"Still going strong" - Tom Jones at 85: "The Tiger" still roars
Eighty-five-year-old Tom Jones: "The Tiger" perseveres in combat
Dive into the captivating world of Tom Jones, the enduring globally recognized Welsh singer, as he continues to enchant audiences at 85. Get ready for another electrifying tour this summer!
Venturing back to the 60s, Tom Jones barefooted his way to international fame with his commanding voice and captivating stage presence. However, it wasn't always smooth sailing for "The Tiger." Recording the iconic 007 theme "Thunderball" brought Jones to his breaking point. As he recalls, "I nearly fainted!" Struggling to breathe before the powerful closing, Tom Jones fought for every note, leaning against the studio window and holding on with grit and determination.
Despite his impressive history, Tom Jones isn't one to rest on past laurels. Mixing old favorites like "It's Not Unusual," "Delilah," and "What's New Pussycat" with a variety of newer tracks, the high-energy performer keeps his concerts fresh and exciting.
Looking back on his career in a BBC interview, Tom Jones expressed gratitude for the life he's lived. With a wealth of recognition and admiration from fans and critics alike, he sings with wide recognition in the autumn of his career.
The timeless redemption of the "Tiger"
Known for his energetic performances and ability to adapt to various musical styles, Tom Jones caught the attention of diverse stars during his time on TV, collaborating with legends like Cher, Stevie Wonder, Janis Joplin, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.
Since childhood, Jones has learned not to give up. This relentless work ethic has led him to perform countless concerts in smaller towns and venues, solidifying his reputation as a nightclub entertainer in Las Vegas—a place once considered the end of the road for singers.
A master of reinvention
Buoyed by his success in the 80s, Tom Jones underwent a professional comeback by musically reinventing himself. With the help of Art Of Noise, he revived Prince's hit song "Kiss." The video received airtime on MTV, making Jones suddenly hip once again.
A career highlight came with the 1994 album "The Lead and How to Swing It," showcasing influences from pop, rock, funk, and dance, all wrapped up in the timeless voice of Sir Tom. The hit single "If I Only Knew" still resonates with audiences today.
Tom Jones surprised the music world again with the album "Reload" in 1999, featuring duets with popular artists such as Robbie Williams, Stereophonics, and the Cardigans. "Mama Told Me Not To Come" and "Burning Down The House" became instant hits, much like "Sex Bomb," a song written by Mousse T. that catapulted Jones back onto the charts and became a milestone in his career.
Staying true to his roots
Not one to shy away from new experiences, Jones impressed fans once more with the album trilogy "Praise & Blame" (2010), "Spirit In The Room" (2012), and "Long Lost Suitcase" (2015). These albums delved deep into the realms of gospel, soul, and blues, cementing Jones' connection to his musical origins. His stirring reinterpretation of John Lee Hooker's "Burning Hell" stood out as a masterful performance.
Sir Tom, knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2006, has vividly documented his remarkable journey in his entertaining autobiography, "Over The Top And Back." Jones continues to pass on his extensive wisdom to younger artists through his work on the TV show "The Voice UK."
Although he has taken a break from singing "Thunderball" live for nearly a decade, the risks may be too great for the seasoned performer to perform that powerful finale in his later years. Still, one could never underestimate the "Tiger's" prowess. Get ready to be wowed by Tom Jones as he takes the stage once more!
- Tom Jones, a Master of Reinvention, collaborated with numerous celebrities, including Cher, Stevie Wonder, Janis Joplin, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, demonstrating his versatility in a variety of musical styles.
- In a career spanning multiple decades, Tom Jones' concerts continue to captivate audiences, showcasing both his old favorites and newer tracks, demonstrating that entertainment is not limited to musicians' early years.
