If we could experience one more Tom Petty performance, it would be a chance to witness the legendary singer-songwriter who left an indelible mark on rock and roots music over his five-decade career. Though Petty passed away in 2017, his music continues to inspire countless artists. Here’s a look at five unforgettable live performances that highlight different aspects of his remarkable journey.
In September 1985, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers performed at the inaugural Farm Aid concert in Champaign, Illinois. Playing to a crowd of around 80,000, Petty delivered a memorable performance of “American Girl,” complete with his signature sunglasses and a stylish collared shirt. The concert, which also featured icons like Bob Dylan, Billy Joel, and Loretta Lynn, remains a significant moment in music history.
In 1994, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers faced an unexpected challenge when longtime drummer Stan Lynch left the band just before their Saturday Night Live appearance. Petty quickly recruited former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl, who joined the band for a powerful performance of “Honey Bee” and “You Don’t Know How It Feels.” The show demonstrated Petty’s resilience and ability to adapt, delivering a stellar performance despite the last-minute change.
On the first anniversary of George Harrison’s death in 2001, a tribute concert was held at London’s Royal Albert Hall. Tom Petty paid homage to his late friend with moving performances of “Taxman,” “I Need You,” and “Handle with Care.” The emotional event honored Harrison’s lasting influence, with Petty’s heartfelt renditions adding a special poignancy to the celebration.
Celebrating three decades of music, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers performed a special concert in Gainesville, Florida, on September 21, 2006. This milestone event featured a guest appearance by Stevie Nicks, who joined Petty for a memorable performance of their 1978 hit “I Need to Know.” The collaboration between Petty and Nicks added an extra layer of magic to an already significant occasion.
In 2008, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers headlined the Super Bowl Halftime Show at the University of Phoenix Stadium during Super Bowl XLII. The band electrified millions of viewers with a setlist that included classic hits like “American Girl,” “I Won’t Back Down,” “Free Fallin’,” and “Runnin’ Down a Dream.” This high-profile performance was a defining moment in Petty’s career, cementing his legacy as a rock legend.