Phil Collins: One Night Only

Saturday, 18 September 2010, 8:45PM – 9:45PM

One of the world’s biggest music stars appears on ITV1 in this unique event. Singer, songwriter and musician, Phil Collins performs some of his greatest hits, timeless soul classics and songs from his new album, Going Back.

In his first television special, the critically acclaimed artist, who has sold more than 100 million albums, performs in front of a live audience, accompanied by an extraordinary ensemble of musicians and vocalists. Anchoring the group are three of Motown’s legendary session players, The Funk Brothers – bassist Bob Babbitt and guitarists Eddie Willis and Ray Monette.

Phil Collins: For One Night is hosted by Ben Shepherd who joins Phil on a trip down memory lane as he visits some special places from his youth.

They visit Phil’s old haunts in Soho, in particular the site of the legendary Marquee Club, which was a second home to Phil. He tells Ben: “I used to go there so regularly after school, that the manager used to invite me in, saying you go and sweep the floor and we’ll let you in for nothing.”

Phil tells Ben about his early family life, as they visit Eel Pie Island on the Thames where Phil spent much of his childhood messing about on the river with his family. Interspersed with footage of his childhood and family photos, Phil tells Ben how his family were involved with the setting up of the Richmond Yacht Club, based on the island, and all took a hand in building the clubhouse, where members put on shows and Phil played his first ever gig. Phil tells Ben: “Good heavens this is a really nostalgic trip, I’m not going to burst into tears or nothing, but it is really nostalgic.”

Phil Collins career has spanned four decades, with some 100 million solo albums sold, an extraordinary string of hits, eight Grammy Awards, an Oscar and Golden Globe. Earlier this year he was presented with the Songwriters Hall of Fame’s highest honour the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award.

Phil Collins: For One Night Only, with Phil singing classics such as Tears of a Clown, You Can’t Hurry Love, Going Back and many more, will be must see viewing for all music fans.