Description
Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers – Pack Up The Plantation Live! – Double 180 Gram Vinyl Records
Released in 1985, Pack Up the Plantation: Live! is the first live album from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, capturing the band’s electrifying stage presence and solidifying their reputation as one of America’s greatest rock acts. The album primarily features recordings from the band’s 1985 tour, with most of the tracks pulled from their legendary performances at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles. A few songs, however, were taken from earlier concerts in the late ’70s and early ’80s, making it a comprehensive showcase of the band’s live energy during their rise to stardom.
This album isn’t just a greatest hits compilation in a live setting—it’s a celebration of the band’s raw, unfiltered energy on stage. Tom Petty’s signature blend of heartland rock, Southern influences, and bluesy swagger is fully on display, with extended jams, powerful vocal performances, and an engaged crowd that enhances the experience.
Petty’s charismatic stage presence is one of the highlights, with his casual yet commanding delivery making the live versions of these songs feel more spontaneous and alive than their studio counterparts. The Heartbreakers, as always, are a tight, disciplined, and dynamic band, with Mike Campbell’s searing guitar work and Benmont Tench’s brilliant keyboard playing adding depth to every performance.
Adding to the album’s soul and energy are The Rebelettes, a group of backup singers who bring a soulful, gospel-inspired edge to several tracks. Their contributions make songs like The Waiting and Refugee feel even more powerful in a live setting.
Notable Tracks & Highlights
So You Want to Be a Rock ‘n’ Roll Star – A Byrds cover that kicks off the album with a punch, showcasing Petty’s admiration for his ’60s rock influences. The Heartbreakers give it a grittier, high-energy treatment that makes it their own.
American Girl – One of the band’s defining songs, this version captures the unrelenting energy of their live shows, with the crowd singing along to every word.
The Waiting – One of Petty’s most beloved songs, and this live rendition is filled with passion and urgency, featuring a soulful backing from The Rebelettes.
Breakdown – An extended version where Petty engages directly with the audience, letting them sing parts of the song—a classic live moment that fans still talk about.
Refugee – A powerful, bluesy performance that sounds even more intense and anthemic than the studio version.
Needles and Pins – A duet with Stevie Nicks, originally written by Jack Nitzsche and Sonny Bono. Their chemistry makes it a standout moment.
Southern Accents – A deeply emotional performance of one of Petty’s most personal songs, bringing out the warmth and nostalgia of its lyrics.
Impact & Legacy
Pack Up the Plantation: Live! wasn’t just a live album—it was a statement about Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ strength as a live band. While their studio recordings are legendary, their on-stage chemistry and energy were what truly made them one of the greatest American rock bands of their time. This album captures that magic, giving fans a front-row seat to what made their concerts so unforgettable.
Over the years, some critics have noted that the album doesn’t fully capture the gritty edge of the band’s rawest performances, as some moments feel slightly polished for a live release. However, it remains a fan favorite, especially for those who love the band’s Southern Accents era.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic sealed
Track Listing
So You Want To Be A Rock & Roll Star
Needles And Pins
The Waiting
Breakdown
American Girl
It Ain’t Nothin’ To Me
Insider
Rockin’ Around (With You)
Refugee
I Need To Know
Southern Accents
Rebels
Don’t Bring Me Down
You Got Lucky
Shout
Stories We Could Tell
