The Wildflowers, North America's Premier Tom Petty Experience

The Birth of The Wildflowers

“Who doesn’t love Tom Petty?” was a question that bassist Darryell Stone found himself pondering in 2012 as he listened to the radio. The answer, after polling friends, family, and fellow musicians, was a resounding “Nobody.” This near-universal admiration for Tom Petty led Stone and his friend Jonathan Guthrie, who happened to be a dead ringer for Petty and a devoted fan, to embark on a journey that would give birth to The Wildflowers – the ultimate Tom Petty tribute band.

Assembling the Dream Team

Putting together The Wildflowers wasn't difficult for Stone and Guthrie. Their shared love for Tom Petty’s music became a magnet for other talented musicians. Here’s how the lineup came together:

• Steve Lucas (Drummer): Formerly of Feverdog and a band mate of Stone’s from their local band, Theatrix, Lucas was one of the first to join.
• Glenn Freeman (Keyboards, Harmonica, Guitar, Backing Vocals): Lucas brought along his M-80’s band mate Freeman, who had seen multiple Tom Petty concerts in the 80s and added a rich, instrumental versatility to the band.
• Curt Granger (Lead Guitarist): With decades of experience in the club circuit and involvement in bands like Pyrate, Scream Sophie, and his own solo project, Granger completed the lineup with his stellar guitar work and expertise in boutique guitar amplifiers at Granger Amplification.

The Early Days: Local Performances

The newly formed band got to work with a singular mission: to recreate Tom Petty’s music with meticulous accuracy. Every lyric was sung with the exact inflection Petty used, every guitar riff played with note-for-note precision. The band’s dedication paid off when they started performing locally in their first year. Audiences were quickly captivated by their authenticity and the electric energy they brought to each performance. Word of mouth began to spread like wildfire.

Growing Popularity: From Local Gigs to International Tours

Soon, the demand for The Wildflowers extended beyond their home state. Venues across the Southeast wanted the band to perform, and this led to shows in numerous other states. Their exposure grew organically, driven by enthusiastic fans who couldn’t get enough of their live performances. Jump ahead 250+ shows, and The Wildflowers have become an international sensation, filling venues across the Unites States and Canada.

The Secret Sauce: Experience, Passion, and Precision

What sets The Wildflowers apart from other tribute bands is a combination of experience, passion, and precision. Each member brings decades of musical expertise and an intrinsic passion for Tom Petty’s music. This fusion creates a concert experience that's both nostalgic and exhilarating for fans.

“Equipped with decades of experience and a passion for Tom Petty’s magic way with songs, The Wildflowers bring music lovers of all stripes what they adore: More Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers.”

Bringing Tom Petty’s Magic to Life

Attending a Wildflowers concert is more than just listening to Tom Petty’s hits – it’s a full-fledged experience. They play all the classics from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, delve into Petty’s solo work, and even sprinkle in some tunes from The Traveling Wilburys. Whether it's “Free Fallin’,” “American Girl,” "Refugee," or “Handle with Care,” The Wildflowers deliver each song with an authenticity that transports fans right back to Petty’s heyday.

Conclusion: A Must-See Experience

The Wildflowers have truly earned their reputation as North America’s premier Tom Petty tribute band. Their commitment to honoring Petty’s legacy and delivering unforgettable performances make them a must-see for any Tom Petty fan. So if you’re looking to relive the magic of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, keep an eye out for The Wildflowers. You won’t be disappointed!