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
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 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
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 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!
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
Named my son after Tom. I loved Tom so very much, from about 75 when I heard American Girl on Radio Luxemburg..on a little blue Transistor radio in bed. Over the years I'd been to over 170 live dates, my first being Knebworth in 78. As with all, it's very hard to pick one song, but "Magnolia" would be at the tip of my list..thank you
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
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”?
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!!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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
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.
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.
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 didn't know Mike Campbell played on one of your records! That's super cool and you're gonna have to tell me about it next time I see ya. Much love to ya, Tim. : )
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.
Thanks Otis. Thank you Kenny. always loved Tom Petty. And Cousin Kenny I can listen to you play all day long and well into the night. Love listening to play with Marty. Y'all are an incredible talent thanks for the music.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Man oh man this is the heartfelt truth about being a musician. Great insight and you know how deep things can get when you want a little alone time for a nice steak dinner and great tasting wine but your friends con you into a memory that lasts forever. We hurt just anybody else and get lost just like anybody else. Wonderful interview.
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 !
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.
Thanks Otis !! Looking back on all my concerts over the years I have to say. From the Stones to Springsteen I been to several of each of these concerts but neither of these great bands could warm TomPetty and the Heartbreakers up bottom line. I saw Tom and the Heartbreakers sadly only 3 times once 20 years ago in KC then both his 40th anniversary shows in KC and. St. Louis I got a 3 rd row center stage ticket for St. Louis. Joe Walsh opened for him it was amazing absolutely Tom and the Heartbreakers were on point I mean the home of the St. Louis Blues was packed and Tom and the Heartbreakers came on stage with the amps turned up and played the best concert I ever witnessed. I got lucky and caught a guitar pic from Mike Campbell I cherish to this day. After the show hanging out with the lights on I spoke to some loyal fans from all over the country and several said it was the best. KC was awesome too . Tom left this world too soon it’s amazing how no matter weather it’s the grocery store or on a tractor listening to any radio Tom Pettys music plays. RIP Tom Petty. Can’t wait for these shows to open up Mike and his band the Dirty Knobs are top of the list. Thanks Otis
OTIS, that was miraculous timing to interview KENNY V. now. I had become convinced he is a genius/wildman. And I save every facebook release Mike Campbell makes with his cool guitars and hypnotic voice. No way to pick favorites of PETTY. In the late 1970s, nothing made dancing with the young ladies any easier than the Heartbreaker songs, heard in every San Diego bar, every damn weekend. "Break down, it's alright..." made their eyes sparkle. 42 years later, last week, I am listening to "Walls" on the "She's the One" album. Any of my attempts to play 12 string likely begin w/ echoes of his songs. Thanks boys. God bless the good guys on the outside.
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
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!
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!
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
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.
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.
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 🙏
It all depends on how I feel that day, but a song for every mood for sure. I saw Kenny with Marty and the Byrds with the Sweethearts of the rodeo thing, unbelieveable
Another awesome interview Otis! What Kenny was saying about Tom & Mike is so true, brother's to the bone were those two. I saw TP & THB's on the "Damn the Torpedo's" tour in 🤔.... 81-82ish. They played the Orange County Amphitheater, just next door to the old Orange County International dragstrip in Southern California. From my seat, up on the grass area, you could literally see the brotherhood between the band member's, but it was most evident between Tom & Mike, I've alway's viewed those two as Rock's version of Buck Owens & Don Rich, just musical soulmate's. It's such a rare thing to see, so it stick's out like a flashing neon light, it was a very cool thing to see & I'll never forget it. I've been lucky enough to see so many great act's live in concert, but two rise above the rest, one is TP & THB's & the other is the man himself, Elvis Presley, who I saw at the age of 10 in 72 & both when Elvis died & then when Tom passed, I felt ( and still do ) so grateful that I saw them live. RIP EP & TP 🙏 ✝️ 😞
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
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 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 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 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 ?
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 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
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!
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 story R.I.P. Mr.Tom Petty🍻🇺🇸
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.
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.
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...
Listen to Her Heart.. basically an A chord, but unbelievably presented..
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...
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.
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.
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.
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 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..
Good morning. "It's Good To Be King".
Same to ya, Greg!
Kenny is one of the best all around players I've ever heard
I'm with ya, Scott!
1999 I went to see him for my graduation gift. Lucinda Williams was awesome and the whole concert was totally worth living thru school.
Fantastic interview. Thanks Kenny and Otis.
This is exactly how I hoped Tom was with people. Such a great story. Petty was a national treasure.
Thanks Michael!
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.
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.
It's always great seeing Kenny. He Rocks.
Named my son after Tom. I loved Tom so very much, from about 75 when I heard American Girl on Radio Luxemburg..on a little blue Transistor radio in bed.
Over the years I'd been to over 170 live dates, my first being Knebworth in 78. As with all, it's very hard to pick one song, but "Magnolia" would be at the tip of my list..thank you
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!
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”?
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!!
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!
Great story, love hearing about Tom. Miss him lots. Thanks for sharing.
More Kenny! Thanks OG!,... Kenny is an Amazing Player..
I saw Lucinda open for Tom Petty shes great live. Glad to hear her stroke recently doesnt seem to be very bad.
Oh no...
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.
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!
Off the top, from their early days, I always loved Mike's killer, bluesy riff on Breakdown...they have so many great ones!
This story gave me chills. So awesome. Tom was, and will always be, the coolest.
Tom P. God bless him. one only few men that I know made Johnny cash n the 90s rock again!
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.
Keep um coming Otis !
How cool is it one of the Superlatives stops over to chat !!!
Thank you, Kristopher!
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 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.
Love Kenny, really enjoyed this one. Tom Petty is one of, if not THE best songwriters of our generation.
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.
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!
Couldn't agree more. A good one there. Kenny V. I feel lucky to have had both him and Mike Campbell playing on my records.
I didn't know Mike Campbell played on one of your records! That's super cool and you're gonna have to tell me about it next time I see ya. Much love to ya, Tim. : )
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.
Great back stage stuff Otis. "Here comes my Girl" from the Heart of T. P.
I love Tom Petty and I am a big fan of Kenny and his tele.a double whammy today Mr Otis! Favorite song; Mary Jane`s last dance.
Thank you!
I'm in love, It's good to be king ( long version), Saving Grace, Power Drunk just a few. My very favorite " Oh Well" ✌ 💘
Learning to Fly and Free Fallin'. Great interview. Thanks Otis.
Thanks, Bob!
❤️ 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! : )
Can't pick a favorite. I'm just glad I saw him twice in '99 at The Fillmore in SF.
favorite tom and the HB'S right now "Letting you Go"
Thanks Otis. Thank you Kenny. always loved Tom Petty. And Cousin Kenny I can listen to you play all day long and well into the night. Love listening to play with Marty. Y'all are an incredible talent thanks for the music.
Thanks, Danny!
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.
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!
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...
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.
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!
Man oh man this is the heartfelt truth about being a musician. Great insight and you know how deep things can get when you want a little alone time for a nice steak dinner and great tasting wine but your friends con you into a memory that lasts forever. We hurt just anybody else and get lost just like anybody else. Wonderful interview.
Free Fallin’ and his cover of Feel a whole Lot Better, both from that album, 1989 or about. Great video man.
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.
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.
This was great to watch. Thanks for sharing.
What a cool story! "American Girl" or "You don't know how it feels".
Thank you!
One favorite song is "All You Can Carry" from Hypnotic Eye. Great album but that track I love.
Thanks Otis !! Looking back on all my concerts over the years I have to say. From the Stones to Springsteen I been to several of each of these concerts but neither of these great bands could warm TomPetty and the Heartbreakers up bottom line. I saw Tom and the Heartbreakers sadly only 3 times once 20 years ago in KC then both his 40th anniversary shows in KC and. St. Louis I got a 3 rd row center stage ticket for St. Louis. Joe Walsh opened for him it was amazing absolutely Tom and the Heartbreakers were on point I mean the home of the St. Louis Blues was packed and Tom and the Heartbreakers came on stage with the amps turned up and played the best concert I ever witnessed. I got lucky and caught a guitar pic from Mike Campbell I cherish to this day. After the show hanging out with the lights on I spoke to some loyal fans from all over the country and several said it was the best. KC was awesome too . Tom left this world too soon it’s amazing how no matter weather it’s the grocery store or on a tractor listening to any radio Tom Pettys music plays. RIP Tom Petty. Can’t wait for these shows to open up Mike and his band the Dirty Knobs are top of the list. Thanks Otis
Thank you, Rusty!
OTIS, that was miraculous timing to interview KENNY V. now. I had become convinced he is a genius/wildman. And I save every facebook release Mike Campbell makes with his cool guitars and hypnotic voice. No way to pick favorites of PETTY. In the late 1970s, nothing made dancing with the young ladies any easier than the Heartbreaker songs, heard in every San Diego bar, every damn weekend. "Break down, it's alright..." made their eyes sparkle. 42 years later, last week, I am listening to "Walls" on the "She's the One" album. Any of my attempts to play 12 string likely begin w/ echoes of his songs. Thanks boys. God bless the good guys on the outside.
Thank you, Paul!
@@otisgibbs You need to push out some more recordings of YOU. Really man. Peace and best wishes.
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!
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
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!
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. : )
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!
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.
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.
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 🙏
It's enjoyable to encounter a music topic video where the emphasis is on the telling, instead of the selling. Cool.
Thanks, Kenny! Great story!!!
Awesome words with Mr. Vaughan... he is a fantastic talent himself.. I have nothing but respect for him :)
I love all of Tom’s song, but The Waiting is one of my Favorites. I really enjoyed hearing the stories about Tom, thanks,
Thank you, Laura!
The whole Wildflowers Album was my favorite Tom Petty song. Love the rest, but that was his best.
I love Kenny's open ness and honesty.
A cookout with Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers... oh hell yes! Sign me up!
Love You Kenny, Bless You for creating these Way fun Moments with Artists and Stories. Never Retire without contacting me 1st🤣😎💘
Kenny has some of the best stories! Really enjoyed his interviews.
Holy shit, Otis. That was fantastic. I could listen to KV for hours, love him. Xxx Frank
I love watching the Marty Stuart Show I Love The Way Kenny Plays
My favourite song might be Waiting for the Night. But there are too many to choose from. Driving Down to Georgia? Melinda? Great, great songs.
The superlatives are one of the best American bands ever ..... Those guys can do anything ....
It all depends on how I feel that day, but a song for every mood for sure. I saw Kenny with Marty and the Byrds with the Sweethearts of the rodeo thing, unbelieveable
Hell yeah!
This is a great listen as there is not a lot of behind the scenes anecdotes out there relating to Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers.
Thank you!
Another awesome interview Otis!
What Kenny was saying about Tom & Mike is so true, brother's to the bone were those two. I saw TP & THB's on the "Damn the Torpedo's" tour in 🤔.... 81-82ish. They played the Orange County Amphitheater, just next door to the old Orange County International dragstrip in Southern California. From my seat, up on the grass area, you could literally see the brotherhood between the band member's, but it was most evident between Tom & Mike, I've alway's viewed those two as Rock's version of Buck Owens & Don Rich, just musical soulmate's. It's such a rare thing to see, so it stick's out like a flashing neon light, it was a very cool thing to see & I'll never forget it. I've been lucky enough to see so many great act's live in concert, but two rise above the rest, one is TP & THB's & the other is the man himself, Elvis Presley, who I saw at the age of 10 in 72 & both when Elvis died & then when Tom passed, I felt ( and still do ) so grateful that I saw them live. RIP EP & TP 🙏 ✝️ 😞
Thanks for the stories Kenny. Love your channel Otis. Favorite Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers song is Dogs On The Run
Thank you, Derek!