Introduction:
Sir Tom Jones, the legendary crooner known for his unmistakable “golden voice,” has made a triumphant return to The Voice UK — and with it, a heartfelt reminder of his enduring spirit, resilience, and passion for music. In a recent candid interview, Tom opened up about the highs, the lows, and the deeply personal journey that has shaped the artist we still admire today.
When Tom was unexpectedly dropped from The Voice in a decision that was both abrupt and, in his words, “disrespectful,” it left fans and the man himself bewildered. “They said they weren’t renewing my contract,” he recalls, “and we asked, ‘When did you decide this?’ They replied, ‘Yesterday. And we’ll announce it tomorrow.’” It wasn’t the BBC he blamed, but rather the individuals behind the show’s decisions at the time — a move that felt cold, rushed, and unfair. Still, with grace and professionalism, Tom bore no grudge. In fact, he’s continued to collaborate with the BBC and returned to The Voice stronger than ever.
His comeback was met with joy, not only from viewers but also from his fellow judges. “We get on so well,” he says of the coaching panel, “There’s no ego. No competition. We’re in it together.” This camaraderie has brought a refreshing authenticity to the show, and it’s clear that for Tom, music has become more than just a career — it’s a lifeline.
That truth became even more poignant after the passing of his beloved wife, Linda, in 2016. The loss, sudden and devastating, left him in emotional limbo. Having been together since childhood, Linda was more than a partner; she was part of his foundation. “I didn’t know if I could carry on,” he admits. But his family — especially his son and daughter-in-law, who are also his managers — encouraged him. “If you don’t sing, you’ll die,” his son said. And with that, Tom slowly began to find his way back to the stage.
Music, he shares, has saved his life. After tentative rehearsals with a group of musicians, he returned to the spotlight at Hampton Court and eventually launched a summer tour. “Music means more to me now than it ever did,” Tom reflects. And returning to The Voice felt like the right tribute to Linda, who loved the show deeply.
Today, at over 80, his voice remains as powerful and vibrant as ever. “Some singers lose their vibrato, but thank God mine hasn’t,” he says proudly. As fellow performers dwindle, Tom stands tall as one of the last of a golden generation. And with every performance, every note, and every moment on stage, he continues to prove that true legends don’t fade — they rise again, with soul, with strength, and with song.