74 THE LAST DJ

Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

In 2002, Tom Petty took the brave step of releasing an album that aimed stinging bile at what he saw as the homogenisation of the US’s network of independent radio stations. As a concept, The Last DJ comprehensively dismantled the industry’s promotion of mediocrity, image and manufactured fluff. The superb title track bemoaned the loss of independent radio, and is dedicated to “everyone who loves music just a little bit more than money”. JS

From: The Last DJ, 2002