Mike Campbell of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers Unveils Inspiring Memoir ‘Heartbreaker’: From Humble Beginnings to Rock Legend

Slated for release on March 18, 2025, this book promises to take readers through the highs and lows of his extraordinary career, from his roots as a "poor kid from Jacksonville" to a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee.

For decades, Campbell's guitar work shaped hits like “American Girl” and “Breakdown,” while his songwriting left an indelible mark on classics like “Refugee” and “Here Comes My Girl.” Beyond the Heartbreakers, Campbell also crafted the music for Don Henley’s hit “The Boys of Summer” and co-wrote “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around,” the beloved duet between Petty and Stevie Nicks.

In a statement about his memoir, Campbell reflected on his journey: “This is my book — the story of a kid from Jacksonville, Fla., who made a dream happen through music. It’s been a long road of hard work, passion, and luck, but playing guitar and writing songs has always been my purpose,” he shared. "It’s a story of hope, redemption, and gratitude — a testament that dreams can come true if you believe in yourself."

Since Petty’s passing in 2017, Campbell has embraced new roles, now fronting his own band, The Dirty Knobs. “With the Heartbreakers, I had the easiest job. Tom was leading the show; I just played guitar,” Campbell told PEOPLE earlier this year. “Now, I’m leading the band and singing. It’s challenging, but I’m embracing it and finding confidence.”

Published by Grand Central Publishing, Heartbreaker offers fans an inside look at Campbell’s life, capturing his transformation and the behind-the-scenes journey that defined his career. The memoir is available for preorder now at major book retailers.