Genesis

Released: October 6, 1972

Songwriter: Tony Banks Phil Collins Peter Gabriel Steve Hackett Mike Rutherford

Producer: Dave Hitchcock Genesis

[Verse 1]
The scattered pages of a book
By the sea
Held by the sand, washed by the waves

A shadow forms
Cast by a cloud
Skimming by
As eyes of the past
But the rising tide absorbs them
Effortlessly claiming

[Verse 2]
They told of one who tired of all
Singing "Praise him, praise him"
"We heed not flatterers" he cried

"By our command
Waters retreat
Show my power
Halt at my feet"
But the cause was lost, now cold winds
Blow

[Verse 3]
Far from the north
Overcast ranks advance
Fear of the storm
Accusing with rage and scorn
The waves surround the sinking throne
Singing "Crown him, crown him"

"Those who love
Our majesty
Show themselves!"
All bent their knee

Aahh

[Instrumental]

[Verse 4]
But he forced a smile even though his hopes
Lay dashed where offerings fell
Where they fell

[Instrumental]

[Verse 5]
"Nothing can
My peace destroy
As long as none smile"

More opened ears
And opened eyes
And soon they dared to laugh

See a little man with his face turning red
Though his story's often told you can tell he's dead

Genesis are an English rock band formed at Charterhouse School, Godalming, Surrey in 1967. The most commercially successful line-up includes keyboardist Tony Banks, guitarist Mike Rutherford and drummer/singer Phil Collins. Other important members were singer Peter Gabriel and guitarist Steve Hackett. The band underwent several significant changes in musical style over its career, from folk music to progressive rock in the 1970s, before moving towards pop at the end of the decade.

Formed by five Charterhouse pupils including Banks, Rutherford, Gabriel and Anthony Phillips, Genesis was named by former pupil Jonathan King who arranged them to record several unsuccessful singles and an album. After splitting with King, the group began touring professionally, signing with Charisma Records. Following the departure of Phillips, Genesis recruited Collins and Hackett and recorded several progressive rock style albums, with live shows centred around Gabriel’s theatrical costumes and performances.

Their discography includes fifteen studio and six live albums, six of which topped the UK chart. They have won numerous awards and nominations, including a Grammy Award for Best Concept Music Video with “Land of Confusion” and inspired a number of tribute bands recreating Genesis shows from various stages of the band’s career. In 2010, Genesis were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Their biggest hit to date is Invisible Touch which spent 3 consecutive weeks at #1.

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