Phil Collins has expressed anticipation for meeting Oasis at the upcoming Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, despite Noel Gallagher's past comments labeling him "the antichrist". Both Collins and the Gallagher brothers are set to be inducted in November alongside New Order and Iron Maiden.
Collins Relishes Hall of Fame Encounter
Collins, 75, told Mojo magazine that all inductees have been invited to a pre-ceremony lunch. "Which will be interesting, as I'm sure to bump into Oasis," he said. His actor daughter Lily had previously confronted Liam Gallagher at the Live Earth charity event, asking why Oasis hated her father. Liam reportedly replied, "I don't hate anybody, love."
Noel's History of Criticism
Noel Gallagher has a long history of disparaging Collins, once calling him the "antichrist of music" and stating in the 1990s that he wanted Collins's "severed head in my fridge by the end of the decade". Collins believes the animosity stems from Noel attending a Genesis concert while under the influence of drugs and being frightened by the performance, particularly the song "Mama". Collins told Mojo: "I think Mama is why Noel called me the antichrist. But I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt here, and assuming he doesn't really think I'm the antichrist."
Collins Fires Back
Collins acknowledged his own sensitivity to criticism but noted he sometimes responds. In 2005, he described Oasis as "rude, horrible… and not as talented as they think." It remains uncertain whether the Hall of Fame event will lead to reconciliation between the Gallaghers and Collins. New Order's induction also features a split, with bassist Peter Hook touring separately.
Health Battles and Sobriety
In the same interview, Collins discussed his health struggles. He revealed he is now three years sober and used crutches during the interview, though he can walk without them. During his 2021 tour, he was unable to play drums—a role filled by his son Nicholas—and performed seated. Collins stated he will not perform at the Hall of Fame event, saying, "I'm not match fit." However, he hinted at possible new music, mentioning "one strong idea" and a finished ballad written during a period of sorrow, adding that modern technology allows independent releases.
The full interview with Phil Collins appears in the September issue of Mojo magazine.
