TOM JONES ROARS ON AT 85: THE TIGER'S UNSTOPPABLE JOURNEY
Eighty-five-year-old Tom Jones: The legendary performer, "The Tiger," continues to wage battle
In the groovy '60s, Tom Jones became a global phenomenon with his booming voice and sex appeal. Despite the ups and downs, this Welsh working-class lad from Pontypridd never backs down, continuously reinventing himself and captivating audiences even at 85. And guess what? He's coming to Germany for a tour this summer!
Nearly Sung His Last Breath for "Thunderball"
Believe it or not, Tom Jones was almost destined to be a Bond singer, collaborating with the iconic orchestra for the "Thunderball" theme in 1965. The pressure was unreal, and Tom nearly fainted mid-performance, clinging onto the booth like a dear lifeboat before delivering the iconic finale.
Fast forward six decades, and the Welsh wanderer is still belting out tunes that make heart skip a beat, shaking the foundations of Germany's stages this summer.
No Resting on Laurels for the Legendary Tiger
In a recent BBC interview, the ever-humble Jones admitted his excitement and gratitude for the recognition he enjoys in his autumn years. But instead of settling for the greatest hits, he mixes it up, drafting a setlist of old classics like "It's Not Unusual," "Delilah," or "What's New Pussycat," and new favorites to keep even the most dedicated fans on their toes.
His 2021 album, "Surrounded By Time," pays homage to Jones's timeless charm, blending art rock, folk, and electro-pop into a fresh sound that leaves listeners yearning for more. Covering everything from Michel Legrand's " The Windmills of Your Mind" to Michael Kiwanuka's "I Won't Lie," Jones breathes new life into these tunes, making them his own.
A Working-Class Boy to a Global Sensation
Tom Jones burst onto the music scene in the '60s, capturing hearts with his explosive vocals and undeniable charm. His sweaty, flirty performances earned him the nickname "The Tiger" as he crooned in his tight pants and open shirt, and female fans, of course, often showered him with their undergarments.
Although it's mostly good-natured today, this still happens at his shows, a testament to the enduring impact Jones has had on music and culture. He's shared the stage with the likes of Cher, Stevie Wonder, Janis Joplin, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, showcasing his eclectic talents and proving he's the master of all singing styles.
Overcoming Crises and Reinventing Himself
When Jones talks about crises today, he means the times when he struggled to stay relevant, like in the early '70s when his records tanked and his songs disappeared from the airwaves. He was dismissed as a has-been, a huge blow for a full-time performer trying to make a living.
But thanks to his resilience and determination, he took to the stage in lesser venues, confident that his time would come again. And it did when he befriended Elvis Presley in Vegas, considered the end of the line for singers at the time.
A Lion in His Sixth Decade
At the end of the '80s, Jones staged a musical comeback with the help of the Art of Noise. By covering Prince's "Kiss," he resonated with a new audience and reignited his career.
In 1994, he released "The Lead And How to Swing It" with a blend of pop, rock, funk, and dance, propelling him into a new phase of his career. "If I Only Knew," the hit single from the album, remains a staple in his setlist today.
In 1999, Jones collaborated with artists like Robbie Williams and the Cardigans on the duet album "Reload," which produced hits like "Mama Told Me Not To Come" and "Burning Down The House." Another musical high point came in 2008 with the release of the hit single "Sex Bomb," written by German producer Mousse T., catapulting Jones back into the spotlight.
A Legendary Autobiography and a teaching Career
Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2006, Jones has shared his tumultuous journey in the music industry in his witty autobiography "Over The Top And Back." He's also spread his wisdom and experience to younger artists as a coach on the UK version of "The Voice."
Tom Jones has sold over 100 million records worldwide, solidifying his place as one of the greatest vocalists of all time. His unique blend of charm, talent, and adaptability have kept him relevant for six decades, making him a trailblazer in the music industry. And if his tireless pace is any indication, we can expect "The Tiger" to continue roaring for years to come.
Source: ntv.de, Philip Dethlefs, dpa
- Music
- James Bond
In the midst of his impressive career, Tom Jones nearly became a James Bond singer, performing the "Thunderball" theme in 1965. complimenting the orchestra with his distinctive voice.
Even as a celebrated and veteran artist, the ever-adaptable Jones still mixes up his repertoire with both classic hits and contemporary favorites to keep audiences intrigued.
