About the song
Tom Jones, a name synonymous with raw power and charismatic stage presence, needs little introduction. Hailing from the rugged Welsh valleys, he emerged in the 1960s as a vocal powerhouse, capable of transforming a simple melody into a soul-stirring anthem. His distinctive baritone, coupled with an undeniable showmanship, quickly propelled him to international stardom.
One of the cornerstones of his early success was the infectious pop gem, “It’s Not Unusual”. Released in 1965, the song captured the essence of youthful exuberance and romantic longing, becoming an instant worldwide hit. Penned by the songwriting duo of Les Reed and Gordon Mills, the track perfectly showcased Jones’ vocal range and ability to convey raw emotion.
At the heart of “It’s Not Unusual” lies a deceptively simple melody, underpinned by a driving rhythm that invites immediate foot-tapping. Yet, it is Jones’ interpretation that truly elevates the song from a mere pop tune to a timeless classic. His vocal delivery is nothing short of electrifying, filled with a youthful energy that belies his mature voice. Each note is imbued with a sense of urgency and longing, as he croons about the trials and tribulations of love.
The song’s lyrics, while straightforward, effectively convey the universal experience of infatuation and heartbreak. The repetition of the phrase “It’s not unusual” becomes a poignant refrain, emphasizing the commonality of love’s ups and downs. Jones’ ability to infuse the lyrics with genuine emotion transforms the song into a relatable anthem for anyone who has ever experienced the rollercoaster of romance.
Beyond its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, “It’s Not Unusual” also benefited from the burgeoning visual culture of the 1960s. Jones’ charismatic stage presence and flamboyant style made him a natural-born entertainer, and his performances of the song became legendary. His energetic stage shows and television appearances helped to cement the song’s status as a cultural touchstone, ensuring its enduring popularity.
In conclusion, Tom Jones’ “It’s Not Unusual” is more than just a song; it is a cultural phenomenon that has stood the test of time. Its infectious melody, combined with Jones’ powerful vocals and magnetic stage presence, created a perfect storm of pop perfection. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to resonate with audiences of all ages, serving as a reminder of the timeless power of music to evoke emotion and create lasting memories.
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Lyrics
“It’s Not Unusual”
It’s not unusual to have fun with anyone
But when I see you hanging about with anyone
It’s not unusual to see me cry,
I wanna die
It’s not unusual to go out at any time
But when I see you out and about it’s such a crime
If you should ever wanna be loved by anyone,
It’s not unusual it happens every day
No matter what you say
You’ll find it happens all the time
Love will never do what you want it to
Why can’t this crazy love be mine?
It’s not unusual to be mad with anyone
It’s not unusual to be sad with anyone
But if I ever find
That you’ve changed at anytime
It’s not unusual to find that I’m in love with you