Tom Petty’s Full Moon Fever is celebrated for its iconic hits, but nestled within this masterpiece lies a track that often flies under the radar yet holds a special place in the hearts of fans: “The Apartment Song”. This seemingly simple tune, with its infectious rhythm and relatable lyrics, offers a unique glimpse into Petty’s songwriting process and the album’s overall charm.
Genesis of a Sleeper Hit: From Southern Accents to Full Moon Fever
Interestingly, “The Apartment Song” wasn’t initially conceived for Full Moon Fever. As Tom Petty himself revealed, the song’s origins trace back to the Southern Accents sessions in 1984. Alongside tracks like “Rebels” and “Trailer,” “The Apartment Song” emerged as a song Petty felt particularly proud of. Despite this, it didn’t make the final cut for the concept album. However, fate intervened when Jeff Lynne, during the Full Moon Fever sessions, inquired about any unreleased material. Petty offered up “The Apartment Song,” which he had previously demoed with Stevie Nicks. Although Nicks contributed to the demo, Petty ultimately envisioned it as a solo piece for Full Moon Fever, and it was resurrected and refined for inclusion on the album.
Musical Simplicity and a Nod to Rock ‘n’ Roll Roots
The beauty of “The Apartment Song” lies in its delightful simplicity. Critics have noted its “infectious, jaunty nature” and its undeniable ability to get stuck in your head after just one listen. Sam Sodomsky of Pitchfork even pointed out “a nod to Buddy Holly” in its “smoothed-out rave-up” style. Another reviewer described its energetic, Bo Diddley-inspired riff, highlighting its upbeat and catchy rhythm. This stripped-down approach, focusing on a strong melody and rhythm, showcases Petty’s knack for crafting memorable and enduring songs even with minimal instrumentation.
Benmont Tench’s Minimalist Contribution and Jeff Lynne’s Production
Adding to the song’s unique character is Benmont Tench’s memorable, albeit unconventional, contribution. Tench humorously recounted his studio experience for “The Apartment Song,” where his role was reduced to simply playing “Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding! Ding!”. This minimalist percussion element, while seemingly insignificant, adds a distinctive texture to the track. Furthermore, Jeff Lynne’s production played a crucial role in shaping the song’s final form. Petty credited Lynne with transforming his demo into “a great record,” particularly highlighting the rhythmic shift after the second chorus as their “Buddy Holly thing.” Lynne’s production expertise polished the raw charm of “The Apartment Song” into a perfectly crafted album track.
A Fan Favorite and Critical Darling
Despite not being a major single, “The Apartment Song” has garnered significant appreciation from both fans and critics. Mikey Erg of Stereogum fondly recalled it as his favorite song on Full Moon Fever from the first listen, praising its simplicity, impeccable melody, and relatable lyrics about loneliness. Andrea M. Rotondo, in her biography of Tom Petty, highlighted it as a “sleeper” favorite among many fans. Its placement as the ninth track on the album allows it to emerge as a pleasant surprise towards the end of the Full Moon Fever journey, rewarding attentive listeners with its understated brilliance.
Thematic Resonance: Loneliness in a Simple Tune
Lyrically, “The Apartment Song” resonates with a universal feeling of loneliness and introspection. Lines like “I’m ok most of the time, I just feel a little lonely tonight” are both simple and deeply relatable. This emotional honesty, coupled with the song’s upbeat musicality, creates a poignant contrast that adds to its appeal. It’s a song that acknowledges vulnerability without succumbing to despair, a testament to Petty’s ability to capture complex emotions in seemingly straightforward songs.
“The Apartment Song” stands as a testament to Tom Petty’s songwriting genius. Its journey from the Southern Accents sessions to becoming a beloved track on Full Moon Fever, its musical simplicity, and its relatable themes all contribute to its enduring appeal. While overshadowed by the album’s bigger hits, “The Apartment Song” remains a cherished gem for those who delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Full Moon Fever, proving that sometimes the most unassuming songs can leave the most lasting impressions. Give “The Apartment Song” another listen and rediscover its subtle magic.
Alt text: Tom Petty Full Moon Fever album cover featuring Tom Petty looking directly at the camera with a slightly melancholic expression, set against a blue sky with wispy clouds, promoting the album containing the apartment song.
