Phil Collen Recalls Saving Def Leppard When Joe Elliott Lost His Voice

Def Leppard guitarist Phil Collen discussed his experience singing on stage and recalled a time when he saved the band when Joe Elliott lost his voice. During an interview with That Rocks!, he was complimented on how the band managed to continue performing despite Elliott’s vocal problems. Collen expressed his appreciation and replied:

“Oh, thank you. Yeah, we get to practice; I’ve sung with Joe, next to him for 41 years, 42 actually if you [count] recording and everything. So yeah, it’s incredible, and you kind of get this ESP thing going like Everly Brothers used to have; they used to have this thing.”

The guitarist explained why he loves singing and mentioned its significance in his life:

“It’s great; it’s really one of my favorite parts of the band, is actually the singing part because we all just lock into it. It’s really kind of almost spiritual; it’s great.”

Elliott was almost forced to retire due to problems with his vocal cords. In 2015, the musician suffered from a severe case of pneumonia, resulting in the cancellation of multiple shows and tours due to damage to his vocal cords. Although medical professionals suggested that the rocker should consider stepping away from Def Leppard, he was able to get his voice back.

See the interview below.