On May 14, a legend stepped foot in the then-Klipsch Music Center. A flower power icon named Tom Petty hit the stage. There was no doubt among the packed house that the star would rock, and he did just that.

Seniors Will Duffy, Daniel Jamell and Jack Robinson soaked in the buzz and tipped their caps in thanks to the late Petty, who died Oct. 2 in California after suffering cardiac arrest.  

These Indiana boys were blown away on a magical Indiana night. “The concert was phenomenal. It meant the world to me to see such an impressive artist in person. And he really knew how to put on a show,” Jamell said.

“(It was the) best live performance I’ve ever seen,” Robinson added.

“I’ll never forget hearing ‘Running Down A Dream’ live,” Jamell said. “His music had a great effect on everyone that was there. Tom Petty has been through thick and thin with me through his music.”

The laid back but loud tunes vibe was in full force. Petty’s aura generated a carefree environment where the crowd had no choice but to enjoy the show. “There’s nothing quite like blaring his music while driving around with your friends. It’s the type of music that can make you forget about life’s problems and just have fun. Everyone knows at least one Petty song by heart and can scream out the lyrics with ease,” Duffy said.

Duffy continued, saying, “Tom Petty, to me, screams optimism. People in life have a tendency to worry and stress about trivial things. Petty’s music helps put those towards the back of one’s mind. He brought people together through his music.”

Everyone needs a little more Tom Petty in their life.