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100's Of Free Demos & Chord Sheets

Best Songs Of
Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers
On The Acoustic

Best Songs Of Tom Petty

Here on this best songs of Tom Petty page you'll find a collection of full lesson tutorials available for purchase along with several free chord sheets in pdf format. I'm also using some Tom Petty album covers to indicate which album the songs reside.

This demo video at the top of this page is an overview of the songs I have lessons on.




Jump links to quickly access to these sections.


Best Songs Of Tom Petty
Chords, Lyrics, Rhythm Tips, Tutorials

1. American Girl

american girl tom petty

American Girl was released by Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers in 1976 as part of their first album, also named "Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers." The album came out on November 9, 1976. Although the album didn't become a huge hit right away, it marked the beginning of Tom Petty's successful music career.

The song "American Girl" is special. Even though it didn't become super popular at first, it turned into one of Tom Petty's most well-loved songs over time. People really liked its catchy guitar and the way Tom Petty sang with a lot of feeling.

"American Girl" is famous for more than just being a good song. It influenced many other musicians and has been used in movies and TV shows. One notable use is in the ending scenes of the movie "The Silence of the Lambs" in 1991, which made the song even more well-known.

"Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers" is an important album in Tom Petty's music journey. It captures the energy of rock music in the late 1970s. Songs like "American Girl" played a big role in making Tom Petty a respected and successful figure in the world of rock and roll.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm: down up down up - up down up - up down up down up down up and repeat as a shuffle
  • Picking: no a few riffs into the rhythm
  • Chords: D, E, G, A, Em, Bm, Dsus
Chords & Lyrics
 

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2. Breakdown

breakdown by tom petty

Breakdown was released in 1976 as part of their first album, also named "Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers." The album came out on November 9, 1976. Although the album didn't become a huge hit right away, it got praise for its raw and lively rock music.

"Breakdown" is a famous song from the album. Even though it didn't do great on the charts at first, it became really popular later on. People liked the catchy music and the way Tom Petty sang with a lot of feeling.

Something interesting about "Breakdown" is that it was released again as a single in 1977, and this time it did better on the charts, reaching No. 40 on the Billboard Hot 100. This helped Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers get more attention.

"Breakdown" is still a well-loved song today and is considered one of Tom Petty's classics. It played a big part in making Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers famous in the rock music scene of the late 1970s.

Download the free Tom Petty Breakdown lyrics below.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm: down down up up down up and repeat
  • Picking: Yes
  • Chords: Am, G, F
Chords & Lyrics
 

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3. Change Of Heart

tom petty change of heart

Change Of Heart was one of three singles released from the 1983 album Long After Dark.

That album was released on November 2, 1982. This fifth studio album showcased a blend of rock and new wave influences, illustrating Tom Petty's versatility as both a songwriter and performer. "Long After Dark" achieved commercial success, reaching No. 9 on the Billboard 200 chart.

One of the standout tracks from "Long After Dark" is "Change of Heart." The song reached #21 on the Billboard chart and #10 on the US Rock chart. 

The album as a whole marked a period of evolution for the Heartbreakers, incorporating elements of new wave and synthesizers while retaining their signature rock roots. Despite creative tensions during the recording process, "Long After Dark" stands as a testament to Tom Petty's willingness to experiment with different musical styles.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm: down down up down down up - up down up down up down up  -- and down-strokes in a few places
  • Picking: No
  • Chords: C, G, F, Am, Am/G, Gsus
Chords & Lyrics
 

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4. Don't Do Me Like That

dont do me like that tom petty

Don't Do Me Like That is a single from the bands album "Damm The Torpedos".

The album came out on October 19, 1979, and it did really well, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart. Despite facing some legal problems with their record label, Shelter Records, the band signed with MCA Records, and this album played a big role in making them a major name in rock music.

"Don't Do Me Like That" became one of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' most successful songs, reaching No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The catchy melody and Tom Petty's unique singing style made the song quite popular. The recording of "Damn the Torpedoes" faced challenges because of tensions between Petty and the record label, but despite that, the album received critical acclaim and is considered one of the greatest rock albums.

The success of "Damn the Torpedoes" marked a turning point in Tom Petty's career, establishing him and the Heartbreakers as significant figures in rock music. The album's enduring popularity showcases its timeless quality and its impact on the rock music scene of the late 1970s.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm:  down down down down down down up down up repeat
  • Picking: a few riffs
  • Chords: G, F, C, D, Em, Cm
Chords & Lyrics
 

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5. Free Fallin

tom petty free falling

Free Fallin is  from his solo album called "Full Moon Fever," which came out on April 24, 1989. The album did really well, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart, and it's one of Tom Petty's most successful solo works.

The song "Free Fallin'" is a big part of this success, reaching No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100. Tom Petty worked closely with Jeff Lynne, known for his work with Electric Light Orchestra, in producing the album.

The song has a famous acoustic guitar opening played by Tom Petty, making it easily recognizable. "Free Fallin'" is widely loved and has been covered by many artists. It's been featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials, becoming an iconic part of popular culture.

The song's enduring popularity has helped establish Tom Petty as a rock music icon, and "Full Moon Fever" remains one of his most celebrated albums.

Download the free Tom Petty Free Fallin chords and lyrics sheet below.

  • Drop D Tuning: Yes
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm: down down up down down up down up and repeat
  • Picking: a few riffs
  • Chords: D, G, A
Chords & Lyrics
 

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6. I Won't Back Down

i wont back down tom petty

I Won't Back Down is from his solo album "Full Moon Fever," released on April 24, 1989. This album was a huge success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart.

"I Won't Back Down" became one of the standout tracks from the album, known for its empowering lyrics and Tom Petty's distinctive voice. The single performed well on the charts, reaching No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song's message of resilience and determination resonated with many listeners. "Full Moon Fever" was produced by Jeff Lynne, and the collaboration between the two artists contributed to the album's timeless sound.

"I Won't Back Down" has since become an anthem of strength and has been widely covered and featured in various media, solidifying its place in the rock music landscape and contributing to Tom Petty's enduring legacy.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm: down down up down down up and repeat
  • Picking: a little in the rhythm
  • Chords: Em, D, G, C
Chords & Lyrics
 

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7. Into The Great Wide Open

tom petty great wide open

Into The Great Wide Open is a track from their album with the same title. The album hit the music scene on July 2, 1991, and it did quite well, reaching No. 13 on the Billboard 200 chart.

The song "Into The Great Wide Open" is a standout with its catchy tunes and Tom Petty's storytelling lyrics. Although the single didn't reach the top of the charts, it managed a #4 position on the US Rock charts and remains a favorite among fans.

The music video for the song is famous for its narrative featuring Johnny Depp and Faye Dunaway. Produced by Jeff Lynne alongside Tom Petty, the album reflects their successful collaboration.

"Into The Great Wide Open" showcases Tom Petty's talent for creating memorable rock tunes, and the album is admired for its musical quality and storytelling.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm: down down down down up -- then down down up down up  - and some shuffle strumming
  • Picking: a little
  • Chords: Em, Em/Db, Em/D, Em/C#, Am, Am/G, G, F, C, A, D
Chords & Lyrics
 

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8. Learning To Fly

learning to fly tom petty

Learning To Fly hails from their album "Into The Great Wide Open" in 1991. The album hit the music scene on July 2, 1991.

"Learning To Fly" became one of the most recognizable tracks from the album, known for its reflective lyrics and uplifting melody. The single achieved notable success, reaching No. 28 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song's metaphorical theme of "learning to fly" resonated with listeners and contributed to its enduring popularity. The music video for "Learning To Fly" is memorable, featuring imagery that complements the song's themes.

The album, produced by Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty, showcased their continued successful collaboration. "Learning To Fly" stands as a testament to Tom Petty's ability to craft emotionally resonant songs, and the album remains a significant chapter in the band's discography.

Download the free Tom Petty Learning To Fly lyrics below.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm: down up down up and repeat
  • Picking: No
  • Chords: C, F, Am, G
Chords & Lyrics
 

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9. Mary Jane's Last Dance

tom petty mary jane

Mary Jane's Last Dance was a  part of the "Greatest Hits" compilation album in 1993. This collection brought together some of the band's most iconic tracks, including new songs like "Mary Jane's Last Dance." The album was released on November 16, 1993, and it achieved significant success, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard 200 chart.

"Mary Jane's Last Dance" became one of the standout tracks on the album, known for its haunting melody and Tom Petty's distinctive vocals. The single itself performed well, reaching No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song's lyrics and music video, directed by Peyton Reed, added layers of interpretation to the narrative, making it memorable for fans. "Greatest Hits" served as a comprehensive showcase of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' musical journey up to that point, and "Mary Jane's Last Dance" contributed to the continued appreciation of the band's legacy.

It was recorded while the Wildflowers album was being recorded which would come out in 1994, but the success of the single made it a natural fit for this album.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm: down down up down up will work
  • Picking: Yes
  • Chords: Am, G, D/Gb, D7, Em, A
Chords & Lyrics
 

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10. Refugee

refugee tom petty

Refugee is one of three singles from the "Damm The Torpedos" album from 1979.  The album, which hit the shelves on October 19, 1979, marked a significant moment in Tom Petty's career.

"Damn the Torpedoes" was a huge success, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart.

"Refugee" emerged as one of the standout tracks, known for its energetic rock sound and poignant lyrics. The single performed well, reaching No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song, co-written by Petty and Mike Campbell, became one of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' signature tunes. "Refugee" and the success of "Damn the Torpedoes" solidified Tom Petty's position as a major force in the rock music landscape of the late 1970s.

This one was a #2 in Canada, #3 in New Zealand. Download the free Tom Petty Refugee lyrics below.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm: down down up down up down up and repeat
  • Picking: a few riffs
  • Chords: Gbm, A, E, D
Chords & Lyrics
 

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11. Running Down A Dream

running down a dream tom petty

Running Down A Dream is from Tom's solo album, "Full Moon Fever," which debuted on April 24. This album quickly rose to success, securing the third spot on the Billboard 200 chart.

"Running Down a Dream" stood out as a lead single and gained popularity, reaching No. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100. Written by Petty, Mike Campbell, and Jeff Lynne, the song is known for its compelling rhythm and memorable guitar riffs.

Collaborating with Lynne in both writing and production, the album showcased Petty's solo talents.

The music video for the song, with its captivating imagery, added to its acclaim. Overall, "Full Moon Fever" played a pivotal role in solidifying Tom Petty's solo career, highlighting his skillful songwriting and musical versatility.

The track also reached #23 in Canada.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm: down up down up in a steady shuffle
  • Picking: yes a little
  • Chords: E, D, G, A, C
Chords & Lyrics
 

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12. Stop Draggin My Heart Around

stop draggin my heart around tom petty

Stop Draggin My Heart Around was a duet with Tom Petty as the guest of Stevie Nicks for her 1981 album "Bella Donna" and it quickly climbed the charts, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart.

"Stop Draggin' My Heart Around" became a major hit, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song's success was notable as it marked a fusion of rock and pop elements, blending Petty's distinctive style with Nicks' captivating vocals.

This collaboration emerged from a mutual admiration between the two artists and showcased their ability to create a timeless and influential rock anthem. "Stop Draggin' My Heart Around" remains a classic duet, illustrating the powerful synergy between Tom Petty and Stevie Nicks during the early 1980s.The song reached #5 in Canada as well.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm: 1-2-up-down down up down up where 1-2 are arpeggio notes in the chord
  • Picking: Yes a little
  • Chords: A, C, G6, G, Em, D
Chords & Lyrics
 

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13. The Waiting

tom petty the waiting

The Waiting was the lead single from the album Hard Promises. This album made its debut on May 5, 1981, and it found considerable success, securing the fifth spot on the Billboard 200 chart.

"The Waiting" emerged as a standout track, celebrated for its catchy melody and Tom Petty's distinctive voice. The single achieved notable success, peaking at No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 but hit #1 on their newly created Rock charts.

An interesting aspect of "Hard Promises" was the album cover controversy, where Petty successfully opposed the record label's attempt to raise the album's price. Petty's resilience led to a victory, and the album retained its original title.

"The Waiting" stands as a timeless classic from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, showcasing their talent for creating enduring and impactful rock music. The song peaked at #6 in Canada. Download the free Tom Petty The Waiting lyrics below.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: 2nd fret
  • Rhythm: down down up down up down up and repeat -- some down-strokes
  • Picking: Yes
  • Chords: G, D/Gb, A, Bm, Gb
Chords & Lyrics
 

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14. Wildflowers

wildflowers by tom petty

Wildflowers is the title track of his second solo studio album, released in 1994. The album "Wildflowers" was well-received and showcased Petty's exploration of a more acoustic and introspective sound. Released on November 1, 1994, the album reached No. 8 on the Billboard 200 chart.

Although "Wildflowers" was not released as a single, it became one of the standout tracks on the album, admired for its poetic lyrics and melodic beauty. The song is often praised for its simplicity and emotional depth, resonating with listeners.

"Wildflowers" marked a significant chapter in Petty's solo career, and the album as a whole is considered a classic in his repertoire. Its enduring popularity and critical acclaim continue to reflect the timeless quality of Tom Petty's songwriting and musical artistry.

Download the free Tom Petty Wildflowers lyrics below.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: 5th fret
  • Rhythm: root down up down up down up and repeat
  • Picking: No
  • Chords: F, C, G, Em, Am, D
Chords & Lyrics
 

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15. Yer So Bad

tom petty yer so bad

Yer So Bad is a standout track from Tom Petty's solo album "Full Moon Fever," released in 1989. Rolling out on April 24 of that year, the album soared to No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking a significant triumph.

While "Yer So Bad" didn't reach the same chart heights as some other songs from the album, it was one of five singles released from the Full Moon River album  and this song peaked at #5 on the US Rock charts.

The collaboration between Petty and Jeff Lynne in producing the album brought forth a timeless and iconic sound. Known for its clever lyrics and humorous touch, "Yer So Bad" showcases Petty's songwriting prowess.

The success of "Full Moon Fever" played a pivotal role in establishing Tom Petty as a formidable solo artist, and the album continues to hold a revered place in the realm of rock music.

  • Drop D Tuning: No
  • Capo: No
  • Rhythm: root down up down up down up and repeat
  • Picking: yes into the rhythm
  • Chords: Am, D/Gb, G, Em, C, D
Chords & Lyrics
 

Jump To Top Of Best Songs Of Tom Petty

Thanks for stopping by my best songs of Tom Petty page. I hope you found some of the info here useful.


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