In 1963 he became the frontman for a band called Tommy Scott and the Senators. Clad all in black leather, Tom soon gained a reputation in the South Wales area. The Senators were still unheard of in London.

After some tracks were laid down, producers noted he was the centerpiece of the group so they got him a solo contract and changed his name Tom Jones (yes, after the book). Record companies were finding his style and delivery to be too abrasive and raw. Tom’s vocals were considered to be too raucous, and he moved like Elvis. But eventually, Decca Records let Jones record his first single, Chills And Fever in late 1964. The single didn’t chart, but the follow-up, It’s Not Unusual, was an instant smash hit, released in early 1965. The rest is history.

Maybe I should do a Tom Jones post every Tuesday and call it, what else, Tom Jones Tuesday!