The Heartbreakers Consider Reunion Tour Inspired by Stapleton's Passion

WHO:

Rolling Stone - The Heartbreakers, featuring original members of Tom Petty's band and country superstar Chris Stapleton.

Variety - The original four members of The Heartbreakers.

WHAT:

Rolling Stone - The Heartbreakers reunited at the Americana Honors in Nashville, performing more than three songs.

Variety - The Heartbreakers reunited on stage for the first time in 24 years, with Chris Stapleton assisting as the frontman.

WHERE:

Rolling Stone - The reunion took place in Nashville.

Variety - The original members spoke at the AmericanaFest conference in Nashville.

WHEN:

Variety - The Heartbreakers' reunion performance occurred on a Wednesday night.

WHY:

Variety - Chris Stapleton was inspired by the performance, stating he was "so enthralled" hearing The Heartbreakers play "American Girl" that "he forgot to sing."

HOW:

Variety - The original members of The Heartbreakers performed together on stage, marking their first reunion in 24 years.

(UPDATED September 18, 2026 18:05 UTC)

The Heartbreakers, featuring original members of Tom Petty's band along with country superstar Chris Stapleton, reunited on stage for the first time in 24 years at the Americana Honors in Nashville. They performed more than three songs, and Stapleton was so inspired by the experience that he admitted he was "so enthralled" hearing them play "American Girl" that "he forgot to sing." This memorable reunion took place on a Wednesday night, with the original members also speaking at the AmericanaFest conference in Nashville.