The most famous Welshman in the world, Sir Tom Jones, ended his four-venue tour at The Lowry last night leaving the sold-out audience on a high.
This phenomenally-entertaining show was in support of his recently released autobiography Over the Top and Back, along with the accompanying album Long Lost Suitcase .
The evening began with Tom chatting to BBC 6 Music DJ Matt Everitt about his life and career, from the humble beginnings of his Welsh childhood, through to meeting Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra – and the highs and lows along the way.
Sir Tom projected warmth and humour with every tale and came across as a very grounded superstar.
While prone to regular name-dropping, all was forgiven as the music-maker gave the audience a revealing insight into his career, what makes him tick, and his greatest musical influences.
Photographs from his own personal collection along with professional prints were shown on a back projector, and Sir Tom had anecdotes galore about every single one.
I particularly enjoyed him discussing how he found out that he liked girls – while lying in bed suffering from tuberculosis.
Another first-half highlight were the tales of his developing friendship with Elvis Presley, as well as being able to introduce his parents to Frank Sinatra.
Sir Tom spoke as though he was sat among friends, resulting in a brilliant first half to the show, reappearing after the interval suited and booted and raring to go.
Accompanied by a very talented band of musicians he performed a string of personally significant songs which explored his musical roots.
Kicking off with the ever popular It’s Not Unusual, that distinctively powerful voice filled the auditorium.
At 75 his vocals are still amazing. While a little huskier than in his heyday, this actually suits many of the tracks from the new album which are mainly country, folk, blues and rock-n-roll.
Beautiful songs followed, accompanied only by acoustic guitar: his version of Willie Nelsons’ Opportunity to Cry was moving and poignant, while Elvis Presley Blues came with Priscilla Presley’s seal of approval.
Never taking himself too seriously, we then get onto the subject of The Voice, which as most people know Tom was dropped from earlier this year.
He lets us in on the phone call he had with his wife just after hearing he wouldn’t be returning, which raised a huge laugh, and then dedicates Hank Williams’ Why Don’t You Love Me Like You Used To Do to his former employer which once again had everybody in fits of giggles.
Towards the end, his 80s hit Kiss had everyone on their feet enjoying the last of what had been a stunning evening.
Sir Tom Jones might be 75 but he still has boyish charm, a cheeky glint in his eye, and more sex appeal than most men half his age. Long may he continue to perform.
Main image © Glenn Edwards Photography
