Introduction:
“Help Yourself” is one of Tom Jones’s most recognizable and enduring international hits, a vibrant and passionate ballad that perfectly encapsulates his dynamic vocal style. The song was released in July 1968 as the title track and lead single from his album, also titled “Help Yourself,” which followed in November 1968. This track firmly established itself within the pop and vocal ballad genres, becoming a massive commercial success across multiple continents and solidifying Jones’s status as a global superstar. Its infectious melody and powerful delivery made it an instant classic, a testament to his unparalleled ability to connect with audiences worldwide.
By 1968, Tom Jones was already a household name, having exploded onto the music scene in the mid-1960s with his distinctive voice and electrifying stage presence. Hits like “It’s Not Unusual,” “What’s New Pussycat?”, and “Delilah” had showcased his versatility and charisma, earning him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. He was known for his robust baritone, his energetic performances, and his ability to infuse any song with a unique blend of pop sensibility and raw, soulful power. As his career progressed, Jones continued to experiment with different musical styles, but his core appeal remained rooted in his commanding vocal delivery and his knack for selecting songs that allowed him to express a wide range of emotions. The “Help Yourself” era found Jones at the height of his international fame, with his popularity extending far beyond his native Wales to encompass the United States, Europe, and Australia.
“Help Yourself” has an interesting international origin story. It is an English-language adaptation of an Italian song titled “Gli Occhi Miei” (meaning “My Eyes”), which was originally written by Carlo Donida with lyrics by Mogol. “Gli Occhi Miei” was performed by two Italian artists, Dino and Wilma Goich, at the 1968 Sanremo Music Festival. Recognizing the song’s potential, English lyricist Jack Fishman adapted it into “Help Yourself” for Tom Jones. The English lyrics transform the original Italian sentiment into a direct and ardent plea for a loved one to embrace happiness and love, offering unwavering support and devotion. The phrase “Help yourself to all I have to give” became a powerful and inviting declaration, perfectly suited to Jones’s larger-than-life persona and his ability to convey grand romantic gestures.
Musically, “Help Yourself” is characterized by its dramatic and sweeping orchestral arrangement, a hallmark of the sophisticated pop production prevalent in the late 1960s. The song builds from a relatively subdued opening to a grand, almost anthemic chorus, driven by lush strings, prominent brass, and a strong rhythmic foundation. Peter Sullivan, Jones’s longtime producer, masterfully crafted the arrangement to highlight Jones’s vocal prowess. Jones’s performance on “Help Yourself” is nothing short of spectacular; his voice is rich, full-throated, and brimming with passion. He navigates the song’s dynamic shifts with ease, showcasing his remarkable breath control and his ability to deliver both tender nuances and powerful crescendos. The arrangement, with its soaring melodies and dramatic instrumental flourishes, perfectly complements the song’s lyrical themes of boundless love and generosity.
“Help Yourself” was a monumental commercial success for Tom Jones, becoming one of his signature songs. The single achieved remarkable chart performance across the globe. In the United Kingdom, it peaked at number 5 on the UK Singles Chart. However, its success was even more pronounced internationally: it topped the charts in Ireland, Germany, and spent three consecutive weeks at number 1 in Australia. In the United States, the single reached number 35 on the Billboard Hot 100 and an impressive number 3 on the Billboard Easy Listening chart, demonstrating its broad appeal across different radio formats. The album “Help Yourself” also performed exceptionally well, reaching number 4 on the UK Albums Chart and number 5 on the US Billboard 200, and was certified Gold by the RIAA in the United States, signifying sales of over 500,000 units. The song’s enduring popularity is further evidenced by its frequent inclusion on numerous greatest hits compilations and its continued presence in Jones’s live concert setlists to this day. “Help Yourself” remains a beloved classic, a testament to Tom Jones’s enduring appeal as a powerful vocalist and an entertainer who could transform a foreign melody into a universal anthem of love and devotion.