The Phone Call Petty Got From Bob Dylan That Made Him Cry With Disbelief

April 1, 2025

It was a rainy Tuesday afternoon in 1987 when Tom Petty sat alone in his small, cluttered studio, surrounded by guitars and crumpled sheets of lyrics. He was working on a new album, pouring his heart into the music, when the phone rang. At first, he thought little of it. It was just another call, probably his manager checking in or a family member wanting to chat. But as he picked up the receiver, he was greeted by a voice that made his heart skip a beat. It was Bob Dylan, the legendary songwriter and singer whose music had shaped the landscape of rock and folk for decades.

“Hey, Tom,” Dylan said, his voice gravelly yet warm. “I’ve been listening to your stuff, and I think you’re one of the best writers out there. I just wanted to reach out.” It felt surreal for Petty, as if he were dreaming. He had grown up idolizing Dylan, singing along to his poetic, powerful songs in his bedroom. The idea that this icon was calling him, praising his work, was almost too much to comprehend. Petty’s hands trembled as he clutched the receiver, blinking back tears that threatened to spill over.

As they spoke, Petty felt a rush of emotions. Here was a man who had written songs that changed the world, and he was telling Petty that he saw greatness in his music. They discussed songwriting, the power of lyrics, and the importance of staying true to oneself. Dylan’s encouragement ignited a fire in Petty. He was reminded of the struggles he had faced in his career, the moments when he doubted himself or felt lost. This call was a turning point, a reminder that even the most successful artists faced challenges and uncertainties.

By the end of the conversation, Petty felt like he had been handed a treasure. He hung up the phone, still reeling from the experience, but a sense of renewed purpose washed over him. Inspired by Dylan’s words, he returned to his guitar with a fresh perspective. Over the next few weeks, he poured his soul into his music, crafting songs that reflected not only his personal journey but also the resilience that comes with following one’s passion.

The album he worked on after that call, “Let Me Up (I’ve Had Enough),” resonated deeply with fans and critics alike. It was as if Dylan’s belief in him had sparked something new within, pushing Petty to explore uncharted territories in his music. As he performed those songs on stage, he carried with him the weight of that conversation, using it as fuel to connect with his audience in a more profound way.

Years later, Petty would often reflect on that moment and how it changed his life. He realized that sometimes, a single phone call can alter the course of a person’s journey. Bob Dylan had not only acknowledged his talent but also reignited Petty’s passion for music. In that moment of vulnerability, Petty learned that everyone needs encouragement and support, and it became a driving force in his life to uplift others, just as Dylan had done for him.