I am finally getting around to posting about Tom Petty, who recently passed away. His was never the first LP I would turn to, but eventually, I would put on a Petty album and then wonder why his wasn't the first LP I put on the turntable. Great tunes, incredible lyrics, and absolutely individualised vocals. Much like a younger Bob Dylan. I always thought that Tom Petty and Rickie Lee Jones would make a great couple: similar vocals, lyrics, and ideas. But of course that was not to be. I was hiking the Rheinsteig when I heard about Petty's death and it overwhelmed me. Both his young age and his talent caused me to reflect on losses we suffer throughout life. Clearly, I have never met, let alone been friends with Tom Petty, but his music was such a part of my life and I will miss it.

It's nothing compared to the loss of Tom Petty, but when these musical losses occur, I always think back on my albums which my brother Matthew has adopted, and photographed. I believe I have more LP's of Tom Petty than digital files. I lost a lot of his music when I gave up my albums and decided to keep my music on my Apple. Certainly, I can purchase the bulk of Petty's collection on iTunes, but it is just not the same as having an LP to hold in your hands, clean, and place on a turntable. I did that a lot with his music and I hope my brother keeps spinning his music. I toast to Tom Petty, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and to albums. Prost.