Phil Collins Tour Update - September 14, 2004

Hello Everyone,

I'm sorry that it has taken this long to write something about the US tour. It's been quite a busy couple weeks. I think I'm settled in now.The US audience has surprised me. They are polite in the slow quiet songs and enthusiastic during the up songs. The polite part is the surprise. I guess they are maturing right along with us. Did I say "maturing"!

I actually think this shows song list is better geared or more suited for the American audience. There is a lot more of his radio hits. Plus Phil can speak English to the audience, which gives him more freedom and a more spontaneous banter with the crowd. Phil seems more relaxed and confident with the band and with himself lately as well. He's more of a seasoned Zen master now! 

We have done some editing of the set list too. The pacing is much better now. It feels like the 2 hour 15 minutes goes by so quickly. I think this works better for the American areas. We took out the songs from the "Brother Bear" Disney movie. I think most of the audience hadn't heard those songs unless they had seen the movie or bought the soundtrack. I think those songs work better in a more intimate setting. More of an "unplugged" type show.

I know (like in any show) there are always going to be songs that people wish we would have played. Phil would love to do them all too. But it's impossible to please everyone, even the band. But I think it's an excellent cross section of material that represents a couple decades of good song writing.

I will try to give updates when I can. Like I said earlier, it's been busy. Lots of travel and concerts in a row, but I'm not complaining. It's the greatest job one could ever have. Great Music, Great Boss, Good Paycheck, Good Catering, Enthusiastic Fans, Travel The World,......what's not to like!

Best Regards,

Daryl