Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

Biography

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers are an American rock band formed in 1976 by Tom Petty, Mike Campbell, and Benmont Tench, who were previously members of the band Mudcrutch. The group's lineup was completed by Ron Blair and Stan Lynch, contributing to their rise in popularity with hits like "American Girl," "Refugee," and "Don't Do Me Like That." Their critically acclaimed album "Damn the Torpedoes" solidified their status in rock music. Over the years, the band experienced lineup changes, including the departure of Blair in 1982 and Lynch in 1994, with Howie Epstein and Steve Ferrone joining respectively. In 2002, they released "The Last DJ," reflecting Petty's views on the music industry. The band continued to produce music and tour, with their album "Mojo" scheduled for release in 2010, followed by a North American tour. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers remain influential in the rock genre.