Three years later and, of all the Sirius XM choices I have during my drives, I still find myself tuning primarily into Tom Petty Radio. It just lifts my heart.
No other guitar player ever complemented a lead singer better than Mike Campbell did Tom Petty. To their credit, they never became a nostalgia act -- always writing and performing new material at a rate that was very rare in modern rock and roll. Add to that the fact that Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers were the best cover band in the business, almost always delivering the definitive live version of the classic songs they loved.
Always been a tom petty fan. Before he died I watched the running down a dream documentary and I was completely blown away. I really didnt realize how many hits he really had. Amazing.
Mike is a terrific guitarist, always the perfect accompaniment to Petty who did rhythm and lead as well as vocals. Mudcrutch also was their gig of course, same symmetry. Tom was so spectacular and together they just kept coming up with new material that crushed it. Sorry to lose, Tom. Glad Mike is still in music.
It breaks my heart that Tom Petty is gone. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers made a sound that will never be repeated. To all the musicians that have passed away, the leader of the band has arrived.
Excellent comment I couldn't of said it better I was 60 years in 2017 n I never appreciated Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers til after I noticed he sang many song I sing to so many times I just ordered two poster on Amazon I want to or am gonna frame myself in his memory on my walls
Mike Campbell: An incredibly underrated and important part of the success of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, taking nothing away from Petty at all. They made a great team.
I love Mike's passion. And Tom's belief that he "could save the world through rock and roll." We could use a few more artists like that today. Rest well, Tom Petty!
Mike Campbell is a class act. Back when I was first married and working in LA, I got tickets to see Mudcrutch at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. At the last minute that day, my then-manager came to me and told me I couldn't leave early for the concert; if I did, I would be fired. I turned around, told him to fuck off, and quit - I never regretted it. I had the immeasurable pleasure of seeing their final show at the Hollywood Bowl in Sept 2017; I was listening to this song in my office when one of my employees came in to tell me he had passed... I still get a tear in my eye when I remember him and the HB's RIP Tom & Howie
95,000 Florida Gators football fans singing along to "I Won't Back Down" as a tribute to Tom Petty demonstrates the enduring quality of his music.Consider most of the students at that game were not born when that song was on the charts.It gave me chills listening to the chorus.Happy that it is on TH-cam for posterity.
Thank You for this. Thank You Mike Campbell. I was going through hell in my life when Tom Petty went to Heaven and I didn’t have that time to mourn his passing as a fan. Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers are like cream & sugar in coffee, and your beautiful tunes have brought me through some extremely horrific times and very severe depression which I’m still battling. God Bless Each one of you. 🥺 🙏🕊🌹🎸💔🎸🌹🕊🙏
I know Steve Ferrone and asked him a few years ago, sorry about your boss passing and he told me being a Heartbreaker was a brotherhood and honor and TP was the best guy ever.He trembled when he told me that..RIP Tom and Howie..TP and HB's forever!
What can I say? Tom truly got lucky when he found Mike. And Ben. All of them. Together they created a beautiful thing. I never met these guys, and it makes no difference that I didn't. They gave-and will continue to give-me more than I ever hoped for.
Thank you Mike. You are the best! Missed the bus to be at the Tom and Heartbreakers shows, always thought that there would be another chance to see you guys....A hard lesson to learn. Miss you Tom, will see you soon and thanks again for all your help with this long and strange trip. God bless you and your family and friends. He went down swinging.
I remember Mudcrutch . Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers to me will always be that 70s band that lived up the road. Tom Petty was one if not the one of the greatest lyricist of our time. Mr. Campbell is also a great song writer. Just ask Don Henley.
My Mother's comment about Tom Petty's music.... "He gives good advice in his songs" so true! Miss my Mom & Dad & Tom makes me grateful my heart is full, angels who protect, guide, help us break down walls to love ....!
Thank you for posting this. Ever since Tom's passing, I've looked for a reaction from Mike. He conducted himself exactly how I imagined he would- with honesty, class, humility, emotion, and love. I finally made it to see Tom in concert this past June for the first time, and I brought my 19 year old son, as well. The tickets were my Christmas gift to him last year. We both enjoyed the show so much, and we now forever feel connected by that musical bond. Tom, I look forward to seeing you in heaven.
This is really late, but I just wanted to say that your comment moved me to tears. I didn't get to know my mom until the last few years of her life, and the real key to us forming a bond was rock n roll, especially Tom Petty. I was also 19 when I got to see him live with my mom. I will always cherish his music and that wonderful concert with my mom. And it makes me even happier to know that Tom's music did something similar for you and your son.
If you haven't seen the documentary, Running Down A Dream, get it, watch it, love it. So SO MUCH great stuff on there all the way back to this childhood! Peter Bogdonovich did a great job.
Thanks so much for your work Mike and all the years of TP & HB GREAT MUSICIANS-SONG WRITERS and the musical gifts you showered upon those of us who used the music for the soundtracks to our lives! Seriously... Thank you! 🙏 Andy Kelly 🇺🇸🇮🇪🇬🇧 Godbless you all...Amen and Amen to that! 🙏
13:51 - Mike speaks to our collective grief: "I've learned that when you're in a spot like this, the best healing--and the best way to get through it--is to be of service to other people that you love. Reach out to other people that are struggling and help them and that, in turn, helps you get through it. So that's my two cents."
One of my greatest joys is singing the songs of the Heartbreakers with my girls on road trips. The greatest tribute we can make is to share these songs with others and I have no doubt that they will live on for generations to come. Thanks for the music, guys. RIP, Tom ❤️
I am in Cape Town and although it is far away i sometimes feel Tom Mike and the guys are sitting right here with me. Great guitarist - humble man you are Mike ... Thank you for the kind words about a well loved human who passed through our lives
Tommy was on top of his game! I wonder do the Heartbreakers still have a contract they have to fulfill? And if so who's going to take over the lead singing?
What an artist, what a band. They were all class acts.They all complimented each other. I saw them in Toronto on the last tour. I never dreamed this would be the last time I would see them live.God Bless and Keep You, Tom. Bless you's too, Heartbreakers. I'm so sorry for your loss, our loss. He died doing the thing he loved.
Yes, Mike, You, Tom and the Heartbreakers did achieve some level of immortality. I listen to your music almost daily and every time I hear a song for the nth time, I find a new color, texture, something about it that will keep me listening for decades to come. And since this is the Mudcrutch channel, let me say that Mudcrutch is what country music could and should be. Thanks.
Same here. It's a huge loss, way too soon. Great people in a great band of brothers. A bond of real musicians that's an endangered species. Sickens me because music should take precedence over everything in else in this world. Let's hope things get on the right track. Mike Campbell and band, you guys are a great inspiration for all up and coming musicians/bands to pay attention to the magic only a band can achieve.
john steele I thought that I was totally NOT NORMAL to be feeling the same sadness that you describe in your comment. I listen to them AT LEAST once a day, and am still HEART-BROKEN.
I haven't stopped listening to every piece of audio and video about Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers since the terrible day. I pray for the Heartbreakers and hope the music someday can continue..
Never had the honor of seeing them in concert. Was looking for a concert when he passed. My life loss not to see him but a blessing to follow and love his own unique brand of rock and roll. God bless mike.
The moment Mike Campbell, with TP & The Heartbreakers, played the opening licks of Taxman at 'The Concert for George', I knew what I'd been missing out on all the years I hadn't been buying Heartbreakers records. I've relented and changed all that now. I was so sad to hear of Tom's passing, but chuffed to know that my son was in the audience at his last show.
Time to move on. Time to get goin'. What lies ahead, I have no way of knowing'. Under my feet, the grass is grown'. Time to move on. Time to get going'. Thank you for writing the sound track to my life. No one has ever done what TPHB did.
One of the many songwriters and singers, I idolized while growing up. Mike Campbell is a great great songwriter as well. Tom Petty will always be remembered for the music he brought us.
I can remember the first time I heard Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers. Refugee was the first song I heard and loved it. They were really some of the best musicians I've heard.
Was so fortunate to have seen Tom and the band over 30 times. Most of these (11) were at the Fillmore in SF. I feel as though I have lost a dear friend who brought so much happiness to my life. I'm still in shock two months later. Thank you to Tom, Mike, Benmont, Ron, Howie, Steve and Scott for all the great times. I was at the last two bay area shows at the Greek in Berkeley and the band was as great as ever!! Tom Petty will be remembered forever. Robert Obeso
I loved Tom petty and the heartbreakers for 40 years, first hearing them as a teenager in Liverpool England, waiting for every new album to arrive in my local music shop, was lucky to see them live a few times and when they toured with bob Dylan also. This interview must of been really hard for mike Campbell being such close friends , brothers really, Tom and mike Campbell have something that’s very rare in the music business, apart from great musical talent they have class !! Thank you for all the great songs and as it is nearly 2 years since we lost Tom it doesn’t get any easier but listening to the great songs helps, mike Campbell you really do have a lot of class man !
Hey Neil, similar story for me mate. Bought the first Heartbreakers album some 40 years ago in Liverpool and have been a huge fan since. They created a rich tapestry of music that remains timeless and an inspiration to many. Tom’s passing was such a shock and the world will miss a fine musician. RIP TP
Thank-you, Mike for such a thoughtful, loving interview. x Tom was such an inspiration to so many people, Mike, but you ALL are. Tom, you, Benmont, Steve, Ron and Scott, and not forgetting Howie and Stan too. Your music will ALWAYS live on, because it's in our hearts and souls, and we pass it on to each new generation, as I have done with my son. I know how I feel about Tom passing, so I cannot even begin to image your grief and pain. Sending you and Marcie, all the guys, Dana, and all the family, lots of hugs, and much love. - Sue xx
Mike, thanks so much for doing this interview. I loved Tom's music but I also loved the whole band. Tom is gone but he will never be forgotten. I sing his songs almost everyday. I speak only for myself, as you always say Mike. I think most of us really need to hear from everyone in the band. Benmont, Scott, Ron, Steve, we care about all of you or at least I do. Please don't shut us out. I can't & T think none of us can, just leave the remaining band members. Jesus, I can't leave Ringo & Paul. We still care, very much. Again, I speak only for myself
😭 tears The world will not be the same, ever! Its march of 2018 and I still cry, my heart still hurts, Mike you are amazing , 🙏 and thanks for sharing .. Heartbroken 😞 ❤️
Mike is so right, they were a great band and made some great music. Tom had a great life but left far too soon but he wont ever be forgotten because their music will live on and on. So sorry for Tom's lovely wife and children and of course his friends and the band mates, sad, sad time for them
I am a huge Tom Petty fan. As a fellow songwriter, I am in awe of his catalog of work. I was a radio DJ when The Heartbreakers began. One of my badges of honor was that, I actually GOT FIRED for PLAYING Tom Petty on the radio. Between the first two records, Shelter Records (his first label) released a radio promo live EP "Live 'Leg" that was recorded live in Boston. It had a B&W cover with Tom in a black leather jacket and bullets. For some reason, my Program Director decided it was "punk rock." I played "Fooled Again" on my show and the next day I was told, "I said NO punk rock...you're fired." I argued that Tom Petty isn't punk rock but I got booted. Fortunately, I had the top ratings in my time slot in the city, so the next day the general manager hired me back. When I started my show that night, I followed the PD who had fired me. He wasn't happy that I went over his head and had been rehired. And the first sone I played was "Fooled Again"...that I had been fired for olaying the night before. It was the ultimate F.U....and after that, it was cool for the entire air staff to play Tom Petty. Then a few years later, my own band had an album on the radio and we had a new member from the midwest who played keys/rhythm guitar and sang.....she ended up leaving to sing backup with John Mellancamp and THEN with the Heartbreakers at "Live Aid" and on the "Pack Up the Plantation" tour, etc. The another guy I had played with for years in the '70s, who recently refound me again, had Stan Lynch play drums on his last CD. I told him it was a small world because I ended up with a few of Howie Epstein's basses and his favorite Telecaster p, after he passed away. So, besides loving Tom Petty's music, I have had a number of chance intertwinings that have made the music even more personal for me. The night he died, my close friend and drummer I olayed with for more than a decade but hadn't spoken with in years, called me in NYC at 2 a.m. from AZ, just knowing I would be broken up from his passing. We spoke for two hours catching up. Thanks for all that, Tom.
What a great story! Thanks so much for sharing. I'm still in such pain over his loss. And Fooled Again is my favorite song - just love to keep watching him sing it over again --- how I regret I never figured out how to become a backup singer for his band XOXOOXOXOXOXOXO
I saw him in Atlanta on this tour! I'm just in shock. Have been listening to him since the 70's! I'm so glad that I got to see the band this tour! Their songs are timeless!!
He isn't, never was Everyone who knows guitarplaying can' t underrate him anyway. Tastefull playing just that what the song needs, never a poser like "hey look at me how great I can play". Those guys are never underrated, not by fans or musicians.
One of my favourite Tom Petty Mike Campbell stories was over the track "Walkin' From The Fire". I'm pasting that section here: [Campbell did have a particular memory of cutting this one in ’84. “I listened to the words and I said to Tom, ‘Don’t you think he’d be running from the fire?’ And he just looked at me and said, ‘Shut up.’”] (-:
When I had George Gruhn appraise my wrap tail gold top a few years ago, the older friendly sales guy with the wild hair and eyes asked me what I played it through. I told him I used a couple of old blackface Princeton Reverbs. He smiled and said, "Ahh, Mike Campbell". I said, " What a great player". He replied, " and he's a good guy, too". It's always good to hear that's the case with one of your guitar heroes. R.I.P. Tom, you and Mike have left a tremendous legacy for us all to enjoy.
Amen brother. I was told @ work with a counter full of people, and had to take a minute of silence to recover. It hit me harder than any rock and roll death.
Tom Petty was my most favored rock group. So sad to see this happen. Mike thank you for being part of the Heart breakers group. You are an awesome guitar player. I wish I had your knowledge in playing guitar. Thank you for being apart of my most favored rock group ever. I grew up with you guys. Sucks....
Mike Campbell is Class as a person and Guitarist. The night Tom passed my phone wouldn't stop ringing. What was so beautiful about it was the fact it was so many of my daughters friends. They would come to our house and hear Tom and Heartbreak erstwhile they were here. I felt so gd they were still listening to the music. it had made an impact. That my friends is a Great Band. miss u Tom but u play all the time I in quiet a few places in England we loved u. Sue Maher
Mike camble is theeeee most underrated guitar player of all time.i seen them in Charlotte and Raleigh n.c. and he is magical,I've love tom petty and the heart breakers first heard them 1978 driving home and American girl came on,I turned it up and loved them ever since. I play bass by myself to my tom petty collection I have for years it is better than any antidepressant ever prescribed.as many have acknowledged there will never b another moment in time that rocked me from 78 to 2017,love u rip.
I'm so glad Mike Campbell I was hoping I would hear from you about your life with Tom and the band. You answered many curiosity questions about Tom. I know its not going to be easy but you can keep going Just Like Tom carried on With Music I hope u keep playing I'll be there too!!!
The first song I learned to play all the way through properly as a guitarist was Break Down. that song alone was a big hit for them. It just shows that music is music. You don't have to shred, play 300 to 1000 notes a minute to be a good player. It's about a great melody line, great subject matter translated with few words and most of all a great over all sound.
Oh....Tom was the best...and The Heartbreakers are the most awesome "backing band" in the world. What a shocking loss :( Thanks Tom - you were my guy for ever, and always will be.
I'm so thankful to have had an opportunity to see Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers one last time before Tom passed. This interview is a reminder of what an awesome band of friends Tom had and the composure and class of Mike Campbell. I hope he finds a way to continue the legacy even though Tom is gone. My kids had become big fans of Tom Petty and Heartbreakers and I would like them to see or get to hear Mike Campbell and the rest of the Heartbreakers carry Tom's legacy on. Not sure how that could be done but would be a shame not to hear the original team of composers continue on as a tribute to one of the greatest and most inspiring artists of our generation!
Thank you Mike. You have been my favorite guitarist, since before I even started playing. Best of luck in the future. I know you have an amazing amount of music left in you. God bless you Mike.
I am sorry still to everybody in the world, especially his family and band. I am a firefighter who acted on stage here in Chicago. Picked up the guitar at 49 when I was injured. hacking away. Tom was coming to Wrigley where I was on Engine 78. From the minute I purchased the ticket something clicked in my head that said....you have seen Tom Petty 9 times start playing some of his songs....my guitar began to speak.....and still I can't....that night....there was evil in the air, and Toms energy just didn't want to be here any more and left. We must remember that night in Vegas. In my heart I know Tom turned on the tv like me, and didn't want to be here.
Thank you for posting this! While Tom was a force of his own - it never would have been the same w/o Mike & the Heartbreakers. Mike said it best "Tom knew there was magic in this band".
How difficult and courageous for the ultimately most shy member of the Heartbreakers to come forward and share Tom's glowing heart with us so unselfishly. Mike, my heart is bruised but not broken...as you've promised to keep moving forward for us..and in return, we will carry you when you have the need to be lifted up. God bless, my friend.
I watch the movie “Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers“ by Peter Bogdanovich every morning when I work out. 1/2 one morning and 1/2 the next. Thanks Mike. Greetings from Sacramento California Mike
Three years later and, of all the Sirius XM choices I have during my drives, I still find myself tuning primarily into Tom Petty Radio. It just lifts my heart.
Yep... between that and buried treasure, it helps
Mike Campbell is a class act and underrated guitarist.
Always underrated
underrated only by those who don't know anything about guitar playing
His scorching solo in Goof Enough, Godhead
Good Enough.,.
been listening to them most of my life, and yet I've really just got into appreciating them recently and so glad I did
How cool is Mike Campbell? My favorite guitarist. .So sorry for his loss.
No other guitar player ever complemented a lead singer better than Mike Campbell did Tom Petty. To their credit, they never became a nostalgia act -- always writing and performing new material at a rate that was very rare in modern rock and roll. Add to that the fact that Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers were the best cover band in the business, almost always delivering the definitive live version of the classic songs they loved.
very well said. It rings true.
Amen
"never became a nostalgia act"
Exactly. Unlike Paul McCartney, Elton John, The Rolling Stones, and all the others.
Such a wonderful observation and so true!
amen.nothing like mike and tom!
Always been a tom petty fan. Before he died I watched the running down a dream documentary and I was completely blown away. I really didnt realize how many hits he really had. Amazing.
Mike is a terrific guitarist, always the perfect accompaniment to Petty who did rhythm and lead as well as vocals. Mudcrutch also was their gig of course, same symmetry. Tom was so spectacular and together they just kept coming up with new material that crushed it. Sorry to lose, Tom. Glad Mike is still in music.
Mike was a True Friend to Tom and a Major force in the Heartbreakers and thats the Key......
It breaks my heart that Tom Petty is gone. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers made a sound that will never be repeated. To all the musicians that have passed away, the leader of the band has arrived.
Mayoff Jack l
Excellent comment I couldn't of said it better I was 60 years in 2017 n I never appreciated Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers til after I noticed he sang many song I sing to so many times I just ordered two poster on Amazon I want to or am gonna frame myself in his memory on my walls
Tom and The Heartbreakers are absolutely original, unique and without peer. Never get enough of the music 🎶
Mike Campbell: An incredibly underrated and important part of the success of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, taking nothing away from Petty at all. They made a great team.
Couldn't have happened otherwise. Those two were put on the planet to play together. The perfect harmony.
Still hurts.There is no scar because there is no healing. Thanks, Mike and to the rest of the heartbroken Heartbreakers.
I love Mike's passion. And Tom's belief that he "could save the world through rock and roll." We could use a few more artists like that today. Rest well, Tom Petty!
Mike Campbell is a class act. Back when I was first married and working in LA, I got tickets to see Mudcrutch at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. At the last minute that day, my then-manager came to me and told me I couldn't leave early for the concert; if I did, I would be fired. I turned around, told him to fuck off, and quit - I never regretted it.
I had the immeasurable pleasure of seeing their final show at the Hollywood Bowl in Sept 2017; I was listening to this song in my office when one of my employees came in to tell me he had passed...
I still get a tear in my eye when I remember him and the HB's
RIP Tom & Howie
95,000 Florida Gators football fans singing along to "I Won't Back Down" as a tribute to Tom Petty demonstrates the enduring quality of his music.Consider most of the students at that game were not born when that song was on the charts.It gave me chills listening to the chorus.Happy that it is on TH-cam for posterity.
What a wonderful tribute. I certainly would have to be there.
Mike Campbell…first class person and musician👊🏼✌🏼🎸🎶🎶🎶🎶
Thank You for this. Thank You Mike Campbell. I was going through hell in my life when Tom Petty went to Heaven and I didn’t have that time to mourn his passing as a fan. Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers are like cream & sugar in coffee, and your beautiful tunes have brought me through some extremely horrific times and very severe depression which I’m still battling. God Bless Each one of you. 🥺
🙏🕊🌹🎸💔🎸🌹🕊🙏
This is both hard and so uplifting to this day. I’ll never forget him
I know Steve Ferrone and asked him a few years ago, sorry about your boss passing and he told me being a Heartbreaker was a brotherhood and honor and TP was the best guy ever.He trembled when he told me that..RIP Tom and Howie..TP and HB's forever!
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers are one of the great bands. Mike Campbell talks from the heart.
Mike is under appreciated. The more I listen to him play the better he gets
Thank you, Mike Campbell. This interview took courage. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' music lives on.
Mike Campbell so humble . Petty such a rare songwriting talent. Binging on the great songs these guys put together
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' story IS the absolute American dream to me. They made us feel as though our "friends" made it.
So beautiful to hear Mike talk about his best friend. Thank you for doing this!
What can I say?
Tom truly got lucky when he found Mike. And Ben. All of them. Together they created a beautiful thing.
I never met these guys, and it makes no difference that I didn't. They gave-and will continue to give-me more than I ever hoped for.
Thank you Mike. You are the best! Missed the bus to be at the Tom and Heartbreakers shows, always thought that there would be another chance to see you guys....A hard lesson to learn. Miss you Tom, will see you soon and thanks again for all your help with this long and strange trip. God bless you and your family and friends. He went down swinging.
I remember Mudcrutch . Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers to me will always be that 70s band that lived up the road. Tom Petty was one if not the one of the greatest lyricist of our time. Mr. Campbell is also a great song writer. Just ask Don Henley.
The legendary Mike Campbell on my favorite musician Tom Petty. He was truly Rock and Roll!
made me cry. miss you Tom, love you Mike
Mike Campbell is just an awesome player and an awesome person.
This was by far the toughest news to hear this past year of Toms passing.
Mike Campbell is a True Musician and a Great Guy....RIP Tom
My Mother's comment about Tom Petty's music.... "He gives good advice in his songs" so true! Miss my Mom & Dad & Tom makes me grateful my heart is full, angels who protect, guide, help us break down walls to love ....!
Tom Petty was the greatest artist of all time
Best American band EVER...top 3 in the world ever
Tom Petty was the man! Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers will always exist.
Thank you for posting this. Ever since Tom's passing, I've looked for a reaction from Mike. He conducted himself exactly how I imagined he would- with honesty, class, humility, emotion, and love. I finally made it to see Tom in concert this past June for the first time, and I brought my 19 year old son, as well. The tickets were my Christmas gift to him last year. We both enjoyed the show so much, and we now forever feel connected by that musical bond. Tom, I look forward to seeing you in heaven.
This is really late, but I just wanted to say that your comment moved me to tears. I didn't get to know my mom until the last few years of her life, and the real key to us forming a bond was rock n roll, especially Tom Petty. I was also 19 when I got to see him live with my mom. I will always cherish his music and that wonderful concert with my mom. And it makes me even happier to know that Tom's music did something similar for you and your son.
If you haven't seen the documentary, Running Down A Dream, get it, watch it, love it. So SO MUCH great stuff on there all the way back to this childhood! Peter Bogdonovich did a great job.
Thanks so much for your work Mike and all the years of TP & HB GREAT MUSICIANS-SONG WRITERS and the musical gifts you showered upon those of us who used the music for the soundtracks to our lives! Seriously... Thank you! 🙏 Andy Kelly 🇺🇸🇮🇪🇬🇧 Godbless you all...Amen and Amen to that! 🙏
13:51 - Mike speaks to our collective grief: "I've learned that when you're in a spot like this, the best healing--and the best way to get through it--is to be of service to other people that you love. Reach out to other people that are struggling and help them and that, in turn, helps you get through it. So that's my two cents."
acomplexkid.com thinks: Fact!
God bless Tom Petty and Mike Campbell !
So Sad... You can tell Mike is just devastated. Fly Free Tom.
47 years. Tom went out like a major leaguer hitting a home run in his last at bat. We could all only hope for such a perfect coda.
One of my greatest joys is singing the songs of the Heartbreakers with my girls on road trips. The greatest tribute we can make is to share these songs with others and I have no doubt that they will live on for generations to come. Thanks for the music, guys. RIP, Tom ❤️
Yes geetarbube, we need to share the music and help keep it alive for all generations to come.
I am in Cape Town and although it is far away i sometimes feel Tom Mike and the guys are sitting right here with me. Great guitarist - humble man you are Mike ... Thank you for the kind words about a well loved human who passed through our lives
Loved this interview. He was right. Rock and roll CAN save the world.
Thank you Mike, made me tear up when he said the last night Tom was on stage he saw in his eyes how happy he was, he was at the top of the mountain!
Me Three
Tom will be missed...
Me four
Tommy was on top of his game! I wonder do the Heartbreakers still have a contract they have to fulfill? And if so who's going to take over the lead singing?
What an artist, what a band. They were all class acts.They all complimented each other. I saw them in Toronto on the last tour. I never dreamed this would be the last time I would see them live.God Bless and Keep You, Tom. Bless you's too, Heartbreakers. I'm so sorry for your loss, our loss. He died doing the thing he loved.
I'm feeling this loss really personal...the music will forever be alive.
Tom Petty's music will live on forever!
The music these guys made will never fade away. RIP Tom
Yes, Mike, You, Tom and the Heartbreakers did achieve some level of immortality. I listen to your music almost daily and every time I hear a song for the nth time, I find a new color, texture, something about it that will keep me listening for decades to come. And since this is the Mudcrutch channel, let me say that Mudcrutch is what country music could and should be. Thanks.
Still in shock 2 months later! One of the greats that will be missed forever!
Out of all the celebrities/artists we have lost over the past few years,none hurt me quite as bad as TP. He is and will continue to be sorely missed.
here it's the end of December and I still cry nearly every day when I hear the Heartbreakers.
Same here. It's a huge loss, way too soon. Great people in a great band of brothers. A bond of real musicians that's an endangered species. Sickens me because music should take precedence over everything in else in this world. Let's hope things get on the right track. Mike Campbell and band, you guys are a great inspiration for all up and coming musicians/bands to pay attention to the magic only a band can achieve.
john steele I thought that I was totally NOT NORMAL to be feeling the same sadness that you describe in your comment. I listen to them AT LEAST once a day, and am still HEART-BROKEN.
Agree
Tom could not have asked for a better guitar player. I love your style of play and have every since I saw you guys live in early 90's.
Mike was so much more than a guitar player to Tom. They were as close as brothers. I know he will feel this loss the rest of his life.
I haven't stopped listening to every piece of audio and video about Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers since the terrible day. I pray for the Heartbreakers and hope the music someday can continue..
His legacy will live on forevermore . It was glorious while he was here and will remain glorious now he has passed. Fare the well you wonderful man
Mike was correct, no other band sounds like them. RIP TOM PETTY!!
Never had the honor of seeing them in concert. Was looking for a concert when he passed. My life loss not to see him but a blessing to follow and love his own unique brand of rock and roll. God bless mike.
The moment Mike Campbell, with TP & The Heartbreakers, played the opening licks of Taxman at 'The Concert for George', I knew what I'd been missing out on all the years I hadn't been buying Heartbreakers records.
I've relented and changed all that now.
I was so sad to hear of Tom's passing, but chuffed to know that my son was in the audience at his last show.
I hope Mike and Benmont and Ron Blair stays together in some form of a band!!!!!! Please stay together!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Time to move on. Time to get goin'. What lies ahead, I have no way of knowing'. Under my feet, the grass is grown'. Time to move on. Time to get going'.
Thank you for writing the sound track to my life. No one has ever done what TPHB did.
Thank You Mike Campbell. You n Tom created great songs that will live forever. Nice work.
One of the many songwriters and singers, I idolized while growing up. Mike Campbell is a great great songwriter as well. Tom Petty will always be remembered for the music he brought us.
I can remember the first time I heard Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers. Refugee was the first song I heard and loved it. They were really some of the best musicians I've heard.
Was so fortunate to have seen Tom and the band over 30 times. Most of these (11) were at the Fillmore in SF. I feel as though I have lost a dear friend who brought so much happiness to my life. I'm still in shock two months later. Thank you to Tom, Mike, Benmont, Ron, Howie, Steve and Scott for all the great times. I was at the last two bay area shows at the Greek in Berkeley and the band was as great as ever!! Tom Petty will be remembered forever.
Robert Obeso
I loved Tom petty and the heartbreakers for 40 years, first hearing them as a teenager in Liverpool England, waiting for every new album to arrive in my local music shop, was lucky to see them live a few times and when they toured with bob Dylan also. This interview must of been really hard for mike Campbell being such close friends , brothers really, Tom and mike Campbell have something that’s very rare in the music business, apart from great musical talent they have class !! Thank you for all the great songs and as it is nearly 2 years since we lost Tom it doesn’t get any easier but listening to the great songs helps, mike Campbell you really do have a lot of class man !
Hey Neil, similar story for me mate. Bought the first Heartbreakers album some 40 years ago in Liverpool and have been a huge fan since. They created a rich tapestry of music that remains timeless and an inspiration to many. Tom’s passing was such a shock and the world will miss a fine musician. RIP TP
@@frankmoore1299 cheers frank, 👍👍👍👍
Thank-you, Mike for such a thoughtful, loving interview. x Tom was such an inspiration to so many people, Mike, but you ALL are. Tom, you, Benmont, Steve, Ron and Scott, and not forgetting Howie and Stan too. Your music will ALWAYS live on, because it's in our hearts and souls, and we pass it on to each new generation, as I have done with my son. I know how I feel about Tom passing, so I cannot even begin to image your grief and pain. Sending you and Marcie, all the guys, Dana, and all the family, lots of hugs, and much love. - Sue xx
Mike, thanks so much for doing this interview. I loved Tom's music but I also loved the whole band. Tom is gone but he will never be forgotten. I sing his songs almost everyday. I speak only for myself, as you always say Mike. I think most of us really need to hear from everyone in the band. Benmont, Scott, Ron, Steve, we care about all of you or at least I do. Please don't shut us out. I can't & T think none of us can, just leave the remaining band members. Jesus, I can't leave Ringo & Paul. We still care, very much. Again, I speak only for myself
😭 tears
The world will not be the same, ever!
Its march of 2018 and I still cry, my heart still hurts, Mike you are amazing , 🙏 and thanks for sharing ..
Heartbroken 😞 ❤️
Mike is so right, they were a great band and made some great music. Tom had a great life but left far too soon but he wont ever be forgotten because their music will live on and on. So sorry for Tom's lovely wife and children and of course his friends and the band mates, sad, sad time for them
Damn I still can't believe he's gone
I am a huge Tom Petty fan. As a fellow songwriter, I am in awe of his catalog of work. I was a radio DJ when The Heartbreakers began. One of my badges of honor was that, I actually GOT FIRED for PLAYING Tom Petty on the radio. Between the first two records, Shelter Records (his first label) released a radio promo live EP "Live 'Leg" that was recorded live in Boston. It had a B&W cover with Tom in a black leather jacket and bullets. For some reason, my Program Director decided it was "punk rock." I played "Fooled Again" on my show and the next day I was told, "I said NO punk rock...you're fired." I argued that Tom Petty isn't punk rock but I got booted. Fortunately, I had the top ratings in my time slot in the city, so the next day the general manager hired me back. When I started my show that night, I followed the PD who had fired me. He wasn't happy that I went over his head and had been rehired. And the first sone I played was "Fooled Again"...that I had been fired for olaying the night before. It was the ultimate F.U....and after that, it was cool for the entire air staff to play Tom Petty. Then a few years later, my own band had an album on the radio and we had a new member from the midwest who played keys/rhythm guitar and sang.....she ended up leaving to sing backup with John Mellancamp and THEN with the Heartbreakers at "Live Aid" and on the "Pack Up the Plantation" tour, etc. The another guy I had played with for years in the '70s, who recently refound me again, had Stan Lynch play drums on his last CD. I told him it was a small world because I ended up with a few of Howie Epstein's basses and his favorite Telecaster p, after he passed away. So, besides loving Tom Petty's music, I have had a number of chance intertwinings that have made the music even more personal for me. The night he died, my close friend and drummer I olayed with for more than a decade but hadn't spoken with in years, called me in NYC at 2 a.m. from AZ, just knowing I would be broken up from his passing. We spoke for two hours catching up. Thanks for all that, Tom.
What a great story! Thanks so much for sharing. I'm still in such pain over his loss. And Fooled Again is my favorite song - just love to keep watching him sing it over again --- how I regret I never figured out how to become a backup singer for his band XOXOOXOXOXOXOXO
Epic
Mike Campbell ...I love love love your music ...your skills and your heart ...EVERY WORD YOU SAID SPOKEN TRUTH...
...and the soul can say it all, thankfully he was able to connect us all!
Thank you, Mike. Peace to you and the rest of the Heartbreakers.
Love and light Mike! Keepin you all in my prayers!
I saw him in Atlanta on this tour! I'm just in shock. Have been listening to him since the 70's! I'm so glad that I got to see the band this tour! Their songs are timeless!!
I was there, too, Donna. Great concert! So happy I got to see Tom's last tour.
No better band in the world! I miss Tom too!
Most underrated guitar player ever
Damn right
Couldn’t agree more...
He isn't, never was
Everyone who knows guitarplaying can' t underrate him anyway.
Tastefull playing just that what the song needs, never a poser like
"hey look at me how great I can play".
Those guys are never underrated, not by fans or musicians.
One of my favourite Tom Petty Mike Campbell stories was over the track "Walkin' From The Fire". I'm pasting that section here: [Campbell did have a particular memory of cutting this one in ’84. “I listened to the words and I said to Tom, ‘Don’t you think he’d be running from the fire?’ And he just looked at me and said, ‘Shut up.’”] (-:
When I had George Gruhn appraise my wrap tail gold top a few years ago, the older friendly sales guy with the wild hair and eyes asked me what I played it through. I told him I used a couple of old blackface Princeton Reverbs. He smiled and said, "Ahh, Mike Campbell". I said, " What a great player". He replied, " and he's a good guy, too". It's always good to hear that's the case with one of your guitar heroes. R.I.P. Tom, you and Mike have left a tremendous legacy for us all to enjoy.
so glad I came upon this interview...so great to hear the sincere reaction of a good friend
Broke my heart when Tom Petty died.
Scott Myers - Indeed, alot of hearts broke. Good looking dog you've got.
Amen brother. I was told @ work with a counter full of people, and had to take a minute of silence to recover. It hit me harder than any rock and roll death.
Tom Petty was my most favored rock group. So sad to see this happen. Mike thank you for being part of the Heart breakers group. You are an awesome guitar player. I wish I had your knowledge in playing guitar. Thank you for being apart of my most favored rock group ever. I grew up with you guys. Sucks....
Mike Campbell is Class as a person and Guitarist. The night Tom passed my phone wouldn't stop ringing. What was so beautiful about it was the fact it was so many of my daughters friends. They would come to our house and hear Tom and Heartbreak erstwhile they were here. I felt so gd they were still listening to the music. it had made an impact. That my friends is a Great Band. miss u Tom but u play all the time I in quiet a few places in England we loved u. Sue Maher
Oh Mike. I will make sure your songs are passed on. To my grandsons. And they will pass them on.
Mike camble is theeeee most underrated guitar player of all time.i seen them in Charlotte and Raleigh n.c. and he is magical,I've love tom petty and the heart breakers first heard them 1978 driving home and American girl came on,I turned it up and loved them ever since. I play bass by myself to my tom petty collection I have for years it is better than any antidepressant ever prescribed.as many have acknowledged there will never b another moment in time that rocked me from 78 to 2017,love u rip.
All of the Beatles individually liked Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, that says it all.
Love you Mike, you are an incredible talent! God bless you. The story of how you got to together is amazeballs!
I'm so glad Mike Campbell I was hoping I would hear from you about your life with Tom and the band. You answered many curiosity questions about Tom. I know its not going to be easy but you can keep going Just Like Tom carried on With Music I hope u keep playing I'll be there too!!!
Thank you, Mike, for the beautiful interview. Take care. Be well.
The first song I learned to play all the way through properly as a guitarist was Break Down. that song alone was a big hit for them. It just shows that music is music. You don't have to shred, play 300 to 1000 notes a minute to be a good player. It's about a great melody line, great subject matter translated with few words and most of all a great over all sound.
Oh....Tom was the best...and The Heartbreakers are the most awesome "backing band" in the world. What a shocking loss :( Thanks Tom - you were my guy for ever, and always will be.
I'm so thankful to have had an opportunity to see Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers one last time before Tom passed. This interview is a reminder of what an awesome band of friends Tom had and the composure and class of Mike Campbell. I hope he finds a way to continue the legacy even though Tom is gone. My kids had become big fans of Tom Petty and Heartbreakers and I would like them to see or get to hear Mike Campbell and the rest of the Heartbreakers carry Tom's legacy on. Not sure how that could be done but would be a shame not to hear the original team of composers continue on as a tribute to one of the greatest and most inspiring artists of our generation!
Thank you Mike. You have been my favorite guitarist, since before I even started playing. Best of luck in the future. I know you have an amazing amount of music left in you. God bless you Mike.
So sorry for your loss Mike and ours too xo
Tom Petty. Rock Legend and musical genius. The nicest man I ever met back in 1990.
Great guy. Great friend. Great Band...
It's hard to lose someone who is a rock solid friend -hard to come by
Like Tom ..Mike was a constant presence especially for me as a wanna be guitar player since I was a kid . Love all the Heart breakers forever.
I am sorry still to everybody in the world, especially his family and band. I am a firefighter who acted on stage here in Chicago. Picked up the guitar at 49 when I was injured. hacking away. Tom was coming to Wrigley where I was on Engine 78. From the minute I purchased the ticket something clicked in my head that said....you have seen Tom Petty 9 times start playing some of his songs....my guitar began to speak.....and still I can't....that night....there was evil in the air, and Toms energy just didn't want to be here any more and left. We must remember that night in Vegas. In my heart I know Tom turned on the tv like me, and didn't want to be here.
Thank you for posting this! While Tom was a force of his own - it never would have been the same w/o Mike & the Heartbreakers. Mike said it best "Tom knew there was magic in this band".
How difficult and courageous for the ultimately most shy member of the Heartbreakers to come forward and share Tom's glowing heart with us so unselfishly. Mike, my heart is bruised but not broken...as you've promised to keep moving forward for us..and in return, we will carry you when you have the need to be lifted up. God bless, my friend.
SA spinks
We all knew it.
Mayoff - You are so right Jack. Well said.
I watch the movie “Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers“ by Peter Bogdanovich every morning when I work out. 1/2 one morning and 1/2 the next. Thanks Mike. Greetings from Sacramento California Mike
cd player in my car has been non stop #1 from my Playback box set what a fantastic musician and writer God Bless Tom