Train Frontman Reveals Therapist Inspired Hit Song

Pat Monahan says "Calling All Angels" came from a therapy session

Mar. 16, 2026 at 6:24pm by Ben Kaplan

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Train frontman Pat Monahan has revealed that one of the band's biggest hits, "Calling All Angels" from their 2003 album My Private Nation, was inspired by a conversation with his therapist during a difficult period in his personal life. Monahan says his therapist told him "We're made up of traitors and angels and it's time for you to call your angels," which sparked the lyrics for the song.

Why it matters

This story provides insight into the creative process behind one of Train's most popular songs and how personal experiences and therapy can influence the writing of hit music. It also highlights how musicians sometimes draw inspiration from unexpected sources outside the typical songwriting process.

The details

Monahan was going through a troubled marriage, raising two young kids, and constantly traveling between Seattle, San Francisco, and Pennsylvania when he had the therapy session that led to "Calling All Angels." His therapist also encouraged him to take a bow and recognize what he was doing well, which was difficult for him at the time. Monahan says he was "so caught up in, 'I need to get better, I need more,'" but the therapist helped him slow down and appreciate the positives.

  • In 2003, Train released the album "My Private Nation" which included the hit song "Calling All Angels".
  • Monahan had the therapy session that inspired the song during a period when his career was thriving but his personal life was strained.

The players

Pat Monahan

The frontman of the band Train, who wrote the hit song "Calling All Angels" after a conversation with his therapist.

Train

The American pop rock band known for hits like "Calling All Angels" and "Drops of Jupiter."

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What they’re saying

“We're so caught up in, 'I need to get better, I need more,'”

— Pat Monahan, Train Frontman (People)

“We're made up of traitors and angels and it's time for you to call your angels,”

— Monahan's Therapist (People)

What’s next

Train is set to embark on their "Drops of Jupiter: 25 Years in the Atmosphere" anniversary tour starting in July 2026.

The takeaway

This story highlights how personal experiences and insights from therapy can unexpectedly inspire the creation of hit songs. It shows the value of slowing down, reflecting, and recognizing one's own strengths, even during challenging times, as that can lead to meaningful artistic expression.