Tom Petty's Label Thought It Was a Joke, He Proved Them WRONG | Professor of Rock

An unlikely superstar partnership turned 3 simple chords into the biggest solo hit of a rock icon’s career. The story of the making, and the major label snubbing of the Tom Petty smash Free Fallin that he co-wrote with Electric Light Orchestra principal Jeff Lynne and Mike Cambell from the album Full Moon Fever. We discuss why this petty classic should’ve been #1 next on Professor of Rock.
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Tom Petty met Jeff Lynne in England, when Petty was playing with The Heartbreakers as the backup band for the incomparable Bob Dylan. The two became fast friends, and collaborated with Dylan, George Harrison, and Roy Orbison in Traveling Wilburys- the SUPER of super groups- a concept & title that was conceived by Guitar George.
Tom & Jeff developed a deep relationship that went well beyond their shared passion & excellence with music. The two legends found that they had much in common, even a love for bowling- which they enjoyed whenever they had the opportunity. Rumor has it that Jeff Lynne is actually an exceptional bowler.
How great would that be…. You decide to go bowling, and you get to the bowling alley, and one of the lanes is occupied with Tom Petty & Jeff Lynne having a couple of cold ones throwing strikes…
In the late 80s, discord festered within The Heartbreakers, and the great Tom Petty began to work on his his first solo record.
Tom turned to Jeff to help him make the record. He LOVED the sound of George Harrison’s Cloud Nine album that Jeff Lynne produced, and became obsessed with it, playing it over and over again.
Since it was his first solo album, and a pivotal crossroads in his career, Tom needed someone that he could trust. Someone that would pour their heart & soul into the quality of the music, just as Tom was planning to do.
On paper, it would seem to be an odd couple to craft an album- with Tom Petty as the iconic American Rocker from Gainesville, Florida, and Jeff Lynne- the symphonic pop auteur from Birmingham, England. However, because of their friendship, and their shared vision, the pairing would prove to be a brilliantly calculated hunch.
Jeff Lynne played an invaluable role on nearly every aspect of Petty’s debut solo LP- Full Moon Fever. Besides co-producing, he also co-wrote most of the songs for Tom’s solo record, including the first cut on the album- a track called “Free Fallin.”
The two superstars were getting into the zone to work on fresh material.
Lynne started playing elaborate keyboard parts, and Petty was jamming on a heavy guitar riff, then he playfully transitioned his style- strumming three simple chords. Lynne suggested that Tom stop playing the hard stuff, and just sing words to the pacing of those three chords.

[@glen7228]

I'm 61 years old and I cried when I heard Tom Petty died. His music is a huge part of the soundtrack of my life.

[@alvon911]

Amen sir. I’m 56 and I did too. Went to a tribute concert several months later, that ended with 1000 people singing Free Fallin’ together. It was beautiful.

[@shannonkringen]

I'm 52 ditto I first heard refugee when I was 11 years old and it changed my life...and I got every album since then amazing band

[@Freejack1971]

50 year old here. I started tearing up when I heard “The Waiting” on the way to work after he died. It was the first Tom Petty video I saw on MTV.

[@gypsydonovan]

44. Ditto.

[@SteveTK420]

44 currently I literally screamed NOOOOOOOO!!!!!

[@paulchun966]

Honestly, I don't think Tom Petty ever wrote a bad song. He is truly missed...and one of the great artist to grace our lives with great songs.

[@ddozier1470]

I agree…free fallin

[@BBDragon66]

Back in the day, Tom Petty's song "Don't come around here no more" got me to snap out of a failed relationship in which I was getting strung along for a get back together moment. His song came on my car radio as I was heading over to her house to talk, and I suddenly saw the light. I turned around as I turned up the radio and made the final call to her when I got home. I owed Tom for helping find the strength inside to stop the bleeding, suture the wound and put it behind me. He is one of my all time favorites. I definitely owe him a debt of gratitude for putting out music that can literally change the direction of your life!!

[@Shay_-cq2cl]

My favorite memories of Tom Petty is his Southern Accent Tour. I lived in Orange County, CA and my best friend in high school and I followed up and down the West Coast. Saw him in LA, Irvine and Studio City. We were getting our new clothes together for the concert, listening to the radio when they announced the show was postponed, laryngitis! Ugh! So many songs became anthems in my head during hard times, The Waiting and Won’t Back Down especially. That same friend from high school called me and told me of his death. Since I no longer live on the West Coast, she heard the news first. They had just seen him at the Hollywood Bowl. His loss was equivalent to the day the music died for me.

[@TheGlssr60]

Touching on Jeff Lynne's genius. I'm 61 and my 22 year old son grew up listening to 60's 70's and 80's tunes constantly. The intervening teen years carried him in another musical direction more well known to his age group. Recently he rediscovered ELO on his own and he can't stop listening to them. It warms my heart I'll tell you.

[@exploringtheparanormalwith81]

I love ELO...I didn't know that was Jeff Lynn until this video

[@Weareeverything2023]

Jeff Lynne will eventually be recognised as possibly the most significant artist from the UK, not just for his own music, but the influence and guidance of many top artists. Only the Stones and Beatles come anywhere near his accomplishments.

[@mikemartin8408]

I saw Tom Petty in concert in Seattle 3 months before he passed away. I loved the fact that the entire crowd sang along to EVERY song. Hit after hit after hit! Rest In Peace Tom Petty. Thank you for the music.

[@brent69]

August 19,2017

[@EvelynBaron]

@@brent69 July 15, 2017, Toronto Canada

[@pdoylemi]

I love a Tom's music, but my favorite Petty story is this: "Petty went head-to-head with MCA again in 1981 when the label pushed to sell his next album, ,” for $9.98 a pop - a full dollar more than the norm at that time. On principle, Petty refused to release the record, stating that he wanted to keep costs down for his fans."

[@jeffreysnow2640]

Tom never backed down

[@VishalPatel-gp9bs]

Petty won because he was going to call the album "$9.98"

[@pdoylemi]

@@jeffreysnow2640 Good reference.

[@jenniferm6042]

The last DJ...

[@robinrubendunst869]

@@jeffreysnow2640 I saw what you did there… clever boy…

[@sylvialawrence4431]

Although a big U2 fan, this was a favorite of my firstborn son. My son suddenly died at age 19. I still can't listen to it without tears and smiles.

[@Rebwell]

I’m so sorry his life was cut so short. So unfair.

[@sylvialawrence4431]

@@Rebwell Thank you. We have no guarantees in this life. All the more reason to strive to love rather than hate one another. Take care. God Bless!

[@tthappyrock368]

Sorry for your loss!

[@sylvialawrence4431]

@@tthappyrock368 Thank you. Take care ❤

[@christopheryoung383]

sorry for your loss. I don't know how it feels to lose Thunder but God bless you and bless him

[@3970billbo]

When my kids were young, we would take road trips to see my family in Kansas. One trip I put on Tom Petty’s Greatest Hits and all of us would sing along. The next time we went my kids asked to listen again and it became a tradition any time we would go on a road trip. My kids are grown now, but In 2014 we finally got got the chance to see Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. We went as a family and sang along to every song.

[@bornarebel]

Tom's music is definitely multi-generalization between all ages

[@BigJoker]

I'm still so sad I never got to see him live.

[@scotttinervideoeditor5200]

It's so cool to see kids bond with their parents over music.

[@laurat1129]

These are great singalong storytelling songs.

[@galeaiken3841]

My son use sing Last Dance with Mary Jane from his car seat when he was little. Heart Breakers was his 1st concert,Kiss was his second. Tried to raise him right lol

[@lexkooby]

The world needs more people like Professor of Rock - It’s so great to hear someone speak so passionately about music without being negative.

[@mindbomb2000]

Agreed!

[@kelf114]

I could talk about rock for a good couple days. I was always very into music. Still have hundreds of albums, cassettes, CDs,....and a few 8-tracks. ☺️

[@doublek321]

I'd like to see him join Rick Beato on one of those videos where Rick has a panel of people (usually him and 2 others) discussing musical topics.

[@johnross4605]

The dusty light bulb in a dim corner of my mind gets dusted off, only to be regenerated to remind me what Americana used to be like before the great mind wipe.

[@superbherb7947]

Um, did you hear what he said about contemporary music? It ain't positive...(Kinda trite, tbh.)

[@lorriecheshire6471]

He was my first concert and I attended one of his last with two of my grandchildren. Multigenerational fans and we miss him terribly. 💔

[@timcotton1782]

Before a bunch of construction bought out houses and converted the land to industrial, I knew a girl who lived in a house just north of Burbank Bl, west of Reseda Bl, with a concrete pylon in the corner of the backyard. Yep, that pylon was for the 101 Freeway. And the first time I heard Free Fallin', I was completely wrecked by the line "It's a long day, livin' in Reseda, there's a freeway running through the yard..." Tom may have been from Florida, but he took on the Valley vibe immediately, and he's always been our dude. Rock on...

[@dickydoes]

Jeff Lynne is an underrated genius. You can tell his sound instantly. If I ever write a song half as good as one of his, my journey will be complete.

[@billkeithchannel]

The first cassette I ever bought was _E.L.O's Greatest Hits_ in the spring and for Christmas that year I asked for _Time._ That album changed my life. _Secret Messages_ is a masterpiece.

[@ckiefner715]

During George Harrison’s Hall of Fame induction. This is a very good example of the two of them. And also to remind us Prince was bad ass on the guitar

[@sharolynwells]

Still love ELO

[@earthling1970]

Lynne's beautiful way of layring acoustic guitars to create that unique "sheen" sound is always a dead giveaway. And backup vocals. And often times he mics the snare in some special way that gives it a really BIG sound (but without a gate effect somehow).

[@CodyAlushin]

Tom Petty is simply the greatest. Lasted SO long yet remained SO true to himself, every step of the way. The absolute epitome of "cool".

[@ProfessorofRock]

Well said!

[@stevieframe]

@@ProfessorofRock Aye, what he said!

[@skeletonshorror5184]

Agreed. 💀🔥

[@Mr.CliffysWorld]

I really miss that man . So down to earth .

[@robcedar960]

@@Mr.CliffysWorld i understand now, how ppl felt about Elvis

[@newbloomwon]

“Mary Jane’s Last Dance” is a little darker and a bit more powerful for me. I also love “Don’t Come Around Here No More.”

[@terrydeschainhodges6873]

In the early 80s I used to tell people my favorite musician / producer was Jeff Lynne. No one seemed to know who he was at that time. Meanwhile, I didn't really like Tom Petty all that much. In 1991, when I bought Full Moon Fever, it both made me feel vindicated and taught me a new appreciation for Tom Petty at the same time. The dynamic between the two of them created something really special.

[@Jargo1901]

he always seemed like a friend you haven't yet met

[@ThinWhiteAxe]

Exactly

[@dougporter2356]

Yes he did... ... to me, more precisely, he was like a guy who was cool, stayed low key, and didn't stick around for long...

[@ieronimo18]

Tom Petty's music videos on MTV were SO FREAKING GOOD. It's so sad what happened to MTV.

[@heynow7363]

That was some epic toe at 6:20

[@benallmark9671]

Back when North America was the envy of the world and we’re all actually free falling. Man how times change , speaking of which are y’all ready for your computer Chips we’re all getting implanted under our skin ? Exciting eh , fuk me

[@maxxleonard9399]

Democrats destroy everything

[@steelphantom9105]

Money destroys everything.

[@annalisavajda252]

Yes it's difficult to choose a favourite of his videos maybe Into The Great Wide Open with Johnny Depp or Last Dance with Mary Jane with Kim Basinger though it's a bit morbid.

[@ajgregory3121]

Legends never die, and Tom lives forever in our hearts. I can never get enough of him.

[@twoblacklabs904]

Thank God that Tom’s wife Dana and his daughters, Adria & Kimberly are so singularly focused on preserving his legacy & memories. Their fan dedication is so incredibly gracious. The TP KZbin channel is constantly adding new material and unheard musical content, if you’re not aware of it…

[@ajgregory3121]

@@twoblacklabs904 oh, I'm definitely aware. 😊 I'm a member of Tom Petty Nation and I follow the sites closely.

[@patricklipski1662]

My sister loved tom petty since forever and I reluctantly went to a concert finally in2008 and he and the heartbreakers were awesome

[@thelukeewan7602]

Loved the music and Tom's unique voice.

[@johnpenner2632]

Amen!

[@dash4800]

I can't imagine being young during this age of music. It seems like it was just masterpiece after masterpiece getting cranked out back then.

[@namewitheld2568]

It was an incredible time. Running home from school every day so you could catch 30 minutes of the VH1. It seems like an amazing song came out every other day.

[@Perktube1]

For me it was MTV. The V-Js became famous.

[@tigeratlas]

It was golden and many of us took it for granted. Now music is mostly just hot garbage.

[@mjperkolator8854]

I grew up in the 60s and 70s and in my humble opinion it’s the best era of music ever. I knew the songs were great but until I heard late 80s music did I fully appreciate it.

[@dawnclaibourne2183]

I am so very grateful I was born in the mid-60s and got to experience this era in music. Gone but not forgotten...

[@HaXaW5150]

Too bad Tom isn't around to be on this show. An interview with him would be awesome.

[@RichSad45]

Ah but @Professor of Rock could interview Mike Campbell!

[@billfisk3323]

He could still interview Jeff Lynne as well

[@j_freed]

I hope you all have seen the Jian Ghomeshi interview with Tom Petty on studio Q. It's the type of interview every artist should have but almost never do.

[@gailremp8389]

True. But there are a gazillion a fantastic interviews with TP… What do you think TP possibly have to say say…again…’son, don’t shave your legs. And don’t vote republican. ‘

[@halweilbrenner9926]

"Mary Jane's last dance" & "American girl". Tom's music contained a sweet sensitivity, simple emotionality & charming lyrics. "Free Fallin" is beautiful simplicity.

[@adgato75]

"American Girl" is basically a perfect song to me.

[@nijo5427]

You named the 3 songs that I think made him a legend. And I include Mike Campbell in that. He never shreds, he just crafts quality tunes.

[@tsfurlan]

Do them both in my band, Big Weekend.

[@starshinedragonsong3045]

And "you don't know how it feels" "But let me get to the point, let's roll another joint And turn the radio loud, I'm too alone to be proud And you don't know how it feels You don't know how it feels to be me"

[@Hollylivengood]

Won't Back Down would be a good one. He sings such a raging phrase with such a calm quiet voice, it makes it even better.

[@paulmitchell8361]

Me and my dad loved listening to Tom Petty. I'll always be disappointed that I never got to see him live. My dad passed away last year and Tom Petty's music will always make me think of him now. Great memories provided by an incredible artist

[@KeeperofTheMountain]

I am old. Refugee was my anthem when I was a young man. It was a big part in my being able to pull myself out of the Hell I came from. I will always value this man's music.

[@KeeperofTheMountain]

@Soy Orbison I do not believe that I could come up with an effective argument to disagree with you.

[@mperdue12]

Ha... you know how a song can take you back? Refugee take me back to 16 years old, Jacksonville Beach Florida, Sunrise Surf Shop smelling Coconuts Surf Wax. Don't know why I don't surf but that is were I go when I hear that guitar intro. It's a cool memory.

[@kelf114]

Breakdown, go ahead and give it to me....

[@socalcrow3408]

Thats cool...I met my husband because of Tom Petty song..played it at his funeral..makes me happy yet bittersweet

[@argirisalmpan4079]

The same my friend ! I listen Refugge 13 years old in a small town in Greece and love it .Tom Petty is one of the most respectful people in Rock . Clean , pure , straight from the heart ! Always remember with the better feelings and thanks to this man , Professor of rock , who take me back in these beautiful years...

[@5roundsrapid263]

Tom was such a genuinely nice guy. A friend of mine in high school sneaked backstage at one of his shows. He found Tom’s dressing room, and Tom actually invited him in. They talked for a while, and Tom even gave him some guitar picks.

[@j_freed]

I remember the days when you could sneak backstage and meet artists because so few people did it that nobody cared. Some great moments, just chatting a minute and asking for an autograph... Lee Aaron was so hot in person.

[@armorer94]

I had a friend who worked for Tom as a sound engineer. He said Tom had a great reputation as a good boss and very generous guy.

[@julianterris]

There are a lot of great Tom Petty songs that have that lift you, "The Waiting" was one of those songs that made me think "how did he do that?" ~songs that just seemed to have fallen out of the sky, Free-Falling is musical perfection. It wasn't the first time that Tom Petty had done that for us all, and it wouldn't be the last, but it was certainly a watershed moment in Rock And Roll. I'm big Jeff Lynne fan too, the man is a musical genius -I could go on about him also, but I'm so glad to have found your channel. You talk about the music that I love, the music that matters to me -and that's gold. I'll keep coming back ~you can count on it. Thank-you! ~such a cool channel.

[@FromTheCrawlspace]

Always loved Tom Petty. As a listener, and a musician. I listened to Torpedoes and Wildflowers, along with The Band's second album, relentlessly when I was recording my own first album. I had never seen him live until he played in Queens on that last tour, and I'm so grateful I got to see that show.

[@Stoneylfm]

I saw him in Nashville a few months before he passed. It was my first time. I’m so grateful too! I feel he died because he wanted to give his fans the 40 year anniversary tour.

[@TAGATOR]

I grew up in the Gainesville Florida area and take great pride in the legendary Tom Petty. The Florida Gators football stadium plays Won’t Back Down to begin the forth quarter. The whole stadium sings along and it gives you chills every time.

[@gargenfluckgosphenspiels4849]

Jeff Lynne is underrated. He should be as much of a household name as Petty and Harrison.

[@laurelwood791]

Thank you for that. Yes. The artist and man are very under rated. Under acknowledged.

[@scottmatznick3140]

I like your username

[@stephenfeldman8104]

Jeff is a very shy and humble person. What would he do with all the "ratedness" you think he should be receiving? He has no trouble selling out arenas -- still -- and has the life he wants. If you gathered together all of the artists that people are constantly clamoring are "underrated" -- and they number in the THOUSANDS, as this is the #1 most cliché comment on KZbin -- 99.99% would be left "less rated" than the others.

[@gargenfluckgosphenspiels4849]

@@stephenfeldman8104 it may be cliched to say it and I agree it is but in this case said cliche is true. Jeff Lynne should be more well known. Also, saying that something's cliche is now becoming a cliche itself. It's fast reaching the top of the cliche charts.

[@homebest1777]

Damn straight..way underrated...elo..had hit after hit...

[@danrebeiz4598]

Petty has always been one of those artists to me that never became obsolete. No matter the era, from his days with The Heartbreakers, to his solo career, to TTW, he was always relevant. I think part of the reason was that he didn’t conform to trends. Like Springsteen or AC/DC, he just stuck with his sound. I don’t think his music will ever be out of style. RIP to one of the greatest and most iconic rock stars of all time.

[@1chrisford]

That album has to be in the top 20 rock albums ever made. Three #1 songs with "Running Down a Dream" and "Won't Back Down". Petty, Jeff Lynne, Mike Campbell all their artistic peak period. Wishing many more years of life and good health to Mike&Jeff.

[@AndiCat14]

Both Tom and Jeff are musical geniuses. I still can't believe Tom is gone.

[@ruscular]

I first heard "Break down" and I thought this was the most idiotic band ever! Then the rest was sheer genius ! Boy was I so wrong judging this band ! I think maybe i was too attach to the formula of a pop band at the time. Wasn't ready for Tom Petty. Now I have no idea why I hated Tom Petty back then.

[@lostintime8651]

Jeff is gone?

[@crusheverything4449]

@@lostintime8651 - No one even implied Jeff is gone. WTF are you talking about?

[@commentfreely5443]

if you play free falling backwards it says 'abandon all fear' i think i listed the lyrics in full in the comments of the ultimate guitar chord page

[@bornarebel]

I miss him every day. We were friends for 40 years. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hYfXZpmorsd7rdk

[@techhead976]

Tom Petty is on a level of his own, Seeing him on his farewell tour was so surreal in 2017. I cried my eyes out the day he passed.

[@KmanRulez]

Full Moon Fever was a fantastic album from start to finish.

[@rachaelknudsen8801]

The song Depending on You helped pull me out of a bad post-break-up-type sadness. A great listen all the way through.

[@MySerberus]

I'm 43 and I absolutely LOVE Tom Petty's music, thanks to my father for introducing me to his stuff (may they both rest in peace)!

[@stevestalock3200]

I find it hard to believe some knuckleheads at MCA thought this song couldn't connect with an audience in the Midwest. I was living in Iowa when this song was released during a time when I was moving away from my youth toward becoming a parent. The references to life in California are poetry. The melody is mesmerizing and soothing and the lyrics connected with me as I reconciled my life's choices and where I intended to be. "Leave this world for a while" encouraged me to reflect and reconcile the exuberance of my human nature and find peace of mind moving forward. We lost Tom too soon. Peace to all.

[@skidancin]

Listening in Ohio, sitting at a modestly crowded bar with a good sound system, this song came on and just captured me from the get-go. My eyes grew wide and when it was over I felt an immediate need to hear that again. I love it when a song is totally captivating upon first hearing, that is pretty rare.

[@5roundsrapid263]

Seriously? People everywhere identified with the dozens of bands from California, from The Beach Boys to Van Halen. Not to mention both British Invasions! I was 10 when it came out, and lived in a small town. I totally related to it.

[@andrewawakened628]

@@5roundsrapid263 The thing is, even people outside the US could relate to those references, Even back in those days before the internet ppl all over the world would watch US TV, movies, videos and albums via VHS and cassette tapes relatives or friends would send to them or that you could buy on the local black market, plus satellite TV had taken off about that time as well. Maybe Mulholland went over a lot of heads, but many non-Americans would definitely have gotten the reference to the The Valley and Ventura Blvd.

[@danbrockettDOP]

@@TracyLeaOgden Ventura Blvd. It's definitely a real, physical street, I drive down it almost every day. It has it's own, unique vibe and feel as it's in the San Fernando Valley, not in LA proper, which is thought of here more of as downtown LA where the Staples Center is. If you watch the music video for Haim "Want You Back", the opening shot of Danielle Haim, the sign for Ventura Blvd. is behind her and the sisters are walking down a mysteriously deserted Ventura Blvd. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4G0l5Z9Ysqco80 (it's one of the busiest streets in Southern California)

[@pookiepookie8669]

Back then, just about every teenager from the east coast to the midwest dreamed of living in California. The old men running these companies should have talked to a couple kids across the country before making up their minds about what we liked.

[@ProfessorofRock]

So glad he waited out his label!

[@imannonymous7707]

Hes been known to stand up for all musicians and more than once .

[@neugey]

Maybe they didn't like the "Attention CD Listeners ..." part 😂

[@hamilcar682]

WOW, Adam, so you did Freefallin huh! 😀 You said you wanted to hear our memories or stories surrounding it? I have to point out that I always said if I ever got to meet Tom, I would tell him this story, and since that never happened, the next best is sharing it with a fellow classic music fan. I met a girl my freshmen year of college, Super cute, short blond hair (l always thought she looked a little like Lori Petty) wayyyyy out of my league, some how she turned up in three of my classes that first semester so we fast became friends. We never dated but became very close (obviously part of me was madly in love, but she just ending a long, serious relationship, and she didn’t want or need another b/f). Anyway, after that first year the college ended up dropping her degree program; she told me she was coming back for a weekend to tie up some loose ends (I lived near the college, and she was from out of state) and needed a place to stay. So we had one last amazing weekend. While we were driving around town, packing things up etc. the radio was practically always on, as we both loved classic music, 60-80s stuff (this is 2002, long before Spotify etc.) Over those two days Freefallin would come on, at least 4 maybe 5 times, we even joked about it. We promised each other we would always be there for each other, no matter the distance, hugged and said goodbye, that was the last time I actually saw her, and Every time I hear Freefallin, I’m reminded of her and that weekend. BTW she didn’t break her promise, even though I haven’t seen her since then thanks to our interconnected world, I still catch up with her from time to time to see how life is going 😊, hope I didn’t put you to sleep with that rambling narrative.

[@creamydistortion]

Corporate Labels never understood their own business. Columbia dropped 50 Cent, Atlantic dropped J. Geils Band, the list goes on and on.....

[@lornapowell2362]

I like the backstories of songs where the record label think it knows best, but the artist proves them wrong...there are many instances of it happening. I like it when labels dont sign up bands as they dont think the band will sell records and the band go elsewhere and take the world by storm. Too many great artists and great songs have been lost by record labels who thought they knew better...

[@davidwilson5483]

Saw Tom at Hyde Park the year he passed away.....there were 65000 people there..to see him.... he comes out on stage and he says "Hey, thanks for comin' out" ..just a great gig.

[@1908Rick]

His live performance of Free Falling where the audience sings the chorus and and he improvs in between gives me goose bumps every time I hear it.

[@jeanne553]

I remember that I had just ended a lousy relationship and I was feeling such a sense of relief. I was driving up the onramp to the freeway. Free Falling came on the radio! I turned it up, hit the gas, and felt like I was flying. One of my favorite songs of all times. Such a sad day when we lost Tom Petty.

[@BenJamminKraftbc]

Jeff Lynne is my all time favorite producer. People don't realize how innovative his song writing was and how it affected the music scene in the 70s and 80s. You hear his voice in the background of many Roy, Tom, George, etcs songs. His is the voice and sound of my youth.

[@MisterKossie1]

Tom petty has been a huge part of my life since I first heard Damn the Torpedos so many years ago. He is definitely a classic of classic artists.

[@benallmark9671]

Ditto brother , ditto.

[@DMONEY7720]

You got Lucky is an underrated song

[@vincentjoyce5100]

Tom’s greatest gift was his songwriting simplicity. Simple is often the hardest thing to pull off.

[@vwalthe1]

A Tom Petty classic quote: “Don’t bore us, get to the chorus.”

[@truthof7382]

Absolutely true. Like him or not, Springsteen is like that as well, simple song writing with great lyrics. Music universe is so, so much better off because Tom Petty was here.

[@aretejamodi]

The last time I heard Free Fallin' was at the Fleetwood Mac concert in Austin. Stevie Nicks sang it and Mike Campbell played in front of a montage of Tom flashing by on the big screen. Tears were flowing down my face as they closed the song with Stevie and Mike, backs to the crowd, looking at a final picture of Tom. Unforgettable!

[@wvmom2727]

I saw Fleetwood Mac like two by years ago. They were great. Did a Tom Petty tribute. My daughter bought the tickets. She’s 23 and loves classic rock.

[@jimclarke8260]

I am tearing up imagining the scene you described.

[@Di-Pi]

Wow, just wow. I’m crying just picturing this! 😭

[@Di-Pi]

This song gives me an insight into his character. He was a very good man.

[@lorirene]

Tom and Stevie were very close

[@saxondark]

Tom Petty was a musical genius there will never be another like him it's also hard to believe that there are only 2 of the original Traveling Wilburys still alive Jeff Lynne & Bob Dylan who is 81 and still going. But the rest are jamming in the afterlife but their legends live on in our hearts and minds.

[@samuelwtuiolemotu2826]

Tom Pettys voice was so easy going soothing, And he’s a Rocker!! I never get tired of listening to his Songs!

[@joefunsmith]

"Sat down to write a song without a marketing plan" ..... AMEN BROTHER

[@alvon911]

The story of your first kiss and singing Free Fallin’ with your dad is incredible! What a memory to cherish.

[@paulraymond3622]

Love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@mightybk]

Free Fallin' came out the year I graduated from high school. One of my favorites ever. Chills up and down my spine whenever I hear it to this day. Petty is in my top 3 easily. Man would I love to see him play one more time, if for nothing more than to hear him say "Thank you very much" the way he did so often after the crowd would cheer the end of his performances. I just wish I could have offered the same level of gratitude back to him.

[@mischakachler4881]

The best part of this video was the heartfelt story from your childhood and how that moment was locked into memory by the shared song with your father.

[@ashefallprime4563]

Running down a dream, is still the song that moves me the most, of any song.

[@timhoovermusicman]

It does jam at the end

[@brianhouska972]

The apartment song too.

[@LJScott]

ELOs “Telephone Line” was one of the first songs I couldn’t get enough as a kid of back in the late 70s. Their Greatest Hits record was the first album I bought when I was 12. It’s still one of the best records ever.

[@williamwilson6499]

Figured you would get the name of the song right if it meant so much to you.

[@kingcassius2586]

Absolutely love Telephone Line!

[@julesw1403]

Me too! Laundry list of ELO faves. I had all the CD’s from Tom Petty too.

[@ellescott4229]

Love that whole album!

[@twentiethcenturyboy6328]

A New World Record 🙂

[@suzysuze6797]

Tim Petty was underrated and not cherished by a lot of my peers. I went and saw him twice buy myself and I am so grateful that I did . His music makes my ears sing. FULL MOON FEVER was and still is on my top 10.

[@kdawson020279]

I really love the fact that unlike some of the more muted or chunky guitars, the really bright open chord patterns on guitar just lend to the imagery and the bass guitar anchors it. It's not busy, it's not overly technical, but it is phenomenal.

[@4spbiz]

I was rocking out on Tom Petty all the time back then broke my heart when he died. There was so much music left in him. His music wasn't loud or aggressive but he rocked. It was simple and meaningful. I loved and still love Tom Petty.

[@ianstradian]

When I left the military I felt lost, I had no support group, no friends that had my back like my squad in the Army. This song summed up my life after the military somehow, the freedom and the regrets, the truth and the consequences of my military career. I felt lost. This song might not be about any of that, but the chorus.... Free falling, is how I felt.

[@davidcatalano3781]

Thank you for your service.

[@davidcatalano3781]

ANTIDOTE FOR ALL ON KZbin.

[@metsfaner]

I've always thought 'I won't back down' would have made a great anthem for any branch of the military. Rock on, soldier!!! ✌✌✌✌

[@mattjones7226]

I think 'Learning to fly' is about the Iraq War. Fantastic song.

[@MelissaThompson432]

Ian, I think your life-as-metaphor captures the song perfectly.

[@lew-e]

So glad I got to see him on his last tour. I grew up as a huge Tom Petty fan and that was a dream come true. Now my son listens to Tom Petty! He's 3 years old and requests it every time we get in the truck. Its awesome watching him jam out to Free Fallin just like I did when I was his age.

[@ronjones382]

Tom Petty, Bryan Adams, John Cougar, Rick Springfield, Pat Benatar, Joan Jett… you can never go wrong with these Rockers. Just hearing one of their songs triggers an emotion, a memory, a certain time and space, that feeling… Turn on one of their songs… close your eyes… float away and FreeFall… Their music lives forever! Tom Petty lives forever! His music is a part of our musical DNA. No one can never take that away. No one!!!

[@harrisonbergeron5393]

It's very difficult to believe Tom Petty is no longer with us.

[@robtolley1647]

True

[@bornarebel]

@@robtolley1647 I miss him every day-he was a friend of mine for 40 years kzbin.info/www/bejne/hYfXZpmorsd7rdk

[@robtolley1647]

@@bornarebel he must have been an amazing friend, I went to his last DJ concert it was like listening to a CD crystal clear his voice is amazing what a musician also

[@scottallencarr]

Mind my romanticism of course but his "presence" here is likely to exist beyond us all!:'-)

[@jamesbetzer6542]

That was such a rough week in October when Tom passed. I was on a pot farm and I'll never forget the feeling of the world falling apart. My world was shit and crumbling around me already and then to be hit with the sensless ugly tragedy of the Vegas massacre and then to lose Tom the next day. Such a hopeless feeling. The only comfort was the music Tom left us with just trying to find some solace in the face of such sadness and heartache for myself, others, and in fact, the world.

[@michaelrochester48]

The weird thing about Tom Petty solo albums is that he uses so much of the Heartbreakers on the songs that it’s technically just another Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers album. Usually when an artist wants to do a solo album they completely do not use any members of their band in the solo project

[@andrewawakened628]

I think it just comes down to control. Every band has its own dynamic and some members have very strong opinions on the musical direction they should be taking and it can get really personal with people choosing hills they are willing to die on. But when you're invited to collaborate or be a guest musician you do that knowing that the guy that called you in is the one in the drivers seat so you're gonna be more flexible.

[@aarongill2942]

@ApocalypseOfSpoons Dude!?! He produced the band on Into the Great Wide Open

[@carolcraig2580]

One of my favorite songs. Thank you for this wonderful video. Free Fallin' transcends the intentional meaning of the lyrics. During stressful days at work I would listen to this song while driving home and "Free fall out into nothing" and "leave this world for awhile." I tear up as I write this as this song has meant so much to me. Thank you, Tom, for the gift of your music...

[@AJMic-sp2rx]

I had surgery last year , The gas passer getting me ready was rocking out and “free falling” came on and it was now karaoke time for me as he put me out , the recovery room nurses had never had a patient wake up singing , it was playing in my head as well as the OR when I went out and kept playing when I woke up therefor I continued singing , I love everything Petty but my two favorites are “free falling” and “refugee” and yes I do Melissa Etheridge remake after the original on my playlist ( I actually have a separate playlist dedicated to remakes that are as good or better than the original , Michael Hedges on Windham hill “ all along the watchtower “ to me blows Dylan and Hendricks away ) .

[@michellelazar3619]

I can't imagine my life without the music of Tom Petty. So many memories of singing his songs with my sisters, friends, at his shows and by myself. Cried so hard when he passed. You are loved and remembered, Tom!

[@rcschmidt668]

Tom Petty was a musical genius. Still listening to his songs.

[@peterbetts858]

ya didnt he join Bob Dylans band at one point , trveln Wilburys /

[@PabluchoViision]

His music seems so simple.... that takes real brilliance!

[@Nik-ko9eq]

I know. I grew up listening to him and not thinking much of him but enjoying what I heard. I appreciate him more now.

[@philipknott9435]

Saw Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers a couple of months before he died at Hyde Park, London.. It was a fabulous concert and I am so glad I saw them.

[@peterbetts858]

@@philipknott9435 What were the ticket prices if u dont mind me asking .?

[@susanziegler-quiltintiaqui111]

You are right... when a great dies, it is as if someone in our family has passed. They carry our hearts through their music.

[@sellingpeck]

Thanks for the tribute to the late, great Tom Petty! My ultimate favorite artist. It made me tear up a bit.

[@davefoster6156]

I appreciate the fact that you brought a very personal episode to the table. Tom Petty and was not only a rock legend, but a national treasure. His music transcends nation states and even language as people all over this planet love his artistry and songs that have very personal meaning for each and all of us. Good show.

[@michaelrochester48]

“I won’t back down” was always cool about the video which featured two Beatles playing with him. The closest I’ve ever seen to a Beatles reunion was that video

[@lindaragan432]

I’m 68 & I cried too!! His songs are ALL great, but my Favorite is Don’t Do Me Like That!!

[@patriciaflowers701]

Gosh! This one made me tear up. Love the late, great TOM PETTY!

[@markb20]

Every time I listened to Full Moon Fever I was stunned by the number of amazing songs on it, as if every new listen would reveal yet another classic gem to add to it's list. Like Tom himself since he sadly left us, it's the gift that keeps on giving.

[@GeorgiaCav]

That final verse is one of the most heartbreaking things you’ll ever hear. I think it’s better not to try to apply meaning to it; just let it signify whatever its deep layering of emotion means to you at any given moment. It always leaves me in tears - of despair, and hope.

[@charleyanne]

Especially since his passing!

[@DeElSendero]

Professor, the analyses and discussions of these great tunes like this one are as amazing as the tunes themselves. A true professor indeed! Much appreciated!

[@KismetBP]

I was born & raised in Southern Cali.. I remember when this song dropped, I put it on, top down & BLASTED it driving down PCH. It has never been off my music playlist and becomes more meaningful as you go through different stages of your life. My wife & I still listen to Tom Petty’s music and remember our youth together. Great job on this Video! ❤️🤘

[@starshinedragonsong3045]

I was born and raised there too. In the dark ages. Friends and I would drive down Mulholland before it was developed. When I hear Ventura Boulevard and glide down Mulholland - it just takes me back.

[@AalbertTorsius]

_Their A&R man said, "I don't hear a single" /_ _The future was wide open_

[@artanddesign8561]

For a personal taste I agree with the ANR man, but when you’re talking about americana, the easier the song the bigger the hit!!!

[@turdferguson7264]

What a wonderful story of your first kiss, and that lovely memory of your father. I'm a 50 year old guy, and you brought a tear to my eye.

[@cestrell]

This is one of the most precious pieces of music reporting I've ever seen and heard. I'm smiling and tearing up at the same time, and I'm gonna check out the eyeglass frames just to support this channel. Thanks, Professor!

[@ashleylynn9333]

It absolutely incredible how brief moments in a studio can create a timeless masterpiece. Jeff Lynne (along with Tom) is an absolute genius. Had he not been in that studio with Tom, the classic probably never gets written. As Professor said, he picked up on Tom strumming the initial cords, came up with "free fallin'" out of the blue, and had him emphasize "freeeeeeeeeee". Thank you Professor for the insight. Just incredible.

[@TomStokes]

Dude, this song means so much to me. I moved to L.A. because of this freakin song... I got sober in 89 when it was released and listened to it over and over. Free Fallin' I was out of control and drugs and alcohol was destroying my life. Song was very deep and powerful. I took it as if I'm free fallin but God is there to catch me (God of my understanding) from a 12 step program. To me the song was very spiritual. Thank goodness he didn't give up... ugh I really cannot stand label management and there's no tellin how many great songs we missed because of greed and stupidity. In case you're wondering - Yes, I just celebrated 30 years of sobriety December 31st, 2020. #RIPTom

[@robtam7529]

I grew up in the Valley. I relate my childhood and teen years to the places in that song.

[@dennisriblett4622]

Sober and Rockin for 31 years now ...gee if I had joined AA I would have a butt load of pins ....

[@HumanimalChannel]

Good on you man. 2 1/2 for me If i have 30 more years on earth is like then to be sober And to have tom petty songs Playing throughout, and at the end.

[@TomStokes]

​@@HumanimalChannel Congrats! I remember a convo with a guy when I was young in sobriety this guy had like 20 years and I was in awe. He told me one day "hey, man, you want to know how to get 20 years of sobriety?" I said yes!! I was thinking he was gonna say something very profound - He said don't drink, don't use, don't die lol turns out that was pretty profound. Also, said get a sponsor, work the steps, and help others do the same. Hey, it's worked just like that for me for 30 years! Peace!!!

[@HumanimalChannel]

@@TomStokes hey Tom! I did The Sinclair Method. It changes your brain back to pre addiction state As time goes on though, I do see that having support for all the things you used the booze to hide from is helpful. Because whatever you were self medicating is still there. But the cravings and desire for alcohol, isn't. I do call it a miracle. the Sinclairi method means that it is not a matter of WILL... not in entirely anyway. Lately... I had a a couple of Margueritas on different occasions. It was Just nice. A pleasant drink and I didn't want more. The brain change is profound. However Tom, i know that I have to be very very careful... of the usual things that drive addiction. Angry lonely tired.., my anxiety my physical health issues, my situation in general. What i really hate ...is how much not drinking has impacted on music for me. I used to listen to music all the time. But ESPECIALLY when drinking! If love to be cranking some Tom petty right now. But I've kind of let music die a bit. I'd lose myself on music for hours go dancing, go to a jazz club. I'm slowly able to get back into that zone. But it's weird. NOw I just make lots of you tube vids. I plan on producing a podcast on TSM. Thank you so much for writing back to my comment. No one can understand unless they've been owned by something themselves. 💛

[@jeffgoldberg6022]

I saw Tom Petty in Calgary, maybe 10 or so years ago. Hypnotic Eye concert. I was blown away by Tom’s mellow vibe on stage. It was an incredible night for me. I can’t accept that he is gone.

[@carol3843]

Great tribute! Two vivid memories for me when I hear this song 1) a friend’s 4 or 5 year old son listening in front of the radio, some toy clutched as a mic, lip synching with the pure sincerity only a child could express 2) double gut punch that I passed on an invitation to see Tom Petty in person a few years ago and then hearing of his passing & knowing I never would.

[@jbc1042]

Another awesome, heartfelt video Professor of Rock 🎸. We love the content and appreciate your hard work. It brings joyful memories when we watch and learn more about our favorite musical artists and their songs!

[@metsfaner]

Tom Petty was like the King Midas of rock and roll. From his solo work, to his music with the Heartbreakers, the Traveling Wilburys, and other projects. Perfection at every level. God bless him!!! 👍👍👍👍

[@richardwarnock2789]

Gainesville was his home I met him told my Mom that is Tom Petty she didn't believe he was he bought me and my Mom lunch What a Amazing person!!!

[@jeffreysnow2640]

This is such A great album !!! I was in shock when Tom Petty died. I saw him in 1985 on the " Pack Up The Plantation " Tour

[@sharrontaylor5448]

Tom Petty is at the top of my favorite rockers. I absolutely love his music. My heart broke when I heard he had died.

[@dhoffman1517]

“You Wreck Me” is the song that floods me with memories. “I’ll be the boy in the corduroy pants and you’ll be the girl at the high school dance” Tom Petty will always be one of my all time favorites.

[@charleyanne]

Run with me wherever I go And just play dumb, whatever you know His words were simplistic but very meaningful, I admired him for that. Some bands (cough, "Kiss", cough) were too simplistic & repetitive.

[@jnicholson460]

Spot on. That lyric to me is like what the Professor was getting at with his 'kissed my crush' story. In it, he was the proverbial 'boy in the corduroy pants'. Tom could describe so much with an economy of words.

[@joegilbert8010]

Yep. How many of us were exactly that boy. I know I was. Gets me every time!

[@foxvalleybandvids]

My friends covering that...at a bowling alley no less: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYHKi5x4h7RnbqM

[@raidrfrk]

@@joegilbert8010 I can hear me walking down the hall to class lol

[@floief]

Tom Petty and Stevie Nicks "Stop Draggin' My Heart Around".

[@robertholtz]

Honestly, as much as I enjoyed your analysis of the song and details of Tom Petty and one of my all-time heroes, Jeff Lynne, I must say the part that I most enjoyed was your personal story of your first kiss. You put me right there at that time and place and that memory is locked in forever. From now on, whenever I hear that song, added to my own memories, I'll be thinking of your first kiss with that girl and that moment of elation elevated forever by that epic lyric. Thankfully, we still have Jeff Lynne and he's still doing amazing things. Thinking of the MCA guys, another truly great (and lesser known) Tom Petty (with The Heartbreakers) tune you should definitely cover is The Last DJ. It was right at the end of radio as a curated analog platform. It was a big thing that was happening in music at the time and he was uniquely qualified to comment about it and capture what was happening. Anyway, sorry for the super long post. Love your videos. Peace.

[@fnickc]

My father and I used to listen to Free Fallin' endlessly. Every time it came on MTV we both were singing. I will always remember Tom Petty riding up the Escalator!!!!

[@kjohnson9306]

This song and "Learning to Fly" are up there with my favorites.

[@SMacCuUladh]

you don't come around here no more is great too

[@timhoovermusicman]

@@SMacCuUladh great video

[@miporsche]

I was lucky to see Tom Petty in concert in 2016. My wife is from North Africa and accompanied me to that concert. Tom Petty's performance cemented her love for his music. I'm in my late 50s now. Tom Petty's music is part of the sound track to my life. So many of my favorites are gone.

[@Stoneylfm]

We still have Paul and Ringo, Mick and Keith ❤

[@325Bertie]

"Don't come around here no more" is a powerful emotion that I was blown away with, for a rock and roll thought. First time I heard it.. so raw.

[@andyrondeau5364]

Your passion for and appreciation of Tom's music shows every time you feature his work. I find myself tearing up almost every time you do. 👍

[@rnrtruestories]

It was funny how the label didn’t think much of full moon fever before it came out. How wrong they were

[@jcgillin51]

A bunch of suits not knowing, to me it is one of my favorite Tom Petty albums.

[@HaXaW5150]

What do suites know about people wearing jeans and leather.

[@chaipup7045]

To be fair, outside the USA the Travelling Wilburys comprised legends from the '60's, a hanger-on from the '70's (with THE most hideous, generic, drum sound) and an unknown in Tom Petty. Not saying he wasn't good but Full Moon Rising would not be the international hit it was without that connection.

[@NewFalconerRecords]

Atlantic Records offered INXS a million dollars to re-record the album 'Kick' 'cos they thought it wouldn't connect with the general public. 20 million album sales later....

[@o.b.v.i.u.s]

Berry Gordy didn't want to release WHAT'S GOING ON (Marvin Gaye). Welcome to the music biz.

[@mikestanshillporter4425]

Tom Petty is the embodiment of Rock and Roll, and Jeff Lynne is an incredible genius, master musician and producer. I’ve always enjoyed Tom Petty, and Jeff Lynne is my favorite.

[@chaipup7045]

At least you always know when Lynne has produced a record, it's the same bloody drum sound.

[@tracieleeburnett3395]

Tom is my favorite😍 but...Jeff Lind👍

[@harrisgoodman1564]

@@chaipup7045 You may be correct, there. But the same could be said of Jimmy Iovine, Gus Dudgeon, Ted Templeman....I think that when a producer finds a sound in the studio and the group they’re producing has a huge hit, it kinda makes sense to stick with what works. It’s all subjective. I happen to enjoy Jeff Lynne’s production style, but I understand those who prefer more diverse sounds. ✌🏻

[@nicholaslacovara2381]

Please cover “I won’t back down” - the Johnny Cash cover - what a mark of respect by Cash!

[@krazyk57]

Sorry about you losing your dad..🙏🙏🙏…The way you talk about him and the music he introduced you to… Awesome memories for a lifetime…Thanks for sharing….👍🏻