From American Songwriter · Chris Piner · · 40s
Mike Campbell on Tom Petty's Lasting Presence
Mike Campbell says Tom Petty's spirit guides him nine years after his death.
In brief
Mike Campbell says Tom Petty's spirit guides him nine years after his death. Mike Campbell still feels Tom Petty's presence nine years after his death, using Heartbreakers songs to cope with grief. Originally reported by American Songwriter.
Tom Petty's death
Mike Campbell says Tom Petty died on October 2, 2017, at 66 after a fractured hip.
Campbell's career after Petty
Campbell performed with Fleetwood Mac and his band the Dirty Knobs after Petty's death.
Petty's influence on Campbell
Campbell recalls Petty as a 'hippie dude' with a swagger who inspired their music dreams.
“Tom was instantly unforgettable. Of course, he had the long blond hair, but he also had a swagger.”
Campbell's lasting connection
Campbell feels Petty's spirit beside him, using Heartbreakers songs to cope with grief.
“I can’t believe it’s nine years. But as time goes on I’ve dealt with the grief better.”
The one thing
Mike Campbell still feels Tom Petty's presence nine years after his death, using Heartbreakers songs to cope with grief.
