In July 1986, during the live recording of "Spike" at the Farm Aid concert in Austin, Texas, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers were experiencing a vibrant period in their career. They had recently released their album "Southern Accents" in 1985, which marked a stylistic shift for the band, incorporating elements of Southern rock and country. This album featured notable tracks like "Don't Come Around Here No More," which showcased Petty's innovative songwriting and the band's growing popularity. The choice to perform at Farm Aid, an event focused on helping struggling family farmers, highlighted the band's engagement with social issues, further endearing them to fans who appreciated their commitment not only to music but also to meaningful causes. The performance exemplified the band's energetic stage presence, solidifying their reputation as one of rock's enduring acts during that era.