Musicians and celebrities pay tribute to Tom Petty's 'legendary career'

Tom Petty was recognized by fellow musicians and other celebrities as "part of our musical history" and a "true rock 'n' roll purist" following his death Monday night at age 66.

Here's a roundup of some of their comments. (Some were sent Monday afternoonafter premature reports of Petty'sdeath).

• Tom Petty dead at 66

"It's shocking, crushing news. I thought the world of Tom. He was a great performer, full of the light, a friend, and I'll never forget him." Bob Dylan in a statement to Rolling Stone

"I'm shocked and saddened by the news of Tom's passing, he's such a huge part of our musical history, there'll never be another like him." Eric Clapton in a statement.

"Tom was a tender southern gent in life, a poet and a music master on stage. He had a rocking chair wisdom that brought everything back down to earth."Olivia and Dhani Harrison, for the estate of George Harrison,on Twitter.

"Devastating news about #TomPetty A profound loss. Sad sad day today. RIP" rocker Slash on Instagram.

'The best American rock band'

"Through his work with the Heartbreakers and The Traveling Wilburys he's left us with an incrediblelegacy to enjoy forever, it's such a shame he has left us way before his time." Def Leppard singer Joe Elliott on Twitter.

"I feel Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers is the best American rock band, ever. He is both a peer and an inspiration to me. I am heartbroken at his passing, and my deep sympathy goes out to his family and loved ones." REOSpeedwagon'sKeith Cronin onFacebook.

"Tom was a true rock and roll purist, both in his music and his defiant spirit. With the Heartbreakers, his infectious riffs, rebellious personality, and inventive songwriting brought a new urgency to rock traditions and fueled a now legendary career and some of the most memorable music of the last four decades." Recording Academy president and CEO Neil Portnow in a statement.