Former Train bassist Charlie Colin dies at 58

Former Train bassist Charlie Colin passed away in a tragic accident. The musician slipped and fell in the shower while house-sitting for a friend in Brussels. The exact timing of the accident remains unknown, as his body was only discovered when his friend returned five days later. Colin’s sister Carolyn Stephens confirmed his death on Wednesday evening.

Colin himself resided in Brussels, where he remained actively involved in music. Alongside teaching music lessons, he was engaged in composing music for a film project. His unwavering passion for music persisted even after his departure from Train.

In a brief statement, the band expressed shock at Charlie’s death. “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,” read a statement on Facebook.

Train, formed in 1993 in San Francisco, welcomed Colin as their bassist in 1994. Their debut album, simply titled ‘Train’, was released in 1998, laying the groundwork for their musical journey. However, their breakthrough came in 2001 with the album ‘Drops of Jupiter’. The title track became a massive hit, earning the band two Grammy Awards. Colin’s distinctive basslines contributed to the unique sound that endeared Train to fans worldwide.

Following the release of their third album, ‘My Private Nation’, in 2003, Colin decided to leave the band. Despite no longer being part of the group, his influence remained palpable in Train’s music. His contributions left a lasting impact on the band and the music industry as a whole.

Charlie Colin lived to be 58 years old.