Not Dead Yet: The Autobiography (2016)
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| Author | Phil Collins |
|---|---|
| Illustrator | |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Language | English |
| Subject | Autobiography, music career, personal life |
| Publisher | Century (UK) |
Publication date | October 2016 (UK) |
| Pages | 371 |
| ISBN | 978-1101907481 Search this book on  . |
Not Dead Yet: The Autobiography is the memoir of musician Phil Collins, released in October 2016. The book details Collins' life, covering both his rise to fame with the band Genesis and his successful solo career, alongside his personal struggles and relationships.[1]
Summary
Collins began working on his memoir after years of reflection on his life and career. The book, described as "embarrassingly honest,"[1] reveals aspects of Collins' personal life, including his marriages, divorces, struggles with alcohol, and health issues. He also shares stories about his rise to fame, including his time as a drummer and lead vocalist for Genesis, and his solo music career, which has included numerous hits. The book provides insight into Collins' complex personality, combining humor, humility, and vulnerability.[2][3]
The memoir is structured chronologically, with Collins reflecting on significant moments in his life.
Early Life and Beginnings
Collins recounts his early years in London, including his childhood and early influences in music. He writes about being part of the crowd in the 1964 film A Hard Day's Night as an 11-year-old, as well as his formative years as a drummer.
Genesis Era
The book covers his audition for Genesis in 1970, his rise as the band's drummer, and his eventual promotion to lead vocalist after Peter Gabriel's departure in 1975. Collins reflects on the band's journey and his role in their success.
Solo Success
Collins chronicles his solo career, including his breakthrough as a solo artist with hits like "In the Air Tonight." He discusses his work for the Tarzan movie soundtrack and his success as a pop icon, becoming one of the few artists to sell over 100 million records both as a solo artist and a member of Genesis.
Personal Struggles
In the memoir, Collins opens up about his personal life, including his marriages and divorces, his struggles with alcoholism, and his health problems, including a series of surgeries that led to his temporary retirement from music.
Reflection and Recovery
The final chapters deal with Collins' reflection on his life, his return to music, and the lessons he has learned along the way. He writes about his ongoing recovery and his renewed focus on his career after battling personal demons.
Publication and Editions
- "Not Dead Yet" was first published in the United Kingdom in October 2016 by Century. The United States edition, published by Crown Archetype, was released on 12 September 2017. The book was made available in hardcover, e-book, and audiobook formats, with Collins himself narrating the audiobook.
Reception
The memoir received generally positive reviews for its candid and honest approach. Critics praised Collins for his transparency and the insight the book provides into his career and personal life. However, some critics felt that certain sections of the book, particularly those discussing his early life, were overly detailed. Despite this, the book was lauded for its engaging narrative and Collins' ability to connect with readers on a personal level.[4][5]
Impact and Legacy
The title of the memoir also became the inspiration for Collins' 2017-2019 tour, the Not Dead Yet Tour.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Kieltypublished, Martin (2016-06-16). "Phil Collins confirms 'embarrassingly honest' memoir". Louder. Retrieved 2025-11-09.
- ↑ "Book excerpt: Phil Collins' "Not Dead Yet" - CBS News". www.cbsnews.com. 2016-10-22. Retrieved 2025-11-09.
- ↑ "Phil Collins Wants You to Know He Isn't Dead Yet (Published 2016)". 2016-11-17. Retrieved 2025-11-09.
- ↑ Morey, Bryan (2017-02-21). "Phil Collins at Face Value – "Not Dead Yet" Book Review". Progarchy. Retrieved 2025-11-09.
- ↑ Magazine, On: Yorkshire (2017-01-17). "Not Dead Yet: Phil Collins The Autobiography – Book Review". On: Yorkshire Magazine. Retrieved 2025-11-09.
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