Introduction:
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed aficionados of sound, and those who appreciate the enduring power of a truly great performance, gather ’round. Today, we turn our discerning gaze to a moment that, while relatively recent in the grand tapestry of musical history, nonetheless encapsulates the timeless allure of a legendary artist. We speak, of course, of Sir Tom Jones’s masterful rendition of his quintessential classic, ‘It’s Not Unusual,’ delivered with such panache during week 5 of The Voice UK 2020 Blind Auditions.
For those who have followed the illustrious career of Sir Tom Jones, a career spanning over six decades, this particular performance was more than just another television appearance; it was a potent reminder of why he remains a colossus in the world of popular music. From the moment he first burst onto the scene in the mid-1960s, Tom Jones possessed an undeniable charisma, a voice of astonishing power and range, and an innate ability to command an audience. His delivery of ‘It’s Not Unusual’ in 2020, even in the somewhat artificial environment of a reality television set, was a testament to these enduring qualities.
Consider, if you will, the song itself. ‘It’s Not Unusual,’ released in 1965, was a groundbreaking hit that catapulted the young Welshman to international stardom. Penned by Les Reed and Gordon Mills, the song’s vibrant brass arrangements, its infectious rhythm, and its soaring melody were perfectly suited to Jones’s vocal prowess. It’s a track that, even today, possesses an incredible kinetic energy, a joyful exuberance that few songs manage to sustain over such a long period. It speaks to a universal human experience of observation and longing, all wrapped in an irresistible package.
What makes Sir Tom Jones’s performance on The Voice UK 2020 particularly noteworthy is the context. As a coach on the show, he’s typically in the position of evaluating nascent talent. Yet, on this occasion, he stepped back into the spotlight not just as a mentor, but as the living embodiment of a musical legacy. There’s a certain gravitas that comes with such an act – a demonstration of sustained excellence that transcends fleeting trends and fads. He wasn’t merely singing a song; he was performing an institution, a piece of himself that has resonated with generations.
The Blind Auditions format of The Voice, where coaches initially judge contestants solely on their vocal ability, adds an intriguing layer to this specific performance. While the audience and his fellow coaches were well aware of who was on stage, the premise subtly underscored the sheer power of Sir Tom Jones’s voice. Even if one were somehow unfamiliar with his visage, the unmistakable timbre, the rich baritone, and the sheer force of his delivery would undoubtedly have commanded attention. It was a masterclass in vocal control, emotional nuance, and pure, unadulterated showmanship.
To witness Sir Tom Jones perform ‘It’s Not Unusual’ in this setting was to be reminded that true artistry only deepens with time and experience. There was a maturity, a seasoned understanding of the material that only decades of live performance and life itself can bestow. It wasn’t just a nostalgic trip; it was a vibrant, living affirmation of why some songs, and some artists, become truly legendary. It served as a powerful reminder for the aspiring artists on the show, and indeed for all of us, of the unwavering dedication and sheer talent required to carve out such an indelible mark on the world of music. In an era often dominated by fleeting digital trends, this performance was a powerful and resonant anchor, a testament to the enduring magic that only a true musical icon can conjure.