Country Stars Saddened by Rock Icon Tom Petty’s Death

Another sad news floods the music industry with tears after legendary rock star Tom Petty succumbed to his death due to cardiac arrest last Monday, October 2. He was 66.

His death was confirmed to his fans by his manager, Tony Dimitriades.

In his official statement, he conveyed, “On behalf of the Tom Petty family, we are devastated to announce the untimely death of our father, husband, brother, leader, and friend Tom Petty.” He adds that Petty was found unresponsive in his house in Malibu on Sunday, October 1. He was then rushed to the UCLA Santa Monica Hospital but sadly expired the following day. “He died peacefully at 8:40 p.m. PT surrounded by family, his bandmates, and friends.”

When the devastating news of Tom Petty’s loss broke through the headlines in newspapers and in social media, some of the country’s biggest stars took his passing hard.

Reba McEntire was in disbelief

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A post shared by Reba (@reba)

Meanwhile, Randy Houser shared that he learned of Petty’s demise moments before the start of his show in the U.K.

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A post shared by Randy Houser (@randyhouser)

Clare Bowen wished Tom to ‘fly safe’ and thanked him for his magic. She also asked the late artist to tell the angels that “we need a hand down here”. Shania Twain tweeted a photo she shared with the legendary rock singer and captioned it with, “So sad to hear of the passing of Tom Petty. Such an incredible, inspiring artist. I’ll treasure fond memories of our time spent together this past summer. <3”

Martina McBride, like Reba, seemed to be at a total loss for words. “No…not Tom Petty” she tweeted.

Kid Rock obviously felt devastated, stating that Petty’s death was the lowest point of his day. At the end of his tweet, though, he thanked the former for his beautiful music and inspiration.

Other country artists who shared their sentiments over another huge loss for the music industry include Rodney Atkins, Mac Powell, The Oak Ridge Boys, Maggie Rose, Justin Moore, Shooter Jennings, and Midland. All country singers expressed regret and sorrow while highlighting the beautiful works and irreplaceable contributions the great Tom Petty had to offer to the world when he was still alive.

Having started his career in the 19670’s as Tom Petty and the Heartbreaker’s front man, he sold over 80 million albums and his musical style influenced so many artists and fans.

Tom Petty’s rise to fame exceeded the usual notions of rock music. His talent and distinct approach to his songs made him a very iconic and solid pacemaker for the said genre, especially during his time.

RIP, Tom Petty. Thank you for the wonderful music.