Phil Collins sends ‘incredible’ letter to Def Leppard drummer after accident
Two iconic drummers who have made indelible marks on the rock and pop music scenes are Phil Collins and Rick Allen. Phil Collins initially rose to fame as the drummer for the progressive rock band Genesis before transitioning into a successful solo career. On the other hand, Rick Allen held the drumming duties for the acclaimed British rock group Def Leppard. However, his journey took an unexpected turn when he lost his left arm in a tragic car accident in 1984.
The loss of Allen’s arm could have easily meant the end of his music career, but his incredible resilience and determination helped him make a remarkable comeback. Despite the daunting challenges he faced after the accident, Allen not only relearned how to play the drums but also inspired Def Leppard’s biggest commercial success with their album “Hysteria” in 1987.
In the wake of his life-altering accident, fellow drummer Phil Collins extended an extraordinary message of support, which Allen found immensely uplifting. Considering Allen’s reliance on both arms to play the drums, the accident seemed like an insurmountable hurdle. Still, Collins’ heartfelt gesture played a pivotal role in restoring Allen’s hope and confidence in his musical abilities. The encouragement provided by Collins, a highly respected drummer and global music superstar at the time, was truly a game-changer for Allen.
Despite the initial doubts and dark moments that followed the accident, Allen’s determination and the overwhelming support from fans and well-wishers, including Phil Collins, fueled his remarkable recovery journey. In his darkest moments post-accident, Allen received letters from fans worldwide, propelling him to rediscover the power of the human spirit. Embracing this newfound sense of purpose and inspiration, Allen found the strength to persevere and overcome the challenges that lay ahead on his road to recovery.
Allen’s path to reclaiming his place behind the drum kit was paved with dedication, hard work, and the unwavering support of his Def Leppard bandmates. Utilizing a customized drum kit that allowed him to trigger different sounds using his foot, Allen embarked on the journey to rediscover his rhythm and musical prowess. His triumphant return to the stage at the Monsters Of Rock festival in 1986, where Def Leppard performed hit songs such as “Pour Some Sugar On Me” and “Love Bites,” marked a significant milestone in his post-accident journey. Despite the odds, Allen emerged as a crucial member of Def Leppard, showcasing his indomitable spirit and resilience.
Reflecting on his life-altering accident, Allen noted that it catalyzed personal growth and transformation, portraying it as a blessing in disguise. The accident instilled in him a newfound sense of responsibility and gratitude, both towards himself and others, underscoring the profound impact of his recovery journey. Allen’s story serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of unwavering determination in overcoming adversities. His journey stands as a source of inspiration for many, highlighting the transformative power of perseverance, courage, and unwavering support.