Takin’ Care of Business

The song Takin' Care of Business by Bachman–Turner Overdrive has a fascinating origin story rooted in serendipity and improvisation. Originally titled White Collar Worker when Randy Bachman developed it during his time with The Guess Who, the song’s early version bore a striking resemblance to The Beatles’ Paperback Writer, prompting bandmate Burton Cummings to warn that it could invite a lawsuit. Bachman shelved the idea until he formed BTO. The song’s iconic title came about when Bachman, driving to a gig in Vancouver, heard DJ Daryl Burlingham on CFUN radio say, “We’re takin’ care of business.” Inspired, Bachman reworked the lyrics that night, replacing the chorus with “Takin’ Care of Business.” During a live performance, with Fred Turner’s voice faltering, Bachman sang it spontaneously, instructing the band to play a simple C, B-flat, F chord progression. The crowd’s enthusiastic response, chanting the phrase back, solidified its place in rock history.

Another intriguing anecdote involves the song’s unexpected cultural impact. In an interview with The Aquarian, Randy Bachman shared that Elvis Presley adopted “Takin’ Care of Business” as his personal motto after hearing the song. Priscilla Presley confirmed in an HBO documentary that Elvis, struck by the track while driving to the airport, made “TCB” (with a lightning bolt) his logo, which now appears on his Graceland tombstone. Bachman expressed feeling “blessed” by this connection. Additionally, a pizza delivery story adds to the song’s lore. While recording at Kaye-Smith Studios in Seattle, a delivery person, Norman Durkee, overheard rehearsals and suggested adding a piano part. Despite conflicting accounts—some claim Durkee was a musician recording nearby—his piano became a defining element of the track, showcasing the song’s collaborative spontaneity.

The song also holds a unique record. On May 7, 1994, Randy Bachman led 1,300 guitarists in Vancouver to set a Guinness World Record for the most guitarists playing a song for over an hour, performing Takin’ Care of Business. This event, reported by Wikipedia, remains a testament to the song’s enduring appeal. Social media posts on X further highlight its legacy, with users like @RandysVinylTap noting the 50th anniversary of BTO’s album Not Fragile, which, while not the album featuring this song, underscores the band’s lasting influence. The song’s universal appeal is evident in its use by sports teams in the 1970s and 80s, as noted by fans on Songfacts, and its cover by Kurtis Blow in 1980, blending rock with early hip-hop.

Bachman–Turner Overdrive, often abbreviated as BTO, was founded in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in 1973 by Randy Bachman, his brothers Robbie and Tim, and Fred Turner. Randy, already a seasoned musician from his time with The Guess Who, left that band in 1970 due to health issues and lifestyle differences. Seeking a fresh start, he formed Brave Belt, a country-flavored outfit, with his brothers and Turner. Brave Belt’s lackluster reception led to a pivot toward hard rock, resulting in the creation of BTO. Their self-titled debut album in 1973 gained traction through relentless touring and radio play, particularly after a St. Louis station, KSHE, promoted it heavily for a benefit concert. The release of Bachman–Turner Overdrive II in 1973, featuring Takin’ Care of Business and Let It Ride, catapulted them to international fame, with the album peaking at #4 in the U.S.

BTO’s rise was marked by their blue-collar ethos and gear-shaped logo, earning them a dedicated fanbase dubbed “gearheads.” Their 1970s catalog, including hits like You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet, sold nearly 30 million albums worldwide, as noted on AllMusic. Despite internal challenges, including Tim Bachman’s departure in 1974 due to lifestyle conflicts with Randy’s strict no-drugs policy, BTO’s music remains a staple on classic rock radio. Randy’s songwriting prowess, honed through his earlier success with The Guess Who’s American Woman, was key to BTO’s distinctive sound, blending power chords with melodic hooks.

Fans can connect with BTO through their official website, Facebook, and X accounts. While their official Instagram presence is less active, Randy Bachman maintains a personal account at randybachmanofficial. Fan communities thrive online, with groups like the Bachman-Turner Overdrive Fan Group on Facebook offering spaces for “gearheads” to share memories and discuss the band’s legacy. Websites such as randybachman.com provide additional insights into Randy’s solo career and ongoing projects, including his radio show and documentaries chronicling his recovery of a lost Gretsch guitar.