I asked my 15-year-old nephew (big ska fan)today for his knowledge of Petty. He knew the name immediately, could name several songs, and enlightened me on the fact that TP was named one of the 50 greatest artists by VH1. I mentioned that TP has always had pretty good tasty guitar stuff on his tunes, and got a hearty agreement. He pronounced Petty "pretty cool". So a ringing endorsement there. Did I mention he's 15? He's a good kid.
Now now, don't be too tough on the lad!

But opening one's mind, whatever size it is, is usually educational.
One more thing, TP did the best version of "Route 66" (live and crankin'!) I've ever heard. I need to buy that!