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Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Perform 'Refugee' Live at Farm Aid 1985

Venue: Memorial Stadium Location: Champaign, Illinois, United States Date: September 22, 1985

In September 1985, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers were riding high on the success of their album "Southern Accents," which was released earlier that year. This album featured the hit "Don’t Come Around Here No More," showcasing Petty's evolution into a more sophisticated sound while retaining his rock roots. The live performance of "Refugee" at the inaugural Farm Aid concert highlights not only the band's popularity at the time but also their commitment to social issues, as Farm Aid was founded to support struggling American farmers. Interestingly, "Refugee" was an anthem of resilience and defiance, aligning perfectly with the event's spirit. This performance solidified Petty's status as a vital voice in rock music, entertaining audiences while also championing important causes.

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