Phil Collins Criticizes Trump's Demeanor, Teases Song Title About America
The British musician called President Trump 'nasty' and described an unwritten song titled 'Fat People With Guns.'
British rock icon Phil Collins has voiced criticism of President Donald Trump, calling his demeanor "unattractive" and "nasty" in a recent interview. Collins also revealed he has an unwritten song about America with the working title "Fat People With Guns."
During an appearance on "Piers Morgan Uncensored," the 75-year-old musician stated that while he respects historical presidents, Trump's mannerisms evoke dislike. "Even when he's saying he did nothing. You know, I think that presidents – because historically, presidents have been eloquent and elegant… but you feel like even if you don’t agree with them, you still respect them," Collins said. "But when someone like Trump is as nasty as he is, you end up feeling dislike for him."
Collins' remarks touch upon a broader discussion about artists using their platforms to critique American politics and culture. Doug Eldridge, founder of Achilles PR, previously commented to Fox News Digital that criticism can shift in meaning when artists move beyond individual politicians to make broader statements about the United States.
"Outside of big city bubbles, most Americans really only care about elections during an election year; other than that, they have much bigger cares, concerns and priorities," Eldridge said. "That changes, however, when the rhetoric shifts from party-specific, political criticism, to more broad statements about America, in general."
Collins also discussed his songwriting process, noting that he keeps a provocative phrase saved for potential future use. "I’ve got a song that’s waiting to be written called ‘Fat People with Guns,’ which is about America, you know, and I just write that phrase down so I don’t forget it," he said.
Sarah Schmidt, president of PR firm Interdependence, has observed that artists can face backlash when their political commentary is perceived as targeting American citizens rather than just policies or politicians. "If an artist mocks a USA chant from stage, they can face swift and intense backlash because it’s not them commenting on a politician or policy," Schmidt stated. "It’s them criticizing the beliefs of the people who ultimately pay their bills."
Despite describing himself as "not a political person," Collins also expressed concerns about the possibility of Trump seeking to exceed the two-term limit for the presidency. "I’m sure he’s even tried, but it wouldn’t surprise me if he just tries to overrule the two-term deal, you know, and American presidents can only serve two terms," he remarked.
Speculation about a potential presidential run by Trump was seemingly addressed by the former president in August. He reportedly told reporters that the constitutional restriction on seeking another term was clear, citing the 22nd Amendment, which limits a person to two elected terms as president.
This interview comes weeks before Collins is scheduled to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist.