Tom Petersson on the Eternal Search for Perfect Tone and His New Gretsch Signature Models

Cheap Trick has built a tremendous legacy over the last 40 years, constantly releasing new albums and certainly never slowing their torrid touring schedule.  With whacky guitars, memorable power ballads, mega rock hits and boundless energy, they’ve built a steadfast and devoted following. And while Cheap Trick’s pioneering bassist Tom Petersson is no stranger to being recognized or asked for an autograph, the recognition and level of stardom that came with the band’s recent induction in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has been a bit surprising. “I’ve got people who are walking their dogs and go by and say, ‘Hey congratulations.’ I have no idea who they are, and they are going to the park and recognize me now,” said Petersson. “So it really means a lot to other people, and I think it’s nice for us because it validated for our fans who really were always like, ‘We’ve got to get you in there!’ They were writing letters and doing all this stuff. That really made us feel good, ya know?” While beyond grateful for and humbled by the recognition, the chance to reflect on the ride might be the most meaningful part of the experience for Petersson.

See Tom Petersson Demo His New Signature Bass Models

Cheap Trick bassist Tom Peterrson was a featured guest at Nashville's Country Music Hall of Fame during the Summer NAMM show, and for fans who couldn't make it, an archived stream of the event is available below. With 75 rare Gretsch guitars currently on display at the museum as part of the Bachman-Gretsch exhibit, Petersson

Gretsch Announces the Tom Petersson Signature Basses

Gretsch will officially unveil two new Tom Petersson signature bass models during the Summer NAMM show this week in Nashville, Tenn. The members of Cheap Trick have reigned as the high priests of hard-rocking U.S. power pop for more than 40 years, with an influential and infectiously ever-youthful sound. The band has recorded countless hits,

Cheap Trick Rock the ‘Today Show’

Weather forecast brought to you by Cheap Trick’s Tom Petersson and his 12-string bass? Hell yes! The newly inducted Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band  rocked the New York set of the Today Show last week, showcasing both a classic hit and a brand-new tune. Watch after the jump as the legendary act performs “I Want You To Want Me” and new song “When I Wake Up Tomorrow” off  17th studio album Bang, Zoom, Crazy… Hello.

See the New Cheap Trick Video for Bowie-Esque Single

A week in advance of their April 8 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band,  Cheap Trick dropped new album Bang, Zoom, Crazy ... Hello, which marked their first album since 2009. Late last year, the band advanced its single "No Direction Home," and then followed up with a video last month

Tom Petersson’s Rock Your Speech

Cheap Trick's Tom Petersson and his wife Alison have launched Rock Your Speech, a music project inspired by their 7-year-old son Liam, who is working hard to overcome a speech disorder associated with autism spectrum disorder. After years of doing intensive speech therapy with Liam, the Petersson's had the idea to incorporate speech and language

Cheap Trick to Appear on Guitar Center Sessions

The legendary Cheap Trick’s recent feature performance on Guitar Center Sessions is set to air on Jan. 17 at 9 p.m. ET (10 p.m. PT) on DIRECTV’s Audience Network. But, fans can get a sneak peek of the episode with a clip of the band playing “Surrender.” Make sure to note Tom Petersson’s incredible 12-string Gretsch White Falcon bass as the band turns in an energetic version of their classic hit. Watch Cheap Trick after the jump and visit their official Facebook page for upcoming tour dates.