Nine of Phil Collins’ favorite songs from the 1970s according to Rock and Roll Garage

Throughout his music career, Phil Collins showcased a broad spectrum of musical influences ranging from Progressive Rock to R&B and Jazz. While Genesis allowed him to display some of these influences, it was during his solo endeavors that he truly explored various musical styles while maintaining his unique identity.

Early on in his career with Genesis, Collins often spoke about the artists and bands he admired. In 1978, he selected some of his favorite songs to be played on Worcester’s WAAF radio station, where he elaborated on why these tracks resonated with him.

One of the songs on Collins’ list was Santana’s “Promise of a Fisherman” from the album ‘Borboletta.’ He described the track as a joyous piece of music that served as an inspiration for Genesis’ song “Los Endos.” Collins emphasized the importance of ideas and arrangements, drawing from Santana’s album for creative inspiration.

Another track Collins highlighted was Brian Eno’s “No One Receiving.” Having collaborated with Eno on various albums, Collins praised the musician for his fresh and innovative ideas. He acknowledged Eno’s unique approach to music, appreciating the artist’s ability to create mesmerizing soundtrack moods that resonated with Collins’ own musical philosophy.

Collins also mentioned The Tubes’ “Got Yourself a Deal,” commending the band’s live album and their exceptional musicality. Despite the band’s relatively modest success at the time of Collins’ acknowledgment, he recognized The Tubes as a talented group with great potential.

Another song that caught Collins’ attention was Herbie Hancock’s “Good Question” from his new album featuring vocals. Collins preferred to focus on Hancock’s instrumental prowess, praising the lineup of talented musicians on the track, including Tony Williams and Jaco Pastorius. Collins had the opportunity to play with Hancock on one occasion during a jazz tribute event, showcasing his admiration for the legendary jazz artist.

By highlighting these songs as some of his favorites in the ’70s, Phil Collins provided insight into his musical tastes and influences. His eclectic selection reflected his appreciation for diverse genres and artists, showcasing his ability to draw inspiration from a wide range of musical sources. Through his musical journey with Genesis and his successful solo career, Collins continued to push the boundaries of creativity while staying true to his unique musical identity.