It ONLY Hit

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It ONLY Hit

Рет қаралды 77,216

Жыл бұрын

Shrouded in the intrigue of an urban myth about a deadly acid trip, and cryptic lyrics, many shared that this 70s classic was about a suicide. American Girl by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers etched the superstar onto the Mt. Rushmore of rock n’ roll storytellers. The fact & fiction surrounding one of the greatest rock songs ever. IN hindsight it’s actually this Tom and his band the Heartbreakers biggest hit ever… Except for the fact that it wasn’t actually a hit.. and it was the last song he ever played live. the real story of this classic rock standard is next.. …. NEXT on Professor of Rock.”
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#1970s #tompetty #classicrock
Hey music junkies, Professor of Rock always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. If you’ve ever ever been curious about the stories behind the art, lyrics and music of rock and roll this channel will be stop you’ll want to make. Just subscribe below right now to get The stories of the songs from the legends . also if you’d like help our mission of curating this history and received benefit for doing so, take a look at our patreon link below.
IT’s time for another edition of our show breakthrough where we break down that singular sensation that helped kick open the door to an artists career. This one packs so much power it’s will give you roundhouse kick to the jaw from one of the greatest who ever stepped up to a microphone. It’s interesting that sometimes a breakthrough story doesn’t seem like one until you have some hindsight.
When Tom Petty released his legendary debut album, Breakdown was the first single released, becoming their first top 40 hit. Just a while later when Tom and the Heartbreakers released American Girl form the album it didn’t’ even chart in American, but it started the flame that would enable Tom and the band to dominated into the next few decades. But let’s go back to the beginning.
There were two events that proved most pivotal in forging Tom Petty’s journey to stardom: The first was meeting Elvis Presley when he was 10 years old in 1962, on the set of Follow the Dream- a movie that Elvis was starring. in. Tom’s uncle was working on the set, and one day his aunt took him to the location they were shooting, and Tom’s uncle introduced his nephew to ’The King.’
Petty described the life-changing moment as “a religious experience.”The 2nd defining happening was when Tom saw The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show in ’64. Like so many other aspiring artists that saw that landmark broadcast there was no turning back for young Tom: When Petty saw The Beatles, and the ensuring audience hysteria, he discovered his purpose in life was to be a rock musician and put a band together.
So as he started to make his way in the world, he was a starving musician, just out of high school, he grabbed some random jobs to make a few bucks around his home in Gainesville, Florida.
One of those odd jobs was that of gravedigger. He took the job because he could dress slovenly…. and no one would care.
The first band that Petty put together to follow his Beatles inspired career path was a frat house group called The Sundowners, followed by the much more notable outfit (Mudcrutch)- that he founded with Tom Leadon in 1970.

Пікірлер: 648

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

Poll: What is your favorite use of a classic rock song in a great movie scene?

@dranet47 Жыл бұрын

The Tiny Dancer scene in in Almost Famous is pretty awesome, but I think I'm going to have to go with Twist and Shout in Ferris Bueller's Day Off. Epic, feel good, and just plain fun!

@mournblade1066 Жыл бұрын

Off the top of my head, I'd say The Allman Brothers: "Midnight Rider" in the opening of _The Devil's Rejects_ If you're talking about 1980s songs, I'd say pretty much all of the songs used in _Donnie Darko_ especially _The Killing Moon_ by Echo & the Bunnymen and _Head Over Heels_ by Tears for Fears.

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

@@dranet47 That is such a feel good scene in Almost Famous!

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

@@mournblade1066 Good ones all around.

@robster7316 Жыл бұрын

Gotta be the car scene in Wayne’s World singing Bohemian Rhapsody!

@jessestaggs2136 Жыл бұрын

Tom was one of only two stars that have passed away that i genuinly shed tears over when I heard the news. The other was Robin WIlliams. They both were as much a part of my childhood as my own family. I even wrote about Tom passing in one of my poems, Lost Heroes. "The final chapter is over, close the cover now Bound to paper they'll live in our hearts somehow These hearts that mourn the passing in our lives Of all of our favorite actors, minstrels and scribes, They just don't make heroes like you anymore."

@mudioochl8882 7 ай бұрын

I first saw Tm and the Heartbreakers on their Damn the Torpedoes tour. I was twelve and was with my older sister. We liked them before the show, but oh how we loved them after. I went to see them whenever they came within reach of New England, sometimes multiple nights in row. They where my lodestone and my north star and we all grew up together. I was crushed when we lost Tom;, knowing that I'd never see him tear up a summer stage again felt like some integral part of my life had gone with his. Tom, Mike and the rest of the Heartbreakers brought joy and energy wherever they played. It always looked like they were having the best time in the world, and they never, not once, called in a show.

@belle.m Жыл бұрын

Let’s face it. You know you’re a legend when you’re in a band with George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, and Jeff Lynne. Absolutely love Tom Petty. Full Moon Fever is a classic album. Was shocked by his death.

@toddwood9585 Жыл бұрын

The Traveling Wilburys was so cool, the Beatles were big fans of Roy, then for Jeff and Tom to play with their heroes too.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

Totally. The greatest supergroup of the rock era!

@Michael-bk5nz Жыл бұрын

More like Jeff Lynne knew he was a star when he appeared in the same band with Tom Petty

@thomasadrian9854 Жыл бұрын

Jeff Lynne is a true musical genius!!

@Michael-bk5nz Жыл бұрын

@@thomasadrian9854 Meh, ELO is of the mediocre 70s arena rock that inspired punk

@alansmith7626 Жыл бұрын

i LOVE the live concert where he is playing Breakdown and, from the very beginning, the crowd sings every single line....and he says, "Ya'll gonna put me outta a job"...Brilliant!

@williambarry8015 Жыл бұрын

I saw Tom Petty once. They did American Girl for the encore. They were absolutely perfect. Total professionals. They had the best sound quality of any concert I've ever been to.

@michaelmurray8295 Жыл бұрын

Always a great show. I've seen 5 or 6 times. Best one was Pearl Jam & Tom Petty at Summerfest in Milwaukee. Both bands came out for American Girl encore. Sweet. I loved the way they always did curtain call bow at the end... Classy.

@t.p.sheppard1270 Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for your channel. I was a teenager (15) when Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers hit in ‘77. They were different from everything else out there at the time. His voice was so distinct, the storytelling so deep and the musicianship was amazing. For me he was like my generation’s Bob Dylan. Not surprising Petty teamed up with Dylan in the Traveling Wilburys (along with Orbison, Harrison and Lynne). As always, thanks for the memories.

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

Love the comparison. Good post.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

It’s crazy that Dylan is the only Traveling Wilbury still with us.

@t.p.sheppard1270 Жыл бұрын

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Don’t forget we still have Jeff Lynne from ELO with us. Dylan is the last US born Traveling Wilbury.

@fivestring65ify Жыл бұрын

Funny you say that. My musician buddies used to joke that Petty was Dylans illegitimate son.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

@@t.p.sheppard1270 Oh, shit! How could I forget? 😅

@blackjack19811 Жыл бұрын

Hearing anything from Petty instantly takes me back to being a kid. I grew up listening to him from my parents and I’ll always remember being a freshman in 95 and the teacher in our drafting class would play his greatest hits every day while we were in class.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

Couldn’t have picked a better teacher! 😃

@cpp170 Жыл бұрын

Yeah as a child of the 80s Tom Petty featured heavily on our local radio station, either solo, with The Heartbreakers or that beautiful duo with Stevie Nicks :)

@rogerdeahl9629 Жыл бұрын

Love American Girl. Very fast paced song that just grabs you. Love the fact that 2 of the greatest of all time, Tom Petty and Pete Townsend aren't lead guitarists. They are rhythm guitarists in a "lead" role. Tom Petty is sorely missed. Thanks for this episode, Professor. You do amazing work.

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

That's right. Great insight Roger.

@jjdillon1207 Жыл бұрын

He’s a reminder to fans to see their favorites live whenever they can. One day there will be no chances. A huge regret

@jesseturner9865 Жыл бұрын

Since when is Pete not a lead guit? John Lennon, Glen Frey, Chrisie Hynde all fit the bill though.

@rogerdeahl9629 Жыл бұрын

@@jesseturner9865 Pete was a rhythm guitarist. Surprised me too.

@jesseturner9865 Жыл бұрын

@@rogerdeahl9629 In guess I'm picking nits. I see Pete as both where the likes of Tom Petty, he had Mike Campbell at lead.

@lainie105 Жыл бұрын

I miss Thomas Earl everyday! His death was different than any artist before for me....I think it was for most of us. It hit hard and deep. The world is just a little sadder, a little colder without him! RIP Tom, we miss you!!!

@joshuagibson2520 Жыл бұрын

Heroin is a bitch.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

I was only 11 years old and it really hit me hard too.

@jimgauth Жыл бұрын

When Damn the Torpedoes released and first played on AM radio they told a brief story of the name of the album. It made me instantly understand at a young age what Rock-n-Roll was about. Tom never strayed from that message.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

He is one of the immortal kings of the rock ‘n roll era.

@user60521123 Жыл бұрын

American Girl is my favorite 70s song. It’s such an lyrically interesting song, and the bridge in the middle has that 70s sound. “So close yet so far out of reach” it’s such a personal and relatable song.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

Literally EVERY American girl, me included, relates to it.

@stokedtogetmellow Жыл бұрын

Love this. Tom Petty’s spirit will live on forever!! 💙

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

No question.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

He is IMMORTAL.

@juliehughes1258 Жыл бұрын

Of all the musician's we've lost recently, Tom Petty's death hit me the hardest. I bought the Rolling Stone issue dedicated to him and I haven't been able to read it yet. I loved him. I think it might be because he was just starting out when my husband and I were just starting out. Now my ex-husband and Tom Petty are both dead.

@screwyootube1 Жыл бұрын

@Pat Luxor His music sure is

@fjcrod Жыл бұрын

An absolutely timeless song. It belongs to no decade, it's eternal. Disbelief, is right, professor. When, I heard of Tom's death, I was so pissed off. How, could you Tom? How could you be careless enough, to kill yourself accidentally. How could you take yourself away from your adoring fans. But, of course, Tom was taking this cocktail of pills because he didn't want to cancel any concert dates, though he was in great pain and needed surgery. I still can't listen to Tom's music, with out thinking, what if? Such a great loss. Missed more and more as the years go by.

@camaronshoultz6137 Жыл бұрын

I got to see Tom live in concert just a few years before he passed. He was out on stage before the show doing sound checks and making sure his guitars were tuned. And he interacted with the people down front who were lucky enough to be there early. He was so kind and respectful to everyone. I remember he played for over 3 hours and was still going strong. My only regret was I had to leave before the show was over because my kids were sick and my then wife and I left. He played well over 4 hours I’m told. It was one of my greatest concert experiences of my life. Rip Mr Petty.

@TedDaviesArtistry Жыл бұрын

Man what a heartfelt video bro… I’m so glad u share your memories of the music and how it effected you growing up. Sounds like your dad was a great guy. Keep rockin!

@johnboy26769 Жыл бұрын

Adam, I want to thank you for your always thoughtful and insightful commentary in your videos. I am a former professional musician and recording engineer,and I still learn something from every one of your videos! But I also wanted to give you personal Kudos for ALWAYS including your Dad in every video. When I was seven,my Dad started teaching me guitar chords, which started me on my musical journey. He's 81 now and on oxygen full time, and i don't know how much longer I'll have him, but I cherish every moment and tear up every time you bring up your Dad and put up pictures. You truly are the Professor of Rock, but also appear to have a very large heart with a lot of love. Keep up the Great work, and don't ever stop what you do, it's appreciated by your whole community!

@ronaldknisley9792 Жыл бұрын

Well said we could not agree more the Professor absolutely rocks

@rodmandealerman3297 Жыл бұрын

I agree 100%. This comment should be pinned. 👍👍🎸🥁🎤

@irislysanne Жыл бұрын

I was so lucky to see Tom Petty live in Amsterdam before he passed away. He has been one of my favorite artists and I love this Video about one of his best songs! Thank you for making this video! I remember waking up and Putting on the radio and there was a Tom Petty song. I remember thinking "amazing for starting my day". When I got to work I heard one of his songs again, and I was surprised but happy. Until the news came on and they said he passed away. I worked in the kitchen of a hotel and I broke down into tears. I loved so many of his songs but the song "don't come around here no more" and "you don't know how it feels are two of my favorites. Rest in peace!

@phil4208 Жыл бұрын

I became a petty fan when I first heard him , I still shake my head in disbelief from his death , American girl is a favorite of mine and I'll never forget the live show I saw in the 90,s , petty played all his big hits flawlessly, unbelievably my usaf buds wanted to leave early to beat the traffic, I was driving, I shouted back , sit down shut up , when the band packs up , then we leave , one of the best live shows I've ever seen , oh yea Axl rose made a guest appearance, tom and Axl sang knocking on heavens door , the crowd went crazy

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

Wow, cool! I’d love to see Axl Rose performing.

@jamesdickinson4186 Жыл бұрын

I love how you so accurately described Tom Petty as an American Rock Poet. I was about to leave for the Army when Damn the Torpedoes was released. What memories…😊

@richsadowsky8580 Жыл бұрын

So many memories from my teen years in the seventies right up until the 2017 tour. I don't like to rank music because there is so much great music to love, but there is no doubt Tom was one of my very favorite musicians and this song is an absolute classic.

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

That's right Rich.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

It’s right up there with best Tom Petty song.

@boohiss Жыл бұрын

Same. I had never seen Tom until the last tour, even though many of his songs fit easily in the soundtrack to my life. It was an amazingly fun show and just devastating that he passed so unexpectedly.

@Elwaves2925 Жыл бұрын

It's a hit where it matters - with the fans. Great song from a great band.

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

That's right.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

It’s a classic.

@markgeiger9404 Жыл бұрын

I think of Tom every day. RIP legend!

@erickrupa1748 Жыл бұрын

I am pretty sure American Girl in Silence of the Lambs was the first time I really heard a Tom Petty song. I was hooked immediately. I found that greatest hits cd about 6 mo ago and didn’t even realize I bought years ago. It is awesome and I feel like that band is one of the most underrated bands of all time.

@Darbysmommy Жыл бұрын

Love Tom Petty. ❤ miss him, but my god the music he left us. I saw him several times over the years. I remember in 87 when he was backing Dylan and they were touring with the Dead, I went with all my deadhead friends, them to see the Dead and Dylan, me to see Tom and the heartbreakers. Love his Mudcrutch reunion music so much. My son died 3 months before Tom and I listened to “ I Forgive it All” over and over. It helped my shattered heart, the best it could be helped. Every time I start the car it’s tuned to Tom Petty radio.

@MikeB-1965 Жыл бұрын

One of the best classic rock songs of all time. I find it impossible to hear this song and not start singing along. I caught myself quietly singing along to it while grocery shopping recently when it played over the store speakers. LOL

@ScottMcdonaldMusic Жыл бұрын

Tom Petty and Mike Campbell are national treasures. Their songs are some of the best written in rock.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

They’re irrefutable legends.

@HelenSolinger 4 ай бұрын

The best musical partners that made majic

@spark556 Жыл бұрын

You're a legend sir. I've discovered so many great gems thanks to you! Fantastic channel!

@ericscarr7058 Жыл бұрын

What a great Artist! I'm grateful that he shared his amazing talent with us! On my Sirius radio channel 31 the Tom Petty channel. I listen daily. Thank you Professor of Rock! From one Southeast Idaho Rocker to another thank you for your work! Your work is as timeless as those whom you share with us!

@KingBeevr Жыл бұрын

Still love hearing him on his Sirius channel. Godspeed to one of rock and roll's greats.

@RunningWithScissors765 Жыл бұрын

Tom Petty is and was an absolute legend… one of my all time heroes…. The soundtrack to my daily life…. 😢 sorely missed but he shaped the music I play myself… thanks Prof 😄👍🏻

@raeann63 Жыл бұрын

tom petty altered the trajectory of my psyche. first song i heard was "don't do me like that", which led to buying and wearing out DAMN THE TORPEDOES in 1979. that led to buying their 1st & 2nd LPs. "american girl" especially defined a unique sound, something i'd never heard before - bright, melodic, yet yearning, and an intriguing story. that is tom petty in a nutshell, frankly. i miss tom every day ❤

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

So damn catchy and a classic song!

@stephenhanft1226 Жыл бұрын

"American Girl" is one of Tom Petty's best. A great song that started his legendary career.

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

GREAT song.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

I love this song! ❤

@amyrussell860 Жыл бұрын

I grew up listening to Tom Petty's music and was saddened to learn of not only his passing, but what some of the contributing factors leading up to it were. However, once again I enjoyed learning the history of some of the greatest songs of the rock era. Thanks professor for what you do.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

Addiction is a disease, believe it or not. It ravages people horribly.

@CasualSpud Жыл бұрын

Just an idea... Wilbury Week. M-F cover each member, and the band on Saturday. 🤔👍

@rogerdeahl9629 Жыл бұрын

Wilbury Week. LOL Love it

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

Great idea!

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

Awesome idea Jim! 👏🏾

@jj-hk1kz 2 ай бұрын

I just wanted to say what an amazing blessing your channel is. Thank you for sharing your passion and knowledge, and for your willingness to share your own personal experiences with these songs. Your anecdote about your dad in this video brought a tear to my eye. Stoked to see you’re over a million subs. Here’s to millions more! Best channel on KZfaq, bar none.

@shawnkramer37 Жыл бұрын

Caught him at his last night ever at Red Rocks on the last tour. We braved a thunderstorm which is common in the Spring in Colorado. The show was briefly paused due to rain and lightning. After 45 min he was back on stage, played us a bonus song and of course closed with American Girl. I still have a 1 min video clip on my phone that I refuse to delete. Miss you Tom.

@lipswift2939 Жыл бұрын

I'm shocked this was originally released in '77. This is one of my favorites from Tom Petty. Always, associated it with mid 80s. A man before his time.

@Studio_940 Жыл бұрын

I love Tom. Man what a talent. I remember I was 16,the radio jamming Tom petty, crusting town, hanging at the arcade. What a great time to be alive! So many memories. The arcade had Refugee and Night Owls, and Don't Bring Me Down, the only tracks worth dropping my money on. 3 plays for a quarter. Dump a couple of bucks in, these songs one after another, couple games of pinball or Galaga, maybe asteroids and the night was suddenly right! I was fortunate to be a kid at the greatest time in history.

@adamrk1973 Жыл бұрын

Tom Petty was the reason I bought my first electric guitar, a Hagstrom Swede 12 string electric! and a Marlboro stack amp. I had no clue how to play it, as I studied piano. But I took lessons, and word down would rock out to Toms music. That was1978 when I was 17. See you up there someday, Tom!!!✌

@joshhuffine4522 Жыл бұрын

I believe the Heartbreakers are one of THE most underrated bands. They are my favorite.

@MyName-pl7zn Жыл бұрын

America Girl is pure rock and roll at it's best! I think people realize that more today than they did when it came out. I wasn't as big on Breakdown but when I heard American Girl I ran out and bought the album immediately Tom and Mike could take the simplest rock elements and make some of the greatest songs over and over each song with their own original sounding vibe. American Girl definitely kicked off one of the most amazing bands ever. Great episode professor!

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

Thanks My Name!

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

American Girl is a classic rock titan. Tom and Mike were some of the most skilled guitarists around.

@MyName-pl7zn Жыл бұрын

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 I hear Tom say one time that all songs are just floating around above you, you just have to reach up and grap them. That always stuck with me for some reason

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

@@MyName-pl7zn He’s right! They were smart to reach for the storytelling songs.

@thomasadrian9854 Жыл бұрын

I was fortunate enough to have seen Tom a year or so before his untimely passing!!

@mcontreras36 Жыл бұрын

I felt the same way with his passing! He got me through some tough times because I felt like he was singing for me. After his passing I told my wife that he was the closet friend I never met! RIP!

@bishdizzle67 Жыл бұрын

One of the first artists I was passionate about as a young teen. Damn those torpedos! Timeless tunes

@Vonlang001 Жыл бұрын

I read an article in Circus Magazine called "Is this the future of rock?" It featured Walter Egan and Tom Petty. The next week I was at my favorite used record store, and they had a radio station copy of the first TP and the Heartbreakers album. Since I had read about him and bought it. The moment I placed the needle on to side 1 track 1 I was a fan. I listened to the whole album twice. The next couple of weeks I kept telling my friends about this new artist. Nobody cared. Then Breakdown hit the radio. Suddenly everybody was interested. But I heard it first.

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

Walter Egan! he had a few great songs...

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

You have the right stuff!

@Jims_Camera_at_dawn Жыл бұрын

When Damn The Torpedoes came out, it was quickly labeled "The definitive rock album of the 80s." I had to have it. Got the album and copied it to tape. Remember those days? Make a tape to play to keep the album pristine. Still have the album. Wore out several tapes. Great story! Thank you, Professor.

@HelenSolinger 4 ай бұрын

Yours story was great. Thanks for brightening my day! I

@derekbury7262 Жыл бұрын

I have had the Greatest Hits CD for about 25+ years...could never pick a favorite. I find that as time marches, on and when I go back to it, I find a new favorite almost every time...no other musician/group can take you right back to moments when you first heard it or it was accompanying music to your own soundtrack to memorable life events, like the man from Gainesville Florida. "Running Down a Dream" is one of my all time fav music bios...4 hours of awesomeness. Happy 2023 Adam...cheers

@amyd6591 Жыл бұрын

That scene from Silence of the Lambs is always the first thing I think of when I hear this amazing song. RIP Tom

@jamesmyers2087 Жыл бұрын

You nailed it about what his music represented to people. Any of his songs had an element or hook that could have been about you or maybe someone you knew, your friends. Very unpretentious writing. Thanks for your personal family insights as well, Professor.

@gyslainbeauchamp9241 Жыл бұрын

I got 4 kids,&i Tell you they heard this greatest 100 Times &more.And as Tom or another rock artist died,they're telling me'",dad-, thanks for Sharing their music with us"

@tnrodgers Жыл бұрын

Tom wrote about life. Don’t come around here no more was inspired by the words of Stevie Nicks breaking up with Joe Walsh. His Wilbury’s time was another exceptional journey. Thanks Adam!

@Old_B52H_Gunner Жыл бұрын

I met Tom once at a Publix grocery store in Florida, he was a genuinely friendly guy.

@mdlwanders8626 Жыл бұрын

Thanks, Adam for another great video. Released a couple years before I really became a Tom Petty fan, it's my favorite song of his and the Heartbreakers. Amazing guitar work by the underappreciated Mike Campbell. A nearly perfect song from a 25-year-old on his debut album. Another rocker gone too soon due to the demon of his addictions. Keep putting out these great stories, Adam.

@keithosmond5730 Жыл бұрын

He was on painkillers because of a broken hip. He did the whole final tour with that broken hip.

@phoenixjim0527 Жыл бұрын

Way to go - covering one of my favorite songs. Thank you

@sandrachristiansen1404 Жыл бұрын

My favorite TP song is Refugee. I was working in Yosemite national park when it came out and a friend of mine had the record. We ended up going to see Tom on new years eve 1979 in Oakland California (after a day long greyhound bus ride). Tom came on at midnight after Chuck Berry and Eddy Money and it was incredible. It was general admission seating and I was squashed standing for the whole evening very close to the stage. It was so worth it.

@blastfromthepast1 Жыл бұрын

On October 26, 1979, I was a 15-year-old high school sophomore. My girlfriend had broken up with me after school that day and that night, in order to drown my sorrows, I went to my local record store and wound up purchasing Damn the Torpedoes. My life has never been the same. ❤

@markmayes6817 Жыл бұрын

It's been a while since I visited the Professor of Rock and Adam has even gotten better with time. Watching a few of his latest interviews and this tribute to Tom Petty, I can't help but feel like Adam should be the next Casey Kasem. Seriously!!!... The Professor of Rock should be syndicated on radio stations coast to coast. Keep Takin' Care of Business Adam, you're time in the spot light is coming.

@Fiona2254 Жыл бұрын

I had no idea American Girl didn’t break 100! This song is a must play Petty song. I just can’t fathom it. Unbelievable.

@debbiec2020 Жыл бұрын

Never a day goes by that I don't wear a great big smile because I've listened to a Tom Petty classic! You know.....I've kind of thought one of the best things about heaven are the concerts that must be going on. Imagine, all the legends on one big stage, playing encore after encore to our hearts content.

@austintrousdale2397 Жыл бұрын

The way you closed out this episode left me SHOOK, Adam! 🥺🙌✌️

@LadyAspenHaven Жыл бұрын

This isn't the first time I've experienced a sense of gratitude that my younger self didn't really pay attention to the "known" histories of tunes or artists. I mostly just enjoyed, loved, and sang along. Now, many years later I get to experience the whole thing again with you adding in the fun little stories I likely brushed off! Thanks Professor 🧡

@ryanmcgrath9869 Жыл бұрын

Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, along with Social Distortion are my favorite bands. They are both just pure Rock N Roll. I got to see the band live, for the 2nd time, in KC in June 2017. Fantastic show. I was blown away when they played Crawling Back To You. I never thought I'd experience them playing that song live. Great channel. Been watching for a while. Finally subscribed.

@aprilrich807 Жыл бұрын

Tom Petty, as well as Steely Dan, were a lot of what cemented my husband’s and my relationship back then, which is hard to explain. But if you know, you know. 45 years this coming July. But so much of that is rooted in this music. Thank you, PoR!!

@constipatedinsincity4424 Жыл бұрын

I told you yesterday about the loss of Lisa Marie Presley !💔 My eldest daughter when she was 4 I was talking to Lisa Marie and she told her that she was so pretty 😍 and so to know that you look like Elvis Presley!👀 She started to cry and she said 😢 thank you baby and she kissed 💋 her on the lips and hugged her for at least 5 minutes. I cried because the room atmosphere changed. You could feel the King all around us. My daughter knew that Elvis had a daughter but she thought she had blonde hair. I was envious of my kid she got a kiss and 💋 a heartfelt hug and cuddled with her for 5 minutes. Last night we cried together for at least 20 minutes. The last time we did that was hearing the news that my fiancees plane crashed on the way to grab her grandmother and bring her back to the States for our wedding!

@andyinoregon Жыл бұрын

Just to add one more thought to your excellent analysis, "American Girl" has the most anticipated bass guitar notes of any rock song I can think of. What a stroke of genius to have Ron Blair's bass guitar make that dramatic entrance in the song's intro.

@georgebooth2005 Жыл бұрын

RIP🙏TOM I'm so pissed, that I missed his last tour. Thankfully I relive some of the experience by listening to you talk about Tom. He was, one of a kind! Thanks for, the memories... 👍👍❤️😊 Rock on in Heaven, Tom! We'll be seeing you... 🤞🙏😊 george 😎🤿🦈🐙🇺🇲 TEXAS

@robster7316 Жыл бұрын

Tom is yet another reminder of rock and roll greats who left us too soon. Running Down a Dream is my personal fave of his. What a rockin’ tune! It’s sure been a tough week in the music biz-the passing of legendary guitarist Jeff Beck and yesterday, drummer Robbie Bachman, Randy Bachman’s younger brother and co-founder of Bachman Turner Overdrive. Thanks for sharing those wonderful bonding memories with your dad, too, Adam!

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

Thanks Robster. Tough week for sure.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

And Lisa Marie Presley too! My heart goes out to Randy and Priscilla.

@donaldg.freeman2804 Жыл бұрын

One of your best videos, one of my favorite rock songs. Good stories. Love hearing stories about your dad.

@roblemmon7531 Жыл бұрын

He was the one artist I regret so much for not seeing him live. I definitely could have but figured I would have plenty of time. So when he passed I made a point to go see all the bands I've never seen that were on my list. He is definitely the soundtrack to our youth. His music is also timeless. He has a sound all his own is what I think sets him apart from all other artist. Like Queen you know immediately who it is. Anyway there will only be one Tom Petty.

@foolsplay5880 Жыл бұрын

Just when I think you can't hit me with a better video, your next video appears and I am immediately hooked. Tom Petty was one of my inspirations for starting my band in December of '79. I went to an all-boys Catholic military school in NYC, and mediocrity was NOT an option. Petty, The Cars, The Ramones, Floyd, Zeppelin all influenced our sound. Tom Petty made us think about lyrics more than anyone. Petty's passing was a shock to me - different than Cornell or Beddington- because it came out of nowhere. When a musician dies, a sense of creativity and hope evaporates with that performer. You making this video let me smile again as I reflected on Tom Petty's music and lyrics. Thanks, Adam

@georgemathie8123 Жыл бұрын

Tom Petty's music is wonderful his characters he sung about were so relatable it felt like he was singing about the situations you were dealing with and there is only one tom Petty

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

You nailed it.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

One of the best rock storytellers!

@georgemathie8123 Жыл бұрын

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 he most certainly is and no matter what era you like of Tom's it's brilliant music with a nice dose of heart and humor so my top five Tom Petty albums are in into the great wide open, long after dark, let me up( I've had enough), damn the torpedoes and hard promises what are your favorites

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

@@georgemathie8123 I prefer all eras of Tom. There is no existence of a bad song by Tom. My personal favorites are Full Moon Fever and Damn the Torpedoes.

@georgemathie8123 Жыл бұрын

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 that's very true all of Tom's works have that everlasting staying power and yeah full moon fever and damn the torpedoes are solid actually my favorite songs from full moon fever is love is a long road it reminds me of 70s Elo with a touch of southern rock and yer so bad is just hilarious from damn the torpedoes I love you tell me one of his finest mellow tracks and what are you doing in my life is a stomper however even the losers has become my personal anthem I grew up with a learning disability but eventually I took that and turned it around and decided to inspire and encourage the people that I meet because even the losers get lucky sometimes ain't that the truth

@jennyjenny4501 Жыл бұрын

American Girl was the perfect song for the famous scene in “Silence of the Lambs.” Talk about the end of innocence and perseverance!

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

Good point.

@brendah.6366 Жыл бұрын

Excellent!!! Totally agree!

@user60521123 Жыл бұрын

Yup! The Senator’s daughter signing it in the car. Great song choice for that scene.

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

I NEVER do horror, but I have to say that was the perfect song for Silence of the Lambs.

@BaritoneRocks Жыл бұрын

That was an awesome movie, and American Girl was used perfectly in it.

@laurenaveritt5379 Жыл бұрын

Your dad and Tom are definitely rocking out together 🤘 Thank you for the videos. My friends and I always enjoy watching and I've learned a lot about some of my favorite artists ✌️

@kellidinit3725 Жыл бұрын

American Girl remains one of my favorites. I can still remember the day my sister brought that Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers album home. From first play, it became my album and was nearly worn out from play. I was a Tom Petty super fan forevermore. I feel his loss every day. American Girl is set as my best friend’s ring tone on my phone. Wild One, Forever is mine on her phone.

@thomasadrian9854 Жыл бұрын

Great job as always, Adam!!

@venomousgoose5023 Жыл бұрын

5:32 Jim Morrison also wrote a line about that. "The cars hiss by my window like the waves down on the beach"

@blueforest2927 Жыл бұрын

Awesome picture of you and your dad...hey..are u wearing Zenni's there lol Anyways, i find it hard to believe the uk liked this song more than the us.The first song i ever heard from Tom was 'Breakdown', I was blown away ! Then the others came one after the other, and i gotta say that 'American girl' was as good as it get's also, love it ! Thanks again Adam, you never fail to bring the best of content to the table, your the best !

@missjoshemmett Жыл бұрын

Yeah, I'm one of the Tom Petty crazies that owns everything he recorded and still loves "Gater on the Lawn!" Top fave, still Southern Accents. First knew about him from I Need to Know, which he hated because everyone was dancing the Pogo to it. From there, I heard Refugee, and then on to Breakdown, Running Down a Dream...I was hooked. Going on 77, I played Tom and the band 2 nights ago. Saw him at Pine Knob (Detroit). Broke my heart when he died. Most shocking death for myself (and Chuck Negron) was Cory Wells. He was born to sing. Even sang in the Air Force. No drugs, no alcohol, no cigarettes, a vegetarian and did wildlife and ecological programs on Nat'l Geo. Led a private life for his family. I just know that two years later, Chuck and I were still saying, "CORY WELLS DIED????????????"

@ayyjayess2304 Жыл бұрын

When my wife was a little girl, she used to get the mail for her folks and wave across the street at longhaired neighbors who were in a band called Mudcrutch. Her first CTF. Her parents verified that story, but not the lost monkey in their neighborhood :)

@setoredan Жыл бұрын

Great episode. I really love "American Girl" always jam out to it when it comes on the radio.

@StormyPeak Жыл бұрын

I'm 59, grew up listening to Tom Petty's music....one of my biggest regrets was never being able to make it to one of his concerts. Seems like I either never had the money, or when I did, I didn't have the time, due to work schedules and a job with no vacation plan.

@donh432 Жыл бұрын

When American FM radio stations finally came around and started playing American Girl I loved the song from the 1st listen. I was 22. Then later I learned that it was the same band that did that Breakdown song I loved so much. That's when I immediately decided Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers was my favorite band...I'm 67 now and they still are my favorite...SO many great songs...Americana at it's best!! P.S. When I first heard Breakdown I thought it was Dylan singing until I found out different. Ironic huh??

@babybro70 Жыл бұрын

What a heartfelt tribute! Thanks Ptof! You're a Beautiful Dude. I always learn something & yes an absolutelty perfect Greatest Hits album indeed. bought it decades ago myself.

@jackwade3440 Жыл бұрын

I just came across your channel and have been enjoying it immensely ! I joined today and look forward to your new videos ! I also I have a lot of your existing videos to catch up on!

@jimwguitar3002 Жыл бұрын

I remember listening to an interview of Tom's about playing with the Traveling Wilburys . He couldn't believe he was asked to play with them! Supergroup

@darrenlivy Жыл бұрын

I didn't discover Tom Petty until later in my life. American Girl has become one of my favourite songs of all time.

@dannysunay4386 Жыл бұрын

I saw this professor of rock episode with a heavy heart as I had learned earlier that robbie bachman had passed away as well! God we are seriously getting older! But the music keeps us young! Rest in peace robbie!

@donlewisband6748 Жыл бұрын

I’ve been covering this song acoustically for many years and it never gets old. Still love singing it and people love singing along. The Petty biography is outstanding for those who appreciate his artistry. Thanks for posting the story. You rock.

@HelenSolinger 4 ай бұрын

The 4 hrs documentary? I have watched it often for comfort.

@tjg555 Жыл бұрын

RIP forever to the greatest of all time, Tom Petty. Along with a spare number of others, Tom got me through terrible times (mostly the 80s, musically), and his lyrics live on in my life to this day. Tom Petty will remain an immortal institution, a pinnacle of what rock & roll was and is, and paved the way for what it will be.

@tonicascino8809 Жыл бұрын

great tribute to me one the greatest of all time his songs are the soundtrack of my life and American Girl one of my favorite songs he did but so many more You are so on point with is Professor

@kirbymarchbarcena Жыл бұрын

Urban legends sometimes can be helpful or damaging to someone's reputation. I'm just glad Tom and his crew was able to get over it

@rikfroschauer1743 Жыл бұрын

My cousin was several years older than me and absolutely LOVED TP, as a heavy metal meathead I would razz her all the time about Tom being a wimpy band, but secretly I liked TP as much as she did. RIP Tom

@rodmandealerman3297 Жыл бұрын

I was fortunate enough to catch Tom & the Heartbreakers in Dallas back in the late 90's or early 00's (my memory has faded a bit over the years). When American Girl started, I cried tears of joy for the entire song while I attempted to sing along. The same happened when Free Fallin' started. Tom, may you rest in peace. Your absence is keenly felt.

@stephenbrown4211 Жыл бұрын

Poignant that it was the last song he played live as it’s one of his most famous songs. I saw him on that last tour at Hyde Park and yes he ended the show with it.

@ProfessorofRock Жыл бұрын

Wow. I would've loved to seen him on his last tour. Thanks for sharing Stephen.

@stephenbrown4211 Жыл бұрын

@@ProfessorofRock one of the best concerts I’ve attended, especially when Stevie Nicks joined him on stage. It was a shocker when he passed. Only one has shocked me more; the Big Man my favourite musician, period

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Жыл бұрын

That is so sad.

@coreykretsinger Жыл бұрын

The ending of this video choked me up a little. I hope your dad is jamming with Tom Petty at that great gig in the sky. ❤

@GregoryKeithe Жыл бұрын

What a fascinating lack of chart success for this song but one that still had a cultural impact! I got to see the Heartbreakers live a few times, once from the front row to the side in front of the bass speakers. One memory that always illustrates to me the broad effect of this song was when Taylor Swift played American Girl right before she came out on the 1984 tour I think it was. It set the mood and the crowd was singing every word! They were ready for the show. At the time my thought was even she relates to the song as well.

@kantemirovskaya1lightninga30 Жыл бұрын

Nice coverage of Tom... wow. learned a couple of things which is good. Really loved his early stuff and like you (and my at the time 13 year old) was shocked when he passed way too soon.

@jonathonchalk6603 Жыл бұрын

“She was an American Girl….. and he was an American Poet” Well put. There’s nothing left to say.

@shanerowe3069 Жыл бұрын

I bought Damm the Torpedoes when I was 15 as the 2nd album I ever paid for, Live Rust being the first, and then bought the previous 2 albums. Loved them so much that I visited the record store every week to look for the follow up album. My daughter is a fan due to me playing his music constantly:Rock on!