Charlie Colin - RIP - November 22, 1966 - May 20, 2024

Charlie Colin at La Cabaña in Venice, CA January 18, 2004 (photo by Gregory J. Chamberlain)

Just got the very sad news that one of my long time friends and fellow musicians, Charlie Colin, passed away at age 57. He had been living in Belgium for a while. I do not yet know the circumstances of how he died, but all I can say is I am devastated.

I first met Charlie when I was a senior in high school and he was a freshman. His sister was the one who introduced us, and she had hoped I could hang out with him and bring him up to speed on a musical level.

I was invited to their house to meet. We jammed and hit it off, immediately. At the time, his primary instrument was guitar and mine was the electric and upright bass, which Charlie also became interested in, so I taught him everything I could.

It was not long after that first meeting, that I had convinced Charlie's mom the virtues of soundproofing their garage and turning it into a rehearsal studio. It became a reality almost overnight.

Charlie grew into a world class songwriter, guitarist and bassist, widely known for being a founding member of the rock band, Train. He had a great many other talents, including being a world class painter and sculptor.

I could easily write a few chapters on knowing Charlie and his family and wide circle of friends. But for now, I am a little too sad for words.

Rest in Peace ol' buddy! See you on the other side!

Charlie Colin in my Venice Beach music studio on March 14, 2004