The music world is mourning the loss of Charlie Colin, the founding member and bassist of the renowned pop rock band Train. Colin, whose contributions helped shape the band’s signature sound, has sadly passed away at 58. His death marks the end of an era for Train and leaves a lasting impact on fans and fellow musicians alike.
Early Life and Formation of Train
Born in Newport Beach, California on Nov 22,1966, Charlie Colin was a talented musician who began playing guitar at 8 when he lived in Virginia. His passion for music led him to co-found Train in 1993 alongside lead vocalist Pat Monahan, guitarist Rob Hotchkiss, drummer Scott Underwood, and keyboardist Jimmy Stafford. The band quickly gained popularity with their unique blend of rock and pop influences, propelled by Colin’s distinct bass lines and energetic stage presence.
Rise to Fame
Train’s self-titled debut album, released in 1998, featured the hit single “Meet Virginia,” which catapulted the band into the spotlight. However, it was their second album, “Drops of Jupiter,” that truly solidified their place in the music industry. The title track, inspired by Monahan’s late mother, became an international success and earned the band two Grammy Awards. Colin’s musicianship was a key component of the album’s success, providing a strong foundation for the band’s melodic sound.
Career Highlights
During his tenure with Train, Charlie Colin contributed to several successful albums and hit singles, including “Drops of Jupiter,” “Calling All Angels,” and “Meet Virginia.” His bass playing and backing vocals were integral to the band’s live performances, helping to create memorable experiences for fans around the world. Colin’s chemistry and relationship with his bandmates alongside his dedication to his craft were evident in every performance and recording.
Departure from Train and Later Work
In 2003, Colin parted ways with Train under amicable circumstances (substance use). He continued to pursue his passion for music, collaborating with various artists and exploring different musical projects. Despite his departure from the band, his legacy with Train remained strong, and his contributions continued to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians.
Tributes and Legacy
His mother confirmed the news to TMZ, telling the outlet he had been found dead after he slipped in the shower while house-sitting for a friend in Belgium. The outlet reports that Colin had been living in Brussels, where he was teaching music at a conservatory.
Following the news of his passing, tributes have poured in from across the music industry. Pat Monahan and the remaining members of Train expressed their deep sorrow and shared fond memories of their time with Colin. Fans took to social media to honor his memory, sharing stories of how his music touched their lives.
The band then shared a tribute on Instagram, accompanied by a photo from his time as a band member. The message read: “When I met Charlie Colin, 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.”
