On This Day in 2017: Rock Legend Tom Petty Died at 66, Leaving Behind 16 Billboard Hits and 3 Top 10 Classics
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A Legend Passes Away
On October 2, 2017, Tom Petty, the rock icon behind The Heartbreakers and a string of solo hits, died at the age of 66. He had achieved sixteen Billboard Top 40 hits from 1978 to 1995, and three of his songs—“Don’t Do Me Like That” (#10), “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” (a duet with Stevie Nicks, #3), and “Free Fallin’” (#7)—made it into the Top 10.
Petty’s death was blamed on multi-system organ failure, a complication following resuscitated cardiac arrest. His career spanned decades of influence across rock, folk, and heartland styles, and his passing left fans and fellow musicians alike mourning a unique voice.
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A Career Defined by Hits and Heart
His chart legacy tells part of the story. “Don’t Do Me Like That,” originally from Damn the Torpedoes, cracked the Top 10, joining other major Petty singles on the charts. His collaboration with Stevie Nicks, “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around,” remains one of his most enduring duets. Free Fallin’, off his solo work, became an instant classic and one of his signature songs.
Beyond chart numbers, Petty was known for his consistent thematic approach: the struggles of day-to-day life, longing, reflection, and Americana. He balanced catchy melodies with honest lyrics, and his songs remain a bridge between rock’s golden age and modern listeners.
Final Moments and Legacy
The last concert Petty played was September 25, 2017, closing out The Heartbreakers’ 40th-anniversary tour at the Hollywood Bowl. The encore included “You Wreck Me” and “American Girl,” with Petty offering heartfelt thanks to the audience: “God bless you! Goodnight!” One week later, his life was tragically cut short.
In the wake of his death, multiple Petty albums—especially Greatest Hits—surged back onto the charts, a reminder of the public’s continuous affection for his work.
Remembering Through Music
Petty’s catalogue is rich and varied. “American Girl” became a classic beyond its original chart reach, resonating long after it first released. Even as he passed, his influence was felt across the industry, and tribute performances poured in.
He was more than just a hitmaker; he was a storyteller, a bandleader, and a steady presence in rock music. Songs like “Free Fallin’” and “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” continue to connect with listeners for their emotional clarity and musical craft.
His passing did not end his influence. Petty’s work remains central in rock radio, streaming, and in the hearts of fans who feel his music never left them.
