Introduction:
“That Wonderful Sound” is a captivating and emotionally rich track by the iconic Welsh vocalist Tom Jones, released in 1969 as a prominent feature on his highly successful studio album, “This Is Tom Jones.” This song, a quintessential example of pop and vocal balladry, showcases Jones’s unparalleled ability to convey deep emotion through his powerful and expressive voice. While not released as a standalone single, its integral role on one of his most commercially successful albums of the era underscores its significance in his enduring legacy and highlights a period when Jones was at the absolute peak of his global superstardom.
By 1969, Tom Jones was an international phenomenon. Having burst onto the scene in the mid-1960s with hits like “It’s Not Unusual” and “What’s New Pussycat?”, he had rapidly ascended to become one of the most recognizable and dynamic entertainers in the world. His unique blend of raw vocal power, undeniable charisma, and a captivating stage presence had earned him legions of fans across various demographics. He was not just a recording artist but a true all-around entertainer, with his hugely popular cross-continental television show, “This Is Tom Jones,” further cementing his status as a household name. This show, which ran from 1969 to 1971, featured Jones performing his hits, engaging in playful banter, and collaborating with a diverse array of musical guests, showcasing his versatility and broad appeal. The album “This Is Tom Jones” was released concurrently with the television show, serving as a musical companion that reflected the breadth of his artistry at the time.
The album “This Is Tom Jones,” produced by Peter Sullivan, was a testament to Jones’s eclectic musical tastes and his ability to interpret a wide range of material. It featured a mix of original compositions and covers of popular songs from various genres, all filtered through Jones’s distinctive vocal style. The album included his interpretations of contemporary hits like “Hey Jude” by The Beatles, “Little Green Apples,” and “(Sitting On) The Dock of the Bay,” alongside new material. This blend allowed Jones to demonstrate his versatility, moving seamlessly between soulful ballads, upbeat pop numbers, and more traditional vocal pieces. The album was a commercial juggernaut, performing exceptionally well on both sides of the Atlantic. It reached an impressive number 2 on the UK Albums Chart and a strong number 4 on the US Billboard 200. Its success was further solidified by its Gold certification by the RIAA in the United States, signifying sales of over 500,000 units. These achievements firmly established “This Is Tom Jones” as one of his most important and successful studio albums.
“That Wonderful Sound,” co-written by the talented songwriting duo Geoff Stephens and Les Reed, is a prime example of the album’s rich balladry. The song is a tender and nostalgic reflection on a past love, focusing on the lingering memory of a voice or a sound that evokes deep affection and longing. The lyrics paint a picture of someone reminiscing about the profound impact a loved one had on their life, specifically highlighting the auditory memories that continue to resonate. Lines like “My love, why ever did we part?” and the recurring theme of “that wonderful sound” convey a sense of wistful regret and an enduring emotional connection to a cherished past. Jones’s vocal delivery on this track is a masterclass in controlled emotion. He navigates the melody with a smooth, almost conversational tone in the verses, building to a powerful and heartfelt crescendo in the chorus. His signature robust baritone is on full display, conveying the song’s emotional weight with sincerity and gravitas.
Musically, “That Wonderful Sound” is characterized by its lush, orchestral arrangement, a common feature in the pop and vocal music of the late 1960s. The production is sophisticated and elegant, featuring prominent strings, subtle brass, and a gentle rhythm section that provides a rich, supportive backdrop for Jones’s voice. The arrangement is designed to enhance the song’s romantic and melancholic mood, allowing the melody to unfold gracefully. The interplay of the orchestral elements with Jones’s powerful vocals creates a timeless quality, appealing to listeners who appreciate classic pop and easy listening. While the song itself was not released as a single, its inclusion on “This Is Tom Jones” ensured its widespread exposure to millions of record buyers. Its enduring quality has led to its inclusion on numerous compilation albums over the years, solidifying its place as a beloved deep cut among fans and a testament to Jones’s consistent ability to deliver captivating performances. “That Wonderful Sound” remains a beautiful example of Tom Jones’s artistry, showcasing his emotive vocal style and his capacity to bring depth and feeling to a classic ballad.