PDF Summary:Not Dead Yet, by Phil Collins

Throughout his expansive musical career, Phil Collins navigated shifting roles — from a deft drummer with progressive rock band Genesis to a blockbuster solo artist producing multiple hit albums and singles. In Not Dead Yet, Collins reflects on this remarkable evolution, as well as the personal turmoil and triumphs that colored his journey.

The memoir provides an intimate look at Collins' multifaceted life, exploring his struggles with relationships, regrets surrounding his parenting, and his battle with partial hearing loss that prompted him to retire from touring. Collins recounts collaborations with various artists, his transition into film scoring, and his acclaimed musical contributions to Disney's animated classics.

(continued)...

Collins' Personal Affairs Under Media Scrutiny

Collins openly discusses how the media persistently scrutinized his personal life, particularly during the period when his union with Jill Tavelman was dissolving. Phil Collins narrates the sequence of events that culminated in "Faxgate," a scandal in which his private fax expressing a desire to separate became public through media exposure. He refutes the allegations that he exact his matrimonial union with his spouse through a fax, clarifying that it was a method of maintaining communication during a period of intense dedication to his career. The writer expresses his frustration with the way tabloid journalists frequently distort reality and doggedly chase after exaggerated reports. He recounts how the unwelcome invasion of his personal space adversely affected his relationship with his then-girlfriend, Orianne Cevey, who was thrust into the harsh spotlight of media attention. Collins recounts this period as deeply distressing, perceiving that control over his personal narrative was slipping away from him.

Practical Tips

• Engage in regular self-reflection to understand how public perception affects you. Keep a journal where you note down your feelings when you read about public figures' personal lives in the media. This can help you empathize with those in the spotlight and shape how you manage your own information.
• Create a personal protocol for handling sensitive documents by establishing a clear set of rules for their storage and transmission. This could involve setting up a secure, password-protected folder on your computer for private documents and always double-checking recipient information before sending anything. Additionally, consider shredding physical copies of sensitive documents instead of simply throwing them away.
• Implement a 'single-task' communication method during peak hours: Choose a time during your workday when you're typically the busiest and commit to using only one form of communication, such as email or phone calls. This can help you stay focused and efficient, reducing the cognitive load that comes with juggling multiple communication platforms simultaneously.
• Create a "truth scale" for articles you come across, rating them from 1 (completely false) to 10 (wholly accurate), based on your own research from multiple sources. This will help you develop a more nuanced understanding of the reliability of different news sources. For instance, after reading an article about a political event, look up the same event in different outlets and use your scale to determine its reliability.
• Create a "media intrusion emergency plan" for yourself. This involves identifying signs of media overreach in your life, such as feeling anxious when your phone pings with notifications, and having a set of actions to take when this happens, like turning off notifications for a set period or having a designated 'no media' time each day.
• Create a personal mission statement that outlines your values, goals, and what you stand for. This statement serves as a compass for your actions and decisions, ensuring they align with how you want to be perceived. For instance, if your mission includes being a supportive friend, make a conscious effort to reach out and offer help when your friends are in need, reinforcing that aspect of your narrative.

Collins, His Children, and Divorce Challenges

This section of the autobiography openly discusses the impact of marital breakdown on both Phil Collins and his children, highlighting his dedication to maintaining family connections despite the distance and intricate feelings involved in the separation.

Difficulties of Shared Custody and Relationships With Children

Throughout the narrative, Collins openly discusses the challenges of balancing his role as a co-parent and establishing a strong bond with his children while navigating the intense pressures of his career in the show business sector. He speaks about the emotional pain he endures during the periods he is separated from his children after their shared moments and the obstacles he encounters in preserving a connection with them when they are apart. He reveals moments of profound guilt and self-reproach for squandering opportunities and for his inconsistency as a dependable presence in their lives. He reflects on the difficulties of reconnecting with his adult children following a prolonged absence and the persistent concern that their family connections might diminish as time passes.

Context

• Emotional strain can arise from missing significant milestones or daily interactions with children due to work commitments.
• The psychological impact of separation can affect both the parent and the children, potentially leading to anxiety, stress, and a sense of instability in family relationships.
• The entertainment industry often involves irregular hours and commitments, making it difficult to establish a consistent routine with children.
• Co-parenting involves coordinating with an ex-partner to make decisions about the children's welfare, which can be complicated by differing parenting styles and the logistics of shared custody.
• Trust may need to be rebuilt if children feel abandoned or neglected during the parent’s absence, requiring time and effort to restore.
• Differences in communication styles and preferences, especially across generations, can hinder effective interaction and understanding.

Guilt and Regret Over Missed Family Moments

Phil Collins openly regrets his absence during crucial milestones and major accomplishments in his children's lives. He attributes these emotions to the rigorous demands of his career and his personal battles with placing family before work commitments. He contemplates the periods when his professional aspirations took precedence over his parental duties, leading to his absence from the births of his children, school events, and the everyday moments of connection that he currently cherishes. The artist expresses regret that influenced his determination to play a greater role in raising his children, Nicholas and Mathew, and in his attempts to make amends for past parenting mistakes.

Context

• The pressures of fame and the entertainment industry can lead to personal struggles, including issues with mental health and substance use, which can impact family relationships.
• The transition from being a public figure to a private family member can be challenging, as the skills and behaviors valued in each role can be quite different.
• Collins' reflections are part of a broader narrative where many public figures later express regret over missing family moments due to career demands, highlighting a common struggle between work and family life.
• The music industry in the 1980s and 1990s, when Collins was most active, was highly demanding, with artists frequently spending long periods away from home to promote albums and perform live.

Collins' professional endeavors were significantly impacted by his hearing loss.

The section explores the significant impact of Collins' sudden hearing loss on his career, highlighting his struggle with physical limitations, dependence on medical interventions, and his resolute choice to stop performing live.

Gradual Deterioration of Collins' Hearing Ability

Collins candidly discusses his sudden and partial hearing impairment, initially attributing it to a loud noise in the recording studio, but it was later identified as the consequence of an ear stroke caused by an infection. He describes the initial fear and unease at the possibility of permanent hearing loss, along with the frustration of attempting to listen and perform, and the uncertainties about his future in the music industry. This event, he reflects, marked a turning point in his life and career, forcing him to confront his physical limitations and to reassess his priorities.

Dependence on Medication and Interventions For Voice Maintenance

Collins explores the challenges of maintaining his singing voice while on tour, particularly his dependence on cortisone injections that, although they diminished inflammation within his vocal folds, also led to a variety of negative side effects. He reveals his constant concern over his singing abilities, the fear of letting down his admirers, and the drastic steps he would undertake to ensure his shows went on, even if it might harm his health. He recounts incidents where medical interventions alleviated the immediate problem, enabling him to perform, but ultimately came with long-term consequences, such as water retention, mood swings, and potentially even bone deterioration. This dependence, he suggests, reflects his determination to fulfill his obligations to fans and bandmates, but also highlights the precariousness of his career and the unsustainable nature of his working habits.

Other Perspectives

• Dependence on medical interventions like cortisone injections may indicate a lack of adequate vocal care and rest, which are essential for long-term vocal health.
• The side effects of cortisone injections can vary greatly among individuals, and not all users will experience significant negative consequences.
• It could be argued that exploring alternative, less harmful methods for voice maintenance and setting realistic performance schedules could alleviate the pressure without compromising the artist's health or disappointing fans.
• Collins' actions may not be as drastic as they seem if they are common practice within the industry, and if the risks are well-managed and understood.
• The potential for bone deterioration is a serious concern, but it is typically associated with long-term and high-dose use of corticosteroids; short-term or infrequent use may have a much lower risk.
• The use of medication under such circumstances might raise ethical concerns about the pressures placed on performers to meet expectations at the cost of their well-being.
• The decision to use medical interventions could be framed as a calculated risk taken by an informed professional, rather than an inherently unsustainable choice.

The difficulties encountered when performing live with reduced hearing.

Collins reveals the difficulties, both practical and emotional, of performing live with impaired hearing. He describes the challenge of managing his singing responsibilities alongside the band's sound dynamics, while admitting to the restricted variety of sounds and sharing his frustration with the reduced power and precision he encountered during his drum performances. He relays the insecurities that arose from these limitations and his fear of being judged negatively by audiences. Collins made the decision in 2005 to halt his individual touring, solidifying his commitment to a lifestyle with less pressure.

Practical Tips

• Develop a support system that communicates in alternative ways to compensate for sensory challenges during live performances. If you're part of a band or ensemble, establish visual cues or gestures that can help guide you through the performance without relying solely on auditory feedback.
• Try using a visual sound level app during rehearsals to monitor the volume of your voice compared to the instruments in real-time. This immediate visual feedback can help you adjust on the spot, ensuring a more cohesive sound. Look for apps that display decibel levels for different sound sources and aim to keep your vocals within a target range that complements the band's overall sound.
• Improve your drumming power and precision by practicing with weighted drumsticks. You don't need to buy special sticks; you can make your own by wrapping small weights or heavy bands around the base of your existing sticks. This will increase the effort required to play, which can strengthen your wrists and forearms. When you switch back to regular sticks, you may notice an improvement in your playing power and precision.
• Develop a feedback exchange with a trusted friend where you both share your creative or professional work and provide constructive criticism. This practice helps you get accustomed to receiving feedback, which can reduce the fear of negative judgment. You could share recorded speeches or presentations with your friend, and in turn, listen to their projects, fostering a supportive environment for growth.
• Assess your commitments by creating a "pressure inventory" to identify what activities increase your stress levels. Start by listing all your regular activities and rate them on a scale of 1-10 based on how much pressure they add to your life. For example, if you're a musician who feels overwhelmed by a busy gig schedule, you might rate each type of performance according to the stress it causes, from rehearsals to live shows.

Phil Collins resolved to put an end to his live performances.

In this section, Collins explains his decision to stop live performances, both solo and with Genesis, as a crucial response to his deteriorating hearing, changing personal pursuits, and a heightened focus on family time.

Acceptance of Limitations and Shift In Priorities

Collins clarifies that his decision to cease touring was shaped by a comprehensive evaluation of his personal values and objectives, rather than solely by the challenges with his hearing. Phil Collins realized that the rigorous nature of being on the road was harmful to his health and happiness, and it also interfered with his capacity to be present for his family and perform his responsibilities as a spouse. He acknowledges the difficulty of stepping away from a career that has been his life's work, but he also expresses a sense of newfound freedom and relief. This shift, he suggests, reflects a desire to embrace a simpler life and to prioritize relationships over professional ambition.

Practical Tips

• Engage in a "Skill Swap" with friends or acquaintances who have different careers. Spend a day shadowing each other or teaching each other the basics of your respective jobs. This can provide a hands-on experience of a different career, potentially easing the fear of the unknown and making the idea of a career change less daunting.
• Create a 'Top 5' rule for your commitments, where you only keep the five most important activities or projects that align with your simpler life goals. For each new opportunity that arises, evaluate whether it's more important than your current commitments. If not, politely decline. This helps you stay focused on what truly matters and prevents overcommitting, which can lead to stress and less time for relationships.

Exploring Alternative Creative Outlets: Film and Theatrical Scoring

Collins recounts that his participation in composing music for films and theatrical works allowed him to work within the familiar confines of his own residence, which in turn lessened the need for frequent live shows and afforded him more time to spend with his loved ones. Phil Collins embraced a distinctive and rewarding creative task when he crafted music for Disney's animated features "Tarzan" in 1999 and "Brother Bear" in 2003, which involved collaborating closely with movie producers and adapting his style of music to suit a different medium. He takes great pride in his accomplishments, particularly the accolades received by his song "You'll Be in My Heart" from Tarzan, such as securing the esteemed Oscar for Best Original Song along with a Golden Globe. The shift allowed him to pursue his musical dreams while lessening the pressure linked to live performances.

Practical Tips

• Collaborate with a local theater group by offering to design soundscapes or simple musical themes for their upcoming production. This can be as straightforward as curating pre-existing music or using apps like Music Maker JAM to craft original pieces that enhance the theatrical experience.
• Develop your understanding of music's role in setting a scene by re-scoring a scene from a public domain silent film. Use a digital audio workstation (DAW) like Audacity, which is free, to overlay your chosen music onto the film clip. This exercise will give you hands-on experience with how music can change the perception of visual content.
• Explore your own storytelling abilities by writing a song or poem that could serve as a theme for a personal or fictional story, focusing on conveying a strong emotional message. Start by identifying a narrative that resonates with you, whether it's from your life or a story you've imagined, and then express the core emotions or themes through lyrics or poetry. This creative exercise can help you understand the power of thematic music in storytelling.

Other Perspectives

• While reducing live shows might afford more family time, it could also limit the exposure and reach of an artist, as live performances are a key way to build and maintain a fan base.
• Success in scoring for major films often leads to more offers and opportunities, which could lead to a busier schedule, potentially reducing the time available to spend with loved ones.
• The statement doesn't acknowledge the contributions of other individuals in the film scoring process, such as orchestrators, sound engineers, and musicians, who also play significant roles in bringing a film score to life.
• Adapting to a different medium like film might require a composer to follow certain industry standards or trends, which could be seen as a constraint rather than a purely creative endeavor.
• While the shift to film and theatrical scoring allowed for a different pursuit of musical dreams, it may not encompass all aspects of what one considers their musical dreams, such as live improvisation and interaction with a live audience.
• The process of scoring for film and theater often involves tight deadlines and the need to revise work based on feedback from multiple stakeholders, which can be a source of pressure not typically encountered in live performances.

Collins' Projects, Comeback, and Legacy Reflection

This final section delves into Collins' life after retiring, emphasizing his reflection on the impact of his music and his decision to come together again with Genesis for a sequence of live shows. He talks about his role in crafting music for theatrical shows and films, opting to record renditions of soul classics, and his attempts to make peace with his history while rebuilding relationships with past collaborators.

Collins transitioned to creating scores for movies and theatrical performances.

Collins delves into the complexities of composing scores for animated films, sharing insights from his own experiences, with a particular focus on his contributions to Disney's production of Tarzan. Phil Collins details his close partnership with directors and animators, highlighting how he tailored his musical scores to accommodate the evolving needs of narrative. He also reveals the difficulties he encountered while having to sing his songs in various languages for the distinct editions of Tarzan. This change in perspective, he suggests, enabled him to explore his creativity with renewed excitement, enhancing his range of artistic contributions and contributing enduringly to the heritage of these classic movies.

Phil Collins greatly enhanced the soundtracks for Disney's animated features "Tarzan" and "Brother Bear."

Collins delves into his foray into film score composition, reflecting on his initial hesitations and eventual embrace of the distinct challenges that come with creating music for movies, including "Brother Bear." He describes how a simple lullaby intended for his daughter Lily evolved into the film's most memorable song, "You'll Be in My Heart," highlighting his contribution as the lead singer and marking a departure from Disney's traditional approach. He recounts the initial difficulties he faced while teaching artists like Glenn Close to grasp the distinctive beats and inherent percussion of his compositions, a process that culminated in his choice to personally deliver most of the musical numbers. He is immensely proud of the recognition and honors his contributions to the Tarzan soundtrack have received, particularly the esteemed awards for his song "You'll Be in My Heart," such as an Oscar and a Golden Globe.

Context

• For "Brother Bear," Collins not only composed the music but also performed several songs in multiple languages for the international versions of the film, demonstrating his versatility and global appeal.
• Success in film scoring can lead to recognition in a different industry, which may have been a motivating factor for Collins to embrace this new avenue despite initial hesitations.
• "You'll Be in My Heart" won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2000, highlighting its critical acclaim and popularity.
• The song serves as a lullaby sung by the character Kala, a gorilla, to her adopted human son, Tarzan, in the film.
• Collins' approach involved a more contemporary pop and rock influence, which was less common in Disney's previous animated features, bringing a modern sound to the films.
• Working with actors who are not primarily singers might involve different teaching methods and patience, as they may need more guidance in musical interpretation and timing.
• The success of the "Tarzan" soundtrack helped to further bridge the gap between mainstream pop music and animated film scores, influencing future collaborations in the industry.

Challenges of Adapting Songwriting Style to New Mediums

The artist contemplates the intricacies of modifying his songwriting technique to align with the cooperative and story-focused demands of composing scores for animated features. Phil Collins reflects on his collaboration with directors, animators, and music producers, reconnecting with a familiar team-oriented creative process reminiscent of his time with Genesis, as he adapts his music to complement the narrative of the film.

Context

• Animated features often target a broader and younger audience, requiring music that is accessible and engaging for children while still appealing to adults.
• In film scoring, recurring themes and motifs are used to create continuity and reinforce the narrative, which may differ from the structure of standalone songs.
• Working in a team often involves receiving and integrating feedback, which can refine and enhance the final musical product, a process familiar to those with band experience.

Phil Collins' triumphant return to the music industry and his lasting influence.

This section underscores Collins' reemergence in the music industry, fueled by his pursuit of creative fulfillment and his desire to connect with his children, leading to a series of introspective endeavors and a rejuvenated series of performances alongside Genesis.

Phil Collins engaged in joint projects and renewed his partnership with Genesis.

Despite initial hesitations and ongoing health issues, Collins eventually agreed to join Genesis for their 2007 tour. The "Turn It On Again" tour, signaling the culmination of Phil Collins's thirty-year association with the group, drew in a multitude of fans and allowed him to rekindle relationships with his bandmates and the fans. This assembly also set the stage for revitalized collaborations, culminating in the creation of works that celebrate their legacy, including a film chronicling the story of Genesis. In 2014, "Together and Apart" was unveiled, featuring a distinctive collection that combined Genesis's most popular tracks with the solo triumphs of its five members for the first time. The band's collective endeavors were pivotal in fostering self-reflection about their unique contributions to the band's legacy and played a key role in quashing ongoing rumors of a rift between Gabriel and Collins. The author's depiction of the event reaffirmed his commitment to resolving past disputes and celebrating their collective achievements.

Context

• The tour was an opportunity to address and mend any past tensions within the band, particularly between Collins and other members, fostering a renewed sense of camaraderie.
• The "Turn It On Again" tour was not only a commercial success but also a nostalgic event for fans, celebrating the band's extensive catalog and history, and reinforcing their legacy in rock music.
• Successful tours can positively influence public and media perceptions, countering any negative narratives or rumors about the band’s internal dynamics or future.
• The core members during their most successful periods included Tony Banks, Mike Rutherford, and Phil Collins. Peter Gabriel and Steve Hackett were also key members during the early years.
• Sum of the Parts," was released in 2014. It explores the history of Genesis, highlighting both the band's collective work and the individual achievements of its members.
• Gabriel left Genesis in 1975 to pursue a solo career, which led to widespread rumors of a rift, as his departure marked a significant change in the band's direction and sound.
• The documentary and subsequent projects served as a platform for Collins and Gabriel to publicly address and dispel rumors of discord, emphasizing their mutual respect and shared history.

Phil Collins' lasting impact and substantial contributions are reassessed with regard to their impact on the musical scene.

Collins contemplates his lasting impact within the realm of music production, acknowledging its positive and negative aspects. He reflects on his remarkable accomplishments in the music industry during the 1980s, the intense public attention he received as a result of his widespread notoriety, and the rekindled admiration for his musical creations. He finds joy in influencing up-and-coming artists in rhythm and blues and rap, and he embraces the prospect of creating new tunes. Collins views his path through the music industry as a fulfilling endeavor, showcasing his creative resilience and persistent vigor, even in the face of personal challenges and career setbacks. Phil Collins acknowledges the toll that his career in drumming has taken on his body and is keen to explore fresh avenues of creativity, prioritizing his family and well-being while contemplating a return to writing music.

Context

• Collins' music videos were among the early adopters of narrative storytelling, contributing to the evolution of the music video as an art form.
• As a solo artist, Collins released several hit albums in the 1980s, including "Face Value" and "No Jacket Required," which featured chart-topping singles.
• Phil Collins gained widespread notoriety largely due to his successful solo career, which included hits like "In the Air Tonight" and "Against All Odds." His ability to blend pop and rock elements made his music widely appealing.
• Tribute concerts and covers by other artists have helped reignite interest in his music, showcasing its enduring appeal and relevance.
• Collins' use of the gated reverb drum sound, popularized in the 1980s, has been a significant influence on the sound of contemporary rhythm and blues and rap music.
• Advances in music production technology might offer Collins new tools and methods to experiment with sound and composition, potentially leading to innovative musical projects.
• His work is characterized by a distinctive drumming style and emotive vocal performances, which have influenced a wide range of musicians across different genres.
• His personal life included multiple divorces and family challenges, which were often publicized and scrutinized by the media.
• Many drummers experience hearing loss or tinnitus from prolonged exposure to loud music, which can be a significant occupational hazard in the music industry.
• Phil Collins has faced significant health issues, including nerve damage and back problems, which have affected his ability to perform, particularly as a drummer. This has prompted him to consider other creative outlets that are less physically demanding.
• The shift in focus reflects a broader trend among artists who, after achieving significant success, choose to step back from the spotlight to concentrate on personal life and health.
• As an artist with a significant legacy, Collins might be motivated to return to writing music to further shape how he is remembered and to add to his body of work.