If his show Wednesday (9/1) at Phoenix's America West Arena Wednesday was any indication, Phil Collins [ tickets ] will be sorely missed if his tongue-in-cheek Farewell I tour really turns out to be his last.

"Astute members of the audience who studied the ticket stubs will notice that this is the 'farewell tour,'" he said as the nearly sold-out crowd booed.

He quickly made jokes about never-ending farewell tours (see: Kiss and Cher), but the crowd of mostly thirtysomething couples didn't let up until he made a simple promise.

"We're going to have a playful romp through the hits--the things we've grown to love and hate over the last 25 years."

His set read like a soundtrack to the '80s and '90s-- "A Groovy Kind of Love," "Don't Lose My Number"--and also included newer selections such as "You'll be in My Heart"

The show kicked off on undramatic note with Collins taking the stage alone, a drum stick in each hand. He pummeled his way through a fluid drum solo before his drummer and percussionist joined him.

Everything about Collins' performance was striking. Six background singers lent vocal support. (Newer acts should take a hint from Collins, who hit every high note without relinquishing the duties to background singers.) A giant video wall provided a backdrop of jungle themes, social commentary and visual effects. The video screens aired snippets of Collins moving his feet in his trademark tennis shoes during a video for "I Missed Again."

The show possessed a playful vibe. Collins danced with his horn section, which included saxman Gerald Albright. After most of Albright's solos, Collins offered a congratulatory hug. Collins invited his back-up vocalists to join him center stage for a rendition of "True Colors," for which he encouraged quiet in the audience.

"This is my posse," he said about the singers. "We're gonna get down. ... I'm such an embarrassment to them. I really am."

"Separate Lives" was a study in unity. Collins and his background singers performed it together, each taking on a different portion of the song. It earned a standing ovation.

Albright was part of Collins' self-proclaimed top-notch band, which also included drummer Chester Thompson and percussionist Luis Conte. Collins once again sat behind the drums atop a set of risers for a stirring version of "In the Air."

"Good band, eh? They're only here because the bars are closed," he said with a laugh.

There's no misunderstanding. Collins is a legendary pop--and class--act that will leave a void when he actually decides to say goodbye.