Newly Released Music Video Breathes Life into Unheard Tom Petty Track

The Tom Petty Estate has delighted fans by releasing an animated music video for "Never Be You," a previously unreleased track from the 1982 album Long After Dark. This song, co-written by Petty and Heartbreakers keyboardist Benmont Tench, was initially left off the album but has now been included in the deluxe edition, offering listeners a fresh glimpse into Petty's creative process during that era.

The accompanying video, crafted by Emmy Award-winning animator Jeff Scher, employs a kaleidoscopic style featuring hundreds of hand-drawn images. Scher's use of various mediums brings a dynamic and vibrant visual experience that complements the song's haunting melody. His previous collaborations with artists like Bob Dylan and Paul Simon showcase his ability to merge music with compelling visuals, making this project a fitting tribute to Petty's legacy.

"Never Be You" holds a unique place in Petty's discography. Although it didn't make the original Long After Dark album, the song found success when Rosanne Cash's rendition topped the country charts. Now, with Petty's original version available, fans can appreciate the song's intended essence and its place within the band's history.

The deluxe edition of Long After Dark not only includes "Never Be You" but also features other rediscovered tracks and a new Atmos mix of the album by longtime Tom Petty engineer Ryan Ulyate. This release provides a comprehensive look at the band's work during a pivotal time in their career, highlighting their evolution and the depth of their musical explorations.

This release is part of a broader effort by the Tom Petty Estate to celebrate and preserve the artist's extensive body of work. By unveiling previously unheard tracks and pairing them with innovative visuals, the estate ensures that Petty's music continues to resonate with both longtime fans and new listeners.

The animated video for "Never Be You" is now available for viewing, offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' enduring artistry.