The One Drummer PHIL COLLINS Admired But Called Out For Having A Massive Ego: 'The Size of a Hotel'

Phil Collins wasn’t just the voice that brought pop stardom to Genesis. He also helped redefine how drums were recorded in the 1980s, built a massive solo career, and even teamed up with unexpected names, like when he played with Led Zeppelin.

Along the way, he worked with musicians who were just as talented as they were self-assured.

Collins often said he kept his own ego in check. Others, not so much. When talking about how punk evolved into more polished sounds, he mentioned his admiration for The Police.

But he couldn’t resist throwing a little shade at one of the band’s members.

According to Collins, Stewart Copeland, the drummer for The Police, had undeniable talent. Songs like “Message in a Bottle” and “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” speak for themselves.

Still, Collins said Copeland brought more than just rhythm to the stage, he also brought an ego that could barely fit in the room. His exact words? “The Police is one of my favorite bands. Stewart Copeland has an ego the size of this hotel, but he plays like hell.”

It didn’t come off as petty. More like a seasoned observation from someone who’s shared the room with more than a few strong personalities.

Collins and Copeland never worked together directly, but their circles did overlap, especially through Peter Gabriel, Collins’ longtime friend and Genesis bandmate, who collaborated with Copeland.

In the end, Collins seemed to understand that big egos come with big drumming. And honestly, considering how meticulous Copeland was in the studio, maybe it did take an ego the size of a hotel, luxury penthouse included.

Whether playing prog rock, scoring films, or delivering chart-topping pop, Collins constantly crossed paths with musicians who were as proud as they were skilled.

Maybe that’s why he managed to balance solo work and collaborations without burning bridges, even when those collaborations involved drummers with as much attitude as groove.

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