Who are the members of Genesis and why did they break up?

GENESIS is remembered for their hit singles Invisible Touch and That’s All.

After reuniting for their The Last Domino? Tour, the Grammy Award-winning band split up one final time.

Who are the members of Genesis?

Formed in 1967, the original band members of Genesis included:

• Peter Gabriel
• Tony Banks
• Anthony Phillips
• Mike Rutherford
• Chris Stewart

Peter Gabriel and the four founding members put Genesis together while attending Charterhouse School in Surrey, England.

Since their formation, the group has seen a rotation of bandmates.

Subsequent members of Genesis consist of:

• John Silver
• John Mayhew
• Phil Collins
• Mick Barnard
• Steve Hackett
• Ray Wilson

In August 1970, Phil Collins joined the lineup after impressing the band at an audition held at Peter’s parents’ house in Surrey.

“My only knowledge of Genesis was through seeing the ads for their gigs,” Phil recalled in the group’s 2007 book.

“It seemed like they were constantly working…I thought, ‘At least I’m going to be working if I get the gig.'”

Regarding Phil’s audition, Peter remembered: “Just the way he sat down on the stool, I knew he was going to be good.

“Some people have this sort of confidence about what they do.”

When did Peter Gabriel leave Genesis?

On August 15, 1975, Peter announced he was leaving Genesis to explore endeavors outside of the group.

At the time, the Sledgehammer singer also mentioned he was becoming disillusioned with the music industry and wanted to spend more time with his family.

A year prior to his departure, his wife Jill Moore gave birth to their first daughter Anna-Marie.

“There was all this big-time stuff happening with long tours being planned way in the future, and I just felt I was getting to be part of a machine,” Peter explained in the band’s 2007 documentary.

“I felt I was becoming a sort of stereotype, sort of ‘rock star,’ or falling into wanting that ego gratification.

“I didn’t like myself, I didn’t like the situation, and I didn’t feel free.

“I was the first to have a baby and they didn’t have any understanding of how it changes the way you feel.

“For me, there was no question about priorities. That…I think pissed off the band too.”

When did Phil Collins leave Genesis?

On March 28, 1996, Phil announced he was leaving Genesis to focus on his solo career.

In a statement, he revealed: “Having been with Genesis for 25 years, I felt it time to change direction in my musical life.

“For me now it will be music for movies, some jazz projects, and of course, my solo career.

“I wish the guys in Genesis all the very best in their future. We remain the best of friends.”

Meanwhile, the band commented: “For the past 20 years, drummer Phil Collins has been temping as a singer, to great acclaim.

“Now, however, he has decided to move on in order to concentrate on his solo projects.”

Phil went on to reunite with the group several times, including their final concert series The Last Domino? Tour.

Why did Genesis break up?

On March 26, 2022, Genesis held their final concert at London’s O2 Arena and split up shortly after due to Phil’s health concerns.

“I don’t think there’s anything else left. The well is dry,” Tony Banks shared with .

“We can’t tour anymore because of Phil’s state, so that’s the end of that.”

Mike Rutherford also confessed to BBC Breakfast: “I think he’s enjoying his time at home.

“As you know, Phil is a bit…He’s much more immobile than he used to be, which is a shame but at the tour, he was in good spirits.

“He’s fine now at home, enjoying life. He’s worked so hard over the years.”