Podcast Summary: "Classic Music Saved Me Replay with Pat Monahan from Train"

Podcast Information:

• Title: takin' a walk
• Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
• Episode: Classic Music Saved Me Replay with Pat Monahan from Train
• Release Date: March 19, 2025
• Description: The "takin' a walk" MUSIC HISTORY ON FOOT podcast, hosted by Buzz Knight, explores music history through engaging stories and insights from musicians, bands, and industry experts.

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of "Music Saved Me," host Lynne Hoffman welcomes Pat Monahan, the charismatic frontman of the Grammy-winning band Train. The conversation delves deep into how music serves as a healing force, both personally for Pat and for his fans. Lynne expresses her excitement about Pat's appearance, highlighting their long-standing friendship.

Music as a Healing Power

Lynne Hoffman: "Do you believe that music has healing powers?"
Pat Monahan [05:00]: "Yes. I've received emails many times that music has done wonderful things for people that I've been a part of... There's got to be something in music that stimulates our brains and hearts to shift or change or progress."

Pat shares a poignant story about an autistic child who, despite never having spoken, began singing "Hey Soul Sister," illustrating the profound impact music can have on individuals facing significant challenges.

Personal Journey and Connection with Music

Lynne Hoffman: "Can you give us one example?"
Pat Monahan [06:12]: "I grew up in Erie, Pennsylvania, and music was a thing that separated me from my peers... I would just sing to everybody in class and it was usually Led Zeppelin songs... that led me to become a singer and eventually start Train."

Pat reflects on his formative years, emphasizing how music was not just a passion but a lifeline that distinguished him and paved the way for his future career.

Relationship with Fans

Lynne Hoffman: "What it means to you when you hear from your fans about their lives and their challenges and their loss."
Pat Monahan [07:05]: "They mean as much as it would mean if a close friend told you... We've become very close friends. We email each other and sometimes talk on the phone. And other times we meet on a cruise every other year."

Pat discusses the deep bond he shares with his fans, whom he affectionately calls "Trainiacs," and how their personal stories and interactions strengthen his connection to them.

Transparency and Sharing Personal Struggles

Lynne Hoffman: "Is it even difficult for you to share what's happening in your life with people through your music?"
Pat Monahan [07:53]: "I share what feels like it wouldn't be a burden for people... I don't really look to Train fans for sympathy or comfort... When people are really struggling with big stuff, if I share something with a similar story, if it feels appropriate."

Pat explains his thoughtful approach to sharing personal experiences through his music, ensuring that his openness is supportive rather than burdensome to his audience.

Creating "Drops of Jupiter"

Lynne Hoffman: "Your song 'Drops of Jupiter' is one of the greatest songs of all time... Can you tell us about how you created that?"
Pat Monahan [09:05]: "We recorded an album called 'Something More' and delivered it to Columbia Records, but they didn't think we had a first single... I woke up with all the lyrics and melodies in my head as though my mother had delivered me the message... It had to translate into a love story."

Pat narrates the emotional genesis of "Drops of Jupiter," a song deeply inspired by the loss of his mother. He describes the moment the song's lyrics and melodies came to him, feeling like a message from his late mother, which he then artfully transformed into a universally relatable love story.

Unexpected Success of "Drops of Jupiter"

Lynne Hoffman: "Were you surprised at how huge that song was and how it connected with so many people?"
Pat Monahan [10:17]: "There's no reason for that song to become a hit... It was pretty interesting that it happened."

Despite initial doubts about its potential, "Drops of Jupiter" resonated widely with audiences, becoming a monumental success. Pat reflects on the unexpected nature of its acclaim, attributing its impact to the authentic emotion embedded in the song.

Philanthropic Endeavors: Family House

Lynne Hoffman: "You had a charity that you work with, your charity House in San Francisco. Can you tell us about that?"
Pat Monahan [10:54]: "It's a place called Family House that houses low-income families with very sick kids being treated at UCSF Hospital... Proceeds from wine sales go to Family House... It's an incredible program that has saved people's lives and dignity for many years."

Pat highlights his commitment to giving back through Family House, a sanctuary for families with seriously ill children. By integrating philanthropy with his ventures, such as wine sales, Pat ensures continuous support for this vital cause.

Vocal Surgery and Overcoming Adversity

Lynne Hoffman: "You had vocal surgery in the past... What was it like for you going through that surgery?"
Pat Monahan [12:52]: "It was the scariest thing that you can imagine... They removed scar tissue from both folds of my vocal cords because I couldn't sing at all... After the surgery, I can sing in many cases better than I ever have."

Pat opens up about his challenging experience with vocal surgery, detailing the fear and uncertainty he faced. His successful recovery not only restored his singing ability but also enhanced it, showcasing his resilience and dedication to his craft.

Legacy and the Importance of Hope in Music

Lynne Hoffman: "How would you like your music to be remembered in terms of the good that it spreads in the world?"
Pat Monahan [15:29]: "For the short time that we'll be here on the planet and for however many years after, I just think that music is supposed to have hope... Hope is underrated and really helps."

Pat shares his vision for his musical legacy, emphasizing the role of hope in his songwriting. He believes that music should inspire and uplift, offering solace and optimism to listeners amidst life's challenges.

Lynne Hoffman: "Do you think writing music also is sort of therapeutic?"
Pat Monahan [17:09]: "Oh, yeah, 100%. If I didn't have the ability to write music, then I would be a mess because it really helps a lot."

Acknowledging the therapeutic nature of music, Pat credits songwriting as a crucial outlet for his emotions and a means to maintain his mental well-being.

Closing Remarks

Lynne expresses her gratitude to Pat for sharing his profound insights and personal stories. Pat reciprocates the appreciation, acknowledging the joy his music brings to countless individuals.

Notable Quotes:

• Pat Monahan [05:00]: "Music has saved my life many times."
• Pat Monahan [09:05]: "I woke up with all the lyrics and melodies in my head as though my mother had delivered me the message."
• Pat Monahan [15:29]: "Hope is underrated and really helps."
• Pat Monahan [17:09]: "If I didn't have the ability to write music, then I would be a mess because it really helps a lot."

This episode of "Music Saved Me" offers a deep dive into Pat Monahan's relationship with music, illustrating how it acts as a source of healing, connection, and hope. Through personal anecdotes and thoughtful reflections, listeners gain a richer understanding of the transformative power of music in both Pat's life and the lives of his fans.