Corrupt Label STOLE Everything From this Legend-He Got Even With This 80s Hit! | Professor Of Rock
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- Опубліковано 4 чер 2024
- Tom Petty risked everything to earn his freedom form a cheating record label. The Result was captured in one of his greatest 80s hits, Refugee. Tom Petty risked His finances, his reputation, his future in music, even his mental health... it was all on the line. But the alternative was something much worse, working under a dishonest contract that was more or less musical servitude. Going bankrupt in the process, this fearless artist took his label to court while at the same time writing and recording what many consider to be his masterpiece album Damn the Torpedoes. The story of Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers fight for liberty including an exclusive interview with the song’s co-writer Mike Campbell.
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#1980s #rock #vinylstory
Hey music junkies, Professor of Rock, always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. Make sure to subscribe below to get the stories straight form the legends…
It’s time to return to one of the newest shows that we do on this channel. I call it ‘Career Suicide.’ This where we break down an artist, song or album that took a major risk. And maybe the gamble paid off. Or maybe it was a complete disaster. In this show it could go either way. But whatever the outcome, it’s a guaranteed great story. In previous episodes we have covered David Bowie’s Let’s Dance and The Cure’s Lullaby.
This time however, it’s Tom Petty, backed by the Heartbreakers taking on the man with their album Damn the Torpedoes. including today’s song…Refugee. 1978 was looking like a good year for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, which consisted of guitarist Mike Campbell, drummer Stan Lynch, bassist Ron Blair, and keyboardist Benmont Tench. The band was developing a devoted fanbase. Their self-titled 1976 debut had reached #55 in the US and #24 in the UK. And singles American Girl and Breakdown both broke the top 40 in 1977, during an era when disco dominated the charts.
When they released their second album ‘You’re Gonna Get It!’ on May 2, 1978, it was clear that Tom Petty’ music was the next big thing. This sophomore record jumped 32 spots to #23 and went gold in the US thanks to singles Listen to Her Heart and I Need to Know. But putting numbers and accolades aside, there was just something in the air. Music lovers and the industry players alike could feel it... album #3 was going to be a commercial smash.
Unfortunately for Tom, his label Shelter Records, led by owner Denny Cordell, recognized this too. And his response was to tighten up control over Tom’s already unfavorable recording contract. When Tom did the math, he soon realized that he was being ripped off, reportedly making something like a penny per record. Unbelievable. Said Petty, “I think I knew I was in a bad deal after the first record... we had started to sell significant amounts of albums. There were gold records. There should have been dough. We hadn’t taken a big advance, and our costs weren’t that high... Where was the money?”
Until to that point, Tom and Denny had actually been good friends. But as they say, business is business. And Denny wouldn’t budge on the contract. By early 1979, things got even worse. Shelter Records’ distributor ABC was bought out by MCA, allegedly giving MCA ownership over Tom Petty’s contract. But Tom didn’t buy it. He argued back saying his contract was nontransferable... - Розваги
Poll: What is your pick for Tom Petty's greatest song?
Impossible to decide!
I would go with I Won't Back Down. Cheers! ✌️
Rebels
My vote goes for, "You Got Lucky," but that could change because he has so many great hits. RIP Mr. Petty...❤
....PERSONAL fave - "Running Down A Dream" ( Solo *PETTY* )
GREATEST fave - "Stop Draggin' My Heart Around" ( Duet *PETTY* )
WORLDWIDE fave - "Refugee" ( Bandmember *PETTY* )
As a single mother of two young daughters in 1980-82, working in a drilling pipe factory; I played Damn the Torpedoes LP nearly every morning before going to work. It was my fight album, dealing with being nearly the only female working with a bunch of guys, which some resented my presence. One of my all time favorites.
You sound like a strong feminist! I’m with you, rock on! 🤘
That is awesome. Much respect to you.. I was a Mr. Mom in the mid to late eighties. It was a struggle, But all the music that my kids and I grew up on are still strong with us today
My mom worked in a steel mill where 99% of the workforce was male I believe there were only three women at the time that worked in the plant most females were in the offices but my mom was little and tough and there was more money on the floor than in the office which just wasn’t her anyway but she dealt with a lot of ignorance and bigotry and the more shit they gave her the harder she fought back through her work some of the things that they said and did too her are shameful but she preserved and was there until they sold out and shut down the funny thing is she ended up in plant protection and she shut down a lot of the thievery bc she knew who what and how along the way and it was the same group that treated her like dirt funny how life works out sometimes anyway I’m proud of women like you who never backed down
I was serving in the Navy and we were rescuing Vietnamese boat people in the South China Sea. Over the ships speakers they played Don't have to live like a refugee. It was epic really and something I will never forget. Tom had amazing talent
Hard to believe Tom's been gone almost five years-He was truly one of a kind-"Refugee" is an all-time classic,that's for sure!
Five years of a lot less love in the world because of this.
Saw Tom in Seattle weeks before he died, I think he only played one date after that. A night I will always remember. Great show.
@MaGuffintop True that my friend!
Facts!
TP's estate can pound sand. From a comment on an article in 2020 "The use of the song at the rally would fall under "public exhibition" and they should have obtained permission first. I don't understand why this is so hard for people to wrap their heads around. I understand that part. "Tom wrote this song for the underdog, for the common man, and for EVERYONE" Really? If that's truly the case, why specifically express such displeasure that Trump used it? I guess you should add on "except those who don't believe as we do" if you're really interested in being honest. So many have called things that they don't agree with "hate" that it has more or less de-valued the word. If you were to define it by the way media uses it, it would encompass anything that doesn't align with a liberal or leftist point of view."
I've seen Tom petty at least 10 times live and every one was amazing. Even the heart breakers. Tom would leave the stage to take a quick break and the Heartbreakers would play instrumentals and solos. What a band and what a loss with his passing.
They were so amazing live.
Tom was the greatest American rocker of all time!! No artist has a bigger library then him. Sold out stadiums for 40 years and never let his fans down. He is missed.
Better than Elvis!
He's not the Boss!
@@frankfreeman2012 he is Bigger then the so called boss end of story!
@@frankfreeman2012 John Mellencamp would be closer then Bruce.
@@frankfreeman2012 Tom flew by Bruce a few decades ago
His next album Hard Promises, he went to war again with the labels. Wanting to name the album $8.98 over pricing. Tom Petty created alot of memories for me. He is very missed.
...I sorta remember that drama; It was of Fall '82(?), and when I saw the LP cover (with him in the Record shop), I was like, "...I don't get it.." ....
I remember both that album and the legal battle. I heard his music and liked it, but had no idea who he really was. Not until MTV. Once I hit HS, MTV aired and I was locked in. From then on I was a fan. I was fortunate to see him on tour 6 times and meet him with Bob Dylan at LIVE AID where me and my girlfriend worked backstage serving drinks. That was funny because I couldn't serve alcohol because I wasn't old enough. She however was. That was one of the greatest days of my life. I met several music gods that day!
@@seanswinton6242 ...and, the best 'Music God' I could ever meet, was Jon Secada!! ...DAMN you, Sean! >sob< ....ha-HAA! ...jus'kiddin'!
I have always been Team Tom Petty.
I saw Tom Petty at the gorge in Washington in late 90s, so glad I did.
Tom Petty will forever be missed. Such a great artist! Refugee is one of my favorite songs.
Is unfortunate how labels used to ripoff and use artists! And I’m glad Tom fought back against MCA when they tried to buy him without his consent.
It's such a classic.
I know, right? He didn’t deserve all that record label drama. He was awesome!
Myself too , when I heard he had died I was in shock , time stops for no one , first time I heard Tom Petty and the rest was in 1978 , never listened to anything other can country music growing up , in 1978 I was a sophomore in high school . I discovered a lot about rock and roll then , In my house hold that's all we listen too , yes , Tom will be missed great leader of the band 👍👍
@MaGuffintop there are ways now to bypass the labels. People record and stream their stuff back then there was no other way to produce a record. The labels are indeed corrupt from ripping off their artists but these days there is the alternatives.
Still love Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Great songs ,great lyrics and music. Tom is sorely missed.
I used to listen to Tom Petty, The Knack and others through a 9-volt transistor radio with a plug-in earphone while drifting off to sleep. My Dad would come in to check on me and turn the radio off then wrap the earphone cord around it and put it on my nightstand ... after I had dozed off. That was such good times. Godspeed Mr. Tom Petty. 🤠
'Damn The Torpedoes" was a masterpiece album. We should have seen it coming based on the singles from his first two albums (ex. "Breakdown", "American Girl", "I Need To Know")
"Refugee" had some of Tom's best vocals, so emotionally charged!
All of those and many more are in my playlist. He was just so good!
...played 4 of his Albums once, at the same time....IN DIFFERENT ROOMS(!) ....when he was on the '85 comeback, I was SO proud of him....and, MYSELF, for doing that! ...ha-HAA!
So much passion!
I love American Girl.
Did you know that the album's name comes from a quote by David Farragut in the Battle of Mobile Bay?
It is impossible for me to put into words,
What feelings, memories and emotions his music evokes in me.
Nor can I verbalize how much I miss his presence on this planet.
Crushed that he has gone.
He, Bob Seger, and Bob Marley moved me so much that it changed my life.
Same. Hugs my friend.
I still remember watching SNL the first time he played on there. I remember the day my sister bought that first album. I took it over. He’s been one of my favorites since.
I feel you....Same😥
Totally agree!!
I cannot begin to explain the impact this album had on me a number of my friends in high school.
It wasn't necessarily revolutionary a la "Sgt Pepper's," but it was moving, soul embracing and totally rocked. Songs like "Here Comes My Girl" and "Even the Losers" still to this day lift my heart and fill me with hope.
A true victory for Tom and the Heartbreakers, both legally and artistically. Much mahalos for featuring! See ya! 👍🎸🎶
Kinda funny you should mention Sgt Peppers, I'm pretty sure George Harrison helped write and performed in some of the songs from that album, most notably "Don't Do Me Like That".
This is what you get when you match a great songwriter and a great guitarist. Tom and Mike worked so fantastically together and made some of the absolute best music ever. I waited for every album and was never disappointed. Rest in Peace Tom and thank you! Great episode professor. So many Hits by the Heartbreakers I hope you cover them all!
A match made in heaven no doubt!
They came together like a piece of cake! Tom was a legend and Mike was an excellent guitarist. I miss Tom so much.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I like that saying like a piece of cake! Mike is all the ingredients and Tom was the sugar and icing that can make or break a cake. Lol well said
@@MyName-pl7zn A flavorful cake indeed! 😉 Perfect pairing of two legends.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I see you picked Free Falling, fantastic choice!
Love this channel. Professor your cadence and inflections are spot on. You do great job telling the stories clearly. Thank you.
Much appreciated!
I was 16, got my licence on the day, shitbox here I come, 1st real job, 1st car, aforementioned shitbox, 1st uh-hum, and petty playing on my 8 track with a book of matches jammed in it to stop the music from wabbling, 1976 best year😉
Love this, I cried so much at his death, more than Elvis, more than Bowie. Tom Petty talked to me with his lyrical genius, unlike others. Now I understand why other artists have used the bankruptcy loophole to get out of unfair contracts. I remember watching the video on MTV in the 80s, my brothers kept me listening to Rock, where I would escape my sister and her disco. I think the day I hear about Tommy Shaw passing will be right up there with me as Tom Petty. Refugee spoke to me about how I could continue to fight, be dirt poor, but still have hope for a better tomorrow. Today, I have a college degree, finishing my MSc, and I may be autistic, but I have accomplished despite of it. And I mean dirt poor, my mother raised 6 kids, without child support, on her own. She did not remarry until I was 18 years of age. During that time she did not live like a refugee she got her GED, better paying jobs, though still terrible on her body, and was able to support us kids. 5 of which are college educated, with 3 having Masters degrees. The 6th, he was almost non-functional autistic/ADHD, during a time that the diagnosis were not around for him nor the support. He died at 52 years of age, never making it to be an Elder within the tribe.
Still remember the day I purchased this album at Sam the record man in Toronto. Went home, played the album and was immediately impressed by the sound and feel of the album. Later that Friday night, I watched the Americans beat the Russians at the Olympic games in ice hockey....the miracle on ice. For me, the two will always be tied together. Two underdogs making it to the summit.
My father always said this album was a big deal to him and his friends back in high school when it released. I grew up with the Heartbreakers being the soundtrack to my life thanks to him, whether it was being played in the car or on the house stereo, lots of great memories included Tom's music. My father suprised me and my wife with tickets to see him in 2017 on what would be his final tour with Joe Walsh opening, and it was the best concert I've ever been to, you wouldn't have known he was in so much pain by how well he played. It still hurts knowing he is no longer with us. I think he would have been the coolest guy to chat about music and music gear with.
Oh, and thank you Adam, PoR, for having me as an honorary producer for this video, it's an honor 💜👩🏼🎓
A big hello professor of rock. My name is Sandra Running, I’m 63 years young and live in San Diego, Ca. First I want to much thanks and love for keeping music trivia and all genres of music alive for generations to come.
Many thanks for your shows on the great Tom Petty and for keeping his memory alive not only as a solo artist but with the amazing Heartbreakers.
I’ve had the extreme pleasure of see Tom Petty’s Full Moon Fever tour in 1989 at a 1000 person venue and there are no words special enough to express how his music makes you feel. I still have my original full moon fever program which I’ll cherish for a lifetime. In Aug 2014 I saw their outstanding Mojo tour they rocked the house a million times over. Then I saw his awesome group Mudcrutch in Sana Anna, Ca in Jun 2016 also at a 1000 person venue it was magical we were close enough to touch them. Pls never stop sharing your awesome love of music. I’m a forever devoted fan
Tom Petty is one of my favorites. I remember first hearing him and thinking his voice was strange but I still liked it. The sad state of music today often reminds me of Tom. I catch myself thinking that there's no way a guy like Tom could get a record deal today. A guy with strange unique voice, that isn't going to play ball and be pushed around? It really saddens me to think about how many guys like that are out there that we'll never hear. Tom expanded my palete. He's the one responsible for me giving things that may not necessarily be what you think of when you think of a great singer, a chance. Tom's writing made him a star, Tom has a catalog that any artist would envy. There's no one that sounds like him. He's like his own category. It hurt me when Tom passed. Me and the wife were planning to see him on his next tour. I'll never get the chance to take my kids to see him. I feel genuinely bad about that. That's how great Tom was. I would have driven anywhere to get that chance. There aren't many artists I feel that way about. Tom was special.
Tom was very special! I watch his interviews and I see what a kind, funny, and genuine person he was along with an amazing catalog of GREAT SONGS. I unfortunately never had the chance to see Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers live. I would've loved to. I too am a Singer/Songwriter and Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers are a huge inspiration for my Songwriting and Muzik Production Skills. It's not always easy to put the love into a timeless sound recording! We do! RIP TOM PETTY 💔
I don’t think he has a song I don’t know by heart. Just miss him so.
One of a kind performer... Solid rock with an edge to it that's so attractive. Damn the Torpedoes was my album go-to in 1979-80! Saw him a few times in concert. Loved how he'd say, "How are all you baby dolls doing tonight?" Gone to soon for sure...
..."Damn..." , "Tusk", & "The Game" (Queen)...constants...CONSTANTS!
There is not one song of his that I do not like. He sounded so sweet and humble.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers have my vote for Best all around Rock 'n' roll band America has ever produced.
I got to see Top Petty back in 2001 and he played a 5 hour set with every song being a huge well known hit that you'd have to have been living under a rock to not know fairly well. That's the expanse of that man's musical genius.
Integrity rules. Integrity + Strategy == Awesome.
Tom Petty was truly one of a kind. Thank you for this breakdown, Professor!
He was a great artist surrounded by great musicians. With or without The Heartbreakers. His solo Full Moon Fever was the album that captured me in my teen years. I have nothing bad to say about any of his music. I just sit here kicking my ass for not going to see him in concert. I had a chance to, but work got in the way of those plans. It was a few months later that he passed away. But because of that. I haven't let a concert slip past me. If I have the funds available. I am going to see as many bands as I can. His passing really got me in gear. It was sudden, and it sparked the fire in me. RIP Tom. You really earned your wings.
RIP Tom Petty - Long live Mike Campbell, for keeping the vibe alive.
Not only did Tom make songs about his life, he made those same songs about OUR lives. That alone, will make his music timeless. It is why Tom Petty still has a Sirius XM channel devoted to his music and genre.
I enjoyed his music throughout the decades, but I only saw TP and HBs once...at the Hollywood Bowl, just 10 days before he passed...I look back at that, and feel blessed to have shared one magical night with a great friend, and will always cherish that night.
It's hard to pick a favorite Tom Petty song what is not hard is understanding is his commitment his entire life is a testament to that.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers could sing the grocery list, and make it a total jam!
I’m glad he fought back!
Agreed!
Me too! He deserved so much better.
Tom Petty has always had a special place for me. When I had an especially difficult semester of grad school, after the semester Tom Petty was playing in Austin with Gary Clark Jr opening, I had to treat myself. Took my wife. Had a terrific night. Little did I know he would pass only a few short months after. When I realized I almost passed on going to the concert because of cost, I am so glad I was able to see the show before it was too late. Makes me wonder what else I have passed on in life before realizing it is too late. Live life!
Killer album. Lots of great tunes. And I never knew how Much Mike Campbell's voice (talking AND singing) sounds like Tom Petty himself!
I saw him live in 98'. It was the last show of the wild flowers tour. Alpine Valley. Tom and the heartbreakers got back together for this one show that tour. It is still the greatest concert I've ever seen. The performance was so far and above what you heard on the radio or an album. Tom Petty was insane. The guitar solos were something to behold. I miss him. I love his music.
Tom Petty is one of my favorites of all time, too. Excellent video. I had heard a little of this story, but thanks so much for going in depth. I was fortunate to see him in concert a couple times, he was an exceptional performer. He left us too soon. 💔
Thanks for listening
Too soon indeed.
@@ProfessorofRockDwight twilley was a much better vocalist than Tom Petty they both got screwed by the same label and Dwight twilley got completely screwed
A huge Tom Petty fan. Always felt that Mike Campbell never gets the deserved credit as a guitarist or songwriter. His guitar work defines the Tom Petty sound.
I especially enjoyed Tom's music from Into The Great Wide Open on. I wasn't aware of his legal battles with labels & greedy managers, but this explains the theme of his album The Last DJ. Tom wasn't at all afraid to voice his opinion about the music biz & how it seeks to suck artists dry financially as well as artistically.
I'm thankful he lives on through his music.
Mike Campbell is always a good interview. He always finds a way to remain humble while also keeping every story interesting. He has so many incredible stories.
The waiting is the hardest part everyday see one more card. You take it on faith, you take it to the heart
The waiting is the hardest part
Thank you Professor. Tom Petty was - is a national treasure.
"Breakdown" and "Refuge" were, and still are, my favorite songs by Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers.
1979 as a transzonal year in rock music, and Tom Petty was right in the thick of it, in more than one way. Boston, Journey, and others were ushering in new music, the 70's were slowly fading, and Here was Tom Petty, fighting for his professional life, something I didn't know about until today.
Well, Tom made an impact, that's for sure. It's too bad that he is not here to bask in the light, which he earned and deserved. ;-)
Disco was gradually washed out of the pop spotlight.
Thank God for Tom Petty! He carried the torch of great rock and roll through the disco era to keep it alive!
I was 16 when this came out. I could listen to this entire Album! Back then there were certain albums where EVERY SONG was a 💎 Gem!
It’s so true. Record companies exploit the hell out of artists.
I miss Tom Petty more than I can really explain. I grew up on his music and his spirit. And as a Florida boy not far from Gainesville I knew his surroundings the song refugee just like so many of his other songs showed me how dedicated many times he was to fighting for himself and his music and his band. Not a single one of those songs ever gets old to me either not a one! God bless Tom Petty and his family and thank you for this wonderful video
I’m back in Gainesville. My morning jog circuit takes me by Petty’s birthplace….always hum a petty song as I go by.
Thanks for sharing this. I saw Tom Petty twice live, with Steve Winwood as the opening act. In 2008, in Edmonton, Alberta, and in 2014, in Calgary, Alberta. I'm a longtime fan. May Tom Petty rest in peace. Cheers! ✌️
Two legends.
I love Stevie Winwood, too.
When this world ends, and our history is all that is left, Tom Petty will remain as one of the best singer/songwriters to ever grace this planet. He'll continue to be in our hearts for eternity.
I was 13 when this song came out, after first hearing it on the radio, I bought the album & played it over and over again. One of my all time favorite songs.
Really enjoyed this segment, especially because you interviewed Mike Campbell. His guitar work with Tom Petty adds all the "feel" you get from listening to their work. While Tom sometimes worked without the Heartbreakers, he always brought Mike Campbell with him on his solo projects. Like you Professor, I miss Tom very much, too.
He does an amazing job as a guitarist!
Thank you for the history behind this song. I was only 7 years old when Damn the Torpedoes was released, and didn't become aware of Tom Petty until the mid 80s. Good advice in a rock song, Everyone has to fight to be free.
Tonight I am going to see Ziggy Marley concert Tribute to my father, Bob Marley. Another artist who spoke out against injustice in his music.
Get up stand up
Stand up for your rights.
Get up stand up
Don't gve up the fight.
Tom ALWAYS stuck up to the bullies!
It’s why I love this song! It sends one of the most important messages ever.
I wish you good luck with Ziggy! I love Bob Marley’s music. I’m surprised that he only hit on the Hot 100 once. That’s criminal. Marley’s music really gave me great advice to go ahead in life to where I am today.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 It is amazing Bob Marley's legacy lives on since he wasn't a top 40 artists. Most people bought the albums , not singles. I think Rita Marley kept things going through marketing and the Marley family started Tuff Gong records, recording studio in Jamaica. He was honored in his country after he died, and in 1984 Bob Marley Legend record was released and became one of the best selling records that year. It came out on CD in 2001 and I bought it. Bob Marley is similar to the Grateful Dead. Lots of concert tours which attracted more fans.
I will let you know about the concert in tomorrow's comments.
"One love, one ❤, let's get together and feel alright
Give thanks and praise to the Lord and it will be alright. 😄
@@catherine6653 There we’re also many posthumous singles released from him after he died in 1981, and they are as equally great as the ones that came before. One Love is one of my favorites. I hope you have a wonderful time at the concert!
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Hi Lilly! I'm home from the Ziggy Marley concert. Great show. I will tell you more tomorrow.
I lived through back-to-back hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. I got the news that he had died while we were rebuilding our island, and I sang “Refuge” at karaoke both as a tribute and as inspiration to keep pushing on after the disaster.
My mom grew up in Tom Petty’s home town.
Thanks for another great episode on a story many people did not know about. Damn the Torpedos came out when I was 17. I was already a fan thanks to "Breakdown" being my gateway. I know I am biased, but to me, 1975-1980 was a gift to us all musically. Growing up in the East Bay with Bill Graham as a promoter, I was fortunate. Saw Tom for the first time New Years Eve 1980. After many times in between,, saw Tom and the Heartbreakers the last time, at Kaaboo, his 2nd to last performance, which being on a Sunday night of a 3 day concert fest, I thankfully , did not blow off. Blessed. It still hurts, the sadness of his passing, and what mentally sucks about both his and Prince's deaths , that it was based around attempting to escape the physical pain, they both had , from giving their all to performing. RIP.
I have never really been a fan of Tom Petty. Just not my taste. We all have our preferences and so forth. I recognize he was brilliant and now appreciate his music as I've gotten older. I now hear what did make him stand out and hearing him go against the corporate music industry has given me mad respect for this man!! I am so sorry he passed away. I love this channel and learn so much from Professor of Rock.
Fantastic episode!!!!! I remember rushing out to get the album the moment it was released, playing it over and over on my Dual 606. To this day, my favorite album, group; every song on this hit me! So sad of Tom’s passing. Mike Campbell carrying on the torch, always top shelf, humble class act. So glad Mike formed the Dirty Knobs, and always keeps Tom in his and our hearts. God Bless!
Truly enjoyed this episode!⭐️⭐️🙏⭐️⭐️
i lived in the US from the mid 70s mid 1980 smack in the middle of the disco era and Tom P's songs really had a hold on me. Smashing tunes in 1979.. "Don't do me like that" but especially Here comes my Girl great track..an intriguing mix of Bob Dylan and Mick Jagger in his vocals..At least that's what we used to believe 😊😊😊😊😊
One of my first albums, and still hits me. Grew up pretty sheltered, and had just graduated HS when it came out. Made a friend in community college who was really into music (kept a constantly rotating collection of 2000 albums) and he introduced me to such a wide range of music - Replacements, Kinks, Roxy Music, and many others. He taught me about audio equipment, helped me in picking out a good system, and got me to start listening to a wider range of things. Damn the Torpedos was one of my initial batch of albums from that time that I had “discovered” on my own, and I’ve loved Tom Petty ever since. He is one of the all time greats and it is still hard to believe he is already gone.
Tom Petty is a legend for a reason.
....Legends ALWAYS have 'reason'.... ; )
You got it!
In 2000, Petty was interviewed and mentioned being at work on the *Torpedoes* album at the same time he was filing bankruptcy and challenging MCA Records. He remarked that attorneys from both sides of the conflict were subpoenaing his notebooks, because they thought the lyrics of songs like "Century City" constituted evidence in the case.
Tom's music always spoke to me. At 57 years young, I still have Petty and Mellencamp in heavy rotation. Tom was one of a kind. I miss him too.
I have a funny story to share. One day my friend and I were waiting for a subway, with music being piped through speakers . My friend exclaimed "I love this song! Do you like it?" The volume or the noise in the subway prevented me from hearing it clearly, so I asked her what it was. She began to sing "Tree falling". I was like "What?!" She sang again "Tree falling". I began cracking up, then told her the words were "Free falling". What a funny memory.
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers- so many amazing songs!
There are certain people who have left this mortal realm that simply made the world feel a bit emptier. Tom Petty is one such person to me.
Adam i watch you a lot. I'm 68 years old and when I hear you talk about your dad and music I usually tear up. When my sons were at that impressionable age I tried to let them hear music I considered good important music. It worked they both really appreciate what I consider good music. My oldest son has been doing Dad Pool Karaoke when taking my grandchildren to school in the morning
Loved his work and voice with the traveling Wilburys. George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, Roy Oberson, Bob Dylan. Incredible talent all together in one group. Just amazing. Hard to believe he's gone. He will never be forgotten
Tom Petty proved that sticking to your artistic integrity and following your passion is the way to go with an amazing discography and an astonishing career he left us with an incredible legacy of timeless music long after dark, into the great wide open and let me up(I've had enough) are a few of my favorite Tom Petty albums
For sure. So many great songs from him.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 there will never be another tom Petty his music had this unique blend of 60s jangle pop, southern rock and a healthy dose of humor one of my favorite songs of Tom's is straight into darkness from the very underrated long after dark and this line has stayed with me "I don't believe the good the times are over I don't believe the thrill is still gone the weak will fall the strong carry on" that's what Tom was all about
@@georgemathie8123 What an amazing song and line.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 definitely check this song out long after dark is not as well received as his other albums are but it's definitely one of his much more aggressive and powerful statements
@@georgemathie8123 So many good life lessons learned from his songs.
Long After Dark was the album where I really discovered Tom Petty. You got lucky will always be “the“ TP song for me.
You can stand me up to the gates of Hell, but I won't back down. RIP Tom.
Refugee is so good even Weird Al had to play it straight.
Absolutely love your channel. It’s easy to tell that you are moved by music. It’s so amazing how great music can take you back to memories and even feelings. Thank you for doing this channel.
Tom Petty is the best. Yes, I am using the present tense because I know he and his music still live on.
It disgusts me that these labels used to think it was “ok” to hold these artists as slaves and pay them in sheckles. It was absolutely criminal. And so many artists.
The recording industry is still a corrupt pile of trash.
Tom Petty, hands down, my favorite artist of all time. I once held the Beatles high above anything I’ve ever heard but having been born the year they broke up, I suppose I needed a hero a little closer to my own time. The first album I bought from Tom was Full Moon Fever. It was also the first compact disc I ever bought. I was so blown away by that album that it literally was the only thing I listened to for quite awhile. I was hooked. I bought the greatest hits and as it spun in my newly purchased CD player I was introduced to a lot of music that I already loved but just didn’t know it was Tom and the heartbreakers. “Oh, I love that song. Oooh I love that song too”. So on and so forth it spun and I soon realized, I love Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers!!! I was blessed to have seen them three different times over the years. Once with my dad, once with my son and once with my best friend, who consequently has become a super fan himself. I passed on seeing him in Seattle with my daughter but I had no idea that it would be our last opportunity. I cried when I heard the news of his untimely death but thank God he was able to leave us with the genius of his work. As the stylus settles in the groove, his voice fills the room and as long as we have that, we have Tom. RIP Mr Petty
I’m always happy to listen to Tom Petty. wildflowers is probably my favorite album of his, and I really loved “she’s the one” also… I liked the general feeling that he was willing to leave things unfinished so that the spirit of whatever work had a better chance of surviving (“she’s the one” has numerous versions of the same song; think of him what you will, he’s got a little space to fill).
"Wildflowers" is my favorite as well
In 1979 I became immersed in punk rock. I still liked other genres and TP was a very relevant artist for sure.
When he died, he was STILL a relevant musician…
I always enjoyed his music, even if some of my friends didn’t.
I wish I could have seen him live. One of the GOATs in songwriting.
yes he also gave the best concerts, acted like you knew him and he was hanging in your living room, super chill dude. You got lucky is one of his best songs
Powerful story indeed. Amazing that this came to be from such odds!
That's why it's such a great song. Came from real life experience.
I know, right? He shouldn’t have gone through all of this, he deserved better.
Tom Petty is up there with David Bowie as being a fearless legend that rival the beatles in badassness.
Agreed!
He’s in my top 10 greatest artists ever, definitely.
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 ikr? I love music from second gen classic rock all the way up to modern music now, and i can say Tom Petty would be on my mount rushmore of artists no doubt.
@@devernepersonal3636 I love any kind of music, and I’m 16!
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 it took me SOO many years to get to that point. Yo, random internet person, i am proud of you.
FACTS. The resilience of this man is absolutely an inspiration to me and i'm sure many others. He held on as long as he could, RIP Petty
Wow, so glad you covered this!! I had just moved to Florida in 1979 and Refugee is the first time I heard Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. It is so raw and real! Lifetime, all time favorite and I love everything he’s created! Only got to see him once in O-town 1995, best concert ever! ❤❤
I love this guy!
Me and the misses have a hedgehog and we named him tom petty, lol.
Man, I never tire of Tom's music. Free fallin and I won't back down being my absolute favourites.
Both amazing songs, that I will always love until the day I die.
A hedgehog called Tom Petty! Prickly but cute.
Great one about a great band❣
I was "dragged" to a concert of his in the early 90's (yes, I liked his music already but I didn't really know enough or appreciate it), that all changed by the middle of the show!!! Been a huge fan ever since!!
When disco took over the air ways I stopped listening. On day I was waiting for the bus and a car drove with the radio blasting Breakdown. Once home I turned on my radio, spinning the dial until I caught it to learn who the artist was. Loved him ever since. He remained creative and prolific and relevant to the end. RIP. The world lost a great man.
Listen to this one a lot while taking walks in the morning. This is one of the few rock songs that makes me wanna play air keyboards as much as air guitar. I think the Benmont Tench-Mike Campbell interplay is really great musically here.
It’s so fun to listen to!
I love Tom Petty. This story just adds to my respect for what he did. I can't stand the greedy record companies and I love seeing the artists win their fight against them. I am so thankful for all of the wonderful music Tom Petty gave us. All of his music is a backdrop to my childhood memories and it all takes me back to different times in my youth.
I saw Tom Petty's triumphant return to Gainesville Florida, his hometown, as a local hero in 1981 at the University of Florida O'Connell Center. It was a great live show and also featured Stevie Nicks in a surprise appearance.
After he passed the University of Florida now has a tradition of playing "I won't back down " after the 3rd quarter of home football games.
We're really proud of of our native son!
Square One is simply beautiful. All of his other hits are great, but Square One speaks directly to my soul. If you've never heard it, you're missing out.
Sad Tom and so many have passed away from fentanyl laced drugs. He is missed he was involved in so many awesome music recordings.
I remember on the day he died, my aunt told me that it was because of old age. He was only 66 years old. That’s still pretty young!
@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Way to many have died from drugs laced with fentanyl. It is common and now more places are trying to catch the overdose right away by supplying narcan to paramedics.
@@badgerpa9 Yeah, Prince, Jim Morrison, SO MANY LEGENDS. It’s tragic! We need to do something about the fentanyl crisis!
Love tom petty. Rip.
Graduated from school...had a band...whatever...but Tom kept my 'refugee' at bay...😗😁
Best comment I've ever read about Tom Petty: "He was about quality, 24/7."
JAMES SCOTT NICHOLSON,ONTARIO, CANADA 🇨🇦. I JUST TURNED 51 AUG 3 AND BEING A 40 YEAR GUITARIST; I CANNOT SAY I HAVE EVER HEARD SOMEONE SAY,” OH MAN CHANGE THAT SONG, OR EVEN I
DON’T LIKE HIM... I THINK BEING THE PROFESSOR OF ROCK, YOU SAID IT BEST,” HE WAS THE PEOPLES
VOICE. LIKE BOB DYLAN HE CAPTIVATES YOU FROM OPENING NOTE , TO THE LAST NUANCE. EVEN IF YOU
ARE NOT A FAN OF HIS NASAL VOCALS, AGAIN LIKE DYLAN , YOU GOT TO HEAR 👂 WHAT COMES NEXT.
TOP LEFT TO YOU AND ALL THE UNEQUIVOCAL CONTENT. I GET RECOGNIZED FOR ALL MY KNOWLEDGE
ON ROCK HISTORY, BUT NOW WITH INTERNET, THEY ASK, I SAY AS I SHRUG 🤷♂️ THE PROFESSOR ♥️♥️✌️🙏☮️🕊🙏
I was born and raised during the Satanic Panic, and of course that "Devil Worship Music" was simply not to be for me.
45 years later, I'm catching up on all of these. I'm so glad for PoR bringing these stories and this music where I can appreciate the background music I wasn't supposed to enjoy, bringing it to life. I look forward to getting more Tom Petty in my music list. Thank you.
I saw Tom and Bob Dylan together live in Madison Square Garden. Amazing! I stumbled into both that and a James Taylor solo concert in a small club -- all because I was curious and asked a stranger "What's everyone in line for?"
Tom is really one of a kind. Most artists best work is always one of their first releases, Tom had this one as his 3rd album, 10 years later he had maybe a bigger album with Full Moon Fever. How many bands are there that put one a seminal record a decade after their break through. Then 5 years later he did it again.
Plenty of artists have longevity, The Stones, Metallica, AC/DC, The Who, but not one had the consistency to match the longevity. Ask most fans of any long standing band their favorite album, and it will most likely be one of a handful from their breakout years. Ask a Petty fan and the album they will pick could be more than a decade from another's pick. And this isn't a shot at any band, much has been studied about creativity waning after the 20s.... Tom was something special. Even 2006s Highway Companion is up there and if radio wasn't dying at that time I think it would have made it to mainstream culture like Wildflowers a decade earlier.
I remember when this happened and it made me realize what an amazing artist he was. People say not to live in the past but I say that the music was so much better in the 70’s and 80’s.
Tom petty is a Walt Whitman like underrated poet. His compositions, were remarkable and were often made even more significant with the help of Mike Campbell. As you can tell, I’m a big fan.
This week I’m listening to All or Nothing, Running Down a Dream and Luna. It’s virtually impossible for me to pick one favorite but Refugee holds a big space in my heart.
Thank you for having Mike Campbell on the video!
I didn't grow up listening to rock. I listened to John Denver and Kenny Rogers. It wasn't until much later I started listening to rock. No matter where we start, we always wind up at rock. Love your videos. Gives me a new understanding of the heroes of the past.
My ex-boyfriend was a rock drummer and a music aficionado and yet somehow knew almost zero Tom Petty except for a handful of songs from the '90s,, I was like what the hell is wrong with you, this man has made some of the best music to Grace the Earth and all the songs that I go to In My Darkest Hour,, the disconnect between the two of us was blinding then