Tom Petty: Rock ‘n’ Roll Guardian

by Andrea M. Rotondo

Tom Rock 'n' Roll Guardian is the first intimate portrait of one of rock’s most enduring figures. Songs like American Girl , The Waiting and I Won’t Back Down have touched people from all walks of life because he sung about what he knew – love won, love lost and hardship overcome.

Tom Petty’s predisposition to find trouble was always matched by his steely determination to overcome it. After shaky beginnings with his first band, Tom Petty steered his way through bankruptcy, drama and personal loss – including the deaths of his bandmates Roy Orbison, George Harrison and Heartbreakers bassist Howie Epstein – to forge a lasting impact on the world, selling more than 80 million records worldwide.

In the wake of his death, this celebratory Omnibus Enhanced edition now features curated Spotify playlists of his early influences, his collaborations and his greatest songs. Additionally, an interactive Digital Timeline of his life charts his uncertain path with video footage of interviews, live performances and more.

Born too late to be in the vanguard of rock ’n’ roll first time round, he has nonetheless proved a truly memorable keeper of the flame.

This is his remarkable story...

392 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 10, 2014

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 2 out of 5]

While it's clear the author is a dedicated fan, the book had too many inaccuracies, too much opinion, and too few actual source citations for me to fully enjoy it. If you want to learn more about Tom Petty's life, band and music, you're much better off with Warren Zanes' excellent "Petty" or Paul Zollo's "Conversations with Tom Petty."

[Karla · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this book would focus more on Tom and the band, and it did, however, there was so much explanations of songs that I didn’t expect and didn’t need that I would up skipping a few pages at a time as it was needless filler.

Overall, decent read, but sadly, with his passing, I’m sure there will be better biographies about him.

[Surfsup7 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written and a captivating read. It is incredible finding out more about his life and songs. I have increased my love of the music by understanding the origins.

[Conni jørgensen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Egentlig en okay bog, men der var en del direkte fejl og rigtig meget virkede som direkte citater fra interviews og dokumentarer og ikke forfatterens egne ord.

[Liberty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a beautiful piece of literature.
After purchasing the e-book, I intend to also buy it in print when it comes available in the US.
Highly recommended for any Rock & Roll fan! Tom Petty is a true legend and strong-willed hero who has influenced many generations with his spirit and enchanting songwriting skills.
Tom Petty will ultimately influence many more generations. It's nice to have something like this for them to enjoy!