Gary Miller/Getty ImagesTom Petty‘s unexpected death on Monday at the age of 66 has left the music world heartbroken. A growing number of artists have issued statements or posted messages on social media paying tribute to Petty, including friends, collaborators and associates, as well as musicians who were inspired and influenced by the lauded singer/songwriter.
After news first broke of Petty’s passing, his friend and one-time Traveling Wilburys band mate Bob Dylan told Rolling Stone, “It’s shocking, crushing news. I thought the world of Tom. He was great performer, full of the light, a friend, and I’ll never forget him.”
Ex-Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, who played on a song on Petty and The Heartbreakers‘ 1996 soundtrack to the film She’s the One, tweeted, “God bless Tom Petty peace and love to his family I’m sure going to miss you Tom.”
Here are some of the many other messages paying tribute to Petty:
Mick Jagger: So sad about Tom Petty, he made some great music. Thoughts are with his family.
Peter Gabriel: Very sad to say goodbye to Tom Petty, he was a kind and generous man, an excellent musician and writer and we had daughters who have grown up together since their friendship at Sarah Lawrence College.
Ex-Eagles guitarist Don Felder: It is with a shattered heart that I write this post. Tommy’s passing feels like I’ve lost a little brother. Growing up together in Gainesville and seeing one of my students blossom as an incredibly gifted musician and songwriter has been one of my most fulfilling experiences in this life. It was obvious very early on in his career that his talent, magnetism and charisma were a very special gift that few souls in this world are given. He has given this world so many wonderful memories and touched millions with his magic. Gone far too soon. May he rest in peace knowing how much he is loved and appreciated by all of us that are left behind.
Joe Walsh: SAD SAD. day. I just heard Tom passed. One of the great ones. Thank you for all the great music T- Rest in peace.
Jon Bon Jovi: I’m crushed… Praying for all those affected by Vegas…And now the loss of one of my great influences Tom Petty.
KISS‘ Paul Stanley: No! We have lost Tom Petty. From our opening act in the seventies to becoming a brilliant songwriter and performer I have loved his music.
Peter Frampton: I can’t believe we have lost Tom Petty on this already horrible day. My love to his wife & children and the entire Heartbreaker family.
Steven Van Zandt: Man this cannot be happening. Not Tom Petty please. Our deepest love and condolences to his family and band. A brother and true believer.
Bryan Adams: RIP Tom Petty. Thanks for all the great rockin’ music, hard to believe you’re gone.
Sheryl Crow: This is unbearable. Vegas and now a great music hero has passed. You brought us so much joy, @tompetty. We will miss you.
Greg Harris, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame CEO: Tom Petty made us all believe by singing about ordinary experience in an extraordinary way. His vocals captured our soul with songs that sounded like hits the first time we heard them. He made his mark on music and our lives.
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