Tim Bachman, founding member of Canadian rock band Bachman-Turner Overdrive, dies at 71

Canadian rock band Bachman-Turner Overdrive has lost one of its founding members, Tim Bachman, who passed away at the age of 71. Randy Bachman confirmed the news through his manager on Sunday. Tim’s son, Paxton Bachman, disclosed on Facebook that his father had died on Friday after being diagnosed with cancer throughout his brain. BTO hit the spotlight with their second album, Bachman-Turner Overdrive II, released in 1973, featuring the hit singles Let it Ride and Takin’ Care of Business. The group’s sound transitioned from the softer melodies of Brave Belt, led by Randy Bachman, to Tim Bachman’s hard-charging riffs. Tim Bachman left the band in 1974 but eventually rejoined for tours, including in 1986, when BTO opened for Van Halen’s 5150 tour. In 2014, BTO was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. Prior to his death, Tim Bachman worked in real estate in Abbotsford, B.C. In 2010, he was charged with three sexual offenses involving a person under 14 but was later acquitted at trial. His death follows that of his brother Robbie in January 2021 and the band’s first manager, Gary Bachman, in June of the same year. Meanwhile, Randy Bachman continues to tour with his son and host Vinyl Tap, a popular Canadian radio program.