Tom Petty was an American singer-songwriter and musician, best known as the lead vocalist of the rock band Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Born on October 20, 1950, in Gainesville, Florida, he gained fame in the late 1970s and 1980s with hits like "American Girl" and "Free Fallin'." His music blended elements of rock, folk, and country, earning him a dedicated fan base. Throughout his career, Petty released numerous albums and received several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance. He was also a member of the supergroup The Traveling Wilburys, alongside notable artists like Bob Dylan and George Harrison. Tom Petty passed away on October 2, 2017, leaving a lasting legacy in the music world.