Rest in Peace Tom Petty - Norm talks about his history with Tom for over 40 years!

Norm was on vacation and received some very sad news. One of Norm's old friends, Tom Petty, had passed away. This came at the same time as the Las Vegas Massacre and notification that one of his oldest friends Randy Golden is in hospice. Needless to say it's been a very rough few days for Norm and the gang here at #NormansRareGuitars! All of us wish Tom's family, Tom's band the Heartbreakers, Mudcrutch, Tom's management and crew, and all of his fans, we extend our condolences to all. You will forever be missed! #RIPTomPetty

[@FloridaManMatty]

I had the great privilege of meeting and jamming with Tom when I was 15 years old. He had a house in Crescent Beach, FL, just south of St. Augustine and would hang out in downtown St. Augustine with a couple of the local musicians when he was in town. One evening I was hanging out after closing at a guitar shop that I used to practically live at called “Beyond Music”. The owner and all of his buddies were super cool to me because they recognized the same affliction we all share: an almost pathological need to be around guitars. So that night in the late spring of 1992, I was in the back banging away on the owners gigantic rig and one of his Ibanez LACS RG’s when in walks this guy who appeared, well...homeless, frankly. He started talking to the group when we all pretty much simultaneously recognized who he was. Holy shit! It was Tom Petty! I ended up calling my dad to tell him I’d be home late and had a ride. We stayed in that little back room studio until almost 1am playing all kinds of stuff. I was just in awe of how effortless it all seemed to Tom. He wasn’t making music - He was a conduit for music that came from somewhere else and simply used him as a means to be heard. I have experienced that with a few other people and it never ceases to render me speechless. These people are just tapped in to the universe. Rest in Eternal Peace, Tom. You really did change the world for the better.

[@sloburnjo6835]

nice! life is something, he was at his apex those years

[@mikeymojo8299]

You are a true gentleman Norm. Tom was a beautiful person, I am sorry for your loss as you and Tom had great history together. As the entire music community mourns Toms passing, we have his voice and music that remains alive, his Legacy. What you do for the midnite mission is terrific. You are a class act Mr Harris 🎸

[@darrinros1177]

Got a chance to go to Norms. It was everything I imagined. Guitars everywhere. I hope heaven looks alot like it. HA. Tom Petty was awesome. Mike C is the most under rated player maybe ever. But the two together are like a 59 Bassman and a 52 tele. Well, you get it. And yes, class act Norm is that everyday.

[@jacobreece1971]

You belong among the wildflowers You belong in a boat out at sea Sail away, kill off the hours You belong somewhere you feel free

[@mr.smithgnrsmith7808]

James....fail

[@jbfanthx138]

Tom Petty's death hit me pretty hard because the first concert I went to was Bob Dylan with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers at the Sydney Entertainment Centre 25 February 1986. I was 15. I still have fond memories of it today. Thank you Tom for your music and for being a part of all our lives. R.I.P You will never be forgotten.

[@jacobreece1971]

Thanks for sharing this story Norm. You just don't hear it from anyone else.

[@Pipster270977]

Lovely words and nice to hear how Tom did so much to help others for nothing in return. Too often you see celebs helping a charity to simply further their own career but it’s so nice to hear of someone helping without much recognition at the time of the event. Hope he rests in peace

[@gidge34]

Good people find each other in this world and you guys had what sounded like a beautiful friendship based on mutual respect and caring for others. Does not get any more pure than that. I am truly sorry for your loss. Much love the Deehan family Tucson AZ.

[@ClarenceHW]

Hi George.. nice comment, thanks! I'm here in Tucson as well.

[@doriswalsh5149]

Clarence

[@60s70s80sMusicFan]

Sorry for your loss Norm. Tom was a great writer, musician, producer- he was the real deal. This is a great loss to the musical community and fans. It was great of you to do this video and tell us about your experiences with Tom beyond a lot of the great stuff we have heard about. Your work with the homeless mission says a lot about the guy you are. It's not surprising that Tom got involved in this great cause. If I'm in LA, I will have to visit the store. RIP Tom Petty condolences to his family and friends (Tom had many friends).

[@sidsimo]

Thanks to Norm, for sharing your personal thoughts and memories to fans and fellow musicians like myself. So many people loved Tom and his work. We don't get the opportunity very often to see his private side. Tom made an enormous impact and left us with such great gifts.and made the world a better place. God Bless.

[@christophermay4998]

Tom was definitely one of a kind.....his music and style were unique to him......Tom is missed by all of us.....can't imagine how it is for you knowing him for 40 years.....I hear Tom's music at work almost every day......

[@JamesWalshBristolKids]

Tom was a gentleman- a great guy. He was cool to be around. I heard him play the chord progression to Mary Janes Last Dance in the Guitarville store on Ventura Blvd in Sherman Oaks in the 90's and it was fantastic. He made a great impression on me about how rhythm guitar should sound. I'll never forget it. He will be truly missed.

[@toddflowers8052]

Thank you for sharing this with us Norm. RIP Tom Petty and the casualties in Vegas.

[@adamwebb241]

Really sorry for your loss Norm. I have been a fan of his for my entire life and have been in tears over his passing many times - I can barely imagine the pain for his close friends and family.

[@guitardudeguy3139]

Very sorry for your loss of your good friend Tom Petty, one of the greatest American composers of our time! Our hearts go out to all of his family and band mates. Thanks for sharing your story, Norm, I wish there were more people like Tom, truly one of a kind. RIP Tom Petty 2017.

[@paulcodi2747]

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers got me into the drums. That hard fast rocking beat is the perfect music to learn after you learn the basics, because it is grass roots rock and roll. Everyone that knows me thinks of Tom Petty when they think of me and music. He was a great principled artist and a real solid human being. May he Rest In Peace......God please bless Tom Petty and give him a place in your kingdom.

[@vikingmog]

I’m sorry for your loss Norm. It’s never easy loosing people you love. I really feel for you. You normally are such an upbeat happy character. It’s easy to see how hard this has hit you. But his legacy & music will live on. Take comfort on how much people loved him & how respected he is.

[@chrism.4600]

Thanks for the share Norm, I just learned some more music history, RIP Tom Petty

[@martywilkinson6722]

RIP Tom. You can certainly tell what you meant to Norm and Mark and everyone at the shop. Tom was a legend and I grew up listening to him. He will be greatly missed. Thanks for the soundtrack of my many years.

[@RES1WNOR14]

rest in peace Tom Petty you are a huge influence to so many people including my self thank you for everything you have done ! you will never be forgotten

[@sejrec56]

Norman, thanks for sharing, for those of us musicians, aspiring songwriters, I for one found most of his music to be real genuine and saluting so many of his heros in his songs with all the different styles. I love how he did that. Yes he will be missed. I'm also a guitar collector, or at least I was mostly before I got married, lol, but I can appreciate your story of his devotion. That is a very rare quality. I think most fans picked up on his devotion not only to his music but also his fans. My heart is broken on the loss of this great inspiration. Take care Norman.

[@markrevelband3902]

Thank you for posting this.

[@manaman545]

Great story from the heart. Thanks for all the videos, I enjoy them all.

[@richardeaton6119]

Thanks for sharing your memories. Very touching.

[@drguy2156]

Thank you for this Norm, a very heart felt tribute to all people who have passed away recently. God bless all at the store , RIP Tom, a true legend amongst musicians. RIP fella xx

[@frankmorrow5080]

Thanks for sharing Norm. Tom's music has always been a big part of my life and will continue to be so.

[@marvinshenk]

Condolences Norm. All the greats are dying, and it's a sad time for music fans. Tom Petty, for me, always seemed to be himself in every way, and seemed like a great guy. To hear your story of him helping you out many times in return for a favor done many years ago is very cool. His last show was at the Hollywood Bowl just less than 2 weeks ago, which is a 15 minute walk up a hill for me, and I missed it. I never got to see Tom live. That makes me sad, but his records will keep entertaining us forever. RIP Tom Petty.

[@kentbeery8653]

Norm thank you for sharing your story with us Tom was a Huge inspiration to me this one has hit me hard, im sorry for your loss and for all of us here he is a legend and he will be missed dearly

[@jeffreybiscoe6]

Never understand why people gotta thumbs down nothing but a positive post .Sorry for the loss of your friend. He was my generations music . I'm a 70s kid/ teenager Tom + the Heartbreakers was ours but he was your friend. Hell ,I feel the pain of losing him + + I never met the man.

[@WalkInFaithandGrace]

My husband died 2 years ago this past August. The pain was extreme, but I was healing through Tom's music. His song brought back some life to my heart. Hearing of his passing, broke my heart all over again. I pray he is Heaven having the time of his life. He was the best and always been my favorite artist. God bless you Tom and as well to your family and friends. His passing is a true heart breaker

[@tyecook9630]

Walkthenarrowpath oh god I'm crying reading what you wrote...my heart is breaking too right now, I'm so sorry about your loss, you can't believe how you touched me..i hope you see this because it's important for people to communicate about their feelings and for people to know that others actually care about them...i really do, I wish I could at least give you a hug darling...and I don't mean darling in a derogatory or lessening way, it's full of respect...the same kind of respect that you obviously have for others...i don't ever respond to people's comments but yours really hit me emotionally..

[@mattroberts3487]

Thanks for posting this Norm. Tom is irreplaceable it’s therapeutic to hear from friends of his. What a gift he was. RIP TP : (

[@martinreid1740]

Thanks for your very moving tribute.

[@damon6852]

Thank you Norman!!! It is quite wonderful to hear your warm stories of your dear friend Tom. Thanks to KZbin, its easier for to learn more about these great people!

[@Eztek]

Thanks so much for making this video Norm. Provided me with a whole new perspective on Tom.

[@paulsimmons5726]

Norm, Tom Petty was a great musician and will be missed by the world. Your story was very heartfelt, I'm sorry for your loss.

[@OzziePete1]

Condolences on your loss, Norman. We (the fans) often forget that those we are fans of, have a life away from the limelight. Thanx for expanding on that other part of Tom's life.

[@bigtoemojo8150]

That was beautiful and heartfelt Norm, I'm so sorry for your loss! He definitely made a mark on millions of us that never got a chance to meet him so I can only imagine what this has been like for you. My buddy is friends with his brother Bruce and I know they're having a tough time so I hope you can all take comfort in the true joy he spread to all of us. Thanks for giving us a peak into how compassionate and kind he was.

[@lemoynelaytonable]

I'm so sorry you lost your friend. I was a big fan. I need to remember they are people and loved by personal friends .. also I love your channel. RIP Tom Petty

[@InTheLifeOfAnArtist]

Option1Frills great.

[@surfrby8876]

Thank you Norm for sharing,it's been a horrible week with incredible loss.Its hard to lose these legendary performers ,Tom Petty's the reason why many of us fell in love with the guitar and wanted to be in a rock band, his songs are sewn into the fabric of our youth, and the soundscape of American rock music. It's so hard to accept, but you keep these videos going, they help in the healing and keeping the music alive 😉

[@scottiles3072]

Thanks for sharing your memories of your times with Tom i loved his relaxed vocal style and great guitar riffs he will be greatly missed.

[@kocnn]

I'm sure he felt highly of you too Tom, Thank You for posting this.

[@Bradp18]

Brought me tears. So sorry for your loss Norm! I really appreciate you taking the time to share with us who didn't get to see Tom off the stage. It's always great to hear that your heroes truly lived up to what you envisioned in your mind. God Bless Tom's family in this tough time. Bless you Norm while you deal with losing your friend! Music and Memories last forever! Thanks Tom and RIP!

[@DiscountSeanConnery]

This might be the most supportive, caring, family - like KZbin channel community. Seeing these responses is nearly unheard of on this website.

[@charleskaplan6315]

Thank you for this video, Norm.

[@a456987]

Nice to see you.back and glad you could do this video even though it must be very hard for you right now

[@mang3139]

Thanks for sharing Norm. It means alot to fans of any musician as it brings us "closer" to that person. God bless you and Tom

[@jeff7807]

Of all the musicians passing away lately, this one really hits me hard. I have been listening to Tom my whole life. The world is just a little darker without Tom writing music.

[@cozmickid80]

I was waiting for you to do a video. Tom was really well loved. Heartfelt video Norm.

[@peteypool]

Sorry for your loss Norm. Tom Petty was a great song writer also, we all know that. I've been watching a lot about Tom since his passing, he surely will be missed ! R.I.P. Tom Petty !

[@scottrimmer7550]

Thanks for posting this Norm. I'm still in shock. There will never be another Tom Petty. May he Rest In Peace!

[@rcoveyduc]

Thanks for sharing Norm. Condolences to you, and all who knew him.

[@ronstewart4660]

Hey Norm thanks for the great stories. I just like everyone else really miss Tom. He certainly has been my inspiration in music. Your story about Tom helps ease the pain a little, and I, and I am sure everyone watching it, feels the same way. Thanks again Norm.

[@bobomud]

R.I.P. Tom. Great guy. Thanks for tellin' this great story Norm!

[@RidgeDogRoxx]

Norm - you are truly a class act, and your reminiscences show that Tom was definitely the same. Not only has the rock listening public lost a musical giant, humanity has lost a great soul with the passing of Tom. If I ever get to LA, I'd love to stop in the shop and shake you hand (and maybe pick up at LEAST a t-shirt, if not a Strat). Thank you for what you do for the homeless in the LA area.

[@DWINC]

Thanks for sharing Norm. Much love from The Netherlands. Hang in there.

[@MissChrissyM1]

Norman, this was a beautiful genuine tribute to Tom Petty. I remember several months ago, my family and I watched one of your videos with Tom Petty in your store and I think that’s my favorite video of yours and I have watched dozens. We saw Tom Petty at Madison Square Garden in New York City about 30 years ago and it was memorable to say the least. My heart goes out to you because I know you Had a long-standing friendship with Tom. REst in heavenly peace Tom Petty

[@matteopuglisi4938]

Very sad losing Tom Petty

[@pamhurt7126]

Matteo Puglisi I

[@balerjohnson3099]

Love you Norm and your guys . I get to watch your channel everyday because I love guitars and its always great . I know you and Tom were close . My heartfelt sympathy to Toms family and to his friends and to you Norm . I keep watching as always .

[@flashpoint8909]

Hi Norm hello from the U.K. great tribute to Tom loved his music forever, we were lucky enough to see him at last back in July in Hyde Park great weather, fantastic Gig and also another first for us the wonderful Stevie Nicks what a sad sad loss to music

[@VeniceArtsClub]

Beautiful tribute, Norm. Thank you very much. From all of Venice, CA.

[@davidlove827]

Thank you for sharing with us, Norm. Rest in peace Tom Petty.

[@eddietrucco9969]

He will forever be missed. A true gentleman and genius. His music changed my life and it will always be a part of me.

[@cherylb2008]

You're a good friend to convey these beautiful memories about Tom, a one of a kind icon. I feel enriched knowing now, that he gave so generously to this midnight mission charity.

[@racerguy500]

Thank you Norm for telling the kind of man Tom was and what he offered other than his musical abilities. So sorry for all your losses and the heartache that this entire country is dealing with. You can only be forever missed if you are forever remembered. So thank you Tom Petty for giving us so much to forever remember you by. RIP

[@Anniem53]

What a beautiful tribute you've given Norm. You know, as I was listening to you, you kept going back to how you were there for him in the beginning. Then you say that you didn't know if Tom did this or that just to thank you for helping him early in his career, maybe so... but, I think he loved you as a friend just as much as you loved him. Thank you for helping him, you never know, .. maybe if you hadn't we wouldn't have had that wonderful soul, Tom Petty to remember and be able to listen to and rock our socks off playing vinyls, CD's or watch on KZbin! Again, thank you for being there for him!!

[@browill9]

Thank you Norm for sharing. your back story ,and brotherhood with Tom. God bless you caring for the ones most people neglect on purpose, or plan old omission. I love watching you and all your awesome guests. Thanx.

[@Thisischrisrao]

MUSIC IS TIMELESS, TOM'S MUSIC WILL LIVE FOREVER

[@pclifford1577]

R.I.P. Tom. We're already missing you. Thanks - Nice video.

[@charlesholliday3860]

Yeah Norm I've always loved Tom Petty but I learned a little bit more about him by watching your videos bless his family and his band and everyone who was close to him he left us a ton of great music

[@TroubadourJuggernaut]

Great stories, thanks for sharing .... RIP Tom.

[@chavoxo50]

Thank you for sharing those memories Norm

[@Biggun8262]

God bless you Norm! Few people know what a true gentleman Tom was and how he would do anything for anyone. And Norm, thank you for giving some great history into your relationship with one of the giants of Rock and Roll! Tom will missed and remembered for years to come.

[@BrentBowers]

Thanks for sharing, Norm.

[@TheDudeOnBass79]

RIP Tom Petty, and thanks for the music. Thanks Norm for sharing these stories!

[@RockHardRiffs]

Very touching, Norm. Believe it or not, after hearing about Tom, you guys were one of the first things that crossed my mind, having watched your videos with him. May God bless you all.

[@RyRobCon]

A huge loss for all music lovers, but what a great tribute to your old friend. My condolences, Norm.

[@timallbritton7329]

Great story, Norm. Thanks for sharing.

[@sixstringunderdog8622]

So sorry for your loss Norm. Thank you for providing Tom and the heartbreakers with so many unbelievable guitars. I always look forward to seeing what gear the band would play live or in the studio.

[@ericcarpenter3263]

Damn Norm. So sorry for your loss. Hate losing friends, feel your pain, we have all lost someone close. Great job telling your stories through all this. Thanks for sharing that.

[@JC-qp5xz]

Thank you narm for the info I realy like ur videos and was a big fan of Tom and sad to hear the news but I'm sure he lived a good life

[@wildbill7]

Salt of the earth mate, you and Tom. Sorry for your loss, so much more personal than to us as simple fans. If I ever make it over from Belfast to your store (#bucketlist) I'll give you a great big Norn Irish hug. Keep standin' mate, love the channel.

[@brazilgrass]

Cheers from south Brazil, Norm. Very sad losing Tom Petty. His legacy will live forever.

[@snacklofter]

Very moving. Thank you for sharing your memories with us Norm. Tom was a very special man indeed. atb. snack.

[@stevebolton4663]

So sorry for your personal loss, Norm. My heart has been aching this entire week because of Las Vegas and then the loss of Tom. I share in your grief. Tom was a regular guy, yet he seemed so much larger than life. He gave us a treasure trove of great music! RIP

[@2Scoopz]

Thanks for sharing the story Norm. I'm from Indio, CA and I had been wanting to visit your store so bad. Well, I finally did when I had a good reason to make the trip to the L.A. area-Tom Petty's 2nd to last show at The Hollywood Bowl. Just want to say your staff were awesome, they let me play around with whatever I wanted to. Hope to be back before X-mas to pick-up a Jaguar I liked. R.I.P. Tom.

[@rcacase]

wonderful stories about an incredible man. Thank you

[@m-howl5028]

Really appreciate you sharing your stories...bye Tom...

[@DannyPodesta]

Beautiful video, thank Norm.

[@dw6448136]

Thank you Norm for your words , I have been down since hearing of Toms passing and I think you said it all from a man who knows.

[@lupevalenzuela5818]

Thank you for this, Norm.

[@bluesdog88]

Bless your heart Norm, thanks for sharing your Tom story!

[@MJWill1]

Norman, Thank you for sharing your experiences with Tom. I am sorry for your loss and all of our loss. I took my 10 year old to his first concert just a little over a month ago. Tom Petty at Golden 1, Sacramento. Great night for us. I can't believe he is dead.

[@philbarrows424]

Very well put Norm Condolences to Tom's loved ones Tom's music was part of my life's soundtrack Im comforted by the fact that I'm sure he's learned to fly 🦋 Rest In Peace Tom 😇🎸🎼🎤

[@BeansMaskSheen]

Never got to see Tom live..was on my bucketlist but the red rocks tix this summer were too expensive. so bummed. Another great music hero lost. RIP. thanks for the video norm

[@cameronhasko8870]

God bless you, Norm. We all lost a great person and musician

[@dahliafiend]

Wonderful speech. It’s hard to believe he’s gone.

[@mikekozlowski3853]

Norm, you're the man. Stay strong and keep up the good work. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@ClarenceHW]

Thanks Norm, really appreciate the heartfelt background and stories, easy to tell how much this means to you. I'm 67... and when you're a guitar or bass guy that started playing in bands in the sixties... it's part of a story we all share.

[@Blimpus]

You are a class act Norm. Loved all the Tom videos. R.I.P

[@gozzagoss6182]

Norm just beautiful man. I have watched your videos on here for quite a while, still don't know why, I just feel drawn to the feel and vibe of the place. Your friendship with Tom pieced the screen and your pain from a howling heart was clear for us all to see. He was certainly a loyal friend to you Norm, so glad you let us know what Tom Petty meant to you.

[@Anson120]

Kind of shook up? I am in shock with everything. You are closer to Vegas and Tom Petty. I feel like I grew up with him. You are pretty strong Norm.