Tom Petty's musical legacy is a testament to his enduring talent and enduring popularity. With a career spanning over four decades, Petty crafted a vast catalog of iconic songs that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. From his early days with the Heartbreakers to his solo successes, Petty's music has left an indelible mark on the rock and roll landscape.
Petty's songs are renowned for their timeless appeal, blending elements of rock, folk, and country into a uniquely captivating sound. His lyrics, often introspective and laced with a wry sense of humor, explore the complexities of human relationships, the challenges of everyday life, and the pursuit of redemption. Through his music, Petty connected with listeners on a deeply personal level, creating a body of work that has become an enduring soundtrack to our lives.
| Song | Artist | Album | Release | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Learning To Fly | Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Into The Great Wide Open | 2009 | 83M+ |
| 2. Mary Jane's Last Dance | Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Silk Degrees (2023 Remaster) | 2009 | 54M+ |
| 3. Stop Draggin' My Heart Around |
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Stevie Nicks | Bella Donna (2016 Remastered) | 2019 | 51M+ |
| 4. Don't Come Around Here No More | Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Southern Accents | 2009 | 35M+ |
| 5. Refugee | Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Damn The Torpedoes (Deluxe Edition) | 2009 | 22M+ |
| 6. Into The Great Wide Open | Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Into The Great Wide Open | 2009 | 19M+ |
| 7. The Waiting | Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Hard Promises | 2009 | 13M+ |
1. Learning To Fly (2009)
Break your heart, steal your crown ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release14-12-2009 |
| Time04:02 | View83M+ |
| Likes 362K+ | SuitableRock Fans |
| AlbumInto The Great Wide OpenListen on Spotify | |
- Folk rock
- Classic rock
- Heartland rock
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Like "Free Fallin," "Learning to Fly" by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers transcends the boundaries of rock music, becoming an anthem of hope and liberation. Released in 1991, the song is a testament to Tom Petty's enduring songwriting prowess, captivating listeners with its simple yet powerful lyrics and soaring melody.
Written by Petty and Jeff Lynne, "Learning to Fly" encapsulates the trials and triumphs of personal growth. The song's stripped-down arrangement of F, C, A minor, and G chords provides a canvas for Petty's poignant lyrics, which explore themes of independence, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. The iconic music video, directed by Julien Temple, complements the song's poignant message with its portrayal of a young boy's journey from childhood to adulthood, culminating in a symbolic flight that represents the transformative power of embracing one's own wings.
2. Mary Jane's Last Dance
You never slow down, you never grow old ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release21-11-2009 |
| Time04:41 | View54M+ |
| Likes 361K+ | SuitableRock fans |
| AlbumSilk Degrees (2023 Remaster)Listen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Country Rock
- Heartland rock
- American Rock
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
- Roots Rock
Whenever the enigmatic melodies of "Mary Jane's Last Dance" by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers fill the air, they evoke a profound sense of bittersweet nostalgia and artistic brilliance within me. The song, initially released as part of Petty's acclaimed "Wildflowers" album, has become an enduring classic, captivating audiences with its haunting lyrics and mesmerizing music. Its popularity soared with the release of its captivating music video, which received critical acclaim and won Best Male Video at the MTV Video Music Awards.
Set against a backdrop of loss and longing, "Mary Jane's Last Dance" tells the story of a mortician named Tom, played by Petty himself, who develops an unusual obsession with a female corpse, played by Kim Basinger. In a surreal twist, Tom dresses her in a wedding gown, dances with her, and ultimately takes her on a final journey to the ocean. The video's haunting imagery and the song's poignant lyrics create a powerful emotional resonance that has captivated listeners for decades. The music video's iconic scenes, particularly the moment when the corpse opens her eyes as she sinks into the ocean, have become etched in the minds of music lovers, leaving an unforgettable mark on the legacy of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.
3. Stop Draggin' My Heart Around - Bella Donna (2016 Remastered)
Same old line you used to use before ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Stevie Nicks | Release29-03-2019 |
| Time04:08 | View51M+ |
| Likes 307K+ | SuitableTom Petty fans |
| AlbumBella Donna (2016 Remastered)Listen on Spotify | |
- Heartbreak Song
- Heartbreak Ballad
- Classic rock
- Rock n Roll
- Duet
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
- Stevie Nicks
"Stop Draggin' My Heart Around" a collaboration between Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and Stevie Nicks, stands as one of the most iconic tracks in Petty's illustrious career. Released in 1981, the song became a massive hit, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying its place as a classic. The song's powerful lyrics and soaring melodies have resonated with countless listeners, particularly those who have experienced the pain of heartbreak and the strength to overcome it. Inspired by Nicks' own experiences, the song became a poignant anthem for anyone struggling to find liberation from emotional turmoil.
The success of "Stop Draggin' My Heart Around" is attributed to its exceptional craftsmanship and the undeniable chemistry between Petty and Nicks. Petty's signature songwriting and the Heartbreakers' electrifying instrumentation provide the perfect backdrop for Nicks' haunting vocals, creating a musical masterpiece that effortlessly captures the raw emotions of heartbreak and resilience. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song's ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, offering solace and strength to those navigating their own emotional journeys.
4. Don't Come Around Here No More (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers)
But I won't back down ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release21-11-2009 |
| Time04:36 | View35M+ |
| Likes 211K+ | SuitableRock fans |
| AlbumSouthern AccentsListen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Heartland rock
- Americana
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
With its haunting melody and enigmatic lyrics, "Don't Come Around Here No More" by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers remains an enduring classic that captivates listeners to this day. Originally written for Stevie Nicks after her tumultuous breakup with Joe Walsh, the song's raw emotions resonated deeply with Petty and shaped its haunting sound. Its unforgettable music video, a surreal masterpiece, further cemented its place in the annals of rock music.
The song's poignant tale of heartbreak is conveyed through Petty's evocative lyrics and the band's masterful musicianship. The gentle acoustic strumming and hypnotic rhythm create a mesmerizing atmosphere that draws listeners into the narrative. With its timeless appeal, "Don't Come Around Here No More" continues to touch the hearts of generations, serving as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of love and loss.
5. Refugee (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers - 2009)
Don't have to live like a refugee ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release05-10-2009 |
| Time03:20 | View22M+ |
| Likes 146K+ | SuitableRock fans |
| AlbumDamn The Torpedoes (Deluxe Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Heartland rock
- American Rock
- Southern Rock
- Americana
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
From the opening chords of "Refugee" by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, listeners are captivated by the raw emotional power that seeps through the song's every note. This timeless classic, released in 1980, has resonated deeply with listeners worldwide, earning it a place among Petty's greatest works. Co-written with Mike Campbell, "Refugee" showcases Petty's songwriting prowess, capturing the essence of resilience and the indomitable spirit needed to overcome life's challenges.
Billboard hailed "Refugee" as "Petty at his best," lauding its "gutsy rock vocal and searing guitar lines." The song's evocative lyrics paint a vivid portrait of an individual yearning for freedom, seeking refuge from emotional turmoil. The chorus's refrain, "Don't have to live like a refugee," serves as an anthem of empowerment, reminding listeners that they have the strength to break free from the shackles that bind them. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to strike a universal chord, inspiring hope and resilience in countless hearts.
6. Into The Great Wide Open (2009)
Raised on promises ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release23-11-2009 |
| Time06:34 | View19M+ |
| Likes 114K+ | SuitableRock fans |
| AlbumInto The Great Wide OpenListen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Heartland rock
- Americana
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' "Into the Great Wide Open" holds a special place among the band's revered catalog. Released in 1991, the song's cinematic lyrics and soaring melodies captured the imaginations of listeners and solidified the album's status as a classic. The track's poignant narrative follows a young man's journey from the rural country to the glittering lights of the West Coast, ultimately culminating in his transformation into a rock star.
The song's nostalgic atmosphere and evocative imagery resonate deeply with fans, as evidenced by the heartfelt comments it has garnered. Listeners have expressed their admiration for the song's intricate harmonies, infectious guitars, and Petty's timeless vocals. The track's ability to evoke powerful emotions speaks to its universal appeal and enduring legacy. "Into the Great Wide Open" remains a testament to Tom Petty's exceptional songwriting and the enduring power of music to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.
7. The Waiting (Hard Promises)
Every day you see one more card ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release08-10-2009 |
| Time04:04 | View13M+ |
| Likes 66K+ | SuitablePeople who like Tom Petty |
| AlbumHard PromisesListen on Spotify | |
- Folk rock
- Classic rock
- Heartland rock
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
- Blue-Eyed Soul
In the vast musical landscape of Tom Petty's repertoire, "The Waiting" stands as a timeless masterpiece, captivating audiences with its evocative lyrics and infectious melody. It emerged from a blend of Petty's own experiences and the poignant words of Janis Joplin, who famously declared that "everything else is just waiting" when compared to the euphoria of performing. This sentiment struck a chord with Petty, inspiring him to craft a song that encapsulates the bittersweet struggle of anticipation and the longing for fulfillment.
Upon its release, "The Waiting" ascended to the pinnacle of the Billboard Rock Tracks chart, cementing its status as a timeless anthem. Its introspective lyrics resonated with listeners, expressing the universal experience of waiting for something elusive. The song's haunting refrain, "The waiting is the hardest part," perfectly captures the yearning and frustration of unfulfilled desires. "The Waiting" serves as a testament to Petty's songwriting brilliance, its emotional depth and musicality continuing to captivate generations of fans, leaving an indelible mark on the tapestry of American rock music.
8. You Got Lucky (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers)
You better watch what you do to me ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release09-05-2013 |
| Time04:50 | View9M+ |
| Likes 84K+ | SuitableClassic Rock Fans |
| AlbumLong After DarkListen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Heartland rock
- Southern Rock
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Tom Petty's "You Got Lucky" stands out as a testament to his songwriting brilliance, capturing a sentiment of both longing and gratitude. Driven by a distinctive drum loop and Petty's poignant lyrics, the song evokes a sense of vulnerability and the realization of finding true love amidst life's uncertainties. Its release in 1982 marked a departure from the band's usual sound, incorporating elements of new wave and synthesizers, while remaining rooted in their signature storytelling style.
The song's impact and popularity are evident in its chart success, peaking at #20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Billboard Top Tracks chart. Its emotive lyrics resonate with listeners, reminding them of the preciousness and fragility of love. The music video, lauded for its post-apocalyptic aesthetic inspired by 'Mad Max 2', further enhanced the song's allure and cemented its place as an influential piece of the '80s era.
9. Here Comes My Girl (2009)
And man, you know I can't begin to doubt it ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release05-10-2009 |
| Time03:56 | View9M+ |
| Likes 60K+ | SuitableRock Fans |
| AlbumDamn The Torpedoes (Deluxe Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Heartland rock
- Americana
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Released in 1979, "Here Comes My Girl" by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers is a classic that showcases the band's signature blend of rock and folk. The song's popularity is evident in its widespread acclaim, including a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
The lyrics explore the complexities of a relationship, as Petty grapples with the conflicting emotions of being drawn to a woman despite recognizing her flaws. The song's verses are introspective and melancholic, expressing the singer's inner turmoil as he tries to resist his attraction. However, the chorus bursts with unrestrained joy, reflecting the overwhelming excitement and passion he feels when his "girl" arrives. This contrast between vulnerability and elation creates a powerful and relatable narrative that has resonated deeply with listeners for decades.
10. Swingin'
In her boots and silver spurs ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release18-01-2012 |
| Time05:29 | View4M+ |
| Likes 25K+ | SuitableClassic Rock Fans |
| AlbumEchoListen on Spotify | |
- Oldies
- Heartland rock
- Rock Classics
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Have you ever encountered a song that seems to resonate with your soul, captivating you with its raw emotions and relatable lyrics? Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' "Swingin'" is one such masterpiece, embodying the spirit of resilience and determination. As a testament to Petty's enduring legacy, the song remains a beloved classic, capturing the hearts of countless listeners with its timeless message of overcoming adversity.
Petty described "Swingin'" as a song about the indomitable spirit, the refusal to succumb to despair even when faced with overwhelming odds. Its lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman facing life's challenges head-on, embracing the belief that going down "swingin'" is far more noble than surrendering to fate. The song's raw energy and heartfelt delivery have made it an anthem for the downtrodden and a source of inspiration for those seeking strength and perseverance.
11. A Woman In Love (Hard Promises)
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release07-10-2009 |
| Time04:22 | View4M+ |
| Likes 24K+ | SuitableWomen |
| AlbumHard PromisesListen on Spotify | |
- Female Perspective
- Rock Ballad
- Love and Loss
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
"A Woman in Love" a masterpiece by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, stands as a testament to Petty's songwriting prowess. Released in 1981, this introspective ballad explores the complexities of love and relationships with poignant lyrics that delve into the delicate balance between desire and self-preservation. Its evocative melody, anchored by Petty's signature raspy vocals, perfectly captures the emotional turmoil and longing at the heart of the song.
The song's enduring appeal lies in its universal themes that resonate with listeners of all ages. It encapsulates the bittersweet realization of unrequited love, the pain of lost opportunities, and the strength found in moving forward. Its lyrics, both hauntingly beautiful and emotionally raw, have consistently drawn praise for their honesty and depth, inspiring countless interpretations and personal connections among fans. The song's timeless quality and emotional weight cement its place as one of Petty's most beloved and enduring works.
12. Walls (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers)
Some days are rocks ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release09-05-2013 |
| Time05:42 | View2M+ |
| Likes 16K+ | SuitableClassic Rock Enthusiasts |
| AlbumShe's the One (Songs and Music from the Motion Picture)Listen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Heartland rock
- American Rock
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
"Walls" by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers is a haunting and introspective song that has resonated deeply with listeners for its ability to articulate the complexities of isolation and longing. Released in 1996 as the lead single from the soundtrack album "Songs and Music from 'She's the One'," the song became a top ten hit on the Billboard Adult Alternative Songs chart and a charting single on several other Billboard charts.
The song's lyrics explore the emotional barricades one constructs to protect themselves from pain, only to realize that these same barriers also trap them in isolation. The song's protagonist yearns to break free from these self-imposed walls, yet fears the vulnerability that comes with it. The chorus, with its haunting refrain of "All around your island, there's a barricade / That keeps out the danger but holds in the pain," encapsulates the song's central conflict. Listeners have found solace in the song's ability to express the unspoken struggles of navigating life's challenges and the universal desire to find connection and healing.
13. Even The Losers
Yeah, we smoked cigarettes and we stared at the moon ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release23-08-2018 |
| Time04:00 | View2M+ |
| Likes 23K+ | SuitableClassic rock fans |
| AlbumSouthern AccentsListen on Spotify | |
- Rock Classics
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
- Oldies but Goodies
- Country Hits
"Even The Losers" performed by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, stands as a poignant anthem that resonates deeply with listeners. Released in 1979, the song encapsulates Petty's signature style, blending raw emotion and relatable lyrics. Drawing inspiration from a fleeting encounter in Gainesville, Florida, "Even The Losers" captures the bittersweet essence of temporary connections.
The song's profound impact and timeless appeal have earned it widespread recognition. Rolling Stone ranked it among Petty's greatest songs, and it features prominently on the band's "Greatest Hits" album. Critic John Kurp hailed it as the ultimate summation of Petty's career, describing it as "the sound of pure pain" for those yearning for the past and struggling to reconcile the good and bad times. Through its universal themes and Petty's evocative songwriting, "Even The Losers" remains an enduring masterpiece in the tapestry of rock music.
14. American Girl (Tom Petty And The Heatbreakers - 2017)
Raised on promises ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release02-10-2017 |
| Time04:28 | View2M+ |
| Likes 12K+ | SuitableClassic Rock Fans |
| AlbumTom Petty And The HeatbreakersListen on Spotify | |
- Folk rock
- Classic rock
- Heartland rock
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
In the annals of American rock, Tom Petty's "American Girl" stands as a timeless anthem of youthful aspiration and the allure of the unknown. Released in 1977, its iconic jangling riff and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with listeners, becoming a staple of classic rock radio. Though it charted modestly upon its initial release, "American Girl" has since ascended to legendary status, ranking among Tom Petty's most beloved and enduring songs.
The song's lyrics encapsulate the disillusionment and restless spirit of a generation yearning for a better future. Its protagonist, a young woman yearning for escape from the mundane, encapsulates the universal desire for fulfillment and a sense of belonging. The song's haunting melody and driving rhythm evoke a palpable sense of longing and wanderlust, making it a perennial favorite for road trips and moments of introspection. Its enduring appeal lies in its timeless message of hope and the indomitable spirit that drives us to pursue our dreams.
15. Don't Do Me Like That (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers)
Wish I could make you mine all the time ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release24-07-2018 |
| Time02:42 | View2M+ |
| Likes 29K+ | SuitableRock Fans |
| AlbumDamn The Torpedoes (Deluxe Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Heartbreak Anthem
- Rock Ballad
- Heartbreak Song
- Heartbreak Ballad
- Classic rock
- Melodic Ballad
- Nostalgic Tune
- Southern Rock
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
- Country-tinged
"Don't Do Me Like That" by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers is a timeless classic that has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Released in 1979, it became the band's only Top 10 hit, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 3 in Canada. This catchy tune effortlessly captures the essence of unrequited love and the fear of heartbreak.
The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of Petty's vulnerability as he implores a woman not to treat him the same way his friend was recently rejected. The heartfelt plea and relatable emotions resonate with listeners, making it a relatable anthem for anyone who has ever experienced the sting of unrequited love. Despite being labeled a "throwaway romp" by Creem magazine, "Don't Do Me Like That" remains a beloved track among Petty's fans, showcasing his exceptional songwriting skills and the band's undeniable musical chemistry.
16. Something In The Air - She's the One (Songs and Music from the Motion Picture)
Because there's something in the air ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release22-11-2018 |
| Time03:17 | View615K+ |
| Likes 8K+ | SuitableClassic Rock Fans |
| AlbumShe's the One (Songs and Music from the Motion Picture)Listen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Heartland rock
- Americana
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Among the numerous gems in Tom Petty's illustrious career, "Something in the Air" stands out as a poignant and timeless ballad. Released in 1993 as part of their "Greatest Hits" album, the song has captivated listeners with its nostalgic and introspective lyrics. While it may not have soared to the top of the charts, "Something in the Air" has become a fan favorite, resonating deeply with those who appreciate Petty's evocative storytelling and musical craftsmanship.
The song's laid-back, summery vibe is perfectly complemented by Petty's signature vocals and guitar work. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and reflection, painting vivid pictures of memories and emotions. Many associate the track with carefree summer moments, its gentle melody evoking a sense of nostalgia and wistfulness. Despite its lack of commercial success, "Something in the Air" has remained a beloved and enduring part of Tom Petty's legacy, a testament to its timeless appeal and the enduring connection it has forged with fans.
17. Angel Dream - She's the One (Songs and Music from the Motion Picture)
Caught my lifeline when drifting through space ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release15-07-2021 |
| Time02:31 | View475K+ |
| Likes 5K+ | SuitableRock Fans |
| AlbumShe's the One (Songs and Music from the Motion Picture)Listen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Heartland rock
- Americana
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
"Angel Dream" an enthralling ballad by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, holds a profound place in the hearts of Tom Petty's devotees. Released as part of the soundtrack for the 1996 film "She's the One," the song's emotive lyrics have resonated deeply with listeners, cementing its status as one of Petty's finest creations.
The song's ethereal quality, captured in lines such as "I dreamed you, I saw your face / Caught my lifeline when drifting through space," evokes a sense of destiny and divine intervention. Listeners have drawn solace and inspiration from its message of hope and redemption, finding comfort in its portrayal of love as a transformative force that guides us through life's trials. Petty's poignant lyrics and the song's haunting melody combine to create an unforgettable tapestry of emotion, ensuring that "Angel Dream" continues to captivate and inspire generations of listeners.
18. Breakdown (Tom Petty And The Heatbreakers)
It's alright if you don't ”
Song information
| ArtistTom Petty and the Heartbreakers | Release19-03-2020 |
| Time02:43 | View325K+ |
| Likes 5K+ | SuitableClassic Rock Fans |
| AlbumTom Petty And The HeatbreakersListen on Spotify | |
- Heartbreak Ballad
- Classic rock
- Introspective
- Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Have you ever listened to a melody where every note resonates with your heart? Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' "Breakdown" is exactly that kind of song. Released in 1976, it became a defining track for the band, showcasing their signature blend of rock and roll and heartfelt lyrics. "Breakdown" was not only a commercial success, reaching the Top 40 in both the US and Canada, but it also garnered critical acclaim for its raw emotion and relatable themes.
The song's genesis lies in the collaboration between Tom Petty and lead guitarist Mike Campbell. Campbell's distinctive guitar lick, initially intended as a subtle addition, became an integral part of the track, propelling it to its iconic status. The lyrics, penned by Petty, delve into the complexities of a crumbling relationship, capturing the pain and vulnerability of heartbreak with unflinching honesty. The stripped-down arrangement, clocking in at just 2 minutes and 39 seconds, amplifies the song's emotional impact, leaving a lasting impression on listeners. "Breakdown" remains a testament to Tom Petty's songwriting prowess and the Heartbreakers' musical virtuosity, solidifying their place among the greatest rock and roll bands of all time.