From album
Full Moon Fever
Tom Petty · 1989 · Track 7
Details
TonalidadG
Compás4/4
Tempo182 BPM
Duración3:05
ÁlbumFull Moon Fever
Año1989
ISRCUSMC18925674
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The story behind
When Tom Petty sat down to write Yer So Bad, he was probably thinking of those kinds of stories that circulate in close circles, the ones told with a mix of disbelief and a certain mockery. The song narrates from a brother's perspective the peculiar fortune of his sister: she marries a successful man, a "yuppie," but the marriage ends in divorce. And not just any divorce, but one where she keeps everything, leaving the ex-husband in a desperate situation, on the verge of bankruptcy and, as is hinted, contemplating extreme measures. The brother, who observes all this, can't help but feel a mix of astonishment and relief that his own romantic life, with "you" by his side, isn't facing the same fate in this "mad world."
This piece, released in 1990 as the fifth single from his first solo album, Full Moon Fever (1989), was co-written and recorded by Petty himself along with Jeff Lynne. The production was also handled by Lynne, along with Petty and Mike Campbell, who worked with engineers like Bill Bottrell and Don Smith. The music video, directed by Julien Temple, complements the narrative with scenes ranging from the wedding to the disintegration of the marriage, showing the sister's life of excess and the ex-husband's downfall, who seeks solace in an inflatable doll. Rolling Stone recognized it as one of Petty's 50 best songs, highlighting its caustic humor. The album Full Moon Fever, where this song is included, was a milestone in Petty's career, exploring his musical roots and influences, and featured the participation of musicians like George Harrison and Roy Orbison.
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