Phil Collins on Why Pet Shop Boys Are One of the Best Musical Acts in History

For decades, Phil Collins has been a defining voice in popular music, leading Genesis to worldwide fame before embarking on a solo career that saw him dominate the 1980s and beyond. Known for his impeccable songwriting, emotive vocals, and masterful drumming, Collins is no stranger to musical excellence. But if you ask him about the greatest musical acts in history, you might be surprised by one of his top picks—Pet Shop Boys.

A Unique Sound That Redefined Pop Music

Phil Collins, a man who appreciates both technical mastery and emotional depth in music, has often spoken about how Pet Shop Boys revolutionized the pop and electronic music landscape. Their blend of synth-driven melodies, sophisticated lyricism, and theatrical performances set them apart in an era dominated by guitar-heavy rock and bubblegum pop.

“Pet Shop Boys didn’t just write pop songs,” Collins once remarked in an interview. “They crafted soundscapes—music that was atmospheric, emotionally charged, and endlessly innovative.”

Lyrical Brilliance and Storytelling

Collins, who built his career on deeply personal and storytelling-driven songs like Against All Odds and In the Air Tonight, appreciates artists who can translate emotions into music. Pet Shop Boys’ Neil Tennant and Chris Lowemastered this art, often blending melancholic themes with upbeat, danceable rhythms.

Songs like West End Girls, It’s a Sin, and Being Boring weren’t just catchy—they were socio-political statements wrapped in elegant electronic production. Collins, a fan of intelligent songwriting, sees them as pioneers of the genre, proving that dance music could have substance.

Longevity and Reinvention

Few bands have had the staying power of Pet Shop Boys. Since their breakthrough in the mid-’80s, they have consistently reinvented their sound without losing their core identity—something Collins, as both a Genesis frontman and solo artist, knows is incredibly difficult.

“When you look at their career, you see a band that never faded into obscurity,” Collins has noted. “They evolved with the times but never chased trends. They were the trendsetters.”

Influence on Modern Music

Collins also acknowledges that Pet Shop Boys’ influence on modern pop and electronic music is undeniable. From artists like Lady Gaga to The Weeknd, their fingerprints are everywhere in today’s music scene.

“If you listen closely, you can hear traces of their synth-driven melodies in some of today’s biggest hits,” Collins said. “They were ahead of their time, and the industry is still catching up.”

Final Thoughts

For someone like Phil Collins—who has seen it all, from progressive rock with Genesis to chart-topping solo ballads—to consider Pet Shop Boys as one of the greatest musical acts in history speaks volumes. Their impact on the industry, their ability to balance artistry with commercial success, and their fearless approach to music make them legendary.

In a world where pop music often feels disposable, Pet Shop Boys stand as proof that great music can be timeless. And for Phil Collins, that’s what truly makes them one of the best.