Rock band Train mourns loss of founding member Charlie Colin after tragic accident
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The world of music often resonates with tales of talent, passion, and creativity, but it also faces moments of profound loss.
The passing of influential figures in the industry serves as a poignant reminder of life's fleeting nature and the enduring legacy left behind by artists.
These moments bring reflection and celebrate the contributions and impact of the individuals who have shaped the soundtracks of our lives.
The music world is mourning the sudden and tragic passing of Charlie Colin, the founding member of the iconic rock band Train, known for hits like ‘Drops of Jupiter’ and ‘Meet Virginia’.
At the age of 58, Colin's life was cut short in what can only be described as a heartbreaking accident, after he reportedly ‘slipped and fell in the shower’ while house-sitting for a friend in Belgium.
His mum confirmed that Train’s former bassist wasn't discovered until his friends returned from their trip a few days ago.
Charlie Colin's journey with Train began in the vibrant music scene of San Francisco in 1993.
Alongside Pat Monahan, Rob Hotchkiss, Jimmy Stafford, and Scott Underwood, Colin helped shape the band's sound, which would captivate millions with its heartfelt lyrics and memorable melodies.
Their self-titled debut album in 1998 was a significant success, but it was the 2001 album Drops of Jupiter that catapulted them to international stardom, earning them two Grammy Awards and achieving double platinum status.
Despite the band's success, Colin's path was not without its challenges.
In 2003, he parted ways with Train due to substance abuse issues, a decision that was difficult for all members involved.
Lead singer Pat Monahan reflected on this period with candour, saying, ‘Charlie is one incredible bass player, but he was in a lot of pain, and the way he was dealing with it was very painful for everyone else around him.’
Monahan reportedly called a band meeting to force a choice between himself and Colin.
‘They weren’t happy about the choice. They were very clear that I put them in a very tough position,’ he said at the time.
Monahan stated that the ultimatum followed a live performance in Oregon where Colin was ‘a mess’.
Colin, discussing his departure during an appearance on Delphine's Circle last year, said, ‘There was a lot of things that led to me leaving, but it really escalated into it.’
‘We never took a break. We drove our tour bus into the parking lot of the recording studio for our second and third record. In Philadelphia, we made our one-and-a-half record…We just never stopped. It’s kind of one those things where you feel like this is too good to be true. Most bands have a lifespan of a few years.’
Yet, Colin's passion for music never waned. He continued to create and perform, joining forces with fellow Train musician Rob Hotchkiss to form Painbirds and later establishing The Side Deal in 2017 with musicians Stan Frazier, Joel Owen, and Scott Owen of The PawnShop Kings.
His versatility as a musician was evident as he played with various bands, including Puddle of Mudd and even touring with the heavy metal band Slipknot, showcasing his ability to adapt to different musical styles.
‘When I left Train, I went out because my ego and my identity were all at stake and I was thinking about that too much, Colin shared on the Dan Clark podcast in 2022.
‘I went out and played with all these hard rock bands. I went on a tour with Slipknot. You can imagine the guys wearing masks and stuff. These are the hardest rock bands in the world.’
Colin's final years saw him embracing new adventures, teaching a music master class at a conservatory in Brussels and contributing to film music.
He also explored his artistic side in Belgium, where he resided at the time of his passing.
His last social media post poignantly paid tribute to his mum on Mother's Day, highlighting his deep appreciation for family and his roots.
‘My mom…Jackie O/ yet a tad prettier,’ Colin captioned his post.
‘A true artist. the loveliest most intelligent woman. happy mother's day.’
Train's response to Colin's death was touching. The band posted a statement on social media—along with a black-and-white old photo of the band—celebrating his character and contributions.
‘When I met Charlie Colin, front left, I fell in love with him. He was THE sweetest guy and what a handsome chap. Let’s make a band that’s the only reasonable thing to do. His unique bass playing and beautiful guitar work helped get folks to notice us in SF and beyond. I’ll always have a warm place for him in my heart. I always tried to pull him closer but he had a vision of his own. You’re a legend, Charlie. Go charm the pants off those angels,’ the statement read.
Train, still active today, has sold over 10 million albums and 30 million tracks globally.
After a two-year hiatus in 2006, they returned in 2009 with their fifth studio album, Save Me, San Francisco, featuring the hit single ‘Hey, Soul Sister’.
Since then, they have released six more studio albums, the most recent being AM Gold in 2022.
Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to Charlie Colin’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
His spirit will continue to live on through the melodies he helped create, the bass lines that drove some of Train's most beloved songs, and the memories he leaves behind with those who knew and loved him.
We invite you to share your memories of Charlie Colin and Train's music. How have their songs touched your life? What will you remember most about Charlie Colin's contributions to the world of rock? Let us know in the comments below.
The passing of influential figures in the industry serves as a poignant reminder of life's fleeting nature and the enduring legacy left behind by artists.
These moments bring reflection and celebrate the contributions and impact of the individuals who have shaped the soundtracks of our lives.
The music world is mourning the sudden and tragic passing of Charlie Colin, the founding member of the iconic rock band Train, known for hits like ‘Drops of Jupiter’ and ‘Meet Virginia’.
At the age of 58, Colin's life was cut short in what can only be described as a heartbreaking accident, after he reportedly ‘slipped and fell in the shower’ while house-sitting for a friend in Belgium.
His mum confirmed that Train’s former bassist wasn't discovered until his friends returned from their trip a few days ago.
Charlie Colin, a founding member of Train, tragically died at 58 after he ‘slipped and fell in the shower’. Credits: Instagram / @Train
Charlie Colin's journey with Train began in the vibrant music scene of San Francisco in 1993.
Alongside Pat Monahan, Rob Hotchkiss, Jimmy Stafford, and Scott Underwood, Colin helped shape the band's sound, which would captivate millions with its heartfelt lyrics and memorable melodies.
Their self-titled debut album in 1998 was a significant success, but it was the 2001 album Drops of Jupiter that catapulted them to international stardom, earning them two Grammy Awards and achieving double platinum status.
Despite the band's success, Colin's path was not without its challenges.
In 2003, he parted ways with Train due to substance abuse issues, a decision that was difficult for all members involved.
Lead singer Pat Monahan reflected on this period with candour, saying, ‘Charlie is one incredible bass player, but he was in a lot of pain, and the way he was dealing with it was very painful for everyone else around him.’
Monahan reportedly called a band meeting to force a choice between himself and Colin.
‘They weren’t happy about the choice. They were very clear that I put them in a very tough position,’ he said at the time.
Monahan stated that the ultimatum followed a live performance in Oregon where Colin was ‘a mess’.
Colin, discussing his departure during an appearance on Delphine's Circle last year, said, ‘There was a lot of things that led to me leaving, but it really escalated into it.’
‘We never took a break. We drove our tour bus into the parking lot of the recording studio for our second and third record. In Philadelphia, we made our one-and-a-half record…We just never stopped. It’s kind of one those things where you feel like this is too good to be true. Most bands have a lifespan of a few years.’
Yet, Colin's passion for music never waned. He continued to create and perform, joining forces with fellow Train musician Rob Hotchkiss to form Painbirds and later establishing The Side Deal in 2017 with musicians Stan Frazier, Joel Owen, and Scott Owen of The PawnShop Kings.
His versatility as a musician was evident as he played with various bands, including Puddle of Mudd and even touring with the heavy metal band Slipknot, showcasing his ability to adapt to different musical styles.
‘When I left Train, I went out because my ego and my identity were all at stake and I was thinking about that too much, Colin shared on the Dan Clark podcast in 2022.
‘I went out and played with all these hard rock bands. I went on a tour with Slipknot. You can imagine the guys wearing masks and stuff. These are the hardest rock bands in the world.’
Colin's final years saw him embracing new adventures, teaching a music master class at a conservatory in Brussels and contributing to film music.
He also explored his artistic side in Belgium, where he resided at the time of his passing.
His last social media post poignantly paid tribute to his mum on Mother's Day, highlighting his deep appreciation for family and his roots.
‘My mom…Jackie O/ yet a tad prettier,’ Colin captioned his post.
‘A true artist. the loveliest most intelligent woman. happy mother's day.’
Train's response to Colin's death was touching. The band posted a statement on social media—along with a black-and-white old photo of the band—celebrating his character and contributions.
‘When I met Charlie Colin, front left, I fell in love with him. He was THE sweetest guy and what a handsome chap. Let’s make a band that’s the only reasonable thing to do. His unique bass playing and beautiful guitar work helped get folks to notice us in SF and beyond. I’ll always have a warm place for him in my heart. I always tried to pull him closer but he had a vision of his own. You’re a legend, Charlie. Go charm the pants off those angels,’ the statement read.
Train, still active today, has sold over 10 million albums and 30 million tracks globally.
After a two-year hiatus in 2006, they returned in 2009 with their fifth studio album, Save Me, San Francisco, featuring the hit single ‘Hey, Soul Sister’.
Since then, they have released six more studio albums, the most recent being AM Gold in 2022.
Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to Charlie Colin’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
His spirit will continue to live on through the melodies he helped create, the bass lines that drove some of Train's most beloved songs, and the memories he leaves behind with those who knew and loved him.
We invite you to share your memories of Charlie Colin and Train's music. How have their songs touched your life? What will you remember most about Charlie Colin's contributions to the world of rock? Let us know in the comments below.
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great band love the music.
to play in heaven.
