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- May 22, 2024
Original Train bassist Charlie Colin has tragically passed away at 58 due to a fall while housesitting in Belgium. Colin, a founding member of the band, played a pivotal role in creating hits like “Drops of Jupiter” and “Meet Virginia.” His sudden death marks a significant loss in the music community.
A Sudden and Unexpected Loss
Charlie Colin, who was instrumental in the formation and rise of the band Train, tragically passed away due to a fall while housesitting for friends in Belgium. According to reports from TMZ, Colin slipped in the shower and was found five days later when his friends returned. His mother confirmed the sad news to TMZ, stating that the accident happened while he was staying at a friend’s house.
Colin’s Musical Journey and Legacy
A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Colin’s musical career started long before Train. In the early ’90s, he played alongside guitarist Rob Hotchkiss in the band Apostles. This collaboration paved the way for the formation of Train in 1994, alongside Pat Monahan, Jimmy Stafford, and Scott Underwood. Together, they created hits like “Meet Virginia,” “Drops of Jupiter,” and “Calling All Angels,” solidifying their place in rock history.
Substance Abuse and Departure from Train
Colin’s tenure with Train came to an end in 2003 due to struggles with substance abuse. Despite his departure, his influence on the band’s sound and success remained undeniable. Over the past two decades, Colin continued his music career, moving to Belgium to teach a music masterclass at a conservatory and working on various music projects.
The Impact of Colin’s Death
Colin’s untimely death has shocked the music community. His mother revealed that he had moved to Belgium to share his expertise through teaching and was working on new music for a film. Colin’s passion for music never waned, and he frequently shared his experiences on social media, expressing his love for Brussels, which he called his “favorite city” in a March Instagram post.
Forming Train: A Musical Milestone
In the ’90s, Colin co-founded Train with Pat Monahan, Rob Hotchkiss, Jimmy Stafford, and Scott Underwood. The band quickly rose to fame with their debut album reaching No. 76 on the Billboard 200 in 1999. Hits like “Drops of Jupiter,” which peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, earned Train their first Grammy nominations and solidified their status in the music industry.
Reconnecting and Moving Forward
Colin’s musical journey began in Newport Beach, where he met Hotchkiss in middle school. Both attended Berklee College of Music at different times before reconnecting in California. After the Apostles disbanded, Hotchkiss and Monahan started collaborating in the Bay Area. They eventually brought Stafford and Colin into the fold, with Colin introducing Underwood to complete the lineup, leading to the birth of Train.
A New Chapter: Painbirds
In 2015, Colin reunited with Hotchkiss and Underwood to form the band Painbirds, along with Tom Luce. This new venture showcased Colin’s continued passion for music and his desire to explore new creative avenues.
Remembering Charlie Colin
Colin’s friends and family remember him as a dedicated musician whose life revolved around his love for music. His impact on Train’s early years and his subsequent projects highlight a career marked by talent, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of musical excellence.
The Legacy of Train
Train, formed in 1994, became one of the most recognizable names in rock music. With a string of hits and successful albums, the band’s early work featuring Colin helped define their sound. “Drops of Jupiter,” perhaps their most iconic song, remains a testament to the collaborative genius of the band’s original lineup.
Continuing the Journey
Despite Colin’s departure in 2003, Train continued to thrive, evolving their sound and gaining new fans. The band’s ability to adapt and grow while staying true to their roots is a testament to the solid foundation built during Colin’s years with them.
Final Thoughts on Charlie Colin’s Contributions
Charlie Colin’s role in Train’s formation and success cannot be overstated. His musical prowess and collaborative spirit were crucial in creating the hits that defined the band’s early years. As Train continues to perform and produce new music, Colin’s legacy will undoubtedly remain a significant part of their history.
Contributions to Train
Charlie Colin’s death is a profound loss to the music world. His contributions to Train and his enduring passion for music left an indelible mark on the industry. As fans and fellow musicians mourn his passing, they also celebrate the incredible legacy he leaves behind. His influence will continue to resonate through the timeless music he helped create and the countless lives he touched through his art.
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