Day 4 - 278 -- Musical Giant exits

The musical world is mourning the loss of one of the greats -- Tom Petty. This singer, songwriter, and guitarist enjoyed respect from industry giants. His unassuming persona fed his songs about ordinary people and underdogs. Some of the most amazing lyrics came from his poetic nature. During his  career he fronted with two groups -- Mudcruch and the Heartbreakers. Later he joined the group began by George Harrison, the Travelling Wilburys, along with Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison and Jeff Lynne. He also released two major solo albums -- Full Moon Fever and Wildflowers. He toured with Bob Dylan, had a wonderful duet with Stevie Nicks and backed one of Johnny Cash's later albums.

Petty's approach to music was organic -- with songs arriving through him as a type of conduit from elsewhere. They arrived from places he did not fully understand, but were salient to listeners. His distinctive voice delivered the lyrics and melodies so well. His creativity will be sorely missed.

Choosing just one song wouldn't work today. I have two -- and even that was difficult. The first is from his solo album, Full Moon Fever (tonight is a full moon after all). The lyrics of this one seemed to catch me this week -- "I'm gonna free fall out into nothin'; gonna leave this world for a while."  The second selection was sung by all in the group -- it seemed a fitting farewell as the 3rd man exits the train. I think there would have been a great reunion concert with Orbison, Harrison, and Petty this week. <smile>  Enjoy!

Free Fallin' -- Tom Petty

End of the Line -- The Travelling Wilburys