Phil Collins Says Taylor Swift Truly Deserves Her Success
Legendary musician Phil Collins has shared heartfelt praise for Taylor Swift, calling the global superstar someone who has genuinely earned her incredible success.
During an interview with BBC Radio 2, published on August 2, the former Genesis frontman spoke warmly about Swift’s career, saying he has admired her for years and believes her achievements are well deserved.
“I’m so pleased that she’s the hugest thing in the world now because she kind of feels like she deserves it,” Collins said. “It’s easy to knock someone that’s got so much success, but I think she really deserves it.”
His comments have resonated with music fans across generations, highlighting the respect shared between two artists from very different eras.
Phil Collins Reveals His Favorite Taylor Swift Song
Collins also revealed that “White Horse” holds a special place in his heart.
The song, originally released on Taylor Swift’s Fearless album, was included among the ten songs that have soundtracked Collins’ life.
According to Collins, he first heard the song in 2010, when Swift performed it live at a Songwriters Hall of Fame event.
His daughter, actress Lily Collins, introduced him to Swift around that time.
Although Collins knew of Swift’s name, she had not yet become the worldwide icon she is today.
The Performance That Left Phil Collins Speechless
Recalling the unforgettable performance, Collins described how Swift walked on stage with nothing more than her guitar and delivered an emotional rendition of “White Horse.”
He admitted the performance completely surprised him.
“It blew me away completely.”
He continued by praising not only the songwriting but also the sincerity of the performance.
“The song was great, the sentiment really got me, she sang it beautifully, and it was just so simple—her on a guitar.”
Since that night, Collins says he has always had a soft spot for the song.
Phil Collins’ Recent Health Struggles
The interview came shortly after Collins spoke publicly about serious health challenges.
In a separate interview with The Sunday Times, he revealed that he came close to dying after being hospitalized in April 2024 due to complications related to heavy drinking.
The 75-year-old music icon has previously shared that ongoing health issues have significantly affected his daily life.
He now reportedly requires 24-hour care and said in 2025 that he no longer feels the desire to create new music because of his condition.
Despite stepping away from performing following Genesis’ farewell tour, Collins remains one of the most influential artists in rock history.
Why Phil Collins’ Praise Matters
Praise from Phil Collins carries significant weight in the music industry.
With decades of success as both a solo artist and the drummer and vocalist of Genesis, Collins has inspired countless musicians around the world.
His admiration for Taylor Swift highlights the universal appeal of her songwriting and live performances, proving that great music can transcend generations and genres.
Swift has earned recognition from artists across pop, rock, country, and classical music, and Collins’ comments add another legendary voice to that growing list.
Taylor Swift’s Lasting Impact
Taylor Swift has evolved from a teenage country singer into one of the most successful recording artists in history.
Known for her storytelling, songwriting, and record-breaking tours, she continues to attract admiration from fellow musicians as well as millions of fans worldwide.
For Phil Collins, however, the magic wasn’t found in sold-out stadiums or chart records—it was in one simple performance of “White Horse” with nothing but a guitar.
Sometimes, the quietest moments leave the deepest impression.
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FAQs
What did Phil Collins say about Taylor Swift?
Phil Collins said Taylor Swift deserves her enormous success and believes she has earned her place as one of the world’s biggest music stars.
What is Phil Collins’ favorite Taylor Swift song?
Collins revealed that “White Horse” is his favorite Taylor Swift song and said he has had a soft spot for it since hearing her perform it live in 2010.
How did Phil Collins first meet Taylor Swift?
Phil Collins said his daughter, actress Lily Collins, introduced him to Taylor Swift around the time of a Songwriters Hall of Fame event in 2010.
Is Phil Collins still making music?
Phil Collins has said that ongoing health issues have reduced his desire to make new music, and he has stepped away from performing.