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Our Complete List Of Train Band Members looks at a band formed in 1993 in San Francisco, California, Train is an American rock band best known for hits like “Drops of Jupiter,” “Hey, Soul Sister,” and “Drive By.” The band’s original lineup consisted of Pat Monahan (vocals), Rob Hotchkiss (guitar), Jimmy Stafford (lead guitar), Charlie Colin (bass), and Scott Underwood (drums). The band had to battle through local club gigs and numerous lineup changes before landing a deal with Columbia Records. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1998, gained traction after “Meet Virginia” became a radio hit.
Train’s breakthrough came with their second album, “Drops of Jupiter” in 2001. The title track was a monumental hit, earning two Grammy Awards and keeping the band on the chart for almost a year. The band continued to evolve, experimenting with different genres, including country influences in “Hey, Soul Sister” (2009) and more pop-oriented tunes in “Drive By” (2012). Various line-up changes occurred over the years; however, Pat Monahan remains the constant face of Train.
TRAIN CURRENT MEMBERS
Pat Monahan
Pat Monahan, originally from Erie, Pennsylvania, is the frontman and founding member of Train. He’s been the lead vocalist since the band’s inception in 1994 and also played drums during the initial years. He has appeared on all of Train’s albums and is the primary songwriter for the band, penning hits like “Drops of Jupiter,” “Hey, Soul Sister,” and “Drive By.” Monahan took a brief hiatus from Train from 2006 to 2009 to pursue a solo career, releasing the album “Last of Seven.” In addition to his work with Train, Monahan has also collaborated with other artists and written songs for other projects, expanding his influence in the music industry.
Jerry Becker
Jerry Becker joined Train in 2008 and has been a constant presence on keyboards, rhythm guitar, and backing vocals. Hailing from San Francisco, California, Becker has contributed to albums like “Save Me, San Francisco” (2009), “California 37” (2012), and “Bulletproof Picasso” (2014). While not the primary songwriter, his multi-instrumental skills have been crucial in shaping Train’s evolving sound. Before joining Train, Becker had an extensive career as a session musician and continues to engage in other projects alongside his commitment to Train.
Hector Maldonado
Hector Maldonado stepped in as Train’s bassist in 2009 and has also provided backing vocals. Originally from Ponce, Puerto Rico, Maldonado has been a part of albums like “Save Me, San Francisco,” “California 37,” and “Christmas in Tahoe” (2015). His rhythmic bass lines have added depth to the band’s musical arrangements. Prior to joining Train, Maldonado was active in various bands and musical projects, showcasing his versatility as a musician.
Nikita Houston
Nikita Houston became a part of Train’s lineup in 2014 as a backing vocalist. Her exact place of origin is not widely reported, but since joining the band, she has been a part of albums like “Bulletproof Picasso” and “A Girl, a Bottle, a Boat” (2017). Her vocals have added a richer texture to the band’s sound, particularly in live performances. Before her tenure with Train, Houston was involved in various singing endeavors, although specific details are less documented compared to her bandmates.
Sakai Smith
Sakai Smith has served as a background vocalist for Train
Matt Musty
Matt Musty currently tours with Train in the drummer’s seat. He has also recorded with artists such as Gwen Stefani, Grace Potter, and others.
Taylor Locke
Taylor Locke joined Train in 2021 as the band’s lead guitarist.
TRAIN FORMER MEMBERS
Rob Hotchkiss
Rob Hotchkiss was a founding member of Train, serving from 1994 to 2003. He played rhythm guitar, provided backing vocals, and also played lead guitar and bass. Hotchkiss contributed to some of Train’s early breakthrough albums, including their self-titled debut and the commercially successful “Drops of Jupiter.” He left the band in 2003, prior to the release of “My Private Nation.”
Jimmy Stafford
Another founding member, Jimmy Stafford was with the band from its inception in 1994 until 2006 and rejoined from 2009 until 2016. He played lead guitar and provided backing vocals, switching to rhythm guitar from 2003 to 2006 and 2009 to 2014. Stafford was a part of major albums like “Drops of Jupiter” and “Save Me, San Francisco.”
Charlie Colin
Charlie Colin was the band’s bassist from 1994 until 2003. He was part of the foundational lineup and contributed to Train’s initial albums. Colin left the band around the same time as Hotchkiss, in 2003.
Scott Underwood
Scott Underwood served as the drummer and percussionist from 1994 to 2006 and again from 2009 to 2014. He also played keyboards. Underwood was part of the band during its formative years and during the periods of its significant commercial success.
Brandon Bush
Brandon Bush joined Train as a keyboardist from 2003 to 2006, filling the void left by departing members. He was a part of the band’s transitional period.
Johnny Colt
Johnny Colt was the bassist for Train from 2003 to 2006. He joined the band during a period of significant change in its lineup.
Drew Shoals
Drew Shoals served as the drummer and percussionist for Train from 2014 to 2019. Shoals was part of the band’s more recent history and participated in some of their latest projects.
Luis Maldonado
Luis Maldonado played lead guitar for Train from 2016 to 2021.
Complete List Of Train Band Members article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023
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