Genesis Replaces Collins

Sun., July 13, 1997

The Hollywood Reporter

Veteran Atlantic Records act Genesis has chosen little-known singer Ray Wilson, a 28-year-old Scottish native, to replace departed vocalist-drummer Phil Collins.

Genesis founding members Tony Banks (keyboards) and Mike Rutherford (guitar) made the announcement at a London press conference recently. The group also took the opportunity to preview selections from its forthcoming album “Calling All Stations,” which will be released in late summer.

“We listened to hundreds of tapes, but Ray’s voice stood out,” Banks said. “It had a quality that really moved me. His voice harks back more to early Genesis.”

“When we met Ray, he seemed totally confident in his ability,” Rutherford said, “which is essential when you take on a role like this.”

Genesis will embark on a world tour following the album’s release. Thus far, the group has confirmed a series of U.K. dates in January and February.

Collins quit in March 1996 after more than 20 years with the band, saying he wanted to devote more time to his solo career.

The band debuted in 1969 with “From Genesis to Revelation.” Their last studio effort, “We Can’t Dance,” was released in 1991.

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