The other day I finished this wonderful bio / memoir by Mike Campbell, guitarist of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The book mainly focuses on the early part of his life and career as songwriter and guitarist of one of the most influential US bands.
Mike is very grateful coming from a poor family from Florida for everything he achieved in his career, this is emphasised throughout the book. From school to early mudcrutch career and eventually the move to LA, everything is described in a way that you cant put the book down. And once you get to the ‘Heartbreaker’ part of the story, you can listen to the albums as he describes how they were recorded and what the circumstances were.
Once the story gets to the 2000s or thereabouts the stories get somewhat shorter, otherwise this would have been a two volume book. I loved the side gigs as well, about performing on stage with George Harrison. Playing with Bob Dylan (not just in 1986 & 1987) but also farmaid 2023. And playing with Fleetwood Mac after Tom Petty died. Eventually continuing his own band the Dirty Knobs.
A very enjoyable read, even if you’re just remotely interested! He will surprise you!
Heartbreak on Goodreads for more reviews
