On September 24, 2019, Houston, Texas, witnessed a truly magical evening when music legend Phil Collins took the stage for an unforgettable father-son moment. For the first time, Phil performed his deeply moving ballad “You Know What I Mean” alongside his son Nic Collins, who played piano with quiet precision and heartfelt emotion.
Before the song began, Phil charmed the crowd with his trademark humor, sharing lighthearted stories from life on tour and amusing anecdotes about fellow artists like Sting. When a fan called out, “We love you, Sting!” the venue erupted in laughter. Then came the tender turn — Nic quietly approached his dad mid-conversation and said, “Let’s get started, Dad!” — a spontaneous cue that added a raw, authentic touch to the night.
The song itself, from Phil’s 1981 debut solo album Face Value, has always held special meaning for the family. Nic has openly said it’s the one song from his dad’s catalog that truly resonates with him, making their duet all the more intimate and emotional. Fans in the audience were treated not just to music, but to a rare glimpse of a father and son connecting through their shared artistry.
This performance wasn’t merely a musical highlight; it became a celebration of love, legacy, and the bonds that music can create. Witnessing Phil and Nic together onstage reminded everyone why music touches our hearts — sometimes in ways words alone never could.