TOM PETTY & THE HEARTBREAKERS - LISTEN TO HER HEART

Released: August 30, 1978

Charted:  US: #59 

"Listen to Her Heart" was released as the second single from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' album "You're Gonna Get It!" Despite high hopes, Petty expressed concerns to Rolling Stone in 1978, stating, "Everything’s banking on that one song right now, and I’m prepared for the worst." The song only reached number 59 on the singles charts, which may be attributed to Petty's direct mention of cocaine. He was asked to change the lyrics to "Champagne" instead. Petty expressed disbelief at the request, questioning, "What women would leave some guy for money and Champagne? I mean, Champagne is only $4 a bottle."

This track was inspired by a story told to Tom Petty by his wife Jane. Shortly after moving to Los Angeles, Jane attended a party hosted by R&B legend Ike Turner. During the event, Turner locked the doors from the inside, preventing anyone from leaving. Petty transformed this peculiar incident into the theme of the song, creating a driving and tightly wound anthem that addresses a man's disregard for a woman's true feelings.

"Listen to Her Heart" holds a significant place in Tom Petty's discography, earning high praise from various music publications. Billboard and Rolling Stone both ranked it among Petty's greatest songs. Cash Box lauded its emphatic guitar opening and portrayal of an independent woman, while Record World likened its sound to Buddy Holly, noting its pop sensibility.