Bachman-Turner Overdrive Drop Neil Young Collab “60 Years Ago”

Bachman-Turner Overdrive, the iconic Canadian rock band known for hits like “Takin' Care of Business,” has made a resounding comeback with the release of their first new material in over 25 years. Teaming up with fellow Canadian music legend Neil Young, the band has released “60 Years Ago,” a nostalgic single that takes listeners back to the heyday of Winnipeg's vibrant music scene. This marks a significant milestone for Bachman-Turner Overdrive, as it's not only their first new release since 1996's “Trial By Fire: Greatest And Latest” but also the first with Randy Bachman since 1984.

The creation of “60 Years Ago” was sparked by several serendipitous events. The song was initially written during a pandemic YouTube series hosted by Randy Bachman and his son, Tal Bachman. As fate would have it, news of a highway section in Winnipeg being renamed the Bachman-Turner Overpass inspired Randy to revisit the track. The dedication ceremony coincides with Bachman-Turner Overdrive's concert in Winnipeg and served as a catalyst to release the song as a tribute to a city that played an instrumental role in shaping their musical legacy.

The track features several notable collaborations. Neil Young, a childhood friend of Bachman and fellow Winnipeg native, contributes a riveting guitar solo to the piece. Additionally, Fred Turner, who has been grappling with health issues, makes a valiant return to provide vocals. The song itself is a love letter to Winnipeg's music scene of the 1960s, often likened to a North American Liverpool for its blend of diverse and prolific talent. The lyrics vividly evoke the chilly Canadian winters of the past while capturing the warmth and energy of those formative years in the local music community.

Randy Bachman explained that the release of “60 Years Ago,” was not part of a calculated comeback strategy but was rather driven by a deep sense of gratitude and nostalgia. The band plans to debut this track during their exhilarating “Back in Overdrive Tour 2025,” which includes 22 shows across Canada starting April 1, and a subsequent U.S. tour in the summer. The tour also promises performances from other Canadian rock stalwarts like April Wine and Headpins as opening acts, creating a veritable celebration of classic rock.

The revived Bachman-Turner Overdrive now embraces a familial element, with Randy’s son, Tal Bachman, and daughter-in-law, KoKo Bachman, joining on guitar and drums, respectively. This revamped lineup, including new members Lance Lapointe on bass and Brent Knudsen on guitar, brings a renewed energy to the band. Randy Bachman's enthusiasm is palpable as he notes how the band’s sound has evolved while maintaining its soulful essence, much to the delight of longstanding fans.