Phil Collins – Don’t Lose My Number
A mysterious pop-rock chase with big drums and even bigger hooks
Released in the U.S. on 1 July 1985, “Don’t Lose My Number” was the third single from Phil Collins’s blockbuster album No Jacket Required. With its pounding drums, cryptic lyrics, and tongue-in-cheek music video, it became one of Collins’s most memorable hits — even if no one, including Phil himself, really knows what it’s about.
Billy, Where Are You?
Collins has openly admitted that the lyrics were improvised and don’t have a clear meaning. The song follows a character named Billy, who seems to be on the run or in danger, while the narrator pleads with him not to lose touch: “Billy, don’t lose my number / ’Cause you’re not anywhere that I can find you.” It’s part thriller, part emotional plea — but mostly just a vibe. That ambiguity is part of what makes it so fun.
Sound and Style
Musically, it’s classic mid-’80s Collins: gated reverb drums, bright synths, and a tight pop-rock groove. Collins handled vocals, drums, and keyboards, with longtime collaborators Daryl Stuermer on guitar and Leland Sklar on bass. The track is slick, energetic, and built for radio — with a chorus that sticks after one listen.
The Video: Parody Perfection
The music video, directed by Jim Yukich, is a meta-comedy about Collins trying to figure out what kind of video to make. It spoofs everything from Mad Max to Samurai flicks, film noir, and even other music videos by David Lee Roth, Elton John, and The Police. It’s goofy, self-aware, and totally ’80s — and it helped the song become a staple on MTV.
Chart Performance
“Don’t Lose My Number” was a major hit in the U.S., peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in September 1985 and spending 17 weeks on the chart. It also hit No. 1 in Panama, No. 10 in Australia, No. 11 in Canada, and Top 30 in several European countries. Strangely, it was never released as a single in the UK, despite Collins’s massive popularity there.
“Don’t Lose My Number” is a perfect example of how Phil Collins could turn even a lyrical shrug into a hit. It’s catchy, mysterious, and full of personality — a song that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but still hits all the right notes.
