‘Petty Country: A Country Music Celebration of Tom Petty,’ a tribute album curated by close friends and collaborators of the late rock icon, is now available via Big Machine Records in partnership with the Tom Petty Estate.
Executive produced by George Drakoulias alongside Randall Poster and Scott Borchetta, ‘Petty Country’ features interpretations of Petty’s beloved songs by country and Americana artists such as George Strait, Steve Earle, Willie Nelson with Lukas Nelson, Marty Stuart, and members of The Heartbreakers including Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench. Contemporary stars like Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton, Wynonna Judd, Carly Pearce, Lady A, Margo Price, Rhiannon Giddens, Thomas Rhett, and Lainey Wilson also contribute their renditions to honor Petty’s musical legacy.
Marty Stuart, reflecting on Petty’s songwriting prowess, remarked, “There’s a saying in Nashville ‘it all begins with a song.’ Well, in this case, it begins with the song and the songwriter. I don’t think anybody can challenge Tom Petty when it comes to songwriting.” Stuart emphasized Petty’s ability to transcend genres, blending Rock & Roll, Country, Gospel, and Folk with a unique magic that resonated deeply with audiences.
In conjunction with the album release, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum presents “Tom Petty: Where I Come From,” an exhibit exploring Petty’s southern roots and his enduring influence on country music. This special showcase, part of the museum’s acclaimed “Western Edge” exhibit, runs through summer 2025 and is included with museum admission.
Nashville recently paid tribute to Petty with ‘Petty Country, USA,’ transforming downtown into a celebration of his music from June 21-23. The event featured “Petty Power Hours” at numerous bars and honkytonks along Broadway, offering exclusive merchandise and more to commemorate the album’s release.
The tracklist for ‘Petty Country’ includes a diverse array of Petty’s hits reimagined by contemporary country artists, promising a heartfelt homage to one of music’s most influential figures.
