In September 2019, Easy Lover took its first steps on stage with their very first concert at La Clouse. However, the idea of creating a tribute band dedicated to Phil Collins and Genesis had already begun years earlier in the mind of Salvatore Sanfilippo, the founder and drummer of the band. Passionate about Phil Collins' musical universe, Salvatore's goal was clear: to bring the greatest hits of these icons of the British music scene back to life with energy, fidelity, and emotion that truly touches the heart.
From the very beginning, Salvatore was fortunate enough to surround himself with enthusiastic, motivated, and fully committed musicians who shared his vision for this ambitious project. He was supported by two long-time friends: Michaël Schouffleur, the band's guitarist, and Luc Ory, who played bass at the time. But it was with the arrival of Philippe Paque as the band’s keyboardist that Easy Lover took a significant leap forward. Philippe, passionate and perfectionist, took on the musical direction of the band, ensuring that every detail was meticulously respected. He deeply immersed himself in the history of Phil Collins and Genesis, studying their musical journeys, the instruments they used, and their studio production techniques to faithfully reproduce their unique sound.
The project truly took flight with the arrival of Patrick Bucci, the band’s singer. While Patrick's appearance is far from resembling Phil Collins, this choice was fully embraced by Easy Lover. The goal was never to imitate, but to create an authentic and immersive musical experience, offering the audience a sound atmosphere as faithful as possible to the artist and his band.
A brass section was added, further enhancing the richness and dynamism of the sound, along with two backing vocalists. However, the Covid-19 pandemic put the project on hold for two years.
In 2021, Easy Lover made a strong comeback with the arrival of a new brass section, propelling the band toward new horizons: Marine Smets on saxophone, Henry Debarsy on trombone, and Thomas Hanquinaux on trumpet.
The band then began playing concerts in prestigious venues and festivals, attracting an ever-growing audience. Among the notable events were: the Festival des Dolympiades, the Festival de Cornesse, the Folestival, Hautrage, and numerous cultural centers across Belgium. The band’s success crossed borders, and Easy Lover was enthusiastically received in the Netherlands, where they regularly performed in renowned theaters.
In 2023, two new backing vocalists joined the band: Sandra De Gregorio and Estelle Weidlich, while Fabian Barbucci came on board as the new bassist, bringing his personal touch and energy to the ensemble.
In 2026, Easy Lover took another significant step, offering two types of shows suited to all kinds of events:
• Festival Version: A 1.5 to 2-hour concert featuring the greatest hits of Phil Collins and Genesis in a festive and powerful atmosphere.
• Concert Hall / Cultural Center Version: A 2-hour immersive show enriched with light displays and video projections, for a complete musical and visual experience.
Easy Lover is more than just a tribute; it's a true celebration of the musical genius of Phil Collins and Genesis, a total immersion in the unique world of these British rock legends.
Sandra De Gregorio
Backing Vocals
Patrick Bucci
Lead Vocals
Estelle Weidlich
Backing Vocals
Marine Smets
Saxophone
Thomas Hanquinaux
Trumpet
Henry Debarsy
Trombone
Salvatore Sanfilippo
Drums
Fabian Barbucci
Bass
Michaël Schouffler
Guitar
Philippe Paque
Keyboards