What's your favorite Tom Petty song? I love stuff like The Waiting, Here Comes My Girl, A Face In The Crowd and Southern Accents, but I could name a lot more. What are your favorites?
Hey Otis love what you do thank you. I've always said Tom did even the losers literally for me hahaha that one and here comes my girl are great ones and for some odd reason I love the apartment song haha have a great day
Kenny is an absolute freakshow, one of the most tasteful guys around. The first two times I saw Kenny was on Lucinda's "Car Wheels" tour and then I moved up to Nashville for 13 years and I'd go see Kenny play at Robert's every chance I got. It blew my mind that you could walk in on a weeknight, pay no cover, sit at the bar and drink your beer and eat your cheeseburger while this fire-breathing monster was killing everyone in the room.
@rob lagan here is a fantastic video with some fantastic stories about Clarence White and the tour with Marty Stuart. th-cam.com/video/6LMSt2dOP8w/w-d-xo.html
Loving your channel. I was never really a big Tom Petty fan until I saw him live. I went to see The Replacements open for him. The Replacements were great, but only a few of us in the audience cared. Then Tom and the Heartbreakers came out and played an amazing show. Mike Campbell has beeen one of my favorite guitar players ever since. Went on to see Tom 2 more times. Always put on a great show...
Great interview. Every story I’ve heard about Tom Petty has had nothing but praise for the man. A great song writer and performer, and most of all, a kind and good man . Thank you.
"I first met Tom when I was opening some shows for him back in 1999. After a couple of shows he could see that the audience wasn’t exactly being receptive and so one night, much to my surprise, he went out and introduced me before the show, telling the audience they needed to listen. That says so much about who he was - and who he was to me. We were on our way to becoming lifelong friends." -Lucinda Williams facebook.com/12788249188/photos/a.426690129188/10155857719414189/?type=3
I like Lucinda story about how Tom went out front and told the audience to listen to her because he thought she was real good. She was in tears when she told it on the TP tribute October 2020
@@jamesgibson7207 “Have you heard Lucinda’s new album? Man, it’s really good man. It’s the only thing I’ve heard for a while that’s worth a shit.”- Tom Petty
I love Lucinda's music. Been strumming Blue the past few days. Beautiful song. A friend introduced me to her music a few years ago and I couldn't get enough after that. It's a shame she doesn't get more recognition. She is truly a female Bob Dylan. She's country like Bob Dylan is country, which is what I like. Love the rock guitar counter points to her songs and she writes great lyrics. Like the video, BTW.
Kenny Vaughn is just an amazing guitarist, he is also just a great man to listen to. I have been paying attention to him since the first time I saw him. He rules the telecaster, just rules it.
Agree 100%! Kenny could write a book of his experiences that would be tasteful and from the heart. The grilling hotdogs and hanging out story brings me to tears and makes me laugh all at the sametime. Beautiful!
Otis, thank you so much for this. I don't think I'll ever get over Tom's early and unexpected departure. Any little peek into his life is greatly appreciated. Regarding your question: To me, Southern Accents, the album and the song, are vastly underrated and misunderstood. Tom Petty has a way of diving into emotions, and never more than in this album and the title song.
That's how I discovered Lucinda (though my Mom had played Mary-Chapin Carpenter's version of "Passionate Kisses" ad nauseum, I didn't know Lucinda had written it until long after the fact).
Kenny is such a great guitarist. I've seem him with Marty Stuart and when Marty and the Byrds were doing the Sweethearts of the Rodeo tour a few years ago. Great story.
Mike Campbell said tonight at the show with Lucinda “ there is only one thing greater than a great guitar solo.. that’s two” as he burned down the house several times in tandem with some supernatural talent ..both bands brought magic to the show.. the slide guitar was pure joy tonight.. the pedal steel.. the sounds from the guitarists were otherworldly.. “Sidewinder” Chris Holt.. Doug Pettibone, Mathis .. everything about this show was classic.. Side note: my first poster as a kid was the Byrds “sweetheart of the rodeo”. This music drove me off “that sound” cliff.. most things pale in comparison.. must be the “Southern Accent”?
Cool video. I actually got to catch a show on that tour in Buffalo NY when I was a teenager. It was amazing and my introduction to Lucinda Williams. She fuckin' rules! Then, years later I got to see her open again for Tom at the Hollywood Bowl at what sadly ended up being Tom Petty's final show. That was a great night, they were both in top form. My favorites include Yer So Bad, Southern Accents, I Need to Know, Wildflowers, The Waiting and so many more
I'm from North Wales in the UK. I'd read about this band and ordered the record unheard (the only way to get new music back then) I became obsessed by it and played it to all my friends who gave it a lukewarm response - this was a era over overblown rock pomposity and TP & the Heartbreakers seemed like the perfect antidote to me. At the age of 17, I blagged my way onto a bus going to Knebworth Festival. Genesis were headlining and that seemed to be all anybody cared about. Sometime in the afternoon Colin (or hippy Col as he was known) suggested we try to get nearer the front and get some pictures - neither of us had a camera! As we were a bout thirty feet from the front these guys asked us if we wanted to sit down with them - they then proceeded to share everything they had with us - I never even found out their names - such cool people. Devo came on - I'd never even head them before and I was really getting into them when they were effectively bottled off. Then came Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers - it was in the middle of a hot sleepy afternoon and everybody was sleepy & stoned. Two songs later everybody was on their feet - they absolutely rocked it. I doubt I'll ever see anyone take a festival by the scruff of its neck like that again. Everybody wanted to borrow my record when I got back. I refused - I told them they should get their own copy and wear that out. I think the dirty energy that they had just kind of synced with the punk mood. That first album is still the one I go back to and I think every track has been my favourite at one time or another. Jefferson Starship were awful - the absence of Grace Slick I suppose, Genesis were Ok but it wasn't really my thing. When I got back I looked so rough (I'd barely eaten and I'd slept out in the open) my girlfriends mother, with whom I'd had a difficult relationship up to then, took pity on me made me some food and eventually became my mother-in-law.
My partner and I also play & sing 'Jug Band Music' to our Grand-daughter who loves it. I think Ramblin' is my favourite album but I'm going to give the others a looksee with the benefit of Spotify.
Tom Petty songs are the one thing we put on in my house and everyone loves it. I would have loved to have a cook out with Tom Petty and the Heart Breakers. They're just regular people with an extraordinary talents. RIP Tom you are very missed.
Dont know how you could ever pick a favorite.. I used to listen to his first two albums constantly on my walkman back in the fabulous 1970's. Those days seem like a dream, compared to nowadays....sigh...
Always loved Tom Petty. Got to see one of his last shows and was amazed by him and the band. Love southern accents. Mary Jane, breakdown, even the losers But love so many songs. Too many to pick a few I’d just list them all. He’s a great songwriter and a true rock n roller. Thanks as always Otis and thanks to KV.
Damn straight. Years ago I first saw her on Austin city limits. And once you see her and hear her once. You're screwed. You are so doomed. You are hers forever. Just like Tom Petty.
Southern Accents. Tom was my first concert Age 10 -- Columbia, SC 1985, or so. Blew my mind. These interviews and anecdotes and just incredible. What an outstanding job. I am sorry to be commenting so much -- but I feel like I found a bit of home on this crazy internet.
I saw Lucinda Williams during her "Car Wheels" tour in the fall of 1998 in L.A. Kenny's guitar playing really knocked me out. Lucinda and her band were on fire that night. One of the best concerts I've ever seen.
in 1989 I was struggling with my 13 year marriage, I was 38, on the cusp of losing my youth, and starting into a passionate affair with a recently divorced friend, and Tom Petty’s Full Moon Fever and “Love is a Long Road” is what ultimately saved me from walking away from my marriage and three kids; now 47 years married, three adult kids and three grandsons later, I think about the mistake I almost made…. Love IS a LONG road…….
Great clip Otis. Kenny is a natural storyteller, like you. I saw Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers on every tour to Toronto since 1987. Each show was amazing. A few of my favourite Tom songs include Don't Come Around Here No More, How Many More Days, Runnin' Down a Dream, Crawling Back to You, I Should Have Known It and many more. As for Lucinda, Lake Charles and The Ghost of Highway 20 are two off the top of my head that I love. Keep up the good work Otis!
I saw Marty Stuart & the Superlatives at the Gruene Music Fest at Gruene Hall.... Kenny came out after they were done and watched the other acts. I thought that was a cool move. No wonder Tom Petty & Co liked you.
A great interview, what a gentlemen. I first saw Kenny Vaughan backing Lucinda on the Car Wheels on a Gravel Road Tour in '98 I think. It was immediately apparent I was seeing a world class player. Funny enough I was thinking this morning what my favorite TP Song is, an impossible task. But if forced to choose: It's Good to Be King.
One he did was an old Cover with Traveling Wilburys No bodies Child. Such a sad song but If someone were to do a song from his library that is the one I would recommend to people to do. That song is probably one of the most covered from Hank Snow to Johnny Cash to Traveling Wilburys and I would do it more in the Style of Tom Petty singing the saddest parts. Only thing I would remove the Harmonica and have an Accordion player for that part.
My first record to ever own was Tom petty and I would play it over and over hours on end and Lucinda was later down the road both are amazing thanks y’all 🙏
That was awesome Otis,,, thanks ! I've never seen Kenny that laid back and relaxed before... His on stage persona is a little on the grim side,,, lol... I always knew that he must be a cool guy because he wouldn't be with Marty if he wasn't.
Tonight.. a beautiful night in Las Vegas.. Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs.. Lucinda Williams and her band.. September 20, 2024.. one of the most substantial and significant rock shows I’ve ever seen.. I am blown away.. it’s still hitting me.. I got a set list and a signature pick.. I got rocked.. brilliant originals.. blazing covers.. an evening with some really fun people.. I am booking another show now.. loved it. As for favorite Tom Petty songs.. like many people I love nearly everything he’s ever written.. I saw the making of the video “you wreck me”. Hearing Tom describe the decisions on putting that video together.. influenced me so much.. “You Wreck Me” raced out front as a favorite Petty tune after that.. I’ve adored so much from the early stuff throughout Heartbreaker’s most creative contributions.. Lucinda is such a badddazzzzzzzz… what a privilege to get to hear her sing the hits with both bands.. I can’t wait to see them again. Go.. you,ve gotta see this show.
Hey Otis! I really can't thank you enough for this interview. Not only is Kenny Vaughan one my guitar heroes, but to hear tales of getting to hang out with Tom Petty another huge influence on my reasons to attempt being a troubadour myself. There is no picking favorite songs, all I ever did was hit play and settle back. Otis, you're doing an incredible job keeping us all inspired....take care. Sincerely Dave Hedrush
Incredible look behind the scenes of a Tom Petty tour. I am off to explore Kenny's work. My favourite Tom Petty song is whatever one happens to playing in the moment. Lately, I can't stop listening to 'Crawling Back to You'. "Most things I worry about, never happen anyway." Take care Otis!
So let's stick to the matter Pack that spliff a little fatter And let's drive on up the street There's some place I need to be You don't know what it's like You don't know what it's like Being in my position
I became a fan of Kenny Vaughan when I saw him on Lucinda's ACL performance around the time of "Car Wheels". And he was very nice during a meet-n-greet after a Marty show here in Colorado many years later. Not only does he know how to play a guitar, he's a great storyteller.
I saw Tom in 95' - on the Dogs with Wings tour with my girlfriend at the time, when I was in High School. It was a beautiful, super hot Summer night, and they rocked so hard - and sounded so good - and it was just song after song of my girlfriend screaming, "Oh my gosh, I love this song." - and me going, "Yeah, I know." Haha. It's still, to this day, top 5 concerts I've ever seen - probably top 3 - and I've seen a lot. It was the best night of my teenage life - and a memory I'll always cherish. Tom and the Heartbreakers are in the rare category of bands that have written not one, but several timeless albums - in my opinion. Tom wrote great songs right up to the end. He never seemed to lose that teenage, rebel innocence about him, and I think that's why younger kids still listen to him. There are so many lesser known songs even, that have such simple but profound lines in them - it would be impossible to pick a favorite. I still love "Straight into Darkness", and "Have Love will Travel", and "Crawling Back to You" - and there's just too many to name. I love hearing stories about him and the band. They seemed like good guys.
@Otis Gibbs ... I’ve been a TP & The HB fan so long that it’s a ubiquitous slice of my existence. I first heard Breakdown on FM radio in late ‘76 and just had to know what band recorded that “anthem.” And boy, did I EVER find out! Nearly 46 years now...I own every Petty vinyl record album, nearly every 45rpm (domestic & import) that I could get my mitts on, and have seen him and the boys 40 or more times in his 40 years of touring, all the way from Gainesville FL to the Rose Bowl in Pasadena...I’ve got vintage concert merch that I’ve had to box up to make room for newer Petty merch... It’s just kinda special for me to know that he and his band mates grew up just up the road from me, in this godforsaken state that’s shaped like a dong...the talent, the volumes of incredible material...it’s just awe inspiring... p.s. I LOVED Hoosier National, Otis.
That was great. They did have that look & feel of being outside 'the Rock Star' crowd. I love that they were listening to the early Stones & blues guys. Sounds like my daily listening TODAY!! I had sort of guessed there would be a bunch of Beatles & Dylan songs in there , especially since G. Harrison & Dylan & Tom were in the Travelin' Wilburys. A great interview. Thanks to Kenny & you Otis. Well done.
I love the humility with which Kenny V says, 'For whatever reason, they invited me in'. Em, I think that will be because they knew Kenny is one amazing guitar player!!
A few years ago...at DelFest...Marty Stuart an The Fabulous Superlatives were about to take the stage...I had never listened to them & considered going back to the tent and getting a bite and beer...Kenny Vaughan's Rock-a-Billy guitar blew me away. Being a old deadhead taper going back an re-listening to that set is still one of my guilty pleasures...Tom Petty's "I need to know" had that desperate almost punk/new wave vibe. Love that song.
Tom never stopped putting out great music. His level of songwriting and performing never wavered, as some in his age bracket tend to do. Also that last Mudcrutch project was insanely good. Put it on and let it run through song for song!
My all time Tom Petty fave is "You Wreck Me". It's a Steve Young song on steroids. Going from the 9 down to the 4 and to the 1 is quintessential Outlaw Country. Especially Waylon. Which I suspect they got from all the blues guys and rockers back in the 50's and 60's. It's like that song "Rumble" but played over a Bo Diddly beat. One of the things I love about Tom is he wears his influences on his sleeve. He's derivative in the best meaning of the word. Thanks for the story Otis. God Bless you and Kousin Kenny!
I love love love Tom Petty And the Heartbreakers. Since 1979. There’s to many songs to pick from. I love the all. It all depends on my mood for the day. Today’s top pick for me is Swinging from the Echo album. Tomorrow is could be Saving Grace or Room at the Top. Or somewhere over Heaven from the new album Wildflowers & All The Rest. When Tom made his album Wildflowers he had to cut out a many songs cause the record company didn’t want to release a double album. Somewhere over heaven is 1 of the great songs that got left off. I really enjoyed this . Thank you.
Damn Otis, That was a great segment. I really enjoy Brother Kenny Vaughan. A superb guitarist in my book. I’ve been a fan of Marty’s since he was a kid. So my favorite TP&THB song is...... and this is real tough by the way🤔 but I’ll go with “Something big” from the “Hard promises” LP. Thanks Otis!🎶
The two best bands existing today are The Fabulous Superlatives and The Dirty Knobs. Favourite Tom Petty song? Has to be Something Big, from the Hard Promises album.
IT'S REALLY NICE TO HAVE A GUY THIS HUMBLE WHO IS REAL I KNOW WHAT HE TALKING ABOUT OPENING FOR BIG ACTS NOBODY'S SEEMS TO CARE EVEN WHEN YOUR PLAYING YOUR ASS OFF SO HEARING STORIES ABOUT ON. Guys like tom n mike is very nice shareing road. Stories. Thanks kenny
I grew up on early Petty, but like so many others who became big and popular, I felt the connection got lost after / around Hard Promises.But my first serious GF was a big fan,- in the face of all the Punk and New Wave going on,- and making out with her to Never Mind the Torpedos on a picnic table remains a fine memory. Special place reserved for TP, because he was that outsider, hard to easily categorize.
Hot Damn! I’ve never heard Cousin Kenny talk before. This was absolutely amazing. Could have listened to Kenny for hours. You keep topping yourself, Otis! Big fan, big fan.
These vignettes with Kenny are golden. I didn't know about Kenny until he started playing with Marty, but he's one of my all-time favorite guitar players. It's so great to see what a nice guy Kenny is.
After hearing Lucinda Williams I always felt she was the female version of Tom Petty. I thought they were a good match to be on tour together. Thanks for sharing this interview. Always interesting to hear the backstory of what went on.
Hey Otis - I was fortunate to meet Kenny at the Calgary Folk Fest a few years ago. We lamented over his time playing with Lu (who I also met a few years before this story) and I brought up the fact that I had a live Lucinda DVD that he was on. We went on to talk music, touring, songs and Harry Stinson. One of my favourite guitar players. Peace.
This was a great interview, reflecting on great artists! Thanks👍 I love all of Tom's songs, I always thought change of heart was a pretty cool tune! I suck as a guitarist ..but when I learn that riff , thought i was ready for the stage... Lol
If memory serves, I first heard the great Kenny Vaughan in late July 1987 when my wife and I went to the Washington County Fair in Hillsboro, Oregon to see The Sweethearts of the Rodeo for the first time. Their lead guitarist just blew me away with his talent, so I headed over to the autograph table after the show and asked Janis and Kristine where they found that great picker with the Buddy Holly glasses. They laughed and told me they stole him out of Denver, Colorado. Saw them a second time at Portland's "Country Music on the Waterfront" festival where I got to talk to Kenny as he packed up his gear following their set. The third time came in Sept. 1988 at Seattle's "Bumbershoot Arts Festival." Watching him play guitar for those sisters reminded me so much of hearing the great Albert Lee play for The Everly Brothers when their early '80s Reunion Tour performed at the Clark County Fair just north of Vancouver, Washington.
My friends and I always waited for the next Petty record....it was like a ride that would never end....then it did. Refugee because of a dancing moment in Berkeley at an out door gig with TP and Black Crowes....This woman and I just went mental....singing like we were on stage and screaming in each others smiling faces....but really I can throw on Petty for ages....the Fillmore Gigs....on and on...forever Tommy.
Tom Petty and Mike Campbell wrote some of the best most recognizable songs in RnR history. It's amazing the catalog. Even people that don't listen to RnR they KNOW the lyrics or the song and probably don't even know the band. It';s hard to call TP & Heartbreakers underrated but the catalog and career they had far exceeds that of even some of the most popular bands in history. Just check out that catalog of songs he/they have written. I am jealous and he did it for decades.
Fabulous interview ..only saw the Heartbreakers and Mudcruch once ...both great shows ...to date the Heartbreakers show was top 5 best shows ever. Five years ago my wife and I visited Nashville ..a friend told me to go see Kenny and Chris Skruggs at a small cafe on a Sunday night. Less than 40 or 50 in attendence. I had no idea who these guys were but what a show. The band played for Tips only. What a pleasure !
Born: Thomas Earl Petty, October 20, 1950, Gainesville, Florida Died: October 2, 2017, Santa Monica, California Cause of death: Accidental drug overdose
Hi from Belfast Otis, that brought a tear to my eye. Brilliant story. Got to see Tom Petty in Dublin about 9 years ago and he did not disappoint. Thank you for that video :-) I love Square One
What's your favorite Tom Petty song? I love stuff like The Waiting, Here Comes My Girl, A Face In The Crowd and Southern Accents, but I could name a lot more. What are your favorites?
Hey Otis love what you do thank you. I've always said Tom did even the losers literally for me hahaha that one and here comes my girl are great ones and for some odd reason I love the apartment song haha have a great day
@@drakesp9479 Thank you, Drake!
Free Fallin´ and Southern Accent. My favorites, but there is soo many.
@@ulfsvensson9710 you are so right too many to mention
The Wild One, Forever
Kenny is an absolute freakshow, one of the most tasteful guys around. The first two times I saw Kenny was on Lucinda's "Car Wheels" tour and then I moved up to Nashville for 13 years and I'd go see Kenny play at Robert's every chance I got. It blew my mind that you could walk in on a weeknight, pay no cover, sit at the bar and drink your beer and eat your cheeseburger while this fire-breathing monster was killing everyone in the room.
I've serviced audio equipment for decades but business is dead locally. I'd move to Nashville if I knew somebody there.
Yep. KV is one of the reasons I moved there. Wanted to play that kind of thing. He's killer
Please bring Kenny back and let him tell some stories about Marty Stuart and Johnny Cash. That would be awesome!
Kenny will definitely be back soon!
@@otisgibbs I'd love to hear about the tour Roger McGuinn and Chris Hillman.
That had to be a great experience for someone like Kenny Vaughn.
@rob lagan here is a fantastic video with some fantastic stories about Clarence White and the tour with Marty Stuart.
th-cam.com/video/6LMSt2dOP8w/w-d-xo.html
Loving your channel. I was never really a big Tom Petty fan until I saw him live. I went to see The Replacements open for him. The Replacements were great, but only a few of us in the audience cared. Then Tom and the Heartbreakers came out and played an amazing show. Mike Campbell has beeen one of my favorite guitar players ever since. Went on to see Tom 2 more times. Always put on a great show...
Great interview. Every story I’ve heard about Tom Petty has had nothing but praise for the man. A great song writer and performer, and most of all, a kind and good man . Thank you.
"I first met Tom when I was opening some shows for him back in 1999. After a couple of shows he could see that the audience wasn’t exactly being receptive and so one night, much to my surprise, he went out and introduced me before the show, telling the audience they needed to listen. That says so much about who he was - and who he was to me. We were on our way to becoming lifelong friends."
-Lucinda Williams
facebook.com/12788249188/photos/a.426690129188/10155857719414189/?type=3
I like Lucinda story about how Tom went out front and told the audience to listen to her because he thought she was real good. She was in tears when she told it on the TP tribute October 2020
Lucida is great I...
@@jamesgibson7207 “Have you heard Lucinda’s new album? Man, it’s really good man. It’s the only thing I’ve heard for a while that’s worth a shit.”- Tom Petty
I love Lucinda's music. Been strumming Blue the past few days. Beautiful song. A friend introduced me to her music a few years ago and I couldn't get enough after that. It's a shame she doesn't get more recognition. She is truly a female Bob Dylan. She's country like Bob Dylan is country, which is what I like. Love the rock guitar counter points to her songs and she writes great lyrics. Like the video, BTW.
Thank you, Jimmy!
She is above country.....
She is America!!!!!
Now more americana
Simply one of the best ever
Kenny Vaughn is just an amazing guitarist, he is also just a great man to listen to. I have been paying attention to him since the first time I saw him. He rules the telecaster, just rules it.
I agree 100%.
He’s the man.
good to know thanks for info
Agree 100%! Kenny could write a book of his experiences that would be tasteful and from the heart. The grilling hotdogs and hanging out story brings me to tears and makes me laugh all at the sametime. Beautiful!
@@allanhughes7859 ?
Otis, thank you so much for this. I don't think I'll ever get over Tom's early and unexpected departure. Any little peek into his life is greatly appreciated. Regarding your question: To me, Southern Accents, the album and the song, are vastly underrated and misunderstood. Tom Petty has a way of diving into emotions, and never more than in this album and the title song.
Great story R.I.P. Mr.Tom Petty🍻🇺🇸
Listen to Her Heart.. basically an A chord, but unbelievably presented..
Keep um coming Otis !
How cool is it one of the Superlatives stops over to chat !!!
Thank you, Kristopher!
btw.... Kenny is a super story teller. He's so down to earth and articulate. I love his narrative.
I'm with ya, Catheryn!
You ain't kidding. Kenny is pure GOLD, and so is this channel.
I loved his cover of Lucinda's song "Change The Locks".
That's how I discovered Lucinda (though my Mom had played Mary-Chapin Carpenter's version of "Passionate Kisses" ad nauseum, I didn't know Lucinda had written it until long after the fact).
Kenny is such a great guitarist. I've seem him with Marty Stuart and when Marty and the Byrds were doing the Sweethearts of the Rodeo tour a few years ago. Great story.
Mike Campbell said tonight at the show with Lucinda “ there is only one thing greater than a great guitar solo.. that’s two” as he burned down the house several times in tandem with some supernatural talent ..both bands brought magic to the show.. the slide guitar was pure joy tonight.. the pedal steel.. the sounds from the guitarists were otherworldly.. “Sidewinder” Chris Holt.. Doug Pettibone, Mathis .. everything about this show was classic..
Side note: my first poster as a kid was the Byrds “sweetheart of the rodeo”. This music drove me off “that sound” cliff.. most things pale in comparison.. must be the “Southern Accent”?
This is exactly how I hoped Tom was with people. Such a great story. Petty was a national treasure.
Thanks Michael!
Cool video. I actually got to catch a show on that tour in Buffalo NY when I was a teenager. It was amazing and my introduction to Lucinda Williams. She fuckin' rules! Then, years later I got to see her open again for Tom at the Hollywood Bowl at what sadly ended up being Tom Petty's final show. That was a great night, they were both in top form. My favorites include Yer So Bad, Southern Accents, I Need to Know, Wildflowers, The Waiting and so many more
Thank you, Scott!
I'm from North Wales in the UK. I'd read about this band and ordered the record unheard (the only way to get new music back then) I became obsessed by it and played it to all my friends who gave it a lukewarm response - this was a era over overblown rock pomposity and TP & the Heartbreakers seemed like the perfect antidote to me. At the age of 17, I blagged my way onto a bus going to Knebworth Festival. Genesis were headlining and that seemed to be all anybody cared about. Sometime in the afternoon Colin (or hippy Col as he was known) suggested we try to get nearer the front and get some pictures - neither of us had a camera! As we were a bout thirty feet from the front these guys asked us if we wanted to sit down with them - they then proceeded to share everything they had with us - I never even found out their names - such cool people. Devo came on - I'd never even head them before and I was really getting into them when they were effectively bottled off.
Then came Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers - it was in the middle of a hot sleepy afternoon and everybody was sleepy & stoned. Two songs later everybody was on their feet - they absolutely rocked it. I doubt I'll ever see anyone take a festival by the scruff of its neck like that again. Everybody wanted to borrow my record when I got back. I refused - I told them they should get their own copy and wear that out. I think the dirty energy that they had just kind of synced with the punk mood. That first album is still the one I go back to and I think every track has been my favourite at one time or another.
Jefferson Starship were awful - the absence of Grace Slick I suppose, Genesis were Ok but it wasn't really my thing. When I got back I looked so rough (I'd barely eaten and I'd slept out in the open) my girlfriends mother, with whom I'd had a difficult relationship up to then, took pity on me made me some food and eventually became my mother-in-law.
My partner and I also play & sing 'Jug Band Music' to our Grand-daughter who loves it. I think Ramblin' is my favourite album but I'm going to give the others a looksee with the benefit of Spotify.
Tom Petty songs are the one thing we put on in my house and everyone loves it. I would have loved to have a cook out with Tom Petty and the Heart Breakers. They're just regular people with an extraordinary talents. RIP Tom you are very missed.
Dont know how you could ever pick a favorite..
I used to listen to his first two albums constantly on my walkman back in the fabulous 1970's. Those days seem like a dream, compared to nowadays....sigh...
Always loved Tom Petty. Got to see one of his last shows and was amazed by him and the band. Love southern accents. Mary Jane, breakdown, even the losers But love so many songs. Too many to pick a few I’d just list them all. He’s a great songwriter and a true rock n roller. Thanks as always Otis and thanks to KV.
Kenny is one of the best all around players I've ever heard
I'm with ya, Scott!
can't think of a Petty song l don't like.
My favorite Tom Petty song is Southern Accents. His voice sounds just like an angels on this one.
The entire album "Southern Accents" is just brilliant. One of Petty's most underrated and greatest albums.
Off the top, from their early days, I always loved Mike's killer, bluesy riff on Breakdown...they have so many great ones!
I am a fan of Lucinda, more then 20 years and she gets better with years
Damn straight. Years ago I first saw her on Austin city limits. And once you see her and hear her once. You're screwed. You are so doomed. You are hers forever. Just like Tom Petty.
Southern Accents. Tom was my first concert Age 10 -- Columbia, SC 1985, or so. Blew my mind. These interviews and anecdotes and just incredible. What an outstanding job. I am sorry to be commenting so much -- but I feel like I found a bit of home on this crazy internet.
Thank you, John!
It's always great seeing Kenny. He Rocks.
I saw Lucinda Williams during her "Car Wheels" tour in the fall of 1998 in L.A. Kenny's guitar playing really knocked me out. Lucinda and her band were on fire that night. One of the best concerts I've ever seen.
in 1989 I was struggling with my 13 year marriage, I was 38, on the cusp of losing my youth, and starting into a passionate affair with a recently divorced friend, and Tom Petty’s Full Moon Fever and “Love is a Long Road” is what ultimately saved me from walking away from my marriage and three kids; now 47 years married, three adult kids and three grandsons later, I think about the mistake I almost made…. Love IS a LONG road…….
I just checked her Austin City Limits show from '98. Really good. Think that was Kenny there wasn't it? Whole group was on it.
Great clip Otis. Kenny is a natural storyteller, like you.
I saw Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers on every tour to Toronto since 1987. Each show was amazing. A few of my favourite Tom songs include Don't Come Around Here No More, How Many More Days, Runnin' Down a Dream, Crawling Back to You, I Should Have Known It and many more.
As for Lucinda, Lake Charles and The Ghost of Highway 20 are two off the top of my head that I love.
Keep up the good work Otis!
Good morning. "It's Good To Be King".
Same to ya, Greg!
One favorite song is "All You Can Carry" from Hypnotic Eye. Great album but that track I love.
Fantastic interview. Thanks Kenny and Otis.
I saw Marty Stuart & the Superlatives at the Gruene Music Fest at Gruene Hall.... Kenny came out after they were done and watched the other acts. I thought that was a cool move. No wonder Tom Petty & Co liked you.
More Kenny! Thanks OG!,... Kenny is an Amazing Player..
The whole Wildflowers Album was my favorite Tom Petty song. Love the rest, but that was his best.
The superlatives are one of the best American bands ever ..... Those guys can do anything ....
Free Fallin’ and his cover of Feel a whole Lot Better, both from that album, 1989 or about. Great video man.
I was fortunate to see Tom play at Deer Creek on his 40th anniversary tour, I’ll never forget how special that night was.
I saw that show.. right after 1994 “Wild Flowers” came out.. in September.. outside..
I saw Lucinda open for Tom Petty shes great live. Glad to hear her stroke recently doesnt seem to be very bad.
Oh no...
A great interview, what a gentlemen. I first saw Kenny Vaughan backing Lucinda on the Car Wheels on a Gravel Road Tour in '98 I think. It was immediately apparent I was seeing a world class player. Funny enough I was thinking this morning what my favorite TP Song is, an impossible task. But if forced to choose: It's Good to Be King.
One he did was an old Cover with Traveling Wilburys No bodies Child. Such a sad song but If someone were to do a song from his library that is the one I would recommend to people to do. That song is probably one of the most covered from Hank Snow to Johnny Cash to Traveling Wilburys and I would do it more in the Style of Tom Petty singing the saddest parts. Only thing I would remove the Harmonica and have an Accordion player for that part.
My first record to ever own was Tom petty and I would play it over and over hours on end and Lucinda was later down the road both are amazing thanks y’all 🙏
This story gave me chills. So awesome. Tom was, and will always be, the coolest.
That was awesome Otis,,, thanks !
I've never seen Kenny that laid back and relaxed before...
His on stage persona is a little on the grim side,,, lol...
I always knew that he must be a cool guy because he wouldn't be with Marty if he wasn't.
Thank you!
Tonight.. a beautiful night in Las Vegas.. Mike Campbell & The Dirty Knobs.. Lucinda Williams and her band.. September 20, 2024.. one of the most substantial and significant rock shows I’ve ever seen.. I am blown away.. it’s still hitting me.. I got a set list and a signature pick.. I got rocked.. brilliant originals.. blazing covers.. an evening with some really fun people.. I am booking another show now.. loved it.
As for favorite Tom Petty songs.. like many people I love nearly everything he’s ever written..
I saw the making of the video “you wreck me”. Hearing Tom describe the decisions on putting that video together.. influenced me so much.. “You Wreck Me” raced out front as a favorite Petty tune after that.. I’ve adored so much from the early stuff throughout Heartbreaker’s most creative contributions..
Lucinda is such a badddazzzzzzzz… what a privilege to get to hear her sing the hits with both bands.. I can’t wait to see them again. Go.. you,ve gotta see this show.
Saw them last night in Mesa, Az. I`m still processing just how special this tour is. Fantastic show!!
Great videos! Keep 'em comin'.
*Subscribed*
Hey Otis! I really can't thank you enough for this interview. Not only is Kenny Vaughan one my guitar heroes, but to hear tales of getting to hang out with Tom Petty another huge influence on my reasons to attempt being a troubadour myself. There is no picking favorite songs, all I ever did was hit play and settle back. Otis, you're doing an incredible job keeping us all inspired....take care. Sincerely Dave Hedrush
Thank you, David! There will be more Kenny videos in a couple of weeks. : )
Incredible look behind the scenes of a Tom Petty tour. I am off to explore Kenny's work. My favourite Tom Petty song is whatever one happens to playing in the moment. Lately, I can't stop listening to 'Crawling Back to You'. "Most things I worry about, never happen anyway." Take care Otis!
Thank you, Ted!
I think about that lyric when I’ve got something hanging over me. It holds true almost every time.
One of my favorite passages of all his songs.
I must've listened to Crawling back to you a hundred times the first time I heard it
1999 I went to see him for my graduation gift. Lucinda Williams was awesome and the whole concert was totally worth living thru school.
Great story, love hearing about Tom. Miss him lots. Thanks for sharing.
Favorite Tom Petty song. You don't know what it's like
you must mean 'You dont know how it feels'.
So let's stick to the matter
Pack that spliff a little fatter
And let's drive on up the street
There's some place I need to be
You don't know what it's like
You don't know what it's like
Being in my position
I'm in love, It's good to be king ( long version), Saving Grace, Power Drunk just a few. My very favorite " Oh Well" ✌ 💘
Cool story. I know that Tom loved Jimmy Reed and Slim Harpo. Just regular guys hanging out.
What a cool story! "American Girl" or "You don't know how it feels".
Thank you!
Saw Kenny with Lucinda and he was terrific,Cool cat!
My personal fave of Tom's is" The Last DJ" album great concept record and great tunes...
I became a fan of Kenny Vaughan when I saw him on Lucinda's ACL performance around the time of "Car Wheels". And he was very nice during a meet-n-greet after a Marty show here in Colorado many years later. Not only does he know how to play a guitar, he's a great storyteller.
I like his live versions of the Heartbreakers and Mudcrutch on Tom Petty radio SiriusXM.
Just found the station this past week and it’s amazing.
I saw Tom in 95' - on the Dogs with Wings tour with my girlfriend at the time, when I was in High School. It was a beautiful, super hot Summer night, and they rocked so hard - and sounded so good - and it was just song after song of my girlfriend screaming, "Oh my gosh, I love this song." - and me going, "Yeah, I know." Haha. It's still, to this day, top 5 concerts I've ever seen - probably top 3 - and I've seen a lot. It was the best night of my teenage life - and a memory I'll always cherish. Tom and the Heartbreakers are in the rare category of bands that have written not one, but several timeless albums - in my opinion. Tom wrote great songs right up to the end. He never seemed to lose that teenage, rebel innocence about him, and I think that's why younger kids still listen to him. There are so many lesser known songs even, that have such simple but profound lines in them - it would be impossible to pick a favorite. I still love "Straight into Darkness", and "Have Love will Travel", and "Crawling Back to You" - and there's just too many to name. I love hearing stories about him and the band. They seemed like good guys.
@Otis Gibbs ... I’ve been a TP & The HB fan so long that it’s a ubiquitous slice of my existence. I first heard Breakdown on FM radio in late ‘76 and just had to know what band recorded that “anthem.” And boy, did I EVER find out! Nearly 46 years now...I own every Petty vinyl record album, nearly every 45rpm (domestic & import) that I could get my mitts on, and have seen him and the boys 40 or more times in his 40 years of touring, all the way from Gainesville FL to the Rose Bowl in Pasadena...I’ve got vintage concert merch that I’ve had to box up to make room for newer Petty merch...
It’s just kinda special for me to know that he and his band mates grew up just up the road from me, in this godforsaken state that’s shaped like a dong...the talent, the volumes of incredible material...it’s just awe inspiring...
p.s. I LOVED Hoosier National, Otis.
Thank ya kindly and long live Tom! : )
My favourite tom petty song was walls. Saw him at Hyde Park and he played walls it was amazing. 2017
That was great. They did have that look & feel of being outside 'the Rock Star' crowd. I love that they were listening to the early Stones & blues guys. Sounds like my daily listening TODAY!! I had sort of guessed there would be a bunch of Beatles & Dylan songs in there , especially since G. Harrison & Dylan & Tom were in the Travelin' Wilburys. A great interview. Thanks to Kenny & you Otis. Well done.
Thank you, Buddy!
Is it possible to have 1 favourite TP song? Here is my top 5: Scare Easy, Waiting for Tonight, Restless, Crawling back to You, Rhino Skin
Rhino Skin! That whole record can make you grow a new layer for this world. Phew!
Great back stage stuff Otis. "Here comes my Girl" from the Heart of T. P.
I love the humility with which Kenny V says, 'For whatever reason, they invited me in'. Em, I think that will be because they knew Kenny is one amazing guitar player!!
Learning to Fly and Free Fallin'. Great interview. Thanks Otis.
Thanks, Bob!
I could listen to a Kenny story every day of my life. Well done Otis.
A few years ago...at DelFest...Marty Stuart an The Fabulous Superlatives were about to take the stage...I had never listened to them & considered going back to the tent and getting a bite and beer...Kenny Vaughan's Rock-a-Billy guitar blew me away. Being a old deadhead taper going back an re-listening to that set is still one of my guilty pleasures...Tom Petty's "I need to know" had that desperate almost punk/new wave vibe. Love that song.
Tom never stopped putting out great music. His level of songwriting and performing never wavered, as some in his age bracket tend to do. Also that last Mudcrutch project was insanely good. Put it on and let it run through song for song!
❤️ Kenny Vaughn ❤️ Kenny Vaughn, very cool Otis
I was on a mission, his last tour I was so compelled. I saw Tom Petty from the front row. One of my best decisions. Seattle ❤️
I love me some Kenny! : )
My all time Tom Petty fave is "You Wreck Me". It's a Steve Young song on steroids. Going from the 9 down to the 4 and to the 1 is quintessential Outlaw Country. Especially Waylon. Which I suspect they got from all the blues guys and rockers back in the 50's and 60's. It's like that song "Rumble" but played over a Bo Diddly beat.
One of the things I love about Tom is he wears his influences on his sleeve. He's derivative in the best meaning of the word.
Thanks for the story Otis. God Bless you and Kousin Kenny!
I love love love Tom Petty And the Heartbreakers. Since 1979. There’s to many songs to pick from. I love the all. It all depends on my mood for the day. Today’s top pick for me is Swinging from the Echo album. Tomorrow is could be Saving Grace or Room at the Top. Or somewhere over Heaven from the new album Wildflowers & All The Rest. When Tom made his album Wildflowers he had to cut out a many songs cause the record company didn’t want to release a double album. Somewhere over heaven is 1 of the great songs that got left off. I really enjoyed this . Thank you.
Damn Otis,
That was a great segment. I really enjoy Brother Kenny Vaughan. A superb guitarist in my book. I’ve been a fan of Marty’s since he was a kid. So my favorite TP&THB song is...... and this is real tough by the way🤔 but I’ll go with “Something big” from the “Hard promises” LP. Thanks Otis!🎶
Thank you!
The two best bands existing today are The Fabulous Superlatives and The Dirty Knobs.
Favourite Tom Petty song? Has to be Something Big, from the Hard Promises album.
there's a weed strain called lucinda Williams
IT'S REALLY NICE TO HAVE A GUY THIS HUMBLE WHO IS REAL I KNOW WHAT HE TALKING ABOUT OPENING FOR BIG ACTS NOBODY'S SEEMS TO CARE EVEN WHEN YOUR PLAYING YOUR ASS OFF SO HEARING STORIES ABOUT ON. Guys like tom n mike is very nice shareing road. Stories. Thanks kenny
I grew up on early Petty, but like so many others who became big and popular, I felt the connection got lost after / around Hard Promises.But my first serious GF was a big fan,- in the face of all the Punk and New Wave going on,- and making out with her to Never Mind the Torpedos on a picnic table remains a fine memory.
Special place reserved for TP, because he was that outsider, hard to easily categorize.
Hot Damn! I’ve never heard Cousin Kenny talk before. This was absolutely amazing. Could have listened to Kenny for hours. You keep topping yourself, Otis! Big fan, big fan.
Kenny is the best!
These vignettes with Kenny are golden. I didn't know about Kenny until he started playing with Marty, but he's one of my all-time favorite guitar players. It's so great to see what a nice guy Kenny is.
After hearing Lucinda Williams I always felt she was the female version of Tom Petty. I thought they were a good match to be on tour together.
Thanks for sharing this interview. Always interesting to hear the backstory of what went on.
Thank you, John!
Hey Otis - I was fortunate to meet Kenny at the Calgary Folk Fest a few years ago. We lamented over his time playing with Lu (who I also met a few years before this story) and I brought up the fact that I had a live Lucinda DVD that he was on. We went on to talk music, touring, songs and Harry Stinson. One of my favourite guitar players. Peace.
It's enjoyable to encounter a music topic video where the emphasis is on the telling, instead of the selling. Cool.
Stevie Winwood was the opener ??? 😱
This was a great interview, reflecting on great artists!
Thanks👍
I love all of Tom's songs,
I always thought change of heart was a pretty cool tune!
I suck as a guitarist ..but when I learn that riff , thought i was ready for the stage... Lol
If memory serves, I first heard the great Kenny Vaughan in late July 1987 when my wife and I went to the Washington County Fair in Hillsboro, Oregon to see The Sweethearts of the Rodeo for the first time. Their lead guitarist just blew me away with his talent, so I headed over to the autograph table after the show and asked Janis and Kristine where they found that great picker with the Buddy Holly glasses. They laughed and told me they stole him out of Denver, Colorado. Saw them a second time at Portland's "Country Music on the Waterfront" festival where I got to talk to Kenny as he packed up his gear following their set. The third time came in Sept. 1988 at Seattle's "Bumbershoot Arts Festival." Watching him play guitar for those sisters reminded me so much of hearing the great Albert Lee play for The Everly Brothers when their early '80s Reunion Tour performed at the Clark County Fair just north of Vancouver, Washington.
I actually had the great opportunity of attending one of those cook-outs out back in the hotel parking lot on the bands day off.
favorite tom and the HB'S right now "Letting you Go"
My friends and I always waited for the next Petty record....it was like a ride that would never end....then it did.
Refugee because of a dancing moment in Berkeley at an out door gig with TP and Black Crowes....This woman and I just went mental....singing like we were on stage and screaming in each others smiling faces....but really I can throw on Petty for ages....the Fillmore Gigs....on and on...forever Tommy.
Tom Petty and Mike Campbell wrote some of the best most recognizable songs in RnR history. It's amazing the catalog. Even people that don't listen to RnR they KNOW the lyrics or the song and probably don't even know the band. It';s hard to call TP & Heartbreakers underrated but the catalog and career they had far exceeds that of even some of the most popular bands in history. Just check out that catalog of songs he/they have written. I am jealous and he did it for decades.
Fabulous interview ..only saw the Heartbreakers and Mudcruch once ...both great shows ...to date the Heartbreakers show was top 5 best shows ever. Five years ago my wife and I visited Nashville ..a friend told me to go see Kenny and Chris Skruggs at a small cafe on a Sunday night. Less than 40 or 50 in attendence. I had no idea who these guys were but what a show. The band played for Tips only. What a pleasure !
Thank you, Sunny! I always recommend that Sunday, Chris Scruggs show and the Monday, Time Jumpers show to anyone visiting Nashville.
Born:
Thomas Earl Petty, October 20, 1950, Gainesville, Florida
Died:
October 2, 2017, Santa Monica, California
Cause of death:
Accidental drug overdose
Great vid...my fave TP song is You Wreck Me...or maybe Even The Losers...or Century City...or Honey Bee...or Listen To Her Heart...or Saving Grace,
Hi from Belfast Otis, that brought a tear to my eye. Brilliant story. Got to see Tom Petty in Dublin about 9 years ago and he did not disappoint. Thank you for that video :-) I love Square One
Thank you, Chris!
This was great to watch. Thanks for sharing.
Love You Kenny, Bless You for creating these Way fun Moments with Artists and Stories. Never Retire without contacting me 1st🤣😎💘
What a joy this reminiscence is! Thank you, Otis & Kenny!
They were friendly to you because you're a BADASS.... I never forgot you yo from that 98 car wheels tour....