Phil Collins — Face Value

Debut album from the singer-songwriter, written during a break in activity from his band Genesis, & following the divorce from his wife. Unusual for the time Collins hired a backup horn section, The Phenix Horns, who were the horn section from Earth, Wind, & Fire. Opening track & lead single, “In The Air Tonight”, would reach number two on the UK singles chart & become known for its drum arrangement & its use of gated reverb. The album closes with a cover of the Beatles track, “Tomorrow Never Knows”, & at the end Collins can be heard quietly singing “Over The Rainbow”, in reference to the recent death of John Lennon, & the only time Collins made use of a hidden track. The album reached number one in Canada & the UK, & seven on the Billboard 200. Certified 5x platinum in the UK & US, & Diamond in Canada.