Room At The Top
Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers & Tom Petty Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

I got a room at the top of the world tonight
I can see everything tonight
I got a room where everyone
Can have a drink and forget those things
That went wrong in their life

I got a room at the top of the world tonight
I got a room at the top of the world tonight

I got a room at the top of the world tonight
And I ain't comin' down
I ain't comin' down

I got someone who loves me tonight
I got over a thousand dollars in the bank
And I'm all right
Look deep in the eyes of love
Look deep in the eyes of love
And find out what you were looking for

I got a room at the top of the world tonight
I got a room at the top of the world tonight
I got a room at the top of the world tonight
And I ain't comin' down, no
I ain't comin' down yeah
(Yeah)

I wish I could feel you tonight
Little one you're so far away I want to reach out
And touch your heart
Yeah like they do in those things on TV
I love you please love me, I'm not so bad
And I love you so

I got a room at the top of the world tonight
I got a room at the top of the world tonight
I got a room at the top of the world tonight
And I ain't comin' down, no

I ain't comin' down
I ain't comin' down

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Room at the Top" by Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers express a sense of contentment and satisfaction with one's life. The singer speaks of having a room at the top of the world, where he can see everything and where people can come to forget the things that have gone wrong in their lives. He has a loved one and some money saved up, and he feels like he's all right. The chorus repeats the idea that he's not coming down from his perch at the top of the world.

In the bridge of the song, the singer expresses a desire to be with someone he cares about who is far away. He wants to reach out and touch their heart and have them love him back. Overall, the lyrics paint a picture of a person who has found some measure of success and contentment, but who still longs for human connection and love.

Line by Line Meaning

I got a room at the top of the world tonight
I am feeling on top of the world, like everything is going great in my life right now.

I can see everything tonight
I have a fresh perspective on things, and I feel like I can see clearly now.

I got a room where everyone
I have a space where anyone is welcome to join me.

Can have a drink and forget those things
They can come in and relax, have a drink, and forget about any troubles they might be facing.

That went wrong in their life
The room is a safe haven where people can come to escape any negative aspects of their life.

And I ain't comin' down
I am so happy and content that I am not willing to let anything bring me down from this high point.

I got someone who loves me tonight
I am lucky to have someone who cares about me deeply and is there to support me.

I got over a thousand dollars in the bank
Financially, I am secure and don't have to worry about struggling to make ends meet.

And I'm all right
Overall, I'm doing well right now and don't have any major issues to worry about.

Look deep in the eyes of love
When you truly love someone, you can see the depth of their emotions just by looking into their eyes.

And find out what you were looking for
If you open yourself up to love, you might discover something new and wonderful that you never knew you needed in your life.

I wish I could feel you tonight
I miss someone special and wish they were here with me right now.

Little one you're so far away I want to reach out
The person I am missing feels very distant from me, and I wish I could physically be with them.

And touch your heart
I want to connect with this person on a deep emotional level and show them how much I care about them.

Yeah like they do in those things on TV
I want to share an intimate, romantic moment with this person like you see in movies or on TV shows.

I love you please love me, I'm not so bad
I am expressing my love and affection for this person, and I hope they can reciprocate those feelings.

And I love you so
I am so deeply in love with this person that it's hard to put into words.

Lyrics © Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: TOM PETTY

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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Comments from YouTube:

Tom Horton

1y↑29

I was 71 years of age on Sunday and I just learnt the chords to this song, I think this is one of the most cherished accomplishmets/objectives of my life so far, thank you Tom for putting real meaning in peoples' lives

Flight of the Bumblebee

3y↑263

Tom is sitting in his room at the top, smiling and looking down knowing how many people he made truly happy with his beautiful music he left behind.

Richard Barnes

x x

2y↑7

Yes. I love this. He is probably like wtf….. he knew he made an impact, but from above I bet it’s even bigger.

Cassandra Leeds

2y↑4

Yesss 💕♥️💛💛I miss him!! And will never forget him

Peggy Calrow

2y↑5

Blue Octber..for my brother..tops it off..
Almost a year..My Brother for sure..and i pray so..
he took mom too..

Steven K

2y↑19

My dad absolutely loved listening to Tom Petty. He had all the casettes and would always play them loud and sing along to them in the car when I was a kid riding around with him and my brother and sister. I remember being embarrassed a couple of times when he picked me up from school with a Tom Petty song playing at full volume. I lost my Dad several years ago and everytime I hear a Tom Petty song play on the radio it brightens my day. I wish I could spend one more day with him and ride around just jamming out to Tom Petty. This song just reminds me of him and how he is looking down on all of us with no more pain or stress. Life is short don’t ever take it for granted. When you’re a kid, you think you’re invincible and that everyone around you will always be there. You learn quicky how short life really is and how much you miss those little car rides with the family and just little moments you never thought much of at the time. Live in the moment and really show love and appreciation to those close to you every chance you get cause you never know when it will be the last chance to do so. May God bless everybody and everything in this existence. I love you Dad, may you rest in peace in heaven. <3

11 More Replies...

Vickey Randall

2y↑19

Today is the anniversary of his passing. It's been 5 years now. I still listen to this song in his memory. His music was a soundtrack for my life. I loved all of it, yet this one, with the lyrics, touched my heart. He truly has a room at the top of the world. I miss him 😢

Patricia Watkins

6y↑67

I just love this man. His music just moves my soul. My perfect evening is a nice cold beer, chillin' and listening to Petty. Thank you!!

Cassandra Leeds

2y↑3

Yessss. Thank you Mr Petty

Paul Edward

32w

Well put Patricia 👏

Carla Hillers

29w

Amen sister!

Jessica Hill

6y↑41

This song truly helped my mom when my Dad passed away, I’ve heard this song over and over for the past 13 years. Such powerful lyrics.

Bryan Wiley

7y↑56

One of the best song writers to ever live. Your music will live on forever!! RIP Tom Petty

They Call Me JP

6y↑278

I would just like to say that I'm a twelve year old and this man has inspired me further my music. I was so sad to see him go but he had a certain place in everyones heart. Rest in peace Mr. Petty. You were an inspiration and an amazing man.

Teresa Henson

3y↑10

I hope you are still making music.

Tundra Tortoise

3y↑9

You Go With It, Young One ...🤗

Aubre Greene

3y↑18

I'm twelve as well and I feel the same way.

35 More Replies...

Siddharth Chander

3y↑48

Some of my friends from high school used to jam out to this one when it came out. 14 years later, we reunited with an RV and drove and camped to Yosemite National Park in California. Played this in the RV when we were up on the mountain and it just gives me goosebumps. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, the soundtrack to our lives

ratter531

6y↑38

You will live in our hearts forever , Tom Petty.

TVC15ohoh

3y↑13

The pain in this song is runs deep. "I love you, please love me. I'm not so bad. And I love you so." It's so open and honest, so vulnerable. Brings tears to my eyes.

Janice Hensley

3y↑32

I listen to this song everyday. It’s beyond beautiful. RIP TOM PETTY
and RIP HOWIE! 💘🎸

Bob Loblaw

6y↑11

One of the most brilliantly played solos ever.

Dana Mosley

3y↑15

One of his greatest songs for sure!!! Love you Tom!!!!!❤

Lollygagger

6y↑24

This is my favorite song of his. I have many but as soon as I heard of his passing this was the first thought I had, you've certainly got a room at the top of the world, forever. He was my Elvis, my world and will always be. We love you so much Tom! 💜

jumo004

2y↑8

What an amazing talent he had and this is, in my opinion, his best work. Very underrated. Rest in peace Tom, I'm glad that I was alive when you were.

Pam McMonigle

2y↑9

I absolutely love this tune. One of the greatest rock stars ever!

April Bennett

2y↑14

I love this song so much. Thoughts and feelings laid bare in the lyrics for all to see. It's a beautiful song and the last verse still makes me weep.

ratter531

6y↑26

Tom Petty A true rock legend, who will be missed by millions, Tom your songs will rock on forever. We LOVE you Tom.R.I.P.

The Vigilante

4y↑10

Echo is not only by far my favorite Petty album but one of my favorite of all time. Grossly underrated.

Jari Kuukasjärvi

4y↑1

Very good album, one of the best ever done

Tyler Stoddart

7y↑13

Amazing song from an amazing artist.... RIP Tom you will be missed dearly

Tom Thomson

4y↑34

This has to be my all-time favourite Tom Petty song out of hundreds of possibles, takes me to my special place, like a shortcut to Nirvana. Thanks Tom, I love you

Charles Mefford

7y↑340

Echo is a criminally underrated album! RIP Tom! We've lost a legend!

Annmarie Jones

5y↑4

Charles Mefford Spot on. Not to say the Heartbreakers didn't make good music after this album, but it was their last great album. R.I.P Tom.

Sandra Darrough

4y↑14

I love all Tom petty

Patrick Zipperer

4y↑14

Echo was possibly my favorite album. This song, Swingin, Echo, and Rhino Skin.....just great stuff.

Way Out Willie

4y↑1

There was no crime committed just ignorance.

Michael Jamrozy

3y↑4

I have it as his 2nd or 3rd top album to me

9 More Replies...

city zen

6y↑63

All of Tom's fans are keeping him alive through his music. RIP

Amanda Allen

6y↑16

timeless and u can't put a price on this man . one of the best and humble artists ever

kazoshay

7y↑29

I didn't discover this song until recently but it's one of my favorites. RIP Tom Petty, so many great songs he left us with and I'm thankful.

Kimberly Bellefontaine

buddhastalin ditto here

Half Dead Hoodlum ☠️

6y↑16

Echo is a greatly underrated appreciated album in my playlist. What a deep masterpiece he wrote. RIP TP you got a room at the top tonight ❤️

Christy

6y↑21

My favorite Tom Petty song. I've listened to your incredible music since birth and have been a huge fan ever since I can remember. R.I.P. Tom. Thank you for the amazing gift of your talent that you've shared with the world. I'll love and miss you forever.

Gabby S

3y↑9

This is the song I’m gonna play for my father daughter dance at my wedding. My dad loved Tom Petty and brought the family to many of his concerts, this song in particular is one I always remembered growing up :-)

Stacey Kinard

7y↑34

RIP TOM! Damn this one hurts. One of my favorite artist. Saw him twice in concert and what a show he put on. So funny and such a great entertainer. Your music will live on. A true legend

Marilyn Harjo

3y↑61

I always end up here, listening to the greatest who can express for me , my feelings and thoughts. Miss you Tom, thank you for all of your gifts

brian cunningham

3y↑3

Same. Just listened to Woman In Love had to finish up here.

sherrylynn70 aka Sentimental Journey Productions

Me, too🎼💞🙏⚘️🎸

Todd Farrow

7y↑81

I never knew you but always felt like I did through your songs. Your music was always there and will always will be forever. RIP Tom Petty.

Howard Owens

1y↑1

One of Tom’s most beautiful love songs. Written at one of the darkest times of his life.

Ricky Mcintyre

4y↑9

This song is so heartbreaking, what can one express when there is nothing else but the truth. The first time I ever heard this I was floored, so impactful and filled with something you can't quite put your hands around, thank you for the inspiration for this piece of beauty and truth. Though there is slight dark tint of darkness around this piece, there is also peace.

Roland Chavez

7y↑1

Thank you Mr. Petty for decades of great music. Rest In Peace. You will be missed.

Mike Richards

6y↑17

A musical genius.......we miss you Tom.....RIP

Carolyn Wilson

2y↑1

He does reach out and touch our hearts. So easy to tell he was a real gentleman RIP, dear Tom.

Pam Krohn

6y↑39

Love him. Love this song. Every memory of my teenage years has a Tom Petty soundtrack. I miss him so much❤️

Randy Adolphson

4y↑1

I'm 62 Toms songs spoke to me so much. So did Jeff Lynne and Billy Joel Armstrong

Angela Brantley

6y↑13

such a beautiful song that I almost forgot... thank you Tom for sharing your beautiful soul with the world!! enjoy bliss on th other side, you never have to come down

Tom Kohlman

6y↑16

He had such feeling in his music. It's sad he's gone. One of the all-time greats!

zekeleavitt

13y↑2

I love this song. I can relate to where you were coming from when you wrote this! Thanks for all the great songs over the last 30 years!!

ratter531

5y↑6

TOM PETTY ALWAYS LOVED NEVER FORGOTTEN FOREVER MISSED ❤❤

Danna Graves

5y↑1

Love this man since catch a rising star in Seattle at the Paramount

ratter531

5y↑1

@Danna Graves he was so nice, I met him in 1990..he loved his fans, very humble, he did not have the arrogant i am a rock star attitude..I miss him every day..A Gem of a human being.

Tony Cook

12y↑1

The World Of Music is so much richer because of people like Tom & the Heartbreakers...true musical talents..who ain't in it for any other reason than making great music.....I salute them all, both present and past.

Bryan Manning

11y↑10

back when i bought this CD i fell in love with this song.When i started dating my ex wife she was emotionally hurt as was i and we bonded over this song...5 years later i have been divorced for three and now thi ssong is a mix of hope and despair at the same time. Only the genius of Tom Petty could hit on multiple emotional nerve endings like this.Hauntingly beautiful song by an infinite talent.

Adam Drach

1y↑1

@XAbbeldydooX, I know what you mean. Tom Said it was about escape. Not going to lie, some days when I don't have my kids, I try to forget, to numb myself in everyway, weather that is through alcohol, or drugs, and just blitz myself till I pass out. I so want to be in that room and never come down. Peace be with you sir.

Joe Mama

3y↑1

I'm thankful, even in this awful year, that you guys were so prolific. Love you Tom and all of your bandmates forever and ever.

bvbull200

This song has been hitting me really hard since his passing. The guy was a special talent. It's tough knowing that he really ain't coming down for another show. RIP Mr. Petty. Thanks for the eternal memories and for one hell of a catalog.

Primrose Petticoats

11y↑14

there is just no other that even comes close.. his songwriting is so pure

Will Douglas

It's amazing how you can listen to a song a thousand times, and then something happens and suddenly the meaning of it changes completely...RIP legend. You will be missed dearly <3

Cat

I remember this night, this song! The atmosphere, pure awe, light, and joy being transmitted! What a beautiful gift to give to people! Everybody gratefully transfered to the happy place, on top of the world with TP and not coming down❣️
Loving the new 2022 Fillmore Live triple album!!! Great sound!!!
Thanks producers, can we get more?
💙 💙 💙 💙 💙 Cat

Andy Arnold

45w

This song reminds me about my wife. It was her favorite song before she lost the battling to cancer, I wish I could change the hands of time, I miss her smiles, she was always there for me and our lovely daughter, and I never miss a moment with her, life could be so unfair most times, there is some pain, I will cry in vain but won’t let you know how I will feel yes, I will miss you to the core! but some times i wonder why bad thing always happen to good people. She’s always in our hearts…

Naomi McClarrinon

6y↑14

Wow -- what a beautiful and at the same time heartbreaking song -- he truly is Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers!

Bob A Booey

4y↑46

This song still brings tears to my eyes.

susan lawrence

2y↑4

2022 and still tearing up!

April Johnson

"Little one, you're so far away and I wanna reach out,and touch your heart" that's when I'm a whole weeping mess!😄❤️🎵

Debra Eshleman

46w

Same. So touching.

2 More Replies...

TheStorm 45

6y↑47

The music and lyrics make my heart hurt that you're gone, and cry for these days. You are the greatest that ever lived, and I'll listen to your music every day forever. I've been blessed to have you throughout my life and seeing you play live every time, they're the best memories ever. Thank you so very much xoxo

steve daly

I've been a Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers fan since 1982. When I was 16. By far my favorite band of all time. The last 2 or 3 years this song has been put in my top 5 songs by them of all time.

Coltwins 98

7y↑10

R.I.P Tom Petty ❤️ you are timeless and your beautiful art will live on forever ❤️

Gregg Smith

6y↑5

every time I here this I can't help but cry there's no way of explaining the beauty of this song.

Carolyn hoff

7y↑18

One of my favorite Petty songs!

Lizette Avila

7y↑1

Such a beautiful song. It was such a honor to hear you and I am very grateful. Rest easy young soul.❤

Casey Carlson

7y↑1

You Truly are the Greatest of all time Tom. You can sit at the top of the world just as long as you keep looking down upon us. You will be missed forever. The Rock and Roll world will never be as special ever again. RIP Tom

Bruce Gwynn

Tom and the heartbreakers are a so much better band than most people ever realized until after his death and the catalog of all his work came out, he was amazing!!!

frigginjerk

7y↑339

I put this one in his Top 5. ...Along with at least 30 of his other songs. That might not make sense normally, but it does in this case, because he is Tom Petty. And he always will be.

Joseph Pustae

6y↑10

frigginjerk well said!

Kimberly Bellefontaine

6y↑15

frigginjerk yes.....absolutely makes sense! Thank you for putting it that way. I couldn't quite put that exact thought into words. Thanks, you did it so well.

Michele (auntie m)

5y↑9

frigginjerk I get it. A great songwriter.

CoorsBudMiller74

5y↑10

frigginjerk exactly

deliverer

5y↑10

Yes. Tom was one of a kind

20 More Replies...

Randall Rhodes

I measure my life in each song.His music is the soundtrack of my life❤Rest in peace Tom Petty😇❤

jmichael1079

7y↑11

You indeed have a room at the top of the world tonight. I hope I can visit that room one day. The world will never forget you or your music, which has touched many of our lives. Rest easy Tom Petty.

Green L

5y↑1

Simply one of the best bands of all time. Great Tune, rips at my soul. Missing you TP RIP

Timothy Dineen

6y↑2

This is a tough song to get through without coming to tears. Amazing song!

Jeremy Dickey

7y↑12

Love ya man, along with the rest of the world that loved you as you shared your love back to us all with your group making everlasting, motivational, meaningful, raw love to the bone kinda vibe in your music(albums) that is in it's own top shelf class! Thank you Tom Petty hope to hear you rocking on the other side someday:)

Heather Minsker

5y↑25

I find myself pulling up this song more than ever since Tom's passing - I absolutely adore this song, and video. thank you - again.

Stephen Marcus

5y↑3

Same. Love this song. Play it almost daily.

L B

2y↑1

Tommy has a room at the top of the world forever. I just love him, his music changed my life literally! Thank you Mr. Petty. We sit out by the lake all summer and play these Tom Petty songs every night and cry. I will play your songs till I die.

punagurl8

It’s late night/early morning now and I’ve been looking for something to remind me that life can still be beautiful. Then I came across this song. I love Tom Petty’s music and am so grateful that I was able to attend a concert he gave long ago at the Rose Garden in Portland, Oregon. I told my companion there that Tom Petty is no less than a musical god. Listening to this song in particular makes me feel the same as on that day at the Rose Garden. What a beautiful song, sung only as Tom Petty could. He left us such a gift in all his writings and music and they will never get old. If only he was still here to realize how far reaching his musical legacy is and will always be. RIP Tom Petty, who left us way too soon.💔

Davo

7y↑311

Enjoy your room at the top Mr Petty, you will be greatly missed. Thanks for all that you have been giving us with your wonderful music.

Groovy Hippie Chick

7y↑3

Davo Garcia Amen! 😢

Sandra Campbell

6y↑4

Davo Garcia I too get chills thinking of him. And Room at the Top listen to it and watch Video EVERYDAY!!!! MR TOM PETTY U ARE SO DEEPLY MISSED AND LOVED!!!!

Sandra Campbell

6y↑5

I listen and. Watch Room at the Top everyday!!! I miss you And love everything about you!!!!

ratter531

6y↑6

Tom's millions of fan are so heartbroken , of his passing. He was such a nice sweet man , who did not have..the I am a rock star attitude, I met him in 1990. Just a nice man all the way. I am still in tears.

Shiela Stevens

Davo Garcia totally match’s him and his legacy.

3 More Replies...

Michele Barna

42w

I love this song, listening to the lyrics and the music is uplifting. I have another spin on his words, I hear him saying he
is going to be fine with what is left in life and love and there is no coming down. His music is everlasting, he was a true
musician and songwriter. He is greatly missed but his music will live on forever! Great job Tom Petty!

Kim Hayes

This will be played when I die...not enough thank you or words to describe what his music does for my soul..thank you Mr. Petty..u r missed ✌

Stu Kyner

3y↑5

Tom Petty has always been my favorite artist ever since I heard the waiting on the radio in 1981. I saw him in 1983,1996 and the last time in 1999 on my 39th birthday. The true definition of KOOL

somnambulus

7y↑43

Miss you already, Tom. You were and will always be a musical legend.

Jason D

One of the best!
RIP up there Tom Petty!
Will miss you. But your music will last in my heart for eternity.

Sandra Carstairs

8y↑12

Love this tune Tom and the Band have an awesome sound! This is my fav😎

Mary S

5y↑8

What a triumvirate -- Petty, Campbell & Tench! They reached to the depths of my soul. Miss you, TP....

Jim 1701

5y↑1

I first heard this in 1999 on the way home from the hospital after my daughter was born. It described so wonderfully how I felt.
Now, I celebrate her 20th birthday by listening to it. We’ve been estranged for four months. I’m not a victim. She went through a lot. For years I’ve read moving comments on YouTube and prayed for strangers, but I’ve never commented once. I needed to get this out.

Evelyn Potoczny

12y

I think it's physically impossible to dislike this song. It's so beautiful.

Green L

4y↑4

Oh how I miss Tom always touched my soul with his tunes missing Heartbreakers sound simply the best!

kittkat42

13y

I can't help but think this song is beautiful. It reminds me of sad times, but also of hope.

ratter531

6y↑8

For the great Tom Petty.
ALWAYS LOVED FOREVER MISSED NEVER FORGOTTEN

Love America

Tom Petty was absolutely brilliant. He sang with so many great ones and was well respected by everyone. He will be missed forever. Most people can’t understand the new music🤮. So thank God that we have access to amazing older music. RIP Tom Petty. You will be missed forever😢😢😞😞

Michael Spaeth

6y↑4

Glad I got to see him live once before he passed. He was in my cassette rotation in high school. I'll miss him.

Melissa Windle

13y

Tom Petty & his music is simply amazing.

MsFifthstone

6y↑3

Thank-you Tom, for reaching out and touching my heart <3 RIP

Earth Muffin

8y↑10

Nothing compares to this heart-felt song. It brings back so many wonderful memories! My hubby and I had Room at the Top as our first dance at our wedding reception. Even he choked up. <3 <3 <3

Becky R

6y↑4

Brilliant, beautiful musician, Tom, missing you! I'd never come down either!! So many awesome songs I grew up listening to. RIP you rock legend. 💔🕇💔🕇💖

JAM TAKO

6y↑1

Thank you Tom Petty for all you left for us . Love This Song!

Ronald Schuberth

3-7-2023, Listening to Tom Petty live is far better than listening to the best orchestra. Tom Petty is a legend and genius. His creative lyrics touch my soul like nobody else ever has.

Shishkiboom

13y

One of the greatest songs of all time.

jamie button

Few songs can make you happy and sad at the same time. This is one of them.

BeckyFox

He was my 1st rock n roll star crush, and I appreciate his music so much more now. I'm obsessed with Tom Petty radio. So much priceless content. I can listen anywhere, and I do!

Barry Lecouffe

7y↑15

RIP Tom...The world has lost a true master

Observing Pennys

Tom petty one of the best musicians of all times, I listen to this song over and over when I'm down or feeling sad.

Ned Kelly

What a great song, what a great band.....all the best Tom!

Hellphox

12y↑1

this is one of the greatest songs in the history of music.

Dana Mosley

3y↑1

Every time I listen or watch this song, i cry. Every freaking time! Love you tom petty!!!!!

Denise Martin

6y↑13

This man makes such beautiful music 👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋👋💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖

karl schultz

Yes he does I love his songs.
So how are you doing, hope you're safe?

Goldie

6y↑3

God bless Tom and Howie, beautiful harmonies. You're so missed...y'all were the best band ever. Thank you so much.

ratter531

6y↑24

I was fortunate to meet Tom Petty back in 1990. He was the most nicest sincere man I ever spoken to. He did not have the..I am a rock star attitude..I have posted this on many of Tom's songs..He was just so nice and down to earth. I miss him and I can not stop my tears for him.We LOVE you Tom, ROCK IN PEACE..You are at the room at the top.