FAQs

Mark O’Dell (lead vocals and guitar) and Chris Huntington (lead guitar)  were both part of another band that occasionally covered a few Tom Petty tunes. Every time they played them, the songs resonated deeply with their audience, often becoming the highlights of the sets. The two used to joke about starting a tribute band, never really thinking it would happen.

Then, sadly, Tom Petty passed away in October of 2017. Shortly after, in November, they were invited to perform a few songs at a Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers memorial show in Annapolis, MD. It was during that emotional event that they truly grasped the immense love and significance of Petty’s music. Playing those songs made them feel connected to something greater, something that touched people of all ages and backgrounds.

Feeling a mix of nostalgia, sorrow, and excitement, they knew they had to pursue it further. Finding other passionate musicians to join them wasn’t difficult, and after a few adjustments to the lineup, the band officially came together in late 2017.

From there, things moved quickly. DBD started playing gigs at local venues, then expanded to Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, and Pennsylvania. It was a whirlwind journey, but from the very beginning, they knew they were onto something special.

The band was formed in late 2017 and we were off and running — playing our first shows to singing crowds at local venues and then MD, DC, VA, and PA road trips not long after.

Nope… Our intention was for our name to serve as a rallying cry, urging people to embrace what they cherish, defend their convictions, and defy obstacles. Yes, it’s undeniably a nod to one of the iconic songs, a necessary connection for our homage to Tom Petty’s legacy. However, the essence of “Don’t Back Down” extends beyond mere homage; it resonates with anyone striving to emulate Petty’s unwavering resolve and commitment to his craft..

“It used to be about the music, man…”

With so many amazing hits and deep-cuts to choose from we can keep it pretty fresh and have plenty of songs ready to go from all of the albums (so we’d love to know what you want to hear) but of course no matter what we do… there’s always the ladies in screaming for Free Falling and American Girl, so… what’s a poor boy to do?

Raw and authentic, is how our fas describe us. Sure, there are plenty of TP&HB cover bands all over the country, and the opportunity to differentiate one group from the rest is kinda hard. But DBD doesn’t just stick to the hits, they give you hits and deep cuts right from the heart. Played raw and live as a 5-piece band — no backing tracks, or studio effects — just like the Heartbreakers would have done.

Fans eagerly await DBD’s next gig in their town. Contrary to popular belief, the band’s tour schedule isn’t random. Venues hire DBD based on fan interest. Your voice matters. Requesting a DBD concert at a venue boosts the chances of it happening, leading to more shows. Power to the people!

Typically our shows are about two, one hour sets but, we work with venues to craft a show that fits the bill, sometimes longer, sometimes shorter.

Typically an opening act would result in forty fewer minutes for Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers — and who wants that?????

If the venue allows it, yes. Our mission is to keep the music of Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers alive in the hearts of lifelong fans, newcomers, and aspiring rock musicians of all ages.