The music world has lost another one. This time, it's rock and roll icon Tom Petty, who was recently pronounced dead at 66, as reported by CBS. TMZ initially broke the story that on Sunday night, Petty was rushed to the hospital after being found in cardiac arrest, not breathing. TMZ later updated their report, stating that the decision had been made to pull Petty off life support, after he showed no sign of brain activity in over twenty-five minutes.
Petty's death marks the end of a legendary career, which kicked off in the 1970's. You might know some of his bigger hits, like "Freefallin'," "Won't Back Down," or "Runnin' Down A Dream," which might be familiar to anyone who played Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas. Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2002.
For anyone who followed Tom Petty, his sudden death may come as a surprise. Petty had recently wrapped up a massive tour in honor of the band's fortieth anniversary, which wrapped up last Monday with a a third consecutive sold out show at the Hollywood Bowl. The tour featured fifty three stops, and Tom previously told Rolling Stone magazine that he felt it would be his band's last hurrah:
"It's very likely we'll keep playing, but will we take on 50 shows in one tour? I don't think so. I'd be lying if I didn't say I was thinking this might be the last big one. We're all on the backside of our sixties. I have a granddaughter now I'd like to see as much as I can. I don't want to spend my life on the road. This tour will take me away for four months. With a little kid, that's a lot of time."
Whether or not you're familiar with his music, there's no doubt that Tom Petty's death will be felt throughout all corners of the musical community. It's sad to hear him reflect on his desire to spend more time with his granddaughter, a wish which will never come to fruition. Rest In Peace to Tom Petty, and condolences to his family and loved ones.