Tom Petty: 1950 - 2017

  • October 2, 2017
    Tom Petty: 1950 - 2017

    Photo: Lynn Goldsmith

     

    On behalf of the Tom Petty family, we are devastated to announce the untimely death of our father, husband, brother, leader and friend Tom Petty.

    He suffered cardiac arrest at his home in Malibu in the early hours of this morning and was taken to UCLA Medical Center but could not be revived.

    He died peacefully at 8:40PM PST surrounded by family, his bandmates, and friends.

    - Tony Dimitriades, longtime manager of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, on behalf of the family
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mgmt1's picture
Submitted by mgmt1
on October 2, 2017

Photo: Lynn Goldsmith

 

On behalf of the Tom Petty family, we are devastated to announce the untimely death of our father, husband, brother, leader and friend Tom Petty.

He suffered cardiac arrest at his home in Malibu in the early hours of this morning and was taken to UCLA Medical Center but could not be revived.

He died peacefully at 8:40PM PST surrounded by family, his bandmates, and friends.

- Tony Dimitriades, longtime manager of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, on behalf of the family

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turbo1's picture

January 5, 2018 — turbo1
How can you miss someone so much that you never actually met in person? I so hope that Tom knew what an impact, HUGE impact he made on us! All of you guys! Seeing a show was "an event" in our house. So anticipated. So looked forward to. Talked about for weeks....years.....been to so, so many! My husband and I both just miss you Tom! Happiest New Year to the Heartbreakers! Hoping this year brings all good things to all of you! Jackie and Turbo
baggs74's picture

December 31, 2017 — baggs74
Wishing all of Guys in TPATH’s, their families, and all of Toms Family a Happy New Years from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. I think of you all every day! The memories will always live on with me and my family through all of my TPATH concert memories and through all of the amazing music you have given us over the decades. Take Care and lots of Love from Your devoted fan, Justin Beshara.
luckybabe88's picture

December 12, 2017 — luckybabe88
Thank you for the souvenir tickets. It was a terrific concert. Everything was perfect. All ages were there. I ended up dancing to my favorite song "Your Got Lucky, Babe" with two twenty somethings-girls! Petty and the Heartbreakers played my Tom's favorite song " Breakdown". I later learned it was played only three times on this tour so I've said Petty did that specially for my Tom. It was his birthday present. Tom Petty has been a big daily part of our lives for years. He does and will continue to do so in the future. The music lives on. He was an extraordinarily talented artist with a huge outstanding body of work. What was particularly special about him was how he kept the ticket prices down and the scalpers out. I'm so glad he found Dana and was so happy his last years. I can't imagine how devastated the Heartbreakers and his family are. I know we feel like it was a loss in our family. It showed us that you don't know how much time you may have so we put together a written plan for my Tom to retire ASAP and for us to spend as much time together as possible. I titled it " Petty's Gift". Once again "Thank you, Tom Petty for the soundtrack of our lives". We love you!!! Rene and Tom P.S. I'm tearing up AGAIN. I'm so-o-o upset.
Skylord14's picture

November 28, 2017 — Skylord14
Forever grateful for “ Learning to Fly “ . It’s true , the hardest part is coming down :( Donald Urban Captain Boeing 727
edgar's picture

November 26, 2017 — edgar
I first started listening to Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, while on duty in the US Navy. I instantly became a fan. I first saw Tom Petty in Philadelphia ,PA in 1983 at the Spectrum, it was one of the first of many shows that I would get to see them. I was never disappointed in any show. He was definitely a musicians musician. God bless you Tom Petty for all that you gave the world. Thank you! Ed, Blackwood, NJ
wilmar1977's picture

November 25, 2017 — wilmar1977
Tom Petty is, and was already while still with us, a legend among legends. If we had a Mount Rushmore of music giants his bust would undoubtedly be carved there. I can only imagine what the giant hole in their lives must be like for his beloved family, band mates, and friends if a fan like me remains troubled and in daily disbelief. I first saw the band on the ‘Lawsuit Tour’ at the Universal Amphitheater so long ago and so very much enjoyed and love Tom Petty and all of the immensely talented musicians he has surrounded himself with these many years as we traveled in life together. Our world was definitely a much better place while Tom Petty resided in it with us. My entire family remain permanently touched by Tom’s presence in our lives. Thank Heaven we have such an amazing and timeless oeuvre to help us through our future. Such timeless words and music will live on forever. I greedily wanted more but am incredibly thankful and grateful for the past and future joy.
sggardner's picture

November 24, 2017 — sggardner
We rode parallel on life's trail for years... the band went to LA 'bout the time I graduated from college in Georgia. Always knew who they were but never really ran up against the charm until 2012 when I saw the 30th Anniversary video (that Gretsch White Falcon - damn. I mean, good heavens what tone!) THEN saw the band in person. I was a goner; always on the look-out for good guitar, Mike has, well, got my attention. To the point that on this last tour I was front row, left side in Atlanta (and yes I nutted up right in front of everybody when Mike brought out the Falcon). I might quit grinning but it won't be any time soon, people. So glad Tom would wander over grinning and play right in front of me too... shaking that ole finger, I shoulda known it... yeah. And the two friends on matching Firebirds, well it don't get no better than that. Unless it's the SG's and sunglasses. And grins. Fine work, boys, fine work indeed.
snowflake's picture

November 24, 2017 — snowflake
Please keep the music alive Love to you all
sunflower70's picture

November 24, 2017 — sunflower70
As the holiday season begins I would like to reaffirm my sincere condolences to the Petty family including the Heartbreakers. Hopes for much comfort and joy to each one of you as you reflect on Tom's life and impact on yours. As a long time fan who was so fortunate enough to check an item off my bucket list to travel from Cleveland, Ohio to see you all at Red Rocks in May, I am too still saddened by his passing and the thought of him no longer able to check anymore off his list. I am ever more aware of how not to take each day for granted. Peace to all.
ballet_kierstin's picture

November 23, 2017 — ballet_kierstin
I just want to express love to all of Tom's family and the band as you all go through the holidays. I know this is a hard time. So much love to you all. <3
Jordyn's picture

November 22, 2017 — Jordyn
Love and light to you all. I'm just so sorry and so sad. There are no other words. I am especially worried about you Mike!
wildblueroan's picture

November 22, 2017 — wildblueroan
Mike and Benmont, thank you for communicating with us and in so doing for keeping the relationship alive. Many of us are reeling too-we feel a deep love for and connection to TP and the band, after sharing many years, concerts and experiences, and it is hard to let go...Thank you for keeping the flame of idealism and integrity burning and the heart of rock and roll beating all these years and for being so good to your fans. The Heartbreakers have been inspiring as musicians and as people; you made a huge difference in lives and hearts. God Bless you always!
ptcruiser18104@yahoo.com's picture

November 22, 2017 — ptcruiser18104@...
Thank you Mike and Benmont for your words of love. Mike, Benmont, Ron, Scott, Steve, and Tom have been creating great music for over 40 years. It is hard to lose a brother who so loves rock and roll! Hopefully when you performed, you heard all the fans on their feet singing along with every word of each song. We can help you and then you can help us. You Wreck Me Baby!!
Elissafink's picture

November 22, 2017 — Elissafink
Please, Tom Petty Insiders, Friends & Family, don’t ever stop sharing him with us. We fans can tell that you’re a tight group and we know you’re devastated. But please don’t give up on Tom’s and your mission to keep rock and roll going in the way that Tom, Mike, Benmont, Ron, Steve and Scott have been doing it all these years. You all mean so much to us. Let’s all remain committed to keeping true to the soul of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. We’ll support you and be here with each new way you help us connect to the incredible Heartbreakers spirit.
HoytBenson's picture

November 12, 2017 — HoytBenson
The 59 people who went to a Jason Aldean concert, woke up to the most fucking amazing Tom Petty Concert ever
cprubin's picture

November 10, 2017 — cprubin
Bless all of you that were in Tom's life. He and the Heartbreakers are the absolute best. You're in my prayers. I can't help but believe that Tom is still rocking on somewhere out there.
feather123's picture

November 10, 2017 — feather123
I am so sorry about the passing of Tom Petty. My heart goes out to his family, friends and fans. Toms music helped me through the two most difficult times in my life...the deaths of my mother and father. When I was feeling down or having a bad day I would listen to his music and it made me feel better. I got to see Tom in concert once when he came to Winnipeg, Canada and it was awesome. Rest in peace Tom. Love, Heather (Regina, SK Canada)
alysonann's picture

November 3, 2017 — alysonann
I will love you and miss you forever, Tom Petty. Sweet Angel Dream. “...sleep tight baby unfurl your brow and know I love you, we’re all right for now...”
slave2pay's picture

November 2, 2017 — slave2pay
It's hard to believe that Tom is gone. We saw him in Sacramento and afterwards we were talking about if he was really retiring. Every time one of his songs play on the radio I shake my head. So sad
rayfister's picture

November 1, 2017 — rayfister
Thank you Tom for all you gave us. You get to reunite with George and Roy plus a host of amazing musicians that left this world too soon. Love you man.
mikeneal1957's picture

October 27, 2017 — mikeneal1957
I feel like someone in my own family has passed! I was lucky enough to see Tom and the Heartbreakers. Nine or ten times. Mud crutch twice at the Fonda. He left us way to soon! His music will last until the end of time! Love and miss you Tom!
riggs's picture

October 26, 2017 — riggs
It's taken me some time to write this as I'm still in shock. I'm also just one of many that have been touched by Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers over the years and feel as if he was speaking to me in his music. His music has been such a huge part of my life. I've been blessed to see them over 20 times and the last was from row 4 in Baltimore. They played with such joy and energy. But the priceless show was in Pittsburgh years ago when he played a guitar solo to my wife. I remember grabbing her and saying he's playing to you and only you right now. Truly an amazing experience. Thank you for so many years of joy and your music. God bless Tom, his family and the Heartbreakers. My deepest condolences to them as I can only imagine their loss.
alysonann's picture

October 25, 2017 — alysonann
Still feeling so sad, feel like crying... now I am crying. I love you Tom Petty. My sincere condolences to his family and bandmates. I love you Tom Petty.
ann127's picture

October 22, 2017 — ann127
He was and always will be The Best of Everything!! My heart breaks for his wife, daughters ,son ,grand baby ,the band and anyone who had the privilege who knew him. Peace and love to all . He will be missed ❤
ptcruiser18104@yahoo.com's picture

October 21, 2017 — ptcruiser18104@...
Thanks to David Fricke ad Bill Flanagan for hosting Tom Petty Birthday Tribute on SiriusXM. I was glad to hear Tom's interviews and acceptance speech for MusicCares. To hear Tom speak added to his music really shows what kind of man he is. Mike Campbell and Steve Ferrone called into the show and shared their thoughts during this difficult time for them. Thank you Tom and the Heartbreakers for everything you gave us.
cuz_300's picture

October 20, 2017 — cuz_300
I consider myself very fortunate in so many ways to have followed Tom and the Heartbreakers for the past forty years. His music always put me in a great mood and was enjoyed by my entire family including my “Free Falling” little sister back in the eighties to jamming out with my young children who became rockers at an early age to Breakdown, Running Down a Dream or Mary Janes. We spend many a Saturday listening to music and playing air guitars in front of the living room mirrors while their mom screamed to “lower that music you will all be deaf someday “ Our response was simple “ mom, it’s just normal noises in here“ My family was so fortunate to see the band on multiple occasions, most recently again during the 40th anniversary tour. This tour took us to Red Rocks with my little girl who is now a mom to be and a month later sitting fourth row with my son and concert buddy at Forest Hills. Unfortunately we didn’t think it was our last Petty show. We left both shows thinking that we couldn’t wait for his next tour. At the Red Rocks show my daughter really enjoyed Wildflowers and decided that Wildflowers was going to be somewhat of a theme song to her unborn little girl. So she went home and proceeded to paint a Rocky Mountain mural on her wall and added some Wildflowers designs. Again little did we know what a tribute it would become. So as we patiently await the arrival of our little wildflower and granddaughter I can only be eternally grateful to Tom and the Heartbreakers for maintaining the bond of music throughout the generations. My deepest condolences go to Toms family and the Heartbreakers. I haven’t listened to another band in weeks. Please keep his spirit alive. He was one of a kind. Tom and the Heartbreakers will remain in my families hearts forever. And I’m looking forward to the day I can teach my granddaughter the air guitar to Running Down a Dream. May God Bless Tom and the Heartbreakers.
alysonann's picture

October 19, 2017 — alysonann
Tom Petty, Angel Dream... so sad you had to go... I never met you but I will love and miss you forever. Thanks for the beautiful songs, you were a true poet, my favorite musician, and the essence of cool!!!!!!!!! I hope you know how deeply loved you are. "...and when all of this is over, if I lose you in this world, I want you to know, YOU WERE THE ONE!!!!!!...and may my love travel with you always."
livinlife6's picture

October 17, 2017 — livinlife6
I want to share a story about TP. I was out car shopping and the salesmen who helped me was, at one time, a night club owner in NJ and PA. He told me how he booked Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers in the late 70's for $750 a night! He recently saw the bands manager and asked if he's play for $750 now. He said, knowing Tom, he would! He loved performing and always said that they were just a rock and roll band. God bless Tom Petty, and thank you for allowing him to share our lives. My deepest sympathies to his family and the Heartbreakers.
stevielw73's picture

October 16, 2017 — stevielw73
I've been listening to many of his old interviews to help me through the grief, and one of my favorites was the impromptu he did with Garry Shandling. It's only about 30 but it demonstrates perfectly the kind of heart, insight, and since of humor he had and why I along with thousands of others were so drawn to his music and were die hard fans for decades. Never to be forgotten but definitely missed. My heart goes out to Dana, the adult children, and the other Petty family members as well as his band brothers and all the HeartBreaker staff who knew and worked with him for over 40 years.
brenda4414's picture

October 15, 2017 — brenda4414
Tom, you gave the people on this earth something special that will never be forgotten. The Creator blessed you with your music, it was magical and healing in so many ways. I want you to know you made a difference in my life and many others in this world. You will be missed, are one of a kind, the world needs more people with a heart like yours. Miigwetch for all the love and music that will live on forever.

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