The Final Curtain: 7 Unforgettable Moments From Phil Collins' Last Concert

The question of "When was Phil Collins' last concert?" has a definitive, and emotional, answer. As of the current date, December 12, 2025, the legendary drummer and singer’s final live performance took place over two years ago. It was the closing night of the Genesis reunion tour, "The Last Domino?", a poignant farewell to one of rock music’s most enduring and successful acts.

This final show was not a solo affair but a collective bow with his bandmates, a fitting end to a career that began behind the drum kit. The event was steeped in history, featuring key band members, a surprise guest from the band's past, and a setlist that spanned decades of progressive rock and pop hits. It was a moment that cemented a final chapter in music history, confirming his retirement due to debilitating health issues.

Phil Collins: A Biographical Profile

Philip David Charles Collins is one of the most successful musicians of all time, known for his dual career as the drummer and later frontman of the progressive rock band Genesis, and as a massively successful solo artist.

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• Full Name: Philip David Charles Collins
• Born: January 30, 1951 (Age 74 as of 2025)
• Place of Birth: Chiswick, London, England
• Primary Roles: Singer, Drummer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Actor
• Career Highlights: Joined Genesis in 1970 as the drummer, became lead vocalist in 1975 after Peter Gabriel's departure. Launched a solo career in 1981 with the album *Face Value*. He is one of only three recording artists (alongside Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson) to have sold over 100 million albums worldwide both as a solo artist and as a principal band member.
• Iconic Solo Hits: "In the Air Tonight," "Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)," "Sussudio," "Another Day in Paradise," "You Can't Hurry Love."
• Awards: Eight Grammy Awards, two Golden Globes, an Academy Award (for the song "You'll Be in My Heart" from *Tarzan*), and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice (with Genesis in 2010 and as a solo artist).

The Last Domino?: Details of the Final Performance

The concert that marked the definitive end of Phil Collins' performance career took place on Saturday, March 26, 2022, at the O2 Arena in London, England.

The show was the final date of the long-awaited Genesis reunion tour, titled "The Last Domino?". The name itself hinted at the finality of the venture. Due to years of severe nerve and spinal issues that have left him unable to play the drums and requiring him to perform seated, Collins was joined by his son, Nic Collins, who masterfully took over the drumming duties.

The core trio of Genesis—Collins, keyboardist Tony Banks, and guitarist/bassist Mike Rutherford—shared the stage one last time. The performance was a testament to their enduring friendship and musical legacy, a final opportunity for fans to see the band that defined progressive and pop-rock for a generation.

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The emotional weight of the evening was palpable, especially during the final moments. Collins addressed the sold-out crowd with a simple, yet profound, statement: "Tonight is the last stop of the tour, and it's the last stop for Genesis. I'm sure we'll see you again." This understated farewell, given the circumstances of his health and the band's history, brought the curtain down on a 55-year career.

7 Unforgettable Moments from the O2 Arena Finale

The final Genesis concert was a carefully curated experience designed to honor their entire history. Here are seven of the most talked-about and unforgettable moments from that historic night:

1. The Return of Peter Gabriel

The most significant off-stage moment was the presence of original Genesis frontman, Peter Gabriel. Gabriel, who left the band in 1975, was seen in the audience, confirming the deep mutual respect between the former bandmates. His attendance symbolized a full-circle moment for the band's entire history, from their progressive rock roots to their pop-stardom era.

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2. Nic Collins’ Drumming Masterclass

Phil Collins' son, Nic Collins, was not just a replacement but a vital part of the show. His performance on the drums, particularly during complex tracks like "The Cinema Show," was widely praised by critics and fans for honoring his father’s style while bringing his own youthful energy. This allowed Phil to focus solely on his iconic vocals.

3. The 'Duke' Medley Opening

The show opened with the powerful "Duke's Intro," a blend of "Behind the Lines" and "Duke's End." This choice immediately signaled a commitment to their progressive rock catalog, satisfying long-time fans and setting an epic tone for the final performance.

4. The Emotional Ballad: "Follow You Follow Me"

This track, a key single from the 1978 album *...And Then There Were Three...*, served as a deeply emotional moment. As the band’s first major crossover hit, its performance on the final night was a touching nod to the shift in their sound that led to their global success.

5. The Signature Hits Segment

The setlist was a journey through the band's biggest hits, including "Turn It On Again," "Mama," and "Land of Confusion." These songs, known for their infectious energy and catchy hooks, reminded the audience of the band's incredible commercial peak in the 1980s.

6. The Prog-Rock Epic: "Home by the Sea" / "Second Home by the Sea"

To balance the pop hits, the band dove deep into their progressive rock catalog with the two-part suite "Home by the Sea" and "Second Home by the Sea." This showcased the musical dexterity of Tony Banks and Mike Rutherford, proving the band had not forgotten its complex, storytelling roots, even in their final show.

7. The Final Encore

The ultimate farewell came during the encore. While the exact final song varied slightly, the emotional peak was the band taking their final bow. Phil Collins, seated center stage, was visibly moved, acknowledging the end of his performing life. The final moments were a simple, heartfelt goodbye from three musical legends to their dedicated audience. The sheer finality of the moment, confirmed by Collins' own words, made it a truly historic event.

Phil Collins’ Health and Permanent Retirement

Phil Collins’ retirement from the stage is not a temporary break but a necessity driven by chronic health issues. The musician has openly discussed his struggles with a variety of ailments, primarily affecting his ability to move and drum.

The issues began with a dislocated vertebrae in his neck in 2007, which caused nerve damage in his hands, making it impossible for him to hold drumsticks properly. Subsequent back surgeries and nerve damage have affected his mobility, leading to his need to perform the entire "The Last Domino?" tour seated.

In various updates throughout 2024 and 2025, Collins has confirmed his inability to return to the stage, stating that he is still "coming to terms" with the fact that he will never perform again. While rumors of his health occasionally circulate, the truth remains that his final concert with Genesis on March 26, 2022, was indeed the last time the world saw him perform live.