Mandy
Stevie Nicks’ breakthrough as a solo artist almost didn’t unfold the way fans know it today. Fortunately, Tom Petty and Mike Campbell stepped in at the right moment, helping shape both her sound and career direction with a now-iconic duet that continues to stand as one of rock’s greatest crossover moments.
Tom Petty’s Legacy Beyond His Own Catalog
There are countless reasons Tom Petty remains considered a true legend of rock ‘n’ roll—from his chart-topping anthems and battles against corporate control to his grounded personality in the face of overwhelming fame.
His influence continues not only through his own discography but also through unforgettable songs he gave to other artists.
Among the most famous examples is “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around,” a track that became the first single from Nicks’ debut solo album, Bella Donna (1981).
While Petty treasured gifting songs like “King of the Hill” to his hero Roger McGuinn, his work with Nicks remains the most widely recognized collaboration of his career.
The Making Of Bella Donna
Bella Donna proved to audiences that Stevie Nicks could succeed outside Fleetwood Mac, but its success was boosted by musical support from high-profile collaborators, including:
- Tom Petty & Mike Campbell,
- Don Henley (Eagles), and
- Roy Bittan (E-Street Band).
While the album is commonly remembered for Nicks’ own hit “Edge of Seventeen,” Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around became a defining track and a staple of her solo catalog.
A Song Born From Heartbreakers Sessions
Campbell shared the song’s origins with Songfacts in 2003, explaining:
- He wrote the music.
- Tom Petty wrote the lyrics.
- The song was initially recorded by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers with producer Jimmy Iovine.
- Iovine later suggested Nicks record it, leading her to sing over the original Heartbreakers track.
Once Nicks added her vocals, the song organically evolved into a dynamic duet, featuring the full Heartbreakers lineup.
Initial Resistance From Nicks
Although the song became a huge success, Stevie Nicks was hesitant at first. Having just come out of turmoil with Fleetwood Mac, she wanted her solo album to represent full independence.
When producer Jimmy Iovine first proposed collaborating with Petty and Campbell, Nicks reportedly stormed out of the studio in frustration.
However, she soon realized the moment was a rare artistic opportunity, one that ultimately helped define her solo identity and expand her musical reach.
“Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around” played a pivotal role in establishing Stevie Nicks as a solo powerhouse, while also cementing Tom Petty’s legacy as a songwriter who elevated others beyond himself.
A track that almost never happened became one of the most celebrated duets in rock history, changing the course of Nicks’ career and strengthening Petty’s impact on the genre.