Unpacking "Taking Care of Business": The Enduring Facts Behind BTO's Anthem

Have you ever found yourself humming along to a classic rock tune, feeling its infectious energy, but never really stopped to consider the story behind it? Many songs become part of the cultural fabric, yet their origins remain a mystery to casual listeners. One such iconic track is Bachman-Turner Overdrive's (BTO) "Takin' Care of Business." It's a song synonymous with hard work, self-reliance, and getting the job done. But what are the real "Taking Care of Business" song facts that make it such an enduring anthem?

Join us as we pull back the curtain and explore the fascinating journey of this rock 'n' roll staple, from its unexpected beginnings to its lasting impact on popular culture. You might be surprised by what you discover!

The Genesis of a Rock Classic

Every legendary song has a starting point, and "Takin' Care of Business" is no exception. Its roots stretch back further than many realize, predating BTO itself.

From "White Collar Worker" to Worldwide Hit

The initial spark for "Takin' Care of Business" came to Randy Bachman, the song's writer, while he was still a member of The Guess Who in the late 1960s. He was inspired by a blind recording technician who diligently took the 8:15 train into the city for work every day. Bachman's original concept, titled "White Collar Worker," aimed to capture this daily grind.

Interestingly, the early arrangement and vocal melody of "White Collar Worker" bore a resemblance to The Beatles' "Paperback Writer." This similarity led Guess Who bandmate Burton Cummings to reject the song, fearing a lawsuit from Lennon and McCartney. The song lay dormant for several years, a hidden gem waiting for its moment.

A Fortuitous Turn of Events

The pivotal moment for "Takin' Care of Business" arrived in 1973, during a BTO club gig. Lead vocalist Fred Turner's voice gave out, leaving Randy Bachman to take over vocal duties for the final set. On his way to the gig, Bachman had heard a local Vancouver DJ, Daryl B on CFUN radio, use the catchphrase "We're takin' care of business."

With the band playing a simple three-chord progression (C, B-flat, and F), Bachman improvised, singing the lyrics to "White Collar Worker" but substituting the now-famous phrase "Takin' Care of Business" into the chorus. The crowd's enthusiastic reaction was immediate and overwhelming, prompting the band to reprise the song for another ten minutes. This impromptu performance solidified the song's potential, leading Bachman to rewrite the lyrics with the new, iconic title.

The Band Behind the Anthem: Bachman-Turner Overdrive

"Takin' Care of Business" was first recorded by the Canadian rock group Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO) for their 1973 album, Bachman-Turner Overdrive II. Randy Bachman himself sang the lead vocal on the track.

BTO, formed by Randy Bachman after his departure from The Guess Who, cultivated a harder rock sound. While their self-titled debut in 1973 earned them acclaim, "Takin' Care of Business" provided the breakthrough they desperately needed. Released as a single in January 1974, it steadily climbed the charts, reaching number 12 on the US Billboard Hot 100 by August 1974 and spending an impressive 20 weeks on the chart—longer than any other BTO single.

Lyrical Deep Dive: More Than Just a Catchy Phrase

While often perceived as a straightforward ode to hard work, the lyrics of "Takin' Care of Business" offer a nuanced perspective. The song ingeniously appeals to both the 9-to-5 worker and the self-employed musician.

The first verse vividly describes the daily hustle of commuters: "You get up every morning from your alarm clock's warning / Take the 8:15 into the city / There's a whistle up above and people pushin', people shovin' / And the girls who try to look pretty." It captures the relatable strain of a demanding job: "And if your train's on time, you can get to work by nine / And start your slaving job to get your pay."

However, Bachman then contrasts this with the seemingly more relaxed life of a musician: "If you ever get annoyed, look at me I'm self-employed / I love to work at nothing all day." This self-ironic glance at the glamorous rock star lifestyle, juxtaposed with the working class, gives the song a deeper layer. It suggests that while the musician's life might appear easy, it's still about "taking care of business" in a different way.

Cultural Impact & Enduring Legacy

"Takin' Care of Business" quickly propelled its titular phrase into the popular lexicon, used by everyone from athletes to everyday individuals to signify being "on the job" or handling responsibilities. Its universal message of dedication and getting things done has resonated across generations.

From Elvis to Office Depot

The phrase "Takin' Care of Business" was popular even before the song, famously used by Elvis Presley, who had a "TCB" (Taking Care of Business) necklace and called his backing group "The TCB Band." While Elvis loved BTO's song and even invited them to Las Vegas, his rumored recording of the track has never been released.

The song's commercial appeal is undeniable. It became widely recognized for its use in commercials, most notably for Office Depot throughout the early 1990s, further cementing its association with productivity and commerce. It has also been used by political campaigns, such as Hillary Clinton's 2008 presidential bid.

Beyond advertising, "Takin' Care of Business" remains a staple on classic rock radio stations and a popular choice for jukeboxes. Its simple, driving rhythm and relatable lyrics ensure its continued presence in popular culture. In fact, Randy Bachman stated in 2011 that it was the most licensed song in Sony Music's publishing catalog.

The Pizza Box Legend

One of the most charming anecdotes surrounding the song involves the piano part. Randy Bachman has often recounted that the piano was played by a pizza delivery guy named Norman Durkee who happened to be at the studio. While Durkee was indeed a musician, the "pizza delivery guy" part of the story might be a slight embellishment, as he was reportedly in an adjoining studio working on commercials and simply wrote the chords on a pizza box due to time constraints. Regardless, the story adds to the song's legendary status.

Conclusion

"Takin' Care of Business" is far more than just a catchy tune; it's a cultural phenomenon steeped in an intriguing history. From its initial rejection by The Guess Who to its spontaneous creation on a club stage, the song embodies resilience and the power of a simple, universal message. It reminds us that whether you're a rock star or a nine-to-fiver, there's a shared understanding of what it means to buckle down and take care of what needs to be done.

What does "Takin' Care of Business" mean to you? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or check out our other articles on the surprising stories behind classic rock anthems!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Who wrote and sang "Takin' Care of Business"?

A1: "Takin' Care of Business" was written by Randy Bachman, who also performed the lead vocals on the track for Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO).

Q2: When was "Takin' Care of Business" released?

A2: The song was first released on Bachman-Turner Overdrive's album Bachman-Turner Overdrive II in 1973, and then as a single in January 1974.

Q3: What is the meaning behind the lyrics of "Takin' Care of Business"?

A3: The lyrics of "Takin' Care of Business" cleverly contrast the daily grind of a typical 9-to-5 job with the seemingly more carefree life of a self-employed musician. It celebrates the universal idea of diligence and getting things done, regardless of one's profession.

Q4: Was "Takin' Care of Business" originally a different song?

A4: Yes, the core idea for "Takin' Care of Business" originated from an earlier song Randy Bachman wrote called "White Collar Worker" while he was still with The Guess Who. The original version was rejected by The Guess Who due to its similarity to The Beatles' "Paperback Writer."