[TG]

as a 40 yr old American. i can honestly say i don't remember a day without Petty. Anytime i played in a band, we would cover one of his songs. I always felt that it was impossible to hate Tom Petty. that everyone knew and loved him. he transcended to all audiences.

This is true.

You always knew you could put on Tom Petty and folks with very disparate taste is music would still be pleased.

Johnny Cash and CCR are the only other ones I can think of with that sort of universal appeal.