Dave Stewart, the guitarist and producer, shares fascinating insights into the creation of “Don’t Come Around Here No More,” a track that stands out on Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ 1985 album, Southern Accents. Describing the song as peculiar even for Petty’s catalog, Stewart reveals that its origins were anything but ordinary.
The song’s inception traces back to a night in 1984, during a celebration party after a Eurythmics tour. Stewart found himself at the Los Angeles home of Stevie Nicks, lead singer of Fleetwood Mac, where an unexpected moment unfolded. The following morning, he overheard Nicks on the phone, asserting, “Don’t come around here no more.” This phrase resonated with Stewart and inspired the melody that would become an iconic hit.
As he recalls, the creative process took shape quickly. Stewart recorded a demo in his hotel room with various instruments, including a Coral sitar and a drum machine. Upon returning to Los Angeles, he played his demo for producer Jimmy Iovine, who, recognizing its potential, brought Tom Petty into the mix.
The collaboration between Stewart and Petty transformed the track. While Petty initially found the song unconventional, he quickly began crafting verses, leading them to a garage studio to bring the piece to life. Stewart’s idea of introducing a frenetic double-time section added an unexpected twist, which the Heartbreakers executed flawlessly.
Notably, the song incorporated creative elements like cello accompaniments and unique background vocals, contributing to its distinctive sound. The blend of Stewart’s innovative style and Petty’s famed rock energy resulted in a track that achieved instant acclaim, peaking at number 13 on the Billboard chart. Its Alice in Wonderland-themed music video further amplified its reach, introducing Petty to a new generation of fans.
Stewart reflects on the song’s legacy, acknowledging its eccentricity while highlighting the unexpected successes that emerged from their collaboration. “Don’t Come Around Here No More” remains an enduring example of how spontaneous creativity can yield remarkable results, illustrating the spirit of innovative musical collaboration.