Introduction:
“Only Once” is a poignant ballad performed by Welsh singer Tom Jones, featured on his 1969 studio album This Is Tom Jones. The album was released in June 1969 by Decca Records. The song exemplifies the pop and soul genres, showcasing Jones’s emotive vocal delivery and the lush orchestration characteristic of his late 1960s work.
Thematically, “Only Once” delves into the complexities of love and its unpredictable nature. The lyrics reflect on youthful innocence and the realization that love can be a recurring, transformative experience rather than a singular event. This introspective narrative is complemented by the song’s rich musical arrangement, highlighting Jones’s ability to convey deep emotional resonance through his performance.
While “Only Once” was not released as a standalone single, its inclusion on This Is Tom Jones contributed to the album’s success and enduring appeal. The album itself was well-received, further cementing Tom Jones’s status as a prominent figure in the pop and soul music scenes of the era. The song’s later appearance on the 1974 compilation album 20 Greatest Hits—also known as The Tenth Anniversary Album—underscores its significance within Jones’s body of work. This compilation achieved considerable commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart in March 1975 and remaining there for four consecutive weeks. It was certified Gold, becoming one of Jones’s most successful albums to that point.
“Only Once” stands as a testament to Tom Jones’s versatility and depth as an artist, capturing the emotional nuances of love and personal growth. Its enduring presence in his discography highlights the song’s impact and the lasting connection it has forged with audiences.