# In 1989, Tom Petty recorded without the Heartbreakers for the first time. Now, Jeff Lynne calls it the best thing that he ever made

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/in-1989-tom-petty-recorded-without-the-heartbreakers-for-the-first-time-now-jeff-lynne-calls-it-the-best-thing-that-he-ever-made/
- Published: 2026-10-29T18:30:00+00:00
- Updated: 2026-10-29T19:35:06+00:00
- Original publisher: Far Out
- Original article: https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/1989-tom-petty-recorded-without-the-heartbreakers-first-time/
- Topics: Art, Culture

## Key points

- Petty’s first solo album was *Full Moon Fever*.
- Jeff Lynne called it his favourite album he had made.
- The 1989 hit included “Free Fallin’”.

## Summary

In 1989, Tom Petty made *Full Moon Fever*, his first album recorded without the Heartbreakers. Working with Jeff Lynne gave Petty room to explore songs outside the band, including “Free Fallin’”; the album became a major hit while Petty remained committed to the Heartbreakers.

Lynne later called *Full Moon Fever* his favourite album he had ever made, recalling that the songs came quickly and the collaboration was enjoyable. Guitarist Mike Campbell also contributed, despite the record being made apart from the full band. The article presents the album’s relaxed, playful sound as a contrast with the Heartbreakers’ less inspired period.

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