Musicians :
Phil Collins (lead & backing vocals, drums, percussion, keyboards, piano, electric piano, organ, bass guitar, guitar, glockenspiel), Eddie Willis (electric guitar), Ray Monette (electric guitar, wah-wah guitar), Ronnie Caryl (acoustic guitar), Bob Babbitt (bass guitar), Jason Rebello (acoustic piano, electric piano, vibraphone), Guy Barker, Tom Rees-Roberts (trumpet), John Aram (trombone, horn arrangements), Graeme Blevins (tenor saxophone), Phil Todd (baritone saxophone, flute, piccolo), Celeste-Marie Roy (bassoon), Connie Jackson, Lynne Fiddmont-Linsey (backing vocals), Nicholas Collins (additional percussion, handclaps, finger snaps), Matthew Collins (additional percussion, handclaps), Menuhin Academy (strings).

- Phil Collins "The Essential Going Back" (2016 Remaster) !
- Rhino Records – Remastered Edition !
- A Heartfelt Tribute to the Golden Age of Motown and Soul !

With The Essential Going Back, Phil Collins pays a deeply personal and affectionate tribute to the timeless music that inspired him during his formative years. Originally released in 2010 as Going Back, this remarkable collection revisits some of the greatest soul, R&B and Motown classics of the 1960s, capturing the irresistible rhythms, emotional intensity and unmistakable warmth of an extraordinary musical era.

Rather than simply reinterpreting these legendary compositions in a contemporary style, Collins deliberately sought to recreate the authentic spirit of the original recordings, preserving their distinctive arrangements, infectious grooves and rich instrumental textures.

The result is a beautifully crafted musical journey through the golden age of American soul, revealing Collins not only as an accomplished singer and drummer, but also as a devoted admirer of the artists and musicians who helped shape his musical identity.

The Authentic Sound of Motown – Featuring the Legendary Funk Brothers

One of the most remarkable aspects of these recordings is the participation of original Motown session musicians, including guitarist Eddie Willis and bassist Bob Babbitt, both members of the legendary Funk Brothers.

These extraordinary musicians contributed to countless historic Motown recordings, helping establish the unmistakable rhythmic foundation behind some of the most celebrated songs in popular music.

Their involvement brings an exceptional sense of authenticity to the album, with expressive guitar playing, melodic bass lines and precisely articulated rhythms that evoke the atmosphere of Detroit's legendary recording studios.

Collins' own drumming, deeply influenced by the Motown tradition, blends naturally with these seasoned performers, creating a compelling musical connection between generations.

Timeless Soul Classics Revisited

Throughout the album, Phil Collins revisits an outstanding selection of compositions associated with such legendary performers as The Supremes, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Martha and the Vandellas, and Smokey Robinson and the Miracles.

Songs such as Heatwave, Uptight (Everything's Alright), Going to a Go-Go, Take Me In Your Arms (Rock Me For A Little While) and Papa Was a Rollin' Stone demonstrate his profound affection for the Motown repertoire.

His interpretations remain remarkably faithful to the spirit of the originals, combining energetic brass arrangements, expressive backing vocals, vibrant percussion and richly textured instrumentation.

Rather than attempting to reinvent these familiar melodies, Collins celebrates their enduring musical brilliance with sincerity, enthusiasm and meticulous attention to detail.

2016 Remaster – Rediscovering the Warmth and Energy of Classic Soul

Released by Rhino Records, The Essential Going Back presents a carefully selected version of Collins' Motown tribute, remastered as part of his extensive solo catalogue reissue campaign.

The remastered presentation offers listeners an opportunity to rediscover the intricate interplay between the rhythm section, brass instruments, keyboards and backing vocals that gives these recordings their distinctive character.

From the driving energy of the uptempo numbers to the emotional sensitivity of the slower compositions, the album celebrates the extraordinary musical craftsmanship that defined the Motown sound.

For admirers of Phil Collins, collectors of classic soul recordings and enthusiasts of vintage-inspired studio productions, The Essential Going Back represents a fascinating addition to his discography.

A passionate celebration of the Motown legacy, bringing together Phil Collins' unmistakable musical personality and the authentic groove of legendary Detroit session musicians.