Charlie Colin, Train founding member, dies at 58

Charlie Colin, founding member of Train, dies at 58 after tragic shower accident in Brussels. Bandmates pay tribute to his legacy.

Charlie Colin, a talented bassist and founding member of the renowned American pop-rock band Train, has passed away at the age of 58. The news was confirmed by his sister Carolyn Stephens to The Associated Press, revealing that Colin tragically slipped and fell in the shower while house-sitting for a friend in Brussels, Belgium.

Born and raised in California and Virginia, Colin pursued his passion for music by attending Berklee College of Music in Boston. After college, he joined a group called Apostles with guitarist Jimmy Stafford and singer Rob Hotchkiss. Eventually, Train was formed in the early '90s in San Francisco with singer Pat Monahan and drummer Scott Underwood joining Colin, Hotchkiss, and Stafford.

As a key member of Train, Colin contributed to the band's first three albums, including their self-titled debut in 1998, "Drops of Jupiter" in 2001, and "My Private Nation" in 2003. The band's success was solidified with hits like "Meet Virginia" and the Grammy-winning title track "Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)."

Despite his musical talents, Colin struggled with substance abuse, leading to his departure from Train in 2003. However, he continued to pursue his love for music by forming new bands like Painbirds in 2015 and the Side Deal in 2017.

Colin's impact on the music industry and his bandmates was evident in the heartfelt tribute shared on Train's official social media pages. His unique bass playing and guitar work were instrumental in shaping the band's sound and gaining recognition in San Francisco and beyond.

Before his untimely passing, Colin expressed his love for Brussels in a social media post, showcasing his appreciation for the vibrant city. His legacy as a talented musician and beloved friend will be remembered by fans and fellow musicians alike.

The world has lost a legend in Charlie Colin, but his music and spirit will continue to inspire generations to come. May he rest in peace.