Music Biz Mourns the Loss of Rock Legend Tom Petty

Music Business Association President James Donio issued the following statement​ upon the death of Tom Petty:

“All of us at the Music Business Association, and the music industry as a whole, are devastated by the loss of Tom Petty. He passed away Monday night — far before his time, but leaving a stunning legacy of unforgettable songwriting, performance, and collaboration. For more than 40 years, Petty’s music dominated the airwaves and amphitheaters with hit after hit of defiant and catchy Rock ‘n Roll that everyone could relate or sing along to, and he always did it his way, without bending to industry norms or expectations. Whether he was performing in an intimate theater, at the Super Bowl halftime show, or in the studio with idols and peers like Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison and Stevie Nicks, Petty’s knack for combining melody with his unmistakable voice and attitude led to more than 80 million albums sold worldwide. The eulogies and remembrances that flowed in on Monday proved that Petty was a performer who brought music fans together from all ages, backgrounds and political leanings — a quite difficult feat in these challenging times. He will be sorely missed.”​