Tom Jones Roars On: The Evergreen "Tiger" at 85
Venerable Tom Jones, aged 85, combined forces with wild feline spirit as he declared himself as the persistent "The Tiger" in the battle of life.
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Tom Jones, the Welsh powerhouse with a golden voice and an irresistible charm, is still dominating stages at 85 years young. This summer, as he turns another year older, catch him in Germany for an unforgettable concert experience.
Resilience is the name of the game for this legend. In the late '60s, Jones was pushed to his limits while recording the iconic James Bond theme, "Thunderball." While standings with a live orchestra, he forgot to breathe before the powerful finale. Struggling to survive, he leaned against the booth window, eyes closed, holding onto the note.
Yet, Tom Jones is not one to back down. Fast forward to today, he continues to captivate audiences with his vocal prowess, solidifying his position as the 'Tiger' who refuses to be tamed.
A Lucky Life Reflecting on the Past
Reflection on his journey, Jones recently expressed his gratitude, "Watching clips from the past - the times, the places, the styles, and the crises - I realized how lucky I am." In the golden years of his career, Jones enjoys admiration from fans and critics alike.
Unlike many of his contemporaries, Tom Jones doesn't live off past glories. While he continues to perform timeless classics like "It's Not Unusual," "Delilah," and "What's New Pussycat," he also offers a mix of contemporary tunes to keep the show fresh.
In 2021, Jones released "Surrounded By Time," a creative blend of art rock, folk, and electro-pop. This album showcases his unique ability to re-imagine popular songs from different eras, all while staying true to his signature sound.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Superstardom
Born and raised in a working-class family in Pontypridd, Wales, Tom Jones saw the struggle early on. But he refused to let his circumstances dictate his fate. Rising to fame in the '60s as a charismatic and passionate singer, Jones also became a sex symbol, wowing fans with his sweaty, energetic performances that featured tight pants and an open shirt, showing off his hairy chest.
Jones' TV show, "This is Tom Jones," aired from 1969 to 1971, featuring collaborations with artists like Cher, Stevie Wonder, Janis Joplin, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Today, Jones can be found sharing clips from the show on his social media, sparking excitement among fans.
Crises, as Jones refers to them, were moments when his career seemed to be on the brink. The early 1970s were particularly tough, as several albums flopped and his songs disappeared from radio playlists, causing some to dismiss him as a once-popular act. However, the consummate performer refused to stay down.
Adapting the "Tiger" Continues to Strike
Jones has undergone several reinventions throughout his career. In the late '80s, he collaborated with the Art of Noise, recording a newer version of Prince's "Kiss," once again catching the attention of a newer generation.
In 1994, he released "The Lead and How to Swing It," an album that showcased a range of pop, rock, funk, and dance influences, along with the hit single, "If I Only Knew." The album remains a fan favorite on his current tour.
In 1999, he made a statement with the duet album "Reload," featuring collaborations with artists like Robbie Williams, Stereophonics, and The Cardigans, including memorable hits like "Mama Told Me Not To Come" and "Burning Down The House." In 2001, "Sex Bomb" ruled the charts, further solidifying his comeback.
A masterful move came with the "Praise & Blame" album trilogy, released between 2010 and 2015, where he reinterpreted old gospel, soul, and blues numbers. The cover of John Lee Hooker's "Burning Hell" became a hit, showcasing his remarkable ability to adapt to different genres while maintaining his distinctive sound.
Although he hasn't sung the James Bond theme "Thunderball live" for almost ten years, one can't help but wonder if the 'Tiger' still has it in him to handle the iconic final note without collapsing. But one thing is for sure - Tom Jones remains as unstoppable as ever!
Sources: ntv.de, Philip Dethlefs, dpa
Learn more about Tom Jones’ career and his encounters with fellow legends like Elvis Presley in his entertaining autobiography "Over the Top and Back."
Stay tuned for updates on Tom Jones' upcoming concerts and television appearances as the 'Tiger' continues to captivate audiences around the world! 🔥🐯
Celebrities such as Tom Jones continue to captivate audiences with their enduring performances, showcasing the enduring power of music. Tom Jones maintains his position as a household name, collaborating with contemporary artists and releasing new music, demonstrating the adaptability of entertainment icons.
