PPC (Plastic Pollution Coalition) notable supporter Tom Petty, the legendary rocker best known as the frontman of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, has passed away at the age of 66 in Los Angeles, CA. Petty leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of musical accomplishments and charitable work for people and the environment.
Earlier this year, Petty received the 2017 MusiCares Person of the Year award and gave this statement to Plastic Pollution Coalition: “Being human, I reckon the loftiest goal is to be remembered fondly and leave something better behind than when I got here…. Long story short: if we avoid all the toxins spreading all around us, those actions and educated awareness will help us to leave behind a far safer world for future inhabitants,” he said.
Petty’s songs were beloved by millions with hits like “Refugee,” “Don’t Come Around Here No More,” “Free Fallin’ ” and “Into the Great Wide Open.” He sold millions of albums and headlined arenas and festivals into 2017. He entered the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2002.
Dianna Cohen, co-founder and CEO of PPC, called the loss of Tom Petty shocking and tragic. “We remember our incredible friend and ally Tom Petty and send love and our deepest regrets to his family and bandmates at this difficult time. The themes of strength and resilience in his music resonate with people all over the world and make up the soundtrack of our lives. As part of our global movement, Tom Petty set an example with his plastic-free touring initiatives and generous support of our mission. His voice will be deeply missed.”
