Interview: Tom Jones
We all recognize his voice, we all know his face. He’s one of the biggest entertainers in music history, having sold over 100 million albums worldwide since he hit the scene in the ’60s. If he’s not performing 15-20 shows in Las Vegas, he’s making another memorable cameo somewhere in the film industry. Call him magical, call him unusual, but without a doubt, he’s out of this world.
They call him Sir Tom Jones and after 40 years he continues to champion on. His relevancy is hardly questionable, as he’s endlessly cited as an influence by every other new singer to hit the market. His most recent studio foray, last year’s 24 Hours, charmed critics and fans alike. Songs like the soul-grasping “I’m Alive” or the funky swooning sensation “Give A Little Love” remind listeners why the Welsh legend has always found a place in their record collection.
Having said that, we’re pretty psyched about our recent interview with Sir Jones. That’s an understatement, really. Truth is, we’re still in disbelief. Here’s a guy that could (arguably) put Frank Sinatra to the test, who could walk into any establishment and tear down the walls piece by piece, without ever using anything but his voice. Here’s a guy who could survive an alien invasion (a la 1996’s Mars Attacks!) and yet still find the time to sing by the end of the chaos. Well, that last part might be fictional, but hey, it benefits our own argument.
So, wait no more, and listen to what the real boss has to say…
What brings you to Outside Lands?
How does your performance translate in a festival setting?
Where did the songs from your most recent album, 24 Hours, come from?
What acts around today most impress you?
What are your thoughts on singers as opposed to bands?
What are you thoughts on the music business as a whole?
What is your secret… how do you stay relevant even after 40 years? What’s the future hold?
Actually, Mike…How did you not drop a Fresh Prince of Bel-Air reference or question during the interview? A pop-culture junkie like you must have been dying to do it. Now, that’s professionalism right there–that caliber of restraint.
But you probably did the Carlton dance the whole way home.
best,
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Great candid interview, Mike. And I like the audio interview format, as opposed to reading it.
You almost got the scoop on that last question; too bad Tom’s folks gave him the “No. No. No.”
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Go figure, he likes the Kings of Leon … I must be missing something. I need help! However, kudos on the interview!
Sep 1st, 2009 at 1:27 pm
[...] the Beacon concert and haven’t gotten a refund, be sure to see the second item posted. From Consequence Of Sound comes this story and audio. Note in the audio that Tom says he’s recording with some younger [...]