Pat Monahan rose to prominence as the frontman of the rock ensemble Train. His reputation extends from his role as the lead vocalist in the band, recognized for chart-toppers like “Drops of Jupiter” and “Calling All Angels.” In addition to his work with Train, Monahan’s artistic ventures encompass collaborations with several other musicians. Notably, he ventured into solo territory by creating his independent album, “Last of Seven.”
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Who Is Pat Monahan?
Pat Monahan hails from America, boasting talents as a singer, musician, songwriter, and actor. His prominence arises from his pivotal role as the lead vocalist and integral member of the music collective ‘Train,’ a formation that emerged during the 1990s. Their inaugural musical offering bore the eponymous title ‘Train.’
After this debut, the band unfurled a sequence of albums, including ‘For Me, It’s You,’ securing the admirable 10th rank on the US Billboard 200 chart. Another significant release, ‘California 37,’ achieved an impressive 4th position on the same Billboard chart. Monahan embarked on an independent musical journey with his maiden solo album, christened ‘Last of Seven.’
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Pat Monahan Early Life
Born and raised in Erie, Pennsylvania, Pat Monahan entered the world as the youngest member of a family of seven siblings. His roots trace back to his Irish heritage, and he came into the world on February 28, 1969. His parents were Jack Monahan, a musician, and proprietor of a clothing store, and Patricia Ann Monahan. Interestingly, he earned the distinction of becoming an uncle at the tender age of five.
His educational journey saw him attending McDowell High School located in Millcreek Township. Following this, he pursued higher education at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, in Edinboro, Pennsylvania.
Pat Monahan Fame And Career
Pat Monahan embarked on his musical journey as a member of the cover band Rogues Gallery from 1988 to 1990. Following the band’s dissolution, he made his way to California, where he crossed paths with Rob Hotchkiss. The duo, along with additions Jimmy Stafford (guitar), Charlie Colin (bass), and Scott Underwood (drums), transitioned from the San Francisco coffeehouse circuit to the vibrant LA club scene, culminating in the official formation of Train.
Monahan’s affiliation with Train led to a prolific period between 1994 and 2006, during which the band released four studio albums. In 2002, they secured two Grammy Awards, with one attributed to the moving song “Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me),” co-written by Monahan and inspired by his late mother’s battle with cancer.
Beyond his contributions to Train, Monahan’s vocal talents extended to collaborations. In 2001, he lent additional vocals to the song “Shimmer” with the band Fuel. He made a guest appearance on VH1’s Decades Rock Live in November 2005, covering Cyndi Lauper’s hit “Time After Time.” Monahan also participated in the celebration of The Doors through the performance of “Love Me Two Times” in Storytellers – The Doors: A Celebration.
During Train’s hiatus from 2006 to 2009, Monahan pursued a solo path, releasing his debut album “Last of Seven” on September 18, 2007. This marked the commencement of a nationwide tour. His initial solo single, “Her Eyes,” ascended to the top 10 of Billboard’s Hot AC chart. The album’s second single, “Two Ways to Say Goodbye,” followed suit.
Monahan’s musical versatility was evidenced by collaborations with fellow artists. Notably, he joined The Hollies during the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in 2010, lending his voice to “Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress.” He also contributed a cover of Buddy Holly’s “Maybe Baby” for the tribute album “Listen to Me: Buddy Holly” in 2011.
Further enriching his musical portfolio, Monahan engaged in a duet with Martina McBride, reimagining Train’s song “Marry Me” for her album “Eleven.” His presence extended to TV appearances, including a performance of “Drops of Jupiter” on The Voice with contestant Vicci Martinez.
Monahan’s podcast endeavor, Patcast, launched in 2013, where he engaged in conversations with various personalities from the music industry. In April 2017, he took on the role of inducting Journey into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
From his early days with Rogues Gallery to his enduring contributions with Train and Beyond, Patrick Monahan’s musical odyssey is a testament to his multifaceted talents and unwavering dedication to the craft.
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About Pat’s Personal Life
Patrick Monahan was joined in matrimony with Guinean Rapp from 1990 to 2006. Guinean, a teacher by profession, shared their marital journey, and together, they were blessed with two children, Patrick and Emelia.
In 2007, a new chapter unfolded as Monahan entered into wedlock with Amber Peterson. Their union has brought forth two more children, named Autumn and Rock Richard.
Album Information:
In 2007, Patrick Monahan released his solo album “Last of Seven,” which became available on September 18, 2007, under the label Columbia Records. The album achieved a peak position of 82 on the US charts.
Singles:
As the Lead Artist:
- In 2007, “Her Eyes” was released, reaching position 110 on the US charts. It also climbed to the 9th spot on the US Adult chart. This track was part of the “Last of Seven” album.
As a Featured Artist:
- Collaborating with Kris Allen, Monahan contributed to the song “The Truth” in 2010. Although it didn’t chart in the US, it did manage to secure the 17th position on the US Adult chart. The song was included in Kris Allen’s album.
- In 2012, Monahan and Martina McBride partnered on the song “Marry Me.” While not charting on the US or US Country charts, it did attain the 45th position on the US Adult chart. The track was featured on Martina McBride’s album “Eleven.”
Songwriting Credits:
Patrick Monahan has also contributed his songwriting talents to various projects:
- In 2018, he co-wrote the song “Babe” for Sugarland featuring Taylor Swift, included in the album “Bigger.” The track was written in collaboration with Taylor Swift.
- In 2021, Monahan was involved in the song “Babe (Taylor’s Version)” performed by Taylor Swift. This version was part of Taylor Swift’s album “Red (Taylor’s Version).”