Tom Jones, the Welsh wonder with a voice like melted chocolate and moves smoother than a shaken Martini, has been serenading the world for decades. From swinging sixties anthems to surprising collaborations, his discography is a treasure trove of tunes. If you’re looking to dive into the best of Tom Jones Songs, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s explore some of his most iconic tracks that have kept audiences captivated and coming back for more.
What’s New Pussycat?
Tom Jones performing What's New Pussycat, a classic 1960s song, on stage.
Released in the vibrant year of 1965, “What’s New Pussycat?” is a quintessential Tom Jones song, brimming with the energy of the era. Crafted by the legendary duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David, this track was tailor-made for the Peter Sellers and Peter O’Toole film of the same name. Its playful melody and Jones’ charismatic vocals propelled it to number three on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying his status as a prominent pop artist. This song is pure 60s fun, showcasing Jones’ ability to deliver a catchy tune with undeniable flair.
Thunderball
Tom Jones singing Thunderball, the James Bond theme song, with a powerful and dramatic stage presence.
“Thunderball,” another gem from 1965, sees Tom Jones dive into the world of espionage as he delivers the theme song for the James Bond film of the same name. This electrifying track is a perfect match for the thrilling atmosphere of 007 adventures. Known for its powerful brass arrangements and Jones’ dynamic vocal performance, “Thunderball” stands out as a highlight in the James Bond soundtrack legacy. Legend has it that Tom Jones nearly fainted in the recording booth holding that final, powerful note! Originally a last-minute substitution, it quickly became a fan favorite, proving Jones’ knack for delivering a truly iconic performance. Interestingly, Johnny Cash also recorded a version of “Thunderball,” but it was Jones’ rendition that truly captured the quintessential 007 spirit.
Mama Told Me Not to Come (with Stereophonics)
Tom Jones performing Mama Told Me Not to Come alongside Stereophonics, a dynamic collaboration between generations of musicians.
Fast forward to 1999, and we find Tom Jones teaming up with Stereophonics for a rocking rendition of “Mama Told Me Not to Come.” Imagine your mother warning you about a wild party, and then Tom Jones belts out that exact sentiment with his signature swagger! Written by Randy Newman and initially popularized by Three Dog Night in 1970, Tom Jones’ version, infused with Stereophonics’ energy, adds a layer of cheeky, modern charm. This funky, bluesy track stormed the UK charts, becoming a fan favorite and proving Tom Jones’ timeless appeal across generations. It’s a testament to his ability to reinvent classics and collaborate with contemporary artists while staying true to his unique style.
Kiss (with the Art of Noise)
Tom Jones and Art of Noise in the music video for Kiss, a stylish and innovative collaboration that blends genres.
In 1988, Tom Jones gave Prince’s masterpiece “Kiss” a Welsh twist, collaborating with Art of Noise to create a truly unique version. Imagine a Welsh Elvis strutting onto the scene with a knowing smirk – that’s the energy of this track. The result is a funky, brass-infused romp that compelled hips to shake from Cardiff to California. This collaboration didn’t just make waves; it cannonballed into the charts, reaching No. 5 in the UK and reaffirming Jones’ enduring coolness. The music video is pure visual gold, with Tom’s charisma practically leaping off the screen. “Kiss” is the perfect pick-me-up, a reminder that coolness is ageless, and a prime example of Tom Jones transforming a hit into his own signature groove.
I’ll Never Fall in Love Again
Tom Jones performing I'll Never Fall in Love Again on The Dusty Springfield Show, showcasing his vocal talent in a live television performance.
Released in 1967, “(It Looks Like) I’ll Never Fall in Love Again” is a classic Tom Jones tune that showcases his powerful voice and his ability to connect with heartfelt emotions. Penned by Lonnie Donegan and Jimmy Currie, this song captures the bittersweet lament of someone who’s been hurt by love one too many times. Tom Jones, with his charismatic persona and voice that could melt glaciers, transformed this song into an anthem for the lovelorn. It soared to number two on the UK charts and resonated internationally, demonstrating the timeless appeal of ballads delivered with genuine emotion.
The Green Green Grass of Home
Tom Jones singing The Green Green Grass of Home, a nostalgic and emotionally resonant performance in a television special.
Picture it: 1966, and Tom Jones is belting out a nostalgic ballad about returning home. “The Green Green Grass of Home,” originally recorded by Porter Wagoner in 1965, would become his signature song. Tom’s rendition skyrocketed to the top of the UK Singles Chart, staying there for an incredible seven weeks! It also made significant waves in the US, reaching the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s charm lies in its poignant tale of longing for simpler times, complete with a twist ending that delivers an emotional punch right to the heart. This is Tom Jones at his storytelling best, weaving emotion into every note.
She’s a Lady
Tom Jones performing She's a Lady on TopPop, exuding suave charm and charisma during a television appearance.
“She’s a Lady” is Tom Jones at his suave and sophisticated best, striding into the 1970s with enough swagger to light up any room. Released in 1971, this Paul Anka penned hit became one of Jones’ signature tunes, reinforcing his image as the king of cool. The song climbed the charts like Tom’s famously stylish sideburns, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming his highest-charting single in the U.S. Ever the charmer, Jones sings about a woman who’s “all you’d ever want,” his velvet voice making believers of us all. Originally intended for Anka himself, he wisely passed it to Jones, who infused it with his unmistakable charisma. “She’s a Lady” is the ultimate anthem of chivalry with a playful wink.
Help Yourself
Tom Jones performing Help Yourself in 1968, a lively and engaging performance with a full band.
“Help Yourself” is where Tom Jones takes the concept of indulgence to a whole new level. This 1968 hit is a delightful feast of brass, charm, and incredibly catchy hooks that made audiences worldwide want to sing along. Encouraging listeners to seize life’s opportunities because “life’s a banquet,” it’s no wonder this track rocketed up the charts, landing at number 5 in the UK and breaking into the US top 40. Borrowing its melody from the Italian tune ‘Gli Occhi Miei’ by Dino, Jones’s powerful vocals and playful performance give it a unique and irresistible flair. Whether you appreciate buffet metaphors or simply love a catchy tune, “Help Yourself” dishes out a heaping portion of fun that’s hard to resist.
It’s Not Unusual
Tom Jones performing It's Not Unusual on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1968, a breakthrough performance that launched his international career.
“It’s Not Unusual,” Tom Jones’ iconic song, catapulted him to international stardom in 1965. This energetic anthem, with its instantly recognizable brass hooks and Jones’ powerhouse vocals, became a defining sound of the swinging ’60s. Originally intended for Sandie Shaw, Jones’ passionate demo was so impressive that it was decided he should keep it for himself – a decision that changed music history. Written by Les Reed and Gordon Mills, the song’s success was unprecedented. It reached number one in the UK and number ten in the US, making Tom Jones an international sensation. Its universal appeal has cemented its place in pop culture, famously featured in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, where Carlton Banks’ unforgettable dance to the tune became a TV legend. “It’s Not Unusual” remains a timeless classic, instantly recognizable and eternally groovy.
Delilah
Tom Jones singing Delilah on The Ed Sullivan Show, a dramatic and captivating performance of his signature song.
Ah, “Delilah”—the Tom Jones song that made him a karaoke king and the patron saint of dramatic breakups. Released in 1968, “Delilah” tells the tale of a man who discovers his beloved Delilah’s infidelity and reacts in, shall we say, a memorable fashion. Spoiler alert: it involves a knife and a healthy dose of melodrama. Tom Jones, with his booming voice and signature hip movements, transformed this tragic story into a chart-topping hit. It reached number two in the UK Singles Chart and became a staple of his live performances, with audiences enthusiastically belting out the chorus. Written by Barry Mason and Les Reed, “Delilah,” despite its dark lyrics, has an inexplicable ability to get people dancing – or at least waving an imaginary knife in the air. It’s a testament to Tom Jones’ power to make even the most dramatic scenarios irresistibly entertaining.
Tom Jones’ song catalog is a vibrant and varied collection, showcasing his incredible vocal range and his ability to conquer diverse genres. From upbeat anthems to soulful ballads, these top tracks are just a glimpse into the magic of Sir Tom. Explore further and you’ll discover even more gems in his remarkable career.
