Train: Did You Know?
10 Fun Facts You Might Not Know About Train
If you’ve ever found yourself singing along to “Drops of Jupiter” or dancing to “Hey, Soul Sister,” you’re probably familiar with the rock band Train. With their catchy melodies and distinctive sound, Train has carved out a unique spot in the world of pop rock. However, there’s a lot more to this Grammy-winning band than their chart-topping hits. Here are some fun facts and lesser-known stories about Train that might surprise you!
1. The Band Had a Rocky Start
Believe it or not, Train wasn’t an overnight success. In the early days, lead singer Pat Monahan and the rest of the band struggled to get signed. They spent years performing in small venues across San Francisco before they landed a record deal. Their perseverance paid off, but it was a long, winding track to the top!
2. "Drops of Jupiter" Was Inspired by a Dream
One of Train’s most iconic songs, “Drops of Jupiter,” was inspired by a dream Monahan had after his mother’s passing. He dreamed of her floating through the universe, which sparked the poetic imagery in the song. What many don’t know is that the song was written during a pivotal, emotionally charged time in his life, giving it even deeper meaning.
3. Their First Album Was Self-Funded
Before they hit it big, Train released their first album independently, relying on their own savings to produce it. The album gained enough traction that Columbia Records eventually picked it up, and the rest is history. Their self-titled debut album laid the groundwork for their rise to fame, with “Meet Virginia” becoming their first hit.
4. "Hey, Soul Sister" Almost Didn’t Make the Cut
Though “Hey, Soul Sister” became one of the band's most successful singles, it almost didn’t make it onto their Save Me, San Francisco album. The song was a stylistic departure for the band, with a ukulele-driven sound. Initially, Monahan wasn’t confident about it, but after some convincing, they decided to release it — and the world loved it.
5. Pat Monahan Once Had a Side Gig... as a Wedding Singer!
Yes, you read that right. Before the band made it big, Monahan used to sing at weddings. In fact, some of those wedding performances were booked simply to make ends meet during Train’s early, struggling years. Can you imagine hiring a wedding singer and discovering later that he became the lead of a chart-topping rock band?
6. A Love for Wine Inspired Their Own Brand
Train loves wine so much that they decided to create their own! In 2011, the band launched Save Me, San Francisco Wine Co. with varietals named after their songs, such as “Drops of Jupiter” red and “Calling All Angels” Chardonnay. The best part? Proceeds from the wine sales go toward family housing charities, showing that the band has a heart as big as their fan base.
7. Pat Monahan Had a Brief Acting Career
Train's frontman dabbled in acting in the early 2000s. He appeared in episodes of CSI: NY and Hawaii Five-0. While his acting roles never eclipsed his music career, Monahan’s charisma on stage clearly translates to the screen!
8. They’ve Got A Thing for Classic Cars
If you follow Train closely, you’ll know that they have a penchant for classic cars. The video for “Drive By” showcases some of their favorite rides, and the band members have been known to frequent vintage car shows when they’re not on tour. Classic cars and rock music — a match made in heaven!
9. “Calling All Angels” Became a Sports Anthem
When Train released “Calling All Angels,” they probably didn’t expect it to become a sports anthem. However, the song found its way into ballparks and arenas across the U.S., including during games for the Los Angeles Angels baseball team. It’s now a fan favorite for rallying the crowd.
10. They’re Passionate Philanthropists
Beyond their music, Train is heavily involved in charity work. The band has supported various causes, including children’s health, hunger relief, and housing assistance. Their annual Sail Across the Sun cruise, which features live music and activities, also donates proceeds to charity, combining fun with giving back.
Train’s journey from small-time gigs to global superstardom is filled with quirky stories and fun facts that make them even more endearing. So next time you sing along to one of their hits, remember that there’s more to Train than meets the ear — they’ve got plenty of surprises hidden in their backstory!
One of Train's most meaningful song lines comes from their hit song "Drops of Jupiter." The line:
"She acts like summer and walks like rain, reminds me that there's time to change."
This lyric stands out for its poetic and evocative imagery. It reflects the bittersweet feelings of love, loss, and growth. Written after the passing of lead singer Pat Monahan’s mother, the song is filled with reflective metaphors, and this line captures the idea of someone who brings both warmth and clarity, helping you realize that transformation is a natural part of life. It's a beautiful metaphor for personal change and the way relationships can inspire that.