Introduction:
For decades, Sir Tom Jones has captivated audiences with his timeless voice, magnetic stage presence, and heartfelt performances. At 85, the legendary Welsh singer remains as passionate and vibrant as ever — not just about music, but about life, faith, and the art of connecting with people. In a candid conversation, he reflects on his journey, his rituals, and the driving force behind his enduring career.
Tom starts his days differently depending on the nature of his work. “When I’m promoting, I get up earlier and sleep earlier,” he shares. “But when I’m doing live shows, I’m a true night owl — I sleep from 4 a.m. to noon if I can.” This nocturnal rhythm has always suited him, aligning perfectly with the demands of show business.
Caring for his iconic voice is something Tom takes seriously. He travels with Swiss humidifiers, a habit he picked up after losing his voice in dry Berlin winters during the 1960s. “Moisture is key — for singers, hydration and sleep are everything,” he explains. He also uses a lozenge called Vocal Zone, once developed for the great opera singer Caruso, to keep his throat performance-ready.
But his greatest medicine? The stage. “When I step out in front of an audience, everything else disappears. Pain, fatigue — it all vanishes. Performing is my true joy, my therapy,” he says. Even when he’s off the clock, if there’s a live band playing and someone asks him to sing, he finds it hard to say no.
Off-stage, Tom has a deeply spiritual side. “Every night before I sleep, I get down on my knees and pray,” he reveals. “I thank God for what He’s given me, and I ask for peace in the world.” Though he doesn’t often attend church, he maintains a strong connection to God, rooted in a childhood spent singing gospel songs at his local Welsh chapel. His most recent album, Praise & Blame, explores this spiritual side with raw, emotional intensity.
Reflecting on the changes in entertainment over the years, Tom notes the loss of elegance in modern television and music programming. “Variety shows gave artists room to express themselves. That’s largely gone now,” he laments. Still, he finds joy in today’s opportunities — even embracing his natural white hair as a symbol of authenticity.
Tom also recalls friendships with giants like Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra. “Elvis once told me I gave him the confidence to make a comeback. That meant the world to me.” Their mutual respect turned into a cherished friendship.
Despite rumors or criticism, Tom remains unwavering. “You’ve got to accept both the praise and the blame,” he says. His only fear? The idea of not being able to sing anymore. “I don’t play golf. I don’t have a fallback hobby. Singing is what I love — it’s who I am.”
Tom Jones is more than just a voice — he’s a living legend, shaped by faith, resilience, and a love for music that never fades.