The year was 1996. I’ve touched on this 365 day span that is arguably the greatest moment for recorded music before, but today’s throwback post is dedicated to one particular day and one particular icon gone too soon. On July 29th, 1996 illustrious talent Tom Petty along with his Heartbreakers released one of their less familiar records, but a stellar addition nonetheless to a decades-proven catalog with “Walls (Circus).”

Twenty one years before his untimely death, the singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and general badass would pen the tune [as well as the entire soundtrack for a small indie film She’s The One], a contribution that still resonates today. Inspired by an adage from Johnny Cash, Petty crafted a touching, almost heart-breaking rock poesy that poignantly reflected his own personal strife in dealing with a recent divorce.

Some days are diamonds, and some days are rocks

A simple statement, but one that carries such emotional heft. And one that transcends time. The world, not just music, lost a legend this week, but while that day certainly felt like rocks it’s only diamonds ahead as we celebrate his life and art.

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