In 1985, during the Southern Accents Tour, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers were experiencing a peak in their popularity and artistic evolution. The live recording of "Breakdown" from the Wiltern Theatre captures a vibrant moment in their career, shortly after the release of the "Southern Accents" album, which came out in March 1985. This album marked a significant shift for the band, incorporating elements of Southern rock and showcasing Petty's growing ambition as a songwriter and storyteller. Notably, "Southern Accents" included hits like "Don't Come Around Here No More," which would soon become iconic. The Wiltern performance reflects the band's energetic stage presence, as well as their commitment to delivering powerful live shows, further solidifying their status as rock legends during this era. The 1985 tour was a celebration of their evolving sound and expanding fanbase.