1 for him that year and the other, although released in 1984, won him several Grammy’s and his first Oscar and Golden Globe nominations in 1985. And don’t even get me started on his brilliant appearances at Live Aid that year. 

To read more about that check out my 

“Did You Know” post about Phil at Live Aid by clicking here.

The first of Phil’s two 1985 No. 1 singles NOT on "No Jacket Required" is “Easy Lover,” a duet performed with Earth, Wind and Fire singer, Philip Bailey. The song was a collaboration Phil did while producing Bailey’s 1984 album Chinese Wall, and was credited as being written by Phil, Philip and bassist, Nathan East.

Phil has shared in interviews that it was just thrown together one evening; the take they’d done the previous night was listened to the next day, and they felt it was on the money. And it was. The song was a smash hit; No. 1 in Canada, the Netherlands, Ireland, and the UK. In the U.S., it spent 23 weeks on the BillboardHot 100 chart, reaching No. 2 the first two weeks of February 1985, being denied the No. 1 spot by 

Foreigner’s "I Want to Know What Love Is."

The second 1985 No. 1 hit NOT on "No Jacket Required" was recorded while Phil was actually on the "No Jacket Required" Tour. "Separate Lives," released in November 1985 was written by Stephen Bishop, and was recorded for the Soundtrack to the film “White Nights.” Performed as a duet with female vocalist Marilyn Martin, the song went to No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and No. 1 in Canada and Ireland; and reached No. 4 on the UK charts. 

Interesting to note, Stephen Bishop is a favorite songwriter of Phil’s. He often refers to Stephen when asked about who his favorites are. Irish singer-songwriter Paul Brady, and British/Scottish singer-songwriter (now deceased) John Martyn are two others Phil will often cite. The song was so well-received, in no small part due to Phil’s brilliant vocal performance, Stephen Bishop got an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song in early 1986. It lost to the Lionel Richie penned "Say You, Say Me," which was also from the "White Nights" soundtrack.

The other song that made a splash for Phil in 1985 is one that Phil will often say he is most known for other than “In The Air Tonight,” and it is... “Against All Odds.” Although the song was released in 1984, it was in 1985 that the song, and Phil, won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male, and was nominated for 1985 Song of the Year. “Against All Odds” was also nominated for an Academy Award that year, Phil’s first Oscar nomination, and for a Golden Globe, both in the Best Original Song categories. Stevie Wonder’s "I Just Called to Say I Love You" took the Oscar that year, and the Golden Globe went to Lionel Richie’s "Say You, Say Me." You Might Recall (yes Genesis fans, that is a reference to THAT song, a favorite of mine) that was the song Stephen Bishop lost to at the 1986 Oscars. I think the various awards shows have different calendars for award recognition periods.

Back to the song...Director Taylor Hackford wanted Phil to contribute a song for his film titled Against All Odds. Phil was on tour with Genesis when the request came in, and he really just didn’t have time to write a new song. But after learning the plot of the film, and maybe the fact that Hackford appeared at the Genesis show in Chicago in person, likely to try to convince him, Phil thought he might have a song that could work. 

Phil had actually written “How Can You Just Sit There,” the song’s original title, at the time he was writing what was to become his ground-breaking first solo album, "Face Value". It was just not one he thought was good enough to make the cut at that time. And it did not get considered for his second or third solo albums either. Little did he know... 

Changing the title and words around a bit, Against All Odds, the song, was born. Sort of. Phil really wanted the song to be Against The Odds, but Hackford stood firm on the title. Although I think Phil really kind of got his way, he only says Against All Odds once in the song.

OK...now back to the topic at hand, "No Jacket Required". 

Whew. There is A LOT to talk about with this album and Phil in 1985. 

The album featured backing vocals by some pretty special guests. Helen Terry, who was best known for her work with Culture Club, appeared on the album, as did former Genesis bandmate Peter Gabriel, and Sting.

Of the five songs (thank you Paul Flattery) that had videos produced, four were top-ten hits in the US; “Sussudio”, “Don’t Lose My Number,” “One More Night” and “Take Me Home,” my favorite Phil solo video. (**For fun, see if you can name ALL the cities he goes to in that video! Answers at the end of the article.) 

And one last thing about the “Take Me Home “ video... it was actually shot duringthe No Jacket Required Tour that began in Feb. 1985, filmed in the in various cities where the tour took place. It was directed by Jim Yukich and produced by Paul Flattery, both of whom shot other Phil (and Genesis) videos, including the video for “Don’t Lose My Number” from this album that parodied popular videos of the time including David Lee Roth's "California Girls", Elton John's "I'm Still Standing" and The Police's "Every Breath You Take," among others. 

And not to forget the fifth video, it was also done by the dynamic duo of Yukich and Flattery. Shot during this tour as well, the video for the fantasatic song "Who Said I Would" (one of my favorites from this album) was filmed at London's beautiful Royal Albert Hall over the SIX nights they played this iconic venue that tour.

The original album/cassette No Jacket Required Track Listing is:

Side 1
1. "Sussudio"  
2. "Only You Know and I Know"
3. "Long Long Way to Go"  
4. "I Don't Wanna Know"
5. "One More Night"

Side 2
6. "Don't Lose My Number"
7. "Who Said I Would"
8. "Doesn't Anybody Stay Together Anymore"
9. "Inside Out"
10. "Take Me Home"

“Sussudio” was a monster hit. Phil said that if he had a pound for every time someone asked him what it meant...he’d....have A LOT of pounds! Like “In The Air Tonight,” "Sussudio" is a song Phil says he improvised. The sound of the music in his head was in fact what he heard as just musical sounds that came out as su su sussudio to him, and finding no phrase or ideas to replace it with, “Sussudio” took. 

It has no meaning to him and is not anyone’s name. Although he said that his daughter (I assume he meant Joely since this is before Lily was born) had a horse named Sussudio. I am sure there have since been plenty of animals given that name over the years by fans, and lots of license plates --I have the claim on that one in my state. I wonder if anyone has named their child Sussudio?

“Don’t Lose My Number” is another song that Phil improvised and says he doesn’t really know what it’s about. And like “Against All Odds,” was written in that prolific period when he wrote songs for "Face Value". Phil has also talked about “One More Night” being improvised. All of this improvisation is really made possible by Phil’s ability to use a drum machine in his writing process. He describes that he just sings what comes to him and records it all typically in his home studio, then writes down what he sang later.

“Long, Long Way to Go,” is a song that I think was sort of overlooked, it was actually not released as a single. It’s really a special song. Phil doesn’t often write songs with what might be considered a “political” message or social commentary (and YES, I know “Another Day in Paradise” is such a song), but this one definitely does just that. He performed it as duet at Live Aid that year with Sting, who sang the backing vocals on the album track. The words really took on a special meaning in the context of that very special and significant day.

"Doesn't Anybody Stay Together Anymore" is a song Phil says he wrote in response to so many people around him at the time getting a divorce. Including his manager, dear friends Eric Clapton and Patti Boyd, and in fact his own personal disappointment with having been divorced. (Quick side note: Over the years, watching Many Too Many [yep...another one guys] interviews Phil has done, even through to the most recent, any time he refers to his marriages and divorces, he seems to be especially regretful and hard on himself. Personally, I think he took (and takes) marriage very seriously, and it seems to me that the divorces are/may be one of his greatest disappointments. In more recent interviews, he seems to try to take most of the blame, and I always feel like the phrase “it takes two...” applies, generally—and I wish he wasn’t so hard on himself). 

Back to the song; he tells a story that is part funny, part “yikes” about the time he was asked by his friend Prince Charles to play his 40th birthday party. It seems that in retrospect Phil realized that he may have been the ONLY one in the room at the time who did not know about the very public rumors about the impending split between Charles and Diana; I mean he was after all the BUSIEST man in the world then, so, you have to cut him some slack. Never-the-less, Phil tells the story now to say that he played a “divorce-heavy” set that day including this song. It seems like this is also another spot of a little regret for him. Yikes. One last note, this song is one of three that the super-talented guitarist Daryl Stuermer is credited for co-writing on this record. The other two are "Only You Know and I Know" and "I Don't Wanna Know."

The incredibly beautiful (in my opinion) song “We Said Hello Goodbye,” which did not appear on the original album or cassette, was a “bonus track” on the CD Release. I wonder why Phil did this? If I ever get the chance to interview him, I will be sure to ask.

Much like “We Said Hello Goodbye,” the song "The Man with the Horn" did not appear on the original No Jacket Required album either. A version of it DID appear in the “Phil the Shill” episode of Miami Vice. It was actually originally recorded during 1982 sessions for "Hello, I Must Be Going", however, the song was not released until it appeared as the B-side to "Sussudio" in the UK, and as the B-side to "One More Night" in the United States. Phil doesn’t seem to be a massive fan of this song, and has said that he has "no emotional attachment" to it. 

Another B-side not on the album itself was a song that Phil said was inspired by music from The Jackson 5. "I Like the Way," originally appeared as the B-side to "One More Night" in the UK and "Sussudio" in the US – the opposite of the situation with “The Man with the Horn.” Phil has called the song dodgy, and has cited it among his least favorite of his songs. Good thing it didn’t make the album! If you have never heard it, check it out here https://youtu.be/06kRPNbOl2o. It's really not so bad, it has a good little hook that stays stuck in your head. 

As if I haven’t written enough...there is more!

We cannot talk about this album and not talk about the "No jacket Required" World Tour. Phil dubbed this band “The Hot Tub Club” and members included musicians that would become staples in Phil’s solo band for years to come; Chester Thompson on drums, Leland Sklar on bass and of course Daryl Stuermer on guitar. An interesting thing to note about Daryl, he has played on EVERY Genesis and Phil Collins tour since joining Genesis as a touring musician in 1978.

The tour opened Feb. 11, 1985, in Nottingham, England and went on to have 85 total shows over 3 legs, ending July 2, 1985, at New York’s Madison Square Garden. The tour went to the UK, Europe, Australia, Japan, Canada and the US. It was critically well-received and the shows were sell-outs in nearly every city, a massive – and initially unexpected—feat. Also on the tour were the incredible Earth, Wind and Fire Phenix Horns; Rahmlee Michael Davis, Michael Harris, Don Myrick and Louis Satterfield. Not only did they play their various horns, but they also provided backing vocals and percussion support. Peter Robinson was on this tour as well, on keyboards.

Regarded by many fans as among one of the best live shows Phil ever did, the television special for this tour was directed by Jim Yukich and produced by Paul Flattery (same guys who did the videos) and was recorded May 29, 1985 in front of 15,462 fans at the sold-out Reunion Arena in Dallas, Texas, and aired originally on HBO with the title "No Jacket Required...Sold Out". Later a Laser Disc and VHS was released and the title changed to “Phil Collins: No Ticket Required.” The later release did have extended footage, and is the version that is most readily available on YouTube, click here to watch Phil Collins: No Ticket Required. This version won an ACE AWARD for best TV Music special in 1986. Another television special was recorded for Cinemax for a show titled "Album Flash," taped in London at Royal Albert Hall. I have never seen that one, and it is not available anywhere that I know of. Maybe Kathy Steffen has it in her archives...

By 1986 the album had become a massive, worldwide smash it. At the 28th Annual Grammy Awards in February, 1986, Phil was once again nominated, but in more categories this time (five). "No Jacket Required" won the award for Album of the Year, Phil won for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male, and shared the Producer of the Year (Non-Classical) award with album co-producer, Hugh Padgham. The home video "No Jacket Required" received a nomination for Best Music Video, Short Form. Also in 1986, the album received two American Music Award nominations for Favorite Pop/Rock Album and Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist. And at the 1986 Brit Awards the album received awards for British Album and British Male Artist, while co-producer Hugh Padgham was nominated for British Producer. It was a fantastic two-year period for Phil Collins and "No Jacket Required".

In 2016, Phil worked on a project to re-issue remastered versions of his eight solo records that included re-shooting of the covers in the same poses* as the originals, but at the age of 65. *Note, Going Back has a slightyl differnt pose. The covers all came out incredibly well and are treasures in my own collection on both Vinyl and CD. Some of the versions of the CD releases contained an extra CD of rare, previously unreleased and/or live tracks.

And finally....the answer to the original “Did You Know” at the beginning of this LONG post...

“Did You Know” that the album title "No Jacket Required" had to do with a real life experience that Phil had? And not just once, but twice.

Yes, there were two occasions that he cites as the main reason for the album title. I don’t remember what order they came in, but I think the Chicago restaurant incident was first...

Phil and his long time (and still) dear friend Robert Plant went out to dinner at a restaurant in Chicago called The Pump Room. A famous eatery opened in 1938, the place closed in 2017. It did reopen eventually, but under a new name. As Phil tells the story his friend Robert was wearing a loud, very sort of 'out there' suit, while he was wearing nice slacks and shirt with a brand new very nice leather jacket. Phil was incensed when he was denied entry to the restaurant for not meeting the restaurant's dress code of "jacket required.” He insisted that he was wearing a jacket and that his attire was far less likely to be noticed than the multicolored mess his friend was wearing. The restaurant said his jacket was not a “proper” jacket and that Robert’s was. Phil later shared in an interview that he might have been madder that night than he ever had been. 

After the incident, Phil, who was a frequent guest on various talk shows-- big, national ones like Late Night with David Letterman and The Tonight Show --decided to tell the story (many times), and name the restaurant. Eventually, the restaurant management, weary of all the story-telling from Phil, sent him a sport coat and an apology letter, stating that he could come to the restaurant wearing whatever he wanted. I doubt Phil kept that coat or ever went back. I'll bet if I asked him about it today, he’d still be pissed.

The other incident occurred while Phil was on vacation in some warm island-y place. He and his then wife were at the hostess stand waiting to be seated. He was dressed in a nice shirt and slacks, but no jacket. The restaurant informed him he would need to be wearing a jacket to eat there. He complained that he was ON VACATION on a warm island, he did not bring a jacket. Once again he was not a happy camper. 

These two incidents occurred in relative close proximity in time and are why Phil Collins says he named his album “No Jacket Required.”

Well, that was a LOT of information about an album that remains one of the best-selling of all time. Although, perhaps not one of Phil's best-loved, he has since talked about the album as being one he does not feel emotionally connected to. I get it for sure, and respect his feelings on it. However, I do think it has some spectacular songs, one of which is on my car license plate!   

What do you think of No Jacket Required?

I can say that 'Take Me Home" from that Dallas show is one of my favorites...I mean HOW can he sing like he does???-especially live? He is amazing. I also really love the program from that tour--the band photo where they are all gathered around the hot tub is HYSTERICAL! (It's in the photos below). My very first piece of autographed Phil memorabilia is a photo from the Dallas show. LOVE it! 

OK, well thanks for reading--and please keep supporting #getphilvotedin by participating on the page, checking out the podcasts and please sign and share the petition -https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/740/675/981/ . 

**Answer to the cities Phil appears in in the video for “Take Me Home.”** - London, New York City, Tokyo, Stockholm, Gothenburg, Bremen, Sydney, Paris, Chicago, St. Louis, Los Angeles/Hollywood/Beverly Hills, San Francisco and Memphis(Graceland).
Thanks to the video's producer, Paul Flattery for this list of cities! 

#getphilvotedin 

Written by Traci Baker

Today's"Did You Know" post is All About Awards...

Phil Collins: An Award-Winning Career
Just a few little statistics about Phil's "award-winning" ways...

.Just some of the music-related awards Phil has received:

Winner of the Academy Award, Best Original Song, in 2000 for "You'll Be in My Heart" (from Tarzan)

He was nominated twice before his win in 2000; all his nominations and his win were for Best Original Song. He was first nominated in 1985 for "Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)" (from Against All Odds) and then again in 1989 for "Two Hearts" (from Buster).

Winner of (2) Golden Globe Awards (Nominated 3 times)
He won in 1989 for Best Original Song (shared with Lamont Dozier) for "Two Hearts" (from Buster) and again in 2000 for Best Original Song for "You'll Be in My Heart" (from Tarzan).
He was nominated in 1985 for Best Original Song for "Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)" (from Against All Odds)

Winner of (8 ) Grammy Awards (he has been nominated a total of 26 times for a Grammy)

Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2010

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (as a member of Genesis in 2010)

Winner of (6) Brit Awards (Nominated 13 times)

Winner of (3) American Music Awards (Nominated 8 times)

Winner of (4) Billboard Music Awards (nominated 5 times)

Winner of (6) Ivor Novello Awards (Nominated 9 times)

Disney Legend Award in 2002 for his solo work

Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1999

Lifetime Achievement Award NRJ Music Awards in 2003

Other awards and achievements of note; but please know there are many more...
Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order (LVO) for his contribution to The Prince's Trust; 1994

Honorary Doctorates:
1987 Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts Fairleigh Dickinson University
1991 Honorary Doctorate of Music Berklee College of Music
2012 Honorary Doctorate of History McMurry University For the book The Alamo and Beyond: A Collector's Journey (2012)
2019 Honorary Doctorate of Jazz And Pop Music University of Music and Performing Arts Graz

Phil Collins has an amazing career and has achieved far into the stratosphere. His achievements, awards and recognition are just some of the reasons he deserves to be inducted into the 

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a Solo Artist. 

#getphilvotedin

Written By Traci Baker

“Did You Know” that Phil Collins was voted into the 

Modern Drummer Hall of Fame in 2012? 

Among drumming legends such as Buddy Rich, John Bonham, Keith Moon, Ringo Starr, Steve Gadd, Joe Morello, and others is the name Phil Collins; 

as it should be.

Phil Collins is widely regarded as one of the best drummers in the world,  but there are many people who don’t even know he’s a drummer. Possibly due to his tremendous success as solo artist/singer.

Phil has shared in numerous interviews over the years that he received his first drum as a little boy, he thinks as early as three years old, but remembers having a small drum for sure by age 5. He says he used to play along with TV shows, until his parents sent him upstairs to play. 

Phil has said that it was all he ever wanted to do, and that he knew it would be his career, but he thought he’d be one of the orchestra players maybe in the West End or in one of the big bands. 

But he was destined for greater things.

Phil took a few drum lessons here and there but is essentially a self-taught player. And as a left-handed drummer, he developed a slightly more unusual posture, style and setup, 

as kits back in those days weren’t set up for lefties.

He talks about his love of playing the more jazz -filled style he played with Brand X, where he can jam and do a little bit more improv. And of course he very much enjoyed playing in the big band style as evidenced in The Phil Collins Big Band of 1996 and 1998. 

But surely his most famous drumming is with Genesis. 

His signature sound may just come from a combination of the raw power of how hard he hit the drums, his ability to play in unusual time signatures and the fact that he isn’t a technically trained drummer, which allowed him to develop his own way of doing things, 

resulting in the very distinct Phil Collins sound. 

And it goes without saying, that perhaps the most famous drum sounds in the history of music is Phil’s work on In the Air Tonight. From the first time I ever heard that song, I’ve never ever been able to listen to it without duplicating the sound with my hands wherever I am, even if I’m driving, it’s kind of the rules. When that song comes on, you have to do the drum fill. 

Phil has played with many different artists as well, including Eric Clapton and Robert Plant, both of whom he actually toured with —as their drummer.  His incredible drumming has appeared on many, many others artists songs, far too many to mention here. He would often contribute his drum work to those artists he was producing, including Freda (of ABBA fame), and Adam Ant among others. His signature sound is the backbone of the legendary charity record, BandAid, that was recorded in one take in a live room, with 35+ of the worlds biggest music stars watching on. Just another afternoon at the office for Phil Collins. 

What is your favorite piece of Phil-drumming? I’m going to share that mine is one that probably people will say, “well duh…” - it’s kind of an obvious answer, but Phil‘s work on the Genesis song “Los Endos” just knocks my socks off. Honorable mention has to go to “Easy Lover.”

I also wanted to mention that Phil pulled double duty in Genesis, as lead vocalist (from 1975 through 1993) and drummer. So on every Genesis record (during that period) not only did he do all the singing, but he did all the drumming as well. Even when they played live, he would go back and drum as often as he possibly could. 

He said he could have done the drumming and singing at the same time, but the audience needed someone to interact with, and if he was hidden behind the drum kit that would’ve been impossible. He loved drumming so much he would run from the mic back to the drums, and back up to the mic again. 

And I think that’s why Phil Collins fans absolutely adore him as much as we do. The man loved to entertain us. A brilliantly gifted natural musician, who can play anything. 

Written by Traci Baker 

#getphilvotedin

Sign and share the petition:  
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Did You Know... On March 31, 1964 Phil Collins is one of 350 extras in the Beatles film, A Hard Day’s Night. He was 13, and The Beatles were his idols. To hear him tell it, the extras were not told it was The Beatles. But as soon as Phil entered the theater, he KNEW.  Because he knew Ringo's kit, he'd studied it, endlessly; copied Ringo for endless hours in his bedroom. 

He was so transfixed and thrilled, he says he was probably not sufficiently jumping up and down or screaming for the cameras like the other kids, and thinks this may have been why footage of him never made the final cut of the film, much to his crushing disappointment. 

Years later, he was asked to narrate the documentary of the making of the film. His story was known to the filmmakers, and the chance to review unused footage revealed an image of the 13-year old Phil in the audience. Finally it was officially documented, he was really there. 

If you have not had the chance to see the making of a Hard Day's Night, it's a very entertaining and well-done film, and it features lots of on-and off-camera narration from Phil.  

Phil grew up at a time when popular, rock & roll music was being born. He was able to witness it all as it unfolded before his teenage eyes and ears. He saw bands like Led Zeppelin, The Who, Jimi Hendrix, and countless other now-legendary rockers from his perch at the front of the Marquee Club at 90 Wardour Street in London, the place where some of rock's greatest started out. He would line-up in the afternoon, always first to get into the club, he became a fixture there, a young teen taking it all in; watching, learning and processing. Little did anyone know that one day not long from then, he was to become one of those legends. 

#getphilvotedin!

Written by Traci Baker. I share my opinion where stated and try to share facts, but it's mostly from my brain as I write, so if there is anything you might question, let me know and I will research it to be sure.

Today’s ”Did You Know” Post will be the first of several that highlight Phil Collins as a success-making producer of other musicians…

This post is all about Howard Jones. 

Many of you will be familiar with Howard Jones’ ‘80s smash hit “No One Ever is to Blame“ from 1986. 

But something you may not know, the original version of the song released on Jones’ 1985 album Dream Into Action was not the song that we all remember today. 

Nope. It was the 1986 completely redone version with Phil Collins playing drums, singing back up vocals and co-producing the Record that we all remember… 

The album had successful singles including “Things Can Only Get Better“ and “Life in One Day,” but the the original track for "No One Is to Blame" just wasn’t finding the radio play that Jones thought it would. 

How did Phil Collins come to produce the 1986 single version of 

“No One Is to Blame?”

Jones himself explains how it came to be that the amazing Phil Collins produced his track…

”During the ‘80s, they held Prince’s Trust concerts in the UK to raise money for the Prince’s charity. They would put together a superstar band and they’d ask me to play keyboards, which was great. Phil sang and drummed during these events. So, I got to know Phil that way. He really enjoyed playing my songs. I thought “No One Is to Blame” could have a slightly different approach to the version that was on Dream Into Action. So, I asked Phil if he would do it. He absolutely loved the song and said yes. We spent two days at The Farm, Genesis’ studio, working on the track. Phil did it while he was working on Genesis’ Invisible Touch album. Phil was a workaholic and fit in my project on the weekend. It was an amazing experience and the single became a huge success”.  — Howard Jones (interviewed by Anil Prasad, 2013). 

Hugh Padgham co-produced the track with Phil, and during the re-recording, Phil Collins gave everything he could; —including his skills as one of the worlds all-time greatest drummers, adding his own drum work, backing vocals and flavor to the track. This new version of the song was included on the 1986 US EP Action Replay as well as the CD version of Jones' 1986 studio album, One to One.

This new version of the song was a smash hit  reaching No. 16 in the UK and No. 4 in the US in 1986. 

It was always a favorite of mine; listening back to it today you can hear the signature Phil drum sounds, and definitely feel his magic energy all over it. 

It seems that everything he touched turned to gold.  And I will share more examples of that in some future posts when we talk about work he did producing legends like Eric Clapton, and others…

What do you think of Phil‘s work on this song? 

#getphilvotedin

Use this link to hear this song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBiX-8Yg6IA

Written by Traci Baker, with any attributions noted.

This was my first-ever "Did you Know " post...Shared on April 14, 2022, one day after I started the Facebook page Phil Collins Should Be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (as a solo artist)...

Did you know that Phil was awarded 

Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order (LVO)? 

An honor that recognizes distinguished personal service to the Monarch, their family and others designated to represent the Monarch. 

He was honored in 1994, bestowed upon him for his services to music and charity, primarily for his service to The Prince's Trust as a Trustee.

The photo shows Phil with his medal, 

with his very proud Mum June at his side.

Written By Traci Baker

TToday's "Did You Know" post is all about Flaming Youth!

I decided to do this post because I recently was able to add a really special piece to my Phil Collins collection. I found a 7' Vinyl Flaming Youth Record, "Man, Woman and Child," autographed by Phil. Not only is the record itself extremely rare, but to have one Phil autogrpahed is extra special and extra rare. I am thrilled to have it. A photo of it is below. 

In 1969, Phil Collins and his childhood friend Ronnie Caryl joined American musician John Walker's backing band for a brief European tour. The band also featured guitarist "Flash" Gordon Smith and keyboardist Brian Chatton. When the tour concluded, the guys decided to stay together and formed Hickory, a band that Phil has described as a 'really good group'. They played mostly covers, things by artists like Joe Cocker, Honeybus and songs by a favorite of Phil's, Tim Hardin. The band did record some music on record, including the single "Green Light/The Key" and a song written by Phil Collins, "Lying, Crying, Dying." 

Super trivia point! "Lying, Crying, Dying" was the first song Phil Collins ever wrote. He was just seventeen when he wrote the song whose lyrics would foreeshadow what kind of songwriting he'd end up being known for...'the sad ballad'. In an interview for Prog Magazine Phil shared about the song, "It was in D minor, the saddest of chords  It was a very naïve, but heartfelt ballad..."

Back to Hickory...One night, keyboardist Brian Chatton had caught the eye of the successfsul songwriting duo of Howard and Blaikley at a club called La Chasse, not too far actually from The Marquee, a club Phil favored - more on that later. The duo shared their ideas for something they were working on called Ark 2, a concept album inspired by all the attention at the time on the space race; 1969 moon landing and related topics...  ---but needed to find the right musicians to record it. The album tells the story of man's evacuation from a burning Earth and then the journey into space. Chatton, like any good bandmate looking for opportunites, recommended the duo come see his band, and they did! 

Howard and Blaikley had several number one hits under their belts at this point having written for The Herd (featuring a young Peter Frampton) and Dave Dee among others. So when Hickory found themselves playing live for the songwriters one evening during a band rehearsal at a hotel ballroom on Eel Pie Island (that Phil's Mum helped them secure), they were feeling pretty good! 

Howard and Blaikley liked what they saw and asked Hickory to do the album, but with one caveat, they change their name. the duo decided on "Flaming Youth," a phrase taken from the April 13, 1936 speech given by Franklin D. Roosevelt to the Young Democratic Club is Baltimore, Maryland. "The temper of our youth has become more restless, more critical, more challenging. Flaming youth has become a flaming question..." 

The group recorded the album that was releasaed in October 1969 (to critical acclaim) on Fontana Records in the UK. Ark 2 is the only studio album released by Flaming Youth. The lead single from the album was "From Now On". The album was awarded Sunday Times "Rock Album of the Year" in 1969. Melody Maker (a publication Phil longed to be mentioned in) listed the album as "Pop Album of the Month", calling it "adult music beautifully played with nice tight harmonies". Disc and Music Echo said "there is some splendid music on this very good first album." Interestingly, each member of the band sings a lead vocal on the album. 

The band premiered the album with a performance at the London Planetarium. They also performed a five-song set for the Dutch television broadcaster TROS, broadcast on May 14,1970. The set included: "Earthglow", "Weightless", "Changes", "Space Child", and "From Now On (Immortal Invisible)." Both the music and vocals were mimed. This recording is said to be the only footage of Flaming Youth to exist to date (See below for links to watch the videos of these songs).

Unfortunatley even though it received all this critical success, it did not do well commercially. In an atempt to revive the band, there was a follow-up single released, "Man, Woman, and Child," but the band had difficulty getting gigs and ultimatley broke up in early 1970, around the same time Phil was joining another band you may have heard of...

Ark 2 has since been reissued several times, primarily because it is Phil Collins' first major label recording. 

All the original members of Flaming Youth went on to have good careers in music. Clearly, we all know about Phil's success. Ronnie Caryl performed alongside David Hentschel, Michel Polnareff, Lulu, Stephen Bishop, Eric Clapton, Gary Brooker, Maggie Bell and John Otway, as well as touring with his longtime bestie, Phil Collins on many of his solo tours. Ronnie Caryl released two solo albums, Leave A Light On (1994) 

and One Step at a Time (2003).

Brian Chatton was member of a band called Boys Don't Cry and enjoyed many successful collaboratuons, writing for people like Sheena Easton, toruing with Meatloaf and playing in groups whose memebers went on to be in Yes, King Crimosn, Eric Burden and the Animals and many more. Last but not least, "Flash" Gordon Smith became a respected session musician with a long career.

Ark 2 remains a fine example of the the music of that time - it has been described as a fusion between Psychedelia and Proto Progressive rock. If you have not heard any Flaming Youth before--I hope you will listen! It may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it is really something specail hear Phil at such a young age.  

To watch a few Flaming Youth songs 

from the Netherland TV special from 1970:

Space Child: (Phil is on lead vocals on this one) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYtvgPGpIPE

Changes: (Phil shared lead vocals on this one) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fj9JZhG8s4

Weightless: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6f8ZWxT0Qrs

From Now On: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lR9r1auRBCU

Earthglow: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aRx4dxm2sNY

To listen to Ark 2: https://youtu.be/BJ3321eTeho

Super Trivia note! Prior to forming Hickory (Flaming Youth), Brian Chatton was the keyboardist of a band called The Warriors, one of his bandmatess in that group was none other than Jon Anderson of Yes fame. Does anyone remember Phil's other assocaition wtih Jon Anderson? I shared this in a previous post as well... 

In the late 60's, Phil was a regular fixture at London's Marquee Club on Wardour Street. He was always there, and always first in line, to see the acts, many of whom turned out to be legends, incuding a band callled Yes in 1969! Phil had learned that Yes were looking for a new drummer, as Bill Bruford had departed to study at University. He spoke to Jon Anderson about it after a show at the Marquee, and Jon invited him to an audition that following week. For whatever reason, Phil did not go, and has since wondered what his life would have been like had he gotten that Yes gig. I am super glad he did not go... a world without Genesis (and then Phil taking over singing, leading to his solo work) is more than I want to think about... 

Written by Traci Baker 

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#getphilvotedin

TToday’s “Did You Know” Post is kind of a fun one; it is a listing of Phil‘s top 8 songs that he would want if he was stranded on a desert island; well as of 1993 anyway…

Before I share his story, I want to ask all of you…
….what THREE Phil Collins songs would you HAVE to have if you were stuck alone on a deserted island? And why? And to make it more on point with this page, let’s keep them to solo songs. I will share mine in the comments section… 

In 1993 Phil gave an interview for Desert Island Discs; a radio interview show that refers to its guests as castaways, the host asks the guests to talk about the 8 songs they would choose if they were stuck alone on a desert island…

It’s a fantastic interview, and we learn lots of interesting tidbits… including that Phil wanted a set of bagpipes for Christmas that year…he also shared that Christmas is typically a hard day for him, as his Dad passed away on a Christmas morning (author's note: in 1972 when Phil was just 21 years old).

Phil’s top 8 songs if he was marooned on a desert island in 1993…

1.  Helpless Heart by Paul Brady
One of his favorite songwriters with a ‘wonderfully pure voice’…Phil said this song meant a great deal to him for the last ‘half dozen or so’ years.
Here is a link to the song Helpless Heart by Paul Brady https://youtu.be/oyshUiViHW0

2.  How Can We Hang Onto a Dream by Tim Hardin
He says this song has a similar sentiment to Helpless Heart; he said he is an ‘old romantic’ at heart.
Here’s a link to the song How Can We Hang Onto a Dream by Tim Hardin https://youtu.be/A9pNnKxewss

3.  All My Loving by The Beatles
He says that ‘The Beatles are the reason I am in this business; it was The Beatles that suddenly gave me purpose.”
Here’s a link to the song All My Loving by the Beatles https://youtu.be/TSpiwK5fig0

4.  Down River by David Ackles
This made a big impression on him when he first heard it. He said he loves songs like this, “…it is one side of a conversation” - much like the song “I Get Along Without You Very Well” by Hoagy Carmichael. Phil said he has written his own version of a song like this… on his record (Both Sides) called “I’ve Forgotten Everything.” 

(Author's note: In his memoir, Not Dead Yet, he shares that "You Know What I Mean" is also this 'kind' of song for him)
Here is a link to the song Down River by David Ackles https://youtu.be/8-zDI5GD7co

5.  Somewhere by Aretha Franklin
The old romantic in him… his favorite version of this song; he has always loved Aretha’s voice.
Here is a link to the song Somewhere as performed by Aretha Franklin https://youtu.be/btOP3URYQfA

6.  The Downtown Lights by Blue Nile
One of his favorite bands, they only made two records. Used to play this song before Genesis shows, finds it very uplifting.
Here is a link to the song The Downtown Lights by Blue Nile https://youtu.be/tNgSwtRqLmg

7.  If I Fell by The Beatles
This song was one of the songs that The Beatles did while he was part of the filming of the Beatles film “A Hard Days Night.” Phil appeared as an extra (audience member)… And he said is “sums up his childhood/the 60s; a wonderful period in his life.”
Here is a link to the song If I fell by The Beatles https://youtu.be/F_80s6S_7Vw

8.  Nimrod – Elgar’s Enigma Variations by the BBC Symphony Orchestra with Leonard Bernstein conducting.
Phil said he finds this piece of music very moving.
Link to the song Nimrod – Elgar’s Enigma Variations by the BBC Symphony Orchestra with Leonard Bernstein conducting. https://youtu.be/_8NOVGHJmRs

Phil shared that if he could only keep ONE song of these eight, that he would take with him…
Helpless Heart by Paul Brady.
He said that he can (and has) listened to over and over, and over again.

What book he would like to have with him?...
Pre-history of the Far Side by Gary Larson.
He said that in contrast some of this music, he would also like to laugh on the island. The book is a collection of cartoons, Phil thinks Larson is one of the funniest living cartoonists.

What one luxury he would bring with him?
A piano.
Because that is a way of expression and “I would need that.”

Who were his first musical influences; what was the first record he ever bought/played along to?
Joe Brown and the Bruvvers was the first record he bought and played along to, then got Please Please Me by The Beatles… and he also mentioned musical influences liked the Mersey Beats and any of the ‘Northern sound stuff,’ The Hollies and Motown.

What was his first real music group and how old was he?
It was called The Real Thing. 

He said his first group was when he was 15 or 16

A school group with Andy (Andrea Bertorelli who became Phil’s first wife) that sang, and another girl that was ‘important in my life’ also sang (author’s note - Lavinia Lang). Phil said he sang too, from behind the drum kit. There was a guy in the group (Peter Newton) who still performs today in the west end and also a pair of brothers in the group that played guitar and bass. He said he was also in groups called The Charge, Freehold and Flaming Youth.

Other tidbits he shared….
He was actually a professional dancer, due to drama school requirements; did an advertising show for Smith’s Crisps, toured with a dance “Do the Crunch”; did ballet, tap and modern jazz. …did it until he left school.

He nearly drowned doing a scene in the film “Frauds.” He had to be weighted down doing a scene over and over in the deep end of the pool and he was not getting enough breath between takes, and the safety men did not realize his signals meant he needed to get out and couldn’t breath.

Admits he is a true task master – when he goes on stage he gives 100% and expects 100% from others.

And the last tidbit is …

…that he describes himself “...as English as Fish & Chips.”

Here is a link to listen to the interview itself on YouTube…https://youtu.be/DqccjCueIm

I hope you will sign and share the petition to #getphilvotedin!
https://www.ipetitions.com/.../induct-phil-collins-into...

We can do this!

#getphilvotedin

Written by Traci Baker

Today's "Did You Know” post is about a wonderful project Phil did in 1998 with George Martin; The Beatles’ incredible Golden Slumbers/Carry That Weight medley.

In 1998 Phil Collins was asked by Sir George Martin, best known as the genius producer behind the Beatles, to participate on a project he was doing called In My Life, a compilation album featuring all Beatles covers by a variety of people. Some of whom are not known for singing, like Jim Carrey and Robin Williams, and others; legends of music like Celine Dion and Phil Collins. While Martin was best known for his work with The Beatles, he did many other projects throughout his long career, but did say that for his ‘final’ record, it seemed natural to him that it should be Beatles music.

Regarding how he chose the songs that would be on the record; he wanted to avoid the ‘well-worn’ songs like “Let It Be” or “Yesterday” and choose songs that were more off beat, 

still well-known but less mainstream of sorts.

He says a starting point for the project was working with Phil Collins. He described Phil as ‘a multi-talented person’, and wondered what song would be a good vehicle for Phil. Given that Phil started out as a drummer, he thought about the Golden Slumbers/Carry That Weight medley, for one reason because it has a great drum solo in it. Martin said it was a “jolly good vehicle for Phil,” and it really was.

In what I think is typical Phil-style, he not only played all the drums, he sang all the lead voices, and all the backing voices as well. Phil has been described as a perfectionist and a bit of a work-a-holic, things he does not deny. So when it came to doing the really difficult work of recording all the different parts, he rose to the occasion. Martin said that Phil took it upon himself to do all of those parts, but had to sing a different note each time in each chord (harmony). Martin directed him, “now you are singing George’s part; now John’s, etc.”  There were three notes in the chords (harmonies) in the original song, each sung by one of the Beatles. There are three harmonies on the track, and Martin recorded in double tracks – that is SIX voices. Essentially Phil was harmonizing with himself.

Phil spoke about laying down all the vocal tracks, lead and backing, and how difficult that actually was. Phil shared when interviewed about the process of recording the songs that it was ‘difficult to get the dynamics; it goes all the way from very quiet to quite the screaming.’ He said it was very enjoyable, ‘great fun, but difficult’.

Martin said that the song starts out deceptively simply, as a lullaby really, and that Paul McCartney sang it very gently at the beginning to a very open piano phrase. Leading then into Golden Slumbers which become a bit heavier, then into a sort of chant with Carry That Weight. A very direct song, an almost ‘football chant’ of sorts, according to Martin. 

So in addition to all the various lead and backing tracks, Phil had to navigate a wide range of vocal dynamics changes throughout. He noted that it is easier to sing things like this when YOU wrote them, harder when you are trying to cover something like this.

Regarding the incredible drum solo (by Phil) in this version, Martin said he doubled the length (16 bars) of the original solo to give Phil more scope. Martin wanted to keep close to the original, the score is hardly changed at all, except for bar length in some cases. They used modern techniques to allow Phil to ‘double up’ (layering) on the drums, so he is virtually doing a drum duet on the track. 

Phil has talked about Ringo Starr, one of his heroes; “Ringo is vastly underrated. The drum fills on the song A Day in The Life, [for example] are very complex things. You could take a great drummer today and say, ‘I want it like that.’ He wouldn’t know what to do.”

Phil is a great fan of the Beatles, and very often refers to their influence in his life. Phil shared in the interview for the George Martin project that he used to ‘stand in the mirror with a tennis racket singing All My Loving and It Won’t Be Long,’ so doing the project was ‘evocative of many memories’.

I think the song is brilliant and I love listening to it, especially knowing that Phil did ALL that heavy lifting. I think it is one of, if not the, stand-out performance on the record. The drum solo is totally awesome, and very much the Phil sound.

This project (and Phil’s 1000% commitment to it) is yet another example of his incredible contribution to music. Just another story I want to share with you all to add to the already mountain-high pile of reasons that Phil is more than deserving to be inducted into the 

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist.

 #getphilvotedin!

Please sign and share the petition to #getphilvotedin
https://www.ipetitions.com/.../induct-phil-collins-into...

I am curious what you all think about this song? Had you heard it before? What do you think of the job Phil did?

Someone took it upon themselves to make a music video of sorts and post it on YouTube, using parts of the 1998 Documentary release about the making of the record. Here is a link to that video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgoQ1gi_7i0

If you would like to watch the entire documentary, here is the link to that:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbSDcan7WWE

Phil’s part is in the beginning.

For just the audio track, use this link: https://youtu.be/75841K5Q

The track also appears on Phil's album:
Phil Collins Plays Well With Others

#getphilvotedin

Written by Traci Baker

Did you know that Phil Collins loved wearing Converse All Stars shoes? Yes! He wore them with almost everything for the longest time. One example, you see them featured in the “Easy Lover” video, with Phil and Philip Bailey, even though he is wearing a nice suit. 

There are countless photos of him wearing them. Back in the early days, you might see him wearing high top converse occasionally, blue ones, maybe red ones, but as he approached the 80s and 90s you would see him wearing low top white ones most often. 

And why did he wear these shoes so often? Did he just love how they looked? He may have, I don’t know for sure. But what I do know is that Phil has said he wore them so often - almost always- because he could feel playing the drums. 

He also said they’re very comfortable. So it may not have been as much of a fashion choice, as it was Phil’s absolute dedication to his drumming. If something he was wearing made him a better drummer, he was going to wear it. 

So that’s how this post ties to the music. And that’s what this page is about, presenting stories and information that support why Phil Collins should be nominated to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist. 

But I have to say, his choice of this particular footwear has always been something I’ve been enamored with… In fact for the shows I attended on the last Genesis tour, I had my own custom All-Stars made to honor Phil, they were the same shoes he is seen wearing so often in the late 80s and 90s, with one twist mine were pink… mine had to be pink! 

I’ve included a picture of mine, along with some great examples of Phil wearing the shoes over the years. I have even included a few photos of some of the shoes that he autographed and donated to charity over the years. 

I plan to do a future “Did You Know” Post coming up soon about Phil‘s incredible philanthropic efforts over the years. He is one of the most generous music stars, consistently giving his time, clothing, autographs, money, and other forms of charitable support year after year. But more on that soon… Enjoy all the photos! 

And if you ever want to take up drumming, take a note from Phil, and try doing it with some old fashioned Converse Allstars! 

Do you have any Phil Collins stories related to his Converse All-Stars? Do you have your own that you love? 

#getphilvotedin

Written By Traci Baker

Today’s “Did You Know” post is about the fantastic documentary about Phil Collins called A Life Less Ordinary, have you seen it?

It is one of my all-time favorites. The one-hour documentary was produced for the BBC who broadcast it on British TV in November, 2002. It was directed by Connie Bishop whose other work includes documentary films about Cher, Duran Duran and Ian Dury, among others, and narrated by British actress, Mariella Frostrup. A DVD was subsequently released (in June 2003) that featured 90 minutes of great bonus material as well.

It's always interesting to me as I watch things from 20+ years ago to remember that it’s a slice in time. Things (and even some people) we know now, did not happen yet. For example, Phil's son Matthew was not even born at the time this was made, and Nicholas was just a toddler (born April 2001). Production began filming in the summer of 2002, and continued throughout the year and during the time Phil was finishing his album, Testify, which was released on November 11, 2002, coinciding well with the release of the documentary that same month.

Phil's story is told in chronological order through interviews with him and many others from his life. Rare, and in some cases never-before-seen (up to that point), video and photos supplement the story. It is a detailed and very interesting account of Phil's life from his childhood through to the present day (at the time of filming). One major plus for this project was the fact that all the interviews were current and not recycled from previous projects. And both the number of interviewees, and the very high quality of those people, really made this hour-long overview of Phil’s life that much more interesting and special.

You hear from the people closest to Phil including some of his children who talk candidly about their Dad; Joely, Phil’s first daughter (who he adopted when she was a toddler), and Simon, Phil's first son who followed in his Dad's footsteps as a musician and drummer. There are delightful segments that feature Phil's Mom June, made even lovelier as he is seated right beside her. His sister Carole is interviewed, as is Phil's brother Clive, and childhood longtime friend and solo-bandmate, Ronnie Caryl. A regular figure in the Genesis world since the beginning, the delightful Richard Macphail lends his voice to the converstation as well, listed as Genesis Road Manager from 1969 - 1976. And no story about Phil would be complete without interviews with Tony Banks, Mike Rutherford and Peter Gabriel.

We also hear from a variety of music-industry folks including Chris Welch, well-known music journalist who is also a drummer, Ozzy Osborne, Bob Geldof, Babyface, Quincy Jones, Beatles Producer, George Martin and more. The delightful Julie Walters who acted with Phil, as his wife, in the film Buster has a nice segment, and we also hear from actor, the late Bob Hoskins (sadly passed in 2014) who was supposed to have done a movie (With Phil and Danny DeVito) that Phil had referenced quite a bit at one point, Three Bears. I wonder what ever happened to that project? 

If I ever have the chance, I'll have to remember to ask Phil about that.

It's also really interesting to hear from Phil's longtime personal assistant Danny Gillen, who he met while filming Buster. To the best of my knowledge, they remain dear friends to this day; Phil is even godparent to one of Danny's children. Danny does a tandem interview with another longtime member of Phil's team, Steve "Pud" Jones who has filled many roles, starting out on road crew and serving as tour manager, production manger, etc. You see Pud in many Genesis and Phil documentaries, he has been a long-standing, loyal person in Phil's world. The two of them are so funny and share some great stories. Pud was photographed recently in London helping with the load-in at the Better Strangers show (Nic Collins' band) and kindly posed, and visited, with fans.

Other famaliar names in the Genesis/Phil Collins world, including well-known authors Armando Gallo and Alan Hewitt are given thanks in the credits for their contributions to the film. Alan is listed under the Special Thanks section 

and Armando for his contributions from the Archive. 

We also hear from Nic's mom, Phil's third wife, in a tandem interview with Phil that occurs near the end of the documentary. During the bonus footage you learn from Phil himself that this is in fact the first time they appeared on film together talking about their lives. There are even a few brief glimpses of young toddler Nic with his parents. You may recall that during this period the media, especially in England, was viscous to Phil. The business about the so-called break-up Fax, the age difference between the couple and Phil's move to Switzerland was all the tabloids could talk about. Phil and his family were hounded by the press, and this subject is not skirted in this film, they address it all.

In fact, this entire documentary has a ring of truth, honesty and transparency that is pretty reflective, I think, of what I believe is how Phil has conducted himself throughout his career. I think he would agree with that. Over the years that I have been a fan, and reading and watching older material, I believe his conduct to be that of someone who is what you see, doesn’t mask his behavior, and tells the truth—even to his own detriment. Never more evident than in his 2016 Memoir Not Dead Yet. But I am getting way ahead of myself, more to come on that in another post.

Overall, this documentary gets an A+ in my opinion. It is chock full of great content, and generally leaves me feeling really positive. Phil is so happy and at ease in the interviews, looks handsome, healthy and well --and hearing from his immediate family, who seem to have a genuine love for each other, is a real treat. Some of the archival footage of Phil as a child, images of his Dad who passed away in 1972, rare Flaming Youth video, and many old photos all help make this film really special.

If you have never seen this documentary, it’s a must watch. If it’s been awhile, definitely take another look. And the 90-minutes of bonus material never gets old either. The one-hour career summary is also a great little promotion for why I started this page—this man deserves to be recognized for his contribution to music as a solo artist—this documentary speaks volumes about that fact.

Watching this great older content always makes me wish for those days...I guess that's called nostalgia, something I feel all too often.

I keep my fingers crossed --and never say never-- for some new stuff from Phil one day. And definitely look forward to the day when we can all celebrate him accepting his award as a solo artisit at the RRHOF Induction Ceremony!

Written by Traci Baker

Let me know what you think of this documentary. Links to the two segments are below.
And as always... thanks for helping to spread the word and do what you can to help #getphilvotedin

Please sign and share the petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/740/675/981/

Link to the one-hour documentary A Life Less Ordinary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5L0XwPJ1z0

Link to the 90-minute bonus material from A Life Less Ordinary:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3Xz7fIpqoo

#getphilvotedin

"Did You Know" that in 2008 Phil Collins was the first guest, on the first episode, in the firstseason of a TV Series called Songbook?

It was a series produced by Sky Arts in the UK. Hosted by Will Hodgkinson, it ran for four seasons over three years from 2008 - 2010. It was described as a talk show that featured exclusive acoustic performances and interviews with the legends responsible for some of the most famous songs of our times. Each acclaimed songwriter discusses his or her unique musical inspiration and writing processes before giving an exclusive intimate acoustic performance of some of their seminal songs.

So clearly Phil, as the first guest, on the first show in the first season means he is the most legendary, right!? I say YES!

Other notable guests over the years included Ray Davies, Midge Ure, Dianne Warren and Donovan, among others.

Phil’s interview is as candid and interesting as he always is. He covers the topics that are par for the course; how he became the singer of Genesis, how his ‘great sorrow’ (“THE divorce”) led to becoming a songwriter. How Against All Odds was almost a fluke, criticism over his writing Another Day in Paradise, and how on earth he managed to pull off a project like Tarzan are highlights covered in this very well done, interesting interview.

As usual, he is self-deprecating and far more humble than someone of his talent and accomplishment should be, but that is part of his charm isn’t it?

The “ordinary guy next door...” Rubbish! 

This is a living legend who deserves recognition for his significant contribution to music.

During the 47 or so minute show, the interview is interspersed with music. 

He plays four songs on the piano; 

In The Air Tonight, Against All Odds, Another Day in Paradise and You’ll be in My Heart. 

He is funny, interesting, insightful, and admits he can’t play some things—but then plays them. Although Against All Odds does pose a wee little challenge, as does You'll Be in My Heart... both of which are so endearing you want to reach out and hug him through the TV. Silly, self-deprecating, delightful, lovable Phil. Overall it’s beautiful, and a real treat to watch.

One highlight for me from the interview portion was the question the host posed to Phil as they were talking about the songs that ended up making Face Value.

Host Asks: “...if this hadn’t happened in your personal life, do you think it’s quite possible you wouldn’t have actually become a songwriter at all?”

Phil answers: “It’s quite possible, yeah. I mean it was a pivotal moment, you know like, I mean ah which always leads to the difficult question when someone says, ‘so if you could do anything again what would you do?’ How can I say, ‘well, I wouldn’t do anything different’ because that means that maybe I could have made that --tried harder (although it’s hard to believe that I did), I could have tried harder , but you make it work, and....you know...so it’s a difficult kind of question you know because that led to so much...that led to me standing on my own two feet more, being able to contribute more to the band, being able to write things that actually touched people which is why they went out and bought the record I guess.”

Kind of like the question posed about if he’d taken the job as the drummer for Yes, what would life had been like...? Can you imagine if Phil never went through the ‘great sorrow’ – we’d never have any of his amazing solo work? 

Impossible to imagine for me. And I don’t want to imagine it really.

And be sure you don’t miss the little nugget about his hand-written lyrics for “In the Air...” you will have to watch to hear that one... It’s been talked about since, but it seems like maybe this was the first time he shared it... not sure. But it’s a fun little tidbit.

Here is a link to watch the Songbook episode:

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JdMs85PpUw

If you have never seen this interview before—ENJOY! You are going to love it. If you have seen it, hoping this is a reminder of a really nice way to spend an hour or so. Cheers!

Written by Traci Baker

Please sign and share our BRAND NEW petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/740/675/981/

We need to get to 10,000 signatures and we are WAY far away form that number. It takes 30 seconds-just put your name, email and any address you want. Get your Mom, grandma and Aunt to sign if they ever hummed along to a Phil song—and you KNOW they have! 

We can do this!

#getphilvoted

“Did You Know” that among the many, many charitable efforts that Phil Collins has supported throughout his career, that he supports Elephant Parade?

Yes he does. You might be wondering just what is Elephant Parade…?

Elephant Parade® is a social enterprise and runs the world’s largest art exhibition of decorated elephant statues. Created by artists and celebrities, each Elephant Parade statue is a unique art piece. The life-size, baby elephant statues are exhibited in international cities and raise awareness for the need of elephant conservation.

Each Elephant Parade statue is a unique art piece. International cities always exhibit the life-size elephants and raise awareness for the need of elephant conservation. Limited edition, handcrafted replicas and a select range of products are created from the exhibition elephants.

The elephant he created is named “Elvis”. Phil lent his artistic talents to create Elvis for the Elephant Parade Swiss Tour 2020. 

2006 was the first elephant parade event by Marc Spits and his son Mike. The inspiration came from Marc Spits’ visit (while logging in Myanmar) to the elephant hospital in Thailand, which constructs prosthetic legs for elephants that encounter landmines. There he saw Mosha, a baby elephant who lost her foot when only seven months old. Thus the idea of the event came to existence.

The photo is of my very own Elvis replica. 

In addition to the great music, songwriting, and sheer entertainment that Phil has brought the world, not to mention his fantastic acting and his many other talents, this man has dedicated so much of his time, money and heart giving back through his many charitable endeavors. 

This is just one of many, many groups that he has supported throughout the years. I plan to share more did you know post about other charities that Phil has supported. 

Stay tuned, and in the meantime please continue to help #getphilvotedin by signing and sharing the petition… 

https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/740/675/981/

#getphilvotedin

Elephant Parade

Written By Traci Baker

Today’s “Did You Know” post is all about the Jubilee! In 2022, England and the commonwealth countries are officially celebrating the Platinum Jubilee, recognizing her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s 70 years of service. 

This weekend coming up marks a series of significant events in the Jubilee, including Trooping the Colour, and the Platinum Party at the Palace, a star-studded concert on the grounds of Buckingham Palace.

2022 is not the first year for the Party at the Palace concert…

In 2002 for her Golden Jubilee, a lineup of so many rockstars performed, it was stunning! People said it was the next best thing since Live Aid. And who was asked to be the “house band“ leader…? 

That’s right our very own Phil Collins!

Phil led a stellar house band from the drum kit, including Phil Palmer (guitar), Pino Palladino (bass), Paul Wickens (keyboards), Ray Cooper (percussion), and Eric Robinson (saxophone).

That year Brian May stunned everyone when he stood on the roof of Buckingham Palace and played “God Save the Queen” on his guitar. It was a moment anyone who saw it would never forget. Queen is opening the show this year, I wonder if Brian will do a repeat command performance!? 

The lineup that day were a who’s who of music legends… Just some of the people that performed were Annie Lennox, Ozzy Osbourne, Paul McCartney, Tom Jones, Bryan Adams, Queen, Rod Stewart, Ray Davies, Joe Cocker, Steve Winwood, Tony Bennett, Elton John, Brian Wilson, Eric Clapton and of course Phil Collins who took a moment away from the drum kit and did a fantastic version of “You Can’t Hurry Love.” Roger Taylor of Queen took over Phil‘s drumming duties during that song… 

Think about this, Phil Collins drummed for all of those people that day!!! Imagine the fortitude and musical knowledge he has to have to be able to do that!!! Amazing. 

Phil was widely praised for his efforts at the event, and he talks about having received personal notes and congratulations from people like Annie Lennox and Ozzy Osbourne, among others.

Phil has a long history working with the Royal Family; he was a Trustee with the Prince’s Trust and played many shows to benefit the trust. 

Phil tells a funny story that while at a Trust concert event, he was seated behind Prince Charles, and Michael Jackson was performing. Prince Charles turned around and said to Phil, ‘I’d like to have something like this at my birthday party, do you think you could arrange it?’ ..and of course, not one to disappoint, he answered, ‘Yes sir, let me see what I can do.’ 

I’ll be attending some of the Jubilee festivities in London this weekend, but don’t yet have my ticket for the concert, but I’m going to try to get one! 

I sure wish Phil was the band leader again this year, but he is not part of the announced lineup. I always keep my fingers crossed that he’ll make a surprise appearance… If he does you guys will be the first to know. 

Written By Traci Baker

#getphilvotedin! 

Post Script: August 6, 2022

I am populating content onto the site today, and I still wanted to share this post, even though it is a place in time. And for the record, Phil did not make a surprise appearance; however much I had my fingers crossed. 

Cheers--Traci 

Phil Collins has given untold time, items and money to many, many charities and individuals over the course of his 55+ year career in music. Today's "Did You Know" post is about one individual, Lorenzo, whose story moved Phil.

Lorenzo Odone is the boy whose story was told in the film "Lorenzo's Oil." Lorenzo suffered from a rare nerve disorder, ALD. His parents were told by doctor's that he would not live beyond childhood. 

Lorenzo was unable to speak, but with his mother's help over several years, she wrote the words to a poem (song) about his life, but needed help with the music, and said that Phil Collins was the only one he wanted to sing it. So, he asked Phil to help.

In an interview Phil gave in 1996, he shared that he was very flattered to have received Lorenzo's request. Phil says he'd seen the movie "Lorenzo's Oil," three times, and that Lorenzo's story moved him.

After Phil fininshed the song, he sent it to the family. He shared that Lorenzo's Mom had left a teary-voiced message on his answering machine with how much they loved the song. 

Phil planned to visit with Lorenzo and maybe even get him out to a show when he was next in the US.

The song appeared on Phil's 6th studio album, 1996's "Dance Into The Light." Lorenzo (via his Mom's name) was credited as co-writer on the song, and the royalties went to Lorenzo's charity. Phil performed it live on the Trip Into The Light world tour. You can see the song on the DVD release "LIve and Loose in Paris." 

(Link to see the video of song from Live and Loose: https://youtu.be/n0OIv3F6Zyg)

Lorenzo defied the odds and lived to see his 30th birthday. 

This is just one of many, many stories involving Phil's generous, charitable heart. Through music, Phil Collins gave back to the world, to charity and to individuals over and over. 

#getphilvotedin

Click to hear the officail audio of the song: https://youtu.be/QoRHqXujy6Y

Lyrics to Lorenzo:
Once upon a time I made a lion roar
He was sleeping in the sunbeams on the old zoo floor
I'd gone to see the park where my papa used to play
And It's called, called Villa Borghese and it's on the way

Ohh, to East Africa

Down on Grand Comoro Island, where I grew past four
Well I could swim and fish and snorkel on the ocean floor
And the wind laughed, and the wind laughed through the trees as if to say
Well here's a child who'll want the world to go his way

Ohh, in East Africa
Ohh, in East Africa
Come sing it

Suddenly for me the world turned upside down
Far from my friends the lions and the dolphins came this awful sound
Dark shadows, sounds of thunder raging over me
Came this monster called 'A-dre-no-leu-ko-dys-tro-phy' oh no

Ohh, where's my East Africa?

Well they said, they said, they said the ones who know it all
They said from now on for you there will be no more standing tall
So I took my parents hands, I lifted my head to say
Well I just have to be a hero, there ain't no other way, no other way

Ohh, back to East Africa
Ohh, back to East Africa
Ohh, back to East Africa
Back to East Africa, East Africa

Come with me I'm going back
I'm going back to East Africa
I'm going back, I'm going back
Come on

Come with me I'm going back
Come with me I'm going back
Come with me I'm going back
Come with me I'm going back

I'm going back to East Africa
Come with me, I'm going back
Come with me, come with me
Come with me, come with me
East Africa
I'm going back to East Africa

#getphilvotedin

Please sign and share the link to the petition to help #getphilvotedin
https://www.ipetitions.com/.../induct-phil-collins-into...

Did you see the film Lorenzo's Oil? What do you think about Phil's generous efforts for Lorenzo? Do you have your own story about Phil's generosity? Please share.

Written by Traci Baker