Transcript
Welcome to the story of Bachman-Turner Overdrive's 'Takin' Care of Business'. This isn't just a song; it's a journey.
It all started with Randy Bachman, even before Bachman-Turner Overdrive existed. While in The Guess Who, he noticed a recording technician's dedication, commuting daily on the 8:15 train. This inspired the song's initial concept, 'White Collar Worker'.
The early version borrowed a bit from musical giants. The chorus riff and melody echoed The Beatles' 'Paperback Writer', which itself drew inspiration from Chuck Berry's 'Johnny B. Goode'. A fascinating lineage!
"When we finished the song that night, people kept clapping, stomping, and shouting 'takin' care of business' over and over. So we picked up the tempo again and reprised the song for another ten minutes. Afterwards, we all knew we had something." Randy Bachman, 1973
The song's title was transformed after hearing a DJ's phrase, 'We're takin' care of business'. The iconic 'Takin' Care of Business' was born, first performed live in Vancouver, and recorded just two weeks later, appearing on their 1973 album, *Bachman–Turner Overdrive II*.
Chart-topping success! Number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100, Number 6 on the Cash Box Top 100, and Number 3 in Canada!
The phrase 'Takin' Care of Business' transcended the song itself. Elvis Presley adopted it as the motto for his TCB Band, a testament to the song's enduring power and impact.
Even today, Randy Bachman continues to tour with BTO, performing this classic, keeping the spirit of 'Takin' Care of Business' alive for generations.
From its humble beginnings to its lasting impact, 'Takin' Care of Business' remains a timeless anthem.