Nic Collins, the son of music icon Phil Collins and Orianne Cevey, naturally gravitated towards drumming from a young age, starting when he was just two or three years old. The influence of his father, one of the world’s most renowned drummers, undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping Nic’s musical journey. However, Nic’s talent and dedication to his craft have solidified his own place in the music industry.
In 2009, when Nic was eight years old, Phil Collins faced health challenges after undergoing surgery on his vertebrae, rendering him unable to play the drums. As Phil navigated nerve issues and mobility limitations in the following years, Nic stepped up to fill his father’s shoes, initially serving as Phil’s drummer and later taking on the role for Genesis and Mike & the Mechanics.
Nic’s drumming prowess is evident in his performances, characterized by a clean and powerful sound that captivates audiences. Leland Sklar, an esteemed bassist who collaborated with Nic on Phil Collins’ Not Dead Yet Tour, attests to Nic’s exceptional talent and growth as a musician, praising his consistency and improvement throughout the tour.
Despite his familial connections, Nic’s success in the music industry is not attributed to nepotism but rather to his own merit and skill. Phil Collins made it clear that Nic earned his place on tour not because of his lineage but because of his talent and dedication to his craft.
In addition to his contributions to his father’s tours and Genesis, Nic is also involved in his own musical endeavors with his band, Better Strangers. With Better Strangers, Nic emphasizes authenticity and raw energy, performing in intimate club settings where the music speaks for itself.
Nic’s journey with Genesis culminated in The Last Domino? reunion tour, which saw the band reunite for the first time in thirteen years. Despite the tour facing disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Nic’s impressive drumming performances garnered acclaim from audiences and critics alike.
Currently, Nic is filling in for Gary Wallis as the drummer for Mike & the Mechanics’ Refuelled tour, showcasing his versatility and adaptability as a musician. For drum enthusiasts, Nic also offers insights into his father’s iconic Genesis grooves in a captivating hour-long breakdown video.
In essence, Nic Collins’ musical journey is a testament to his talent, dedication, and passion for drumming, proving that he is more than capable of making his mark in the music industry on his own terms.
I see/hear Phil has passed along some awesome talent. Looking forward to seeing more of his son playing in the future.