Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: A Memorable ‘Spinal Tap’ Moment

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Reliving the Dogs With Wings Tour

When we think of iconic rock bands in music history, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers easily come to mind. Their music has touched countless lives, but even legends are not immune to a bit of chaos, especially during live performances. One particularly memorable incident occurred during their Dogs With Wings tour in 1995, a tour that supported Petty’s critically acclaimed Wildflowers album.

A ‘Spinal Tap Moment’

Fans of the classic mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap will recall the humorous yet awkward scene in which bassist Derek Smalls gets stuck in a pod during a performance. On the very first night of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ 1995 tour in Louisville, Kentucky, a similar mishap occurred. During the song “It’s Good to Be King,” a large prop resembling a golden-winged dog was suspended above the crowd. However, the set-piece malfunctioned, leaving the oversized pooch idly hovering above the audience—a distraction that both amused and flustered fans.

“Look, if you’re going out in front of 20,000 people and you’re not nervous, there’s something wrong with you,” Petty remarked in an interview, highlighting the pressures of performing live and the potential for concert mishaps.

The Dogs With Wings Tour: More Than Just a Tall Tale

The Dogs With Wings tour lasted until October 8, 1995, culminating in a performance in New Orleans. Despite the initial struggle with the flying dog, the tour was a testament to the band’s resilience and ability to deliver great music, even under less-than-ideal circumstances. Petty himself admitted that returning to the road after a hiatus of three and a half years was a bit daunting, but he quickly fell back into rhythm, stating, “it came back really quickly.”

Legacy and Impact

Even in moments of unexpected chaos like the one during the opening night of the tour, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers‘ commitment to their craft shone through. Their live performances are a testament to the band’s struggles and triumphs in the music industry. As we reflect on their legacy, we are reminded of the fun and humor that often accompany the life of a touring musician.

For more insights about the impacts of the 1995 tour and the legacy of Tom Petty, you can read about it here or explore various reviews from the tour featured on reputable sites like the Chicago Tribune.

Conclusion

In the world of rock and roll, even the best can have their extraordinary moments. The legacy of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers is punctuated not only by their exhilarating music but by the captivating tales of their tours, including the unforgettable Spinal Tap moment. Fans will always treasure the memories, both serious and humorous, of this legendary band.