Introduction:
The song “It’s Been a Long, Long Time” is a classic American popular song that gained widespread recognition during the big band era, particularly at the end of World War II. While it is not one of Tom Jones’s most iconic or chart-topping hits, his recording of the song is a notable part of his extensive discography, showcasing his versatility as a vocalist and his appreciation for timeless melodies. To understand Tom Jones’s connection to this song, it’s important to first delve into its origins and its initial impact on popular culture.
“It’s Been a Long, Long Time” was written by Jule Styne (music) and Sammy Cahn (lyrics). It was released in 1945, a year that marked the end of World War II. The song quickly became an anthem for the returning soldiers and their loved ones, capturing the collective longing for reunion and the emotional relief of finally being together after years of separation. The most famous and successful version of the song from this period was recorded by Harry James and His Orchestra, featuring vocalist Kitty Kallen. This version became an instant hit, perfectly encapsulating the mood of the nation at the time.
The genre of the original “It’s Been a Long, Long Time” is big band and traditional pop. It features a lush orchestral arrangement, often with prominent brass sections, smooth vocal lines, and a swing rhythm that was characteristic of the era. The lyrics are straightforward and heartfelt, expressing the simple yet profound joy of reunion. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal theme of longing and the emotional release of a long-awaited return.
Tom Jones, the legendary Welsh singer, rose to international stardom in the mid-1960s with his powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and a string of hits that blended pop, rock, soul, and R&B. Known for his robust baritone and his ability to infuse any song with charisma and passion, Jones has built a career spanning over six decades. His discography is incredibly diverse, including original hits, covers of contemporary songs, and interpretations of classic standards.
Tom Jones recorded his version of “It’s Been a Long, Long Time” in 1966. It was included on his album A-Tom-ic Jones, which was released in January 1966 in the UK and February 1966 in the US. This album was an early entry in Jones’s burgeoning career, following his breakthrough success with “It’s Not Unusual” in 1965. A-Tom-ic Jones showcased his versatility and his ability to tackle a variety of musical styles, from uptempo numbers to more tender ballads.
In Tom Jones’s hands, “It’s Been a Long, Long Time” takes on a slightly different nuance. While retaining the song’s inherent romanticism, Jones’s powerful vocal delivery adds a layer of soulful intensity. His interpretation is less about the big band swing of the original and more about a direct, emotive connection to the lyrics. He brings his characteristic vocal strength and a touch of his R&B sensibility to the track, making it distinctly his own. The genre for his version can still be broadly categorized as pop or vocal pop, reflecting his dominant style during that period.
While “It’s Been a Long, Long Time” was not released as a standalone single for Tom Jones and therefore did not achieve specific chart success in that capacity, its inclusion on A-Tom-ic Jones meant it reached a wide audience. The album itself performed well, contributing to Jones’s rapidly growing international fame. The true achievement of Tom Jones’s version lies in its contribution to his reputation as a versatile and compelling interpreter of songs. It demonstrates his ability to take a beloved classic and infuse it with his unique vocal power and emotional depth, making it relevant to a new generation of listeners. This song is a testament to his artistry and his appreciation for the rich history of popular music.
In conclusion, “It’s Been a Long, Long Time” is a classic big band and traditional pop song written by Jule Styne and Sammy Cahn, originally released in 1945 and famously performed by Harry James. Tom Jones recorded his version in 1966, featuring it on his album A-Tom-ic Jones. His rendition falls within the pop/vocal pop genre and showcases his powerful voice and emotive delivery, contributing to his legacy as a versatile and enduring musical icon, even if it wasn’t a standalone hit for him.