Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers mark 50 years of ‘American Girl’ and ‘Breakdown’

to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the release of Tom Petty’s timeless hits “American Girl” and “Breakdown,” the Tom Petty estate has treated fans to fresh interpretations of these celebrated classics. By revamping the original multi-track tapes in Hi-Res and Dolby Atmos, the estate recently unveiled extended and remixed versions of these iconic songs. Both revamped tracks are now available on various digital platforms for fans to enjoy.

Originally featured on Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers’ eponymous debut album back in November 1976, “Breakdown” marked a pivotal moment in Petty’s career as it soared to the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 40. While “American Girl” did not secure a spot on the charts upon its initial release, it later cemented its status as one of Petty’s most beloved works and is often lauded as one of the greatest rock songs in history. Notably, “American Girl” holds a special place in Petty’s legacy as it was the final tune he performed live during his September 2017 show at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, mere days before his untimely passing on October 2, 2017.

As fans eagerly anticipate these revamped renditions of “American Girl” and “Breakdown,” the release of these extended and newly mixed versions serves as a testament to the enduring impact of Tom Petty’s music. In celebrating the 50th anniversary of these musical masterpieces, the Tom Petty estate pays tribute to the indelible mark left by these two iconic songs, ensuring that they continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come.