Shelter

I'm a new member here. Have known of this site for about a year, but only just now felt compelled to join in the conversation. Petty's death hits me more than any of the others these past two years. In and of himself, he was and is a paragon of my music tastes and rock and roll. His songs "Room at the Top," "It's Good to Be King," "Too Good to Be True," and "Learning to Fly" connect with me in a very deep way(screen name combines two of those songs).
This is my personal tribute to Tom Petty. I hope you all enjoy it. Best wishes to everyone during this difficult time.
http://ridersonthestorm101.blogspot.com/2017/10/remembering-tom-petty1950-2017.html

Dunno exactly why, but I feel compelled to keep playing this.
 
 

It's strange. Everytime I leave this place, I find myself subconsciously thinking that Tom is still out there, walking about Malibu or LA or whatever, working on this or that, recrding something, going to meetings (boooring!), that there is still songs being written and sessions planned, releases to go over and prepare.. And then, just like that -smack! - I snap back.. like in an endless loop this happens.. Quite disturbing and unpleasant.. a sort of backwards and nauseous awakening to the sad fact that he is gone. Man, it's gonna take time to actually understand, after all these years. Everything is kinda shrouded in a veil of unreality.. One of the more grave reality checks I've ever had in terms of not taking things or people for granted...

It's strange. Everytime I leave this place, I find myself subconsciously thinking that Tom is still out there, walking about Malibu or LA or whatever, working on this or that, recrding something, going to meetings (boooring!), that there is still songs being written and sessions planned, releases to go over and prepare.. And then, just like that -smack! - I snap back.. like in an endless loop this happens.. Quite disturbing and unpleasant.. a sort of backwards and nauseous awakening to the sad fact that he is gone. Man, it's gonna take time to actually understand, after all these years. Everything is kinda shrouded in a veil of unreality.. One of the more grave reality checks I've ever had in terms of not taking things or people for granted...

It's strange. Everytime I leave this place, I find myself subconsciously thinking that Tom is still out there, walking about Malibu or LA or whatever, working on this or that, recrding something, going to meetings (boooring!), that there is still songs being written and sessions planned, releases to go over and prepare.. And then, just like that -smack! - I snap back.. like in an endless loop this happens.. Quite disturbing and unpleasant.. a sort of backwards and nauseous awakening to the sad fact that he is gone. Man, it's gonna take time to actually understand, after all these years. Everything is kinda shrouded in a veil of unreality.. One of the more grave reality checks I've ever had in terms of not taking things or people for granted...

It's strange. Everytime I leave this place, I find myself subconsciously thinking that Tom is still out there, walking about Malibu or LA or whatever, working on this or that, recrding something, going to meetings (boooring!), that there is still songs being written and sessions planned, releases to go over and prepare.. And then, just like that -smack! - I snap back.. like in an endless loop this happens.. Quite disturbing and unpleasant.. a sort of backwards and nauseous awakening to the sad fact that he is gone. Man, it's gonna take time to actually understand, after all these years. Everything is kinda shrouded in a veil of unreality.. One of the more grave reality checks I've ever had in terms of not taking things or people for granted...

Nice piece! Thanks for sharing! Some great photos too.

Hi. Wanted to share this with its intended audience.  Been a forum member here for a few years, and am in the HC club also.  
Thanks.
http://20ksongs.blogspot.com/2017/10/tom-petty-crawling-back-to-you.html

From Benmont's wife, Alice: http://www.alicecarbone.com/thank-you-tom/

Hey gang, I thought I should follow this up and not leave you hanging.  In the midst of a horrible day on Monday with the news of Tom's death, my little grandson made his way into the world.  A new life.
He's 2 months early and quite small at 2 pounds, 10 ounces - but healthy in every way and doing fantastic.  Fully breathing on his own and eyes open at times.  I won't get to see him for a couple more days -they're extremely cautious with preemies, but we are over the moon. 
Talk about an emotional roller coaster the last few days.  I still can't put my feelings about Tom's death into words, but we have this amazing little miracle that we can focus on now.  Thanks for the good wishes and prayers.  I'm certain they helped.  And my condolences to all who loved Tom Petty.  May he rest in peace.

Yes.. it IS so hard to grasp, isn't it..? It IS like losing part of yourself or a family member.. Such a strange feeling, trying to move about with all the normal stuff, all kinda numb, like sleepwalking or in a fever.. It's very unreal. Like someone said, we always new it could happen, but still never thought that it would.. Or like someone else said, I didn't realize quite how powerful and paralyzing the feeling, until the day was here.. I guess part of me must have thought that I'd go before he did..
Following this thread over the last days has been ,and is, such a solace in these dark and difficult times! So many stories here.. so vastly different, yet so strikingly similar.. I just really want to take this opportunity to thank you all for stopping by, whether newbies or old absent friends now returning. Thank you for sharing your feelings and sorrow! It has meant a lot to me to see all show up, and I'm sure to all of you too. Such a blessing that this Farmer's campfire of sorts has been a place for us all to come over these last few days. You guys really are the best in the world and I just know that Tom was proud of all the good people he touched in his life.  Thank you! Thank you so very much!
Should end by saying that listening to Night Driver last night, while looking out in the rain.. caused me to have a minor breakdown.. Such beautiful piece of music and lyrics, such strong evocative vocals.. a song that perhaps I haven't appreciated enough until that very sad and overdue moment.
There's a shadow on the moon tonight
I swear I see your face
Up there with the satellites
Lookin' down from outer space
Me I'm drifting home again
Headlights in my eyes
Fighting sleep with windows down
Worn out from long goodbyes   Night driver
Drifting home again  
 
 

Rolling Stone just published these three extensive interviews online for the first time. They were conducted at the end of the Hypnotic Eye tour three years ago and are very interesting.
Mike Campbell
Benmont Tench
Ron Blair

LA Times writer sits down with TP a couple of days after the tour, just days before he dies. Good article, with full audio of the interview.
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/music/la-et-ms-tom-petty-the-final-interview-20171004-story.html

Seeing as how the list of possibilities in this thread is now basically down to “All The Rest”, a DVD/Blu of the MusiCares show would be good and also very poignant.

“I feel Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers is the best American rock band, ever,” wrote REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin.
— “Tommy’s passing feels like I’ve lost a little brother. Growing up together in Gainesville and seeing one of my students blossom as an incredibly gifted musician and songwriter has been one of my most fulfilling experiences in this life. It was obvious very early on in his career that his talent, magnetism and charisma were a very special gift that few souls in this world are given. He has given this world so many wonderful memories and touched millions with his magic. Gone far too soon. May he rest in peace knowing how much he is loved and appreciated by all of us that are left behind.” — former Eagles member Don Felder on Facebook.
— “I’m shocked and saddened by the news of Tom’s passing, he’s such a huge part of our musical history, there’ll never be another like him.” — Eric Clapton in a statement.
“I loved Tom Petty and I covered his songs because I wanted know what it felt like to fly.” — singer-songwriter John Mayer on Twitter.
— “Devastating news about #TomPetty A profound loss. Sad sad day today. RIP” — rocker Slash on Instagram.
— “RIP @tompetty you will be missed. A music legend #GoneButNeverForgotten” Aerosmith drummer Joey Kramer on Twitter.
— “Through his work with the Heartbreakers and The Traveling Wilburys he’s left us with an incredibly legacy to enjoy forever, it’s such a shame he has left us way before his time.” — Def Leppard singer Joe Elliot on Twitter.
— “It is so rare to find someone who commands such universal respect in the business. He was a rock n roll lifer with music in his blood. This man delivered a wealth of great songs to his fans and to the world and that is something to celebrate.” — rocker Alice Cooper, on Twitter.
— “I feel Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers is the best American rock band, ever. He is both a peer and an inspiration to me. I am heartbroken at his passing, and my deep sympathy goes out to his family and loved ones.” — REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin on Facebook.
— “Always felt good to know Tom Petty was out there in the world making up beautiful words and music. Sad today but grateful forever.” — singer Richard Marx on Twitter.
— “Safe passages to the summerlands, brother. You couldn’t have left more dreams here for us. Thank you. RIP” — rocker Ryan Adams on Twitter.
— “Tom Petty was a stud. Very few super cool dudes from the old school left. Actual talent. Rough to hear the news” — actor-comedian David Spade on Twitter.
— “Tom was a true rock and roll purist, both in his music and his defiant spirit. With the Heartbreakers, his infectious riffs, rebellious personality, and inventive songwriting brought a new urgency to rock traditions and fueled a now legendary career and some of the most memorable music of the last four decades.” — Recording Academy President/CEO Neil Portnow in a statement.
— “So sad about Tom Petty, he made some great music. Thoughts are with his family.” — Mick Jagger via Twitter.
 
via http://www.gainesville.com/news/20171004/musicians-and-celebrities-pay-tribute-to-rocker-tom-petty

Yes.. it IS so hard to grasp, isn't it..? It IS like losing part of yourself or a family member.. Such a strange feeling, trying to move about with all the normal stuff, all kinda numb, like sleepwalking or in a fever.. It's very unreal. Like someone said, we always new it could happen, but still never thought that it would.. Or like someone else said, I didn't realize quite how powerful and paralyzing the feeling, until the day was here.. I guess part of me must have thought that I'd go before he did..
Following this thread over the last days has been ,and is, such a solace in these dark and difficult times! So many stories here.. so vastly different, yet so strikingly similar.. I just really want to take this opportunity to thank you all for stopping by, whether newbies or old absent friends now returning. Thank you for sharing your feelings and sorrow! It has meant a lot to me to see all show up, and I'm sure to all of you too. Such a blessing that this Farmer's campfire of sorts has been a place for us all to come over these last few days. You guys really are the best in the world and I just know that Tom was proud of all the good people he touched in his life.  Thank you! Thank you so very much!
Should end by saying that listening to Night Driver last night, while looking out in the rain.. caused me to have a minor breakdown.. Such beautiful piece of music and lyrics, such strong evocative vocals.. a song that perhaps I haven't appreciated enough until that very sad and overdue moment.
There's a shadow on the moon tonight
I swear I see your face
Up there with the satellites
Lookin' down from outer space
Me I'm drifting home again
Headlights in my eyes
Fighting sleep with windows down
Worn out from long goodbyes   Night driver
Drifting home again  
 
 

Yes.. it IS so hard to grasp, isn't it..? It IS like losing part of yourself or a family member.. Such a strange feeling, trying to move about with all the normal stuff, all kinda numb, like sleepwalking or in a fever.. It's very unreal. Like someone said, we always new it could happen, but still never thought that it would.. Or like someone else said, I didn't realize quite how powerful and paralyzing the feeling, until the day was here.. I guess part of me must have thought that I'd go before he did..
Following this thread over the last days has been ,and is, such a solace in these dark and difficult times! So many stories here.. so vastly different, yet so strikingly similar.. I just really want to take this opportunity to thank you all for stopping by, whether newbies or old absent friends now returning. Thank you for sharing your feelings and sorrow! It has meant a lot to me to see all show up, and I'm sure to all of you too. Such a blessing that this Farmer's campfire of sorts has been a place for us all to come over these last few days. You guys really are the best in the world and I just know that Tom was proud of all the good people he touched in his life.  Thank you! Thank you so very much!
Should end by saying that listening to Night Driver last night, while looking out in the rain.. caused me to have a minor breakdown.. Such beautiful piece of music and lyrics, such strong evocative vocals.. a song that perhaps I haven't appreciated enough until that very sad and overdue moment.
There's a shadow on the moon tonight
I swear I see your face
Up there with the satellites
Lookin' down from outer space
Me I'm drifting home again
Headlights in my eyes
Fighting sleep with windows down
Worn out from long goodbyes   Night driver
Drifting home again  
 
 

I am struggling more than I could have ever imagined. As much as I knew I loved Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers/Mudcrutch. It wasn't until I heard what was happening that I realized how much. Tom and the band have always been in my life playing on the radio, at school dances, etc. It wasn't until 2006  when I had experienced a devastating Ioss of loved ones, that I fell in love with this band. I purchased tickets on a whim to the TPHB show in Reno. I decided I shouldn't go after the trama that unfolded in my life. My dear Mom said "you should go your family would want you to." So I went, and my life changed that night. I found happiness that I thought was lost forever. THANK YOU TOM R.I.P., MIKE, BENMONT, STEVE, RON, and SCOTT! Your shows helped heal my heart, your concert DVDs helped me sleep, your albums comforted me everywhere and anytime I needed it. THANK YOU TO THE FANS! The old message board on tompetty.com was such a comfort. People I never met shared recordings of live shows, gave advice on buying tickets, best hotels to stay in, etc. Even though I never met you in person you are forever in my heart! My favorite memory is in West Sacramento during the 30th anniversary show. It was Tom's birthday. Days before on the message board we decided to do a impromptu happy birthday to Tom. Stevie Nicks was performing that night with TPHB. I handed out fliers to fans announcing our plans to sing along with other fans. Stevie came out with a birthday cake for Tom and we sang Happy birthday. He dropped his cigarette and joked about lighting the stage on fire. It was one of the best nights of my life! I'm so blessed to be on this message board reading these posts knowing I'm not alone morning the loss of someone I never formally met but loved with all my heart. Thank you again for everything you brought to my life Tom. All my prayers and love is with your loved ones. Thank you for sharing him!
 
 

^^Beautiful! I love it.
Been talking with a longtime friend and TPATH fan today. We saw a few shows together, sang the entirety of "Long After Dark" at our college parties; he even witnessed my 1982 moment when I jumped on stage and kissed Tom in Santa Cruz.
He told me, and I quote: " I'm hearing from a lot of people checking on me as though I lost a family member; well, I did." That's been my experience today as well.
 

Great line...
There was, of course, a difference between us. I survived by listening to Tom Petty songs; he survived by writing them.

^ That was very heartwarming and nicely put! 
I just like to add, that a community like this equals it's content. That is, if people wants it to be insightful and clever they better be insightful and clever.
In the long run there's no such thing as a read-only online community. People like Nurk, Marion and MJ2LD and a few others really add to the content in a big way by sharing, posting links, shout outs and variously angled pieces of opinion and thoughts, all of which is needed to make the place alive.
Therefor, all of you who like to find out more about the band, who just fancy discussing various aspects, asking more experienced fans about this or that, or who like to take part or share stuff or thoughts that may interest fellow fans, should perhaps consider contributing a few lines yourselves from time to time before it's too late. 
So, for every classic rock video, or guitar links that Nurk posts (take it as inspiration), if someone should just post a few clever words about anything they pleased, this place would soon be buzzing with electricity.. (or whatever it is that keeps it rolling like a dino through ignorant shallow times..) Rock on, farmers!
Besides. If a 40th anniversary tour don't make a fan community boil with excitement, I for one smell a rat (a big, fat and overly content one, if not quite dead yet), but discussing why that may be - many interesting theories, surely - is also mind food and fandom in a way.. and..again.. reasons plenty for all of us, in each their own way, to help keep this place alive. If we don't care, then caring is no more. Cause no matter what people say about trends, quickfixes and shouting cant measure up with qualith and discussions.
Quality and content always beats smileys and surface. Slow beats fast.. ironically.. Or.. Rock'n'roll beats Facebook.. I like to think that's kinda part of the DNA we all have from listening to TP so much. Let's prove ourselves worthy. And let's prove ourselves worthy of the hard work of Ryan, Marion and others.

Like a lot of kids then (and still) my first exposure to music was from old Beatles records.  I was completely under their spell to the point that I had all their records before I even thought about buying an album by anyone else.  I listened to all the latest records on the radio and had my favorites but could they make whole albums of great songs like the Beatles?  I wasn't convinced but when New Wave came along I thought maybe this is my music, not my older brothers music but something directed at kids like me.  The Cars were really cool, they had the clothes and the sound, and we got a kick out of all the double entendres.  There was Blondie, with Debbie Harry who set my teenage brain on fire.  Cheap Trick were like your buddies down the street with a garage band.  And then there was Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.  They dressed like us.  They talked like us.  At a time when going to see ''The Song Remains the Same'' at the midnight matinee was a teenage ritual and you heard the singer introduce a "song about hope" followed by 10 minutes of hippie mumbo jumbo, Tom Petty sang about hope in a real and tangible way.  "This old town just seems so hopeless" was followed by an explosion of hope in words and music in a single verse.  For a kid who lived in a town that you didn't live in so much as you grew up and left, it was a revelation.  Everyone knows "the waiting is the hardest part," the sentiment has probably been around forever but nobody ever came right out and said it.  When Tom sang it was like he grabbed you by the shoulders, shook you and looked you straight in the eye and told you what was going on.  I think that's why his songs have held up over time.  They still have meaning to 54-year-old me as they did to 16-year-old me and will continue being a reassuring presence in my life like an old friend.  Thank you Tom for the music and memories, may they live on forever.

somehow I can't seem to leave this place... it's comforting here right now..

I haven't said much, cuz I'm still in shock! My prayers go out to the entire Petty "Family". Very few people have influenced my life besides my parents and grandparents. All the rest were musicians, from The Beatles to Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers. Their dedication to life and music are unsurpassed. I am so glad that I saw every concert I could over the years and have those memories. Without Tom, we wouldn't be here now. Because of Tom, I met a lot of you and we had the greatest of times. We have to keep going and keep the TPATH legend alive, it's the least we can do. God Bless Tom Petty.