Paul Collins (musician)

Paul Collins (born July 3, 1956) is an American power pop musician, best known for his work with the Nerves, the Breakaways, and the Paul Collins Beat. A prolific songwriter and performer, Collins has been a significant figure in the power pop scene since the late 1970s.

Collins began his career in San Francisco, forming the Nerves in 1975 with Peter Case and Jack Lee. The band is best remembered for its song "Hanging on the Telephone," which was later covered by Blondie. Following the Nerves' breakup in 1978, Collins formed the Breakaways with former Nerves drummer Dave Hargrave.

In 1979, Collins formed the Paul Collins Beat (often simply referred to as The Beat), which became his most successful project. The band released its self-titled debut album in 1979, featuring catchy melodies and energetic performances that cemented their place in the power pop genre. The Paul Collins Beat continued to release albums throughout the 1980s and beyond, with Collins remaining the central creative force.

Collins's songwriting is characterized by its focus on classic pop song structures, with memorable hooks and lyrics that often explore themes of love, loss, and everyday life. He has toured extensively both as a solo artist and with various incarnations of the Paul Collins Beat. He continues to record and perform, maintaining a dedicated fanbase around the world. In addition to his musical career, Collins has also worked as a producer and songwriter for other artists.