The Drum Solo Heard ‘Round the World: Phil Collins’ ‘In the Air Tonight’

Introduction

“In the Air Tonight” is not just a song; it’s a musical journey that has transcended time and genre. Released by the iconic British singer and songwriter Phil Collins in 1981, this masterpiece continues to captivate and mesmerize audiences across the globe. With its haunting lyrics, distinctive drum solo, and emotional intensity, it’s no wonder that this track remains a timeless classic in the realm of music.

Did You Know?

• The Genesis of ‘In the Air Tonight’: Phil Collins wrote this iconic song during a tumultuous period in his life, drawing from his own emotional experiences. The haunting lyrics and haunting atmosphere were a reflection of the artist’s inner turmoil.
• The Mythical Drum Solo: Perhaps one of the most legendary aspects of the song is its epic drum solo. The story goes that Collins recorded the drums in one take, creating a raw and unforgettable moment that has been imitated but never duplicated in the music industry.
• Viral Resurgence: In recent years, “In the Air Tonight” had a viral resurgence thanks to a viral video challenge where people synced the iconic drum fill to various dramatic moments. This viral sensation reintroduced the song to a new generation of music enthusiasts.

Video

Lyrics: In the Air Tonight

I can feel it coming in the air tonight, oh Lord
And I’ve been waiting for this moment for all my life, Oh Lord
Can you feel it coming in the air tonight, oh Lord, oh LordWell, if you told me you were drowning
I would not lend a hand
I’ve seen your face before my friend
But I don’t know if you know who I am
Well, I was there and I saw what you did
I saw it with my own two eyes
So you can wipe off that grin,
I know where you’ve been
It’s all been a pack of lies

And I can feel it coming in the air tonight, oh Lord
Well, I’ve been waiting for this moment for all my life, oh Lord
I can feel it coming in the air tonight, oh Lord
And I’ve been waiting for this moment for all my life, oh Lord, oh Lord

Well I remember, I remember don’t worry
How could I ever forget,
It’s the first time, the last time we ever met
But I know the reason why you keep your silence up,
No you don’t fool me
The hurt doesn’t show
But the pain still grows
It’s no stranger to you and me

And I can feel it coming in the air tonight, oh Lord
Well, I’ve been waiting for this moment for all my life, oh Lord
I can feel it in the air tonight, oh Lord, oh Lord
But I’ve been waiting for this moment for all my life, oh Lord
I can feel it coming in the air tonight, oh Lord
But I’ve been waiting for this moment for all my life, oh Lord
I can feel it in the air tonight, oh Lord, oh Lord, oh Lord
But I’ve been waiting for this moment for all my life, oh Lord, oh Lord