When people look back at the most unexpected musical moments in AFL Grand Final history, the 2014 performance of “Kiss” stands out immediately. Seeing Tom Jones and Ed Sheeran sharing the stage felt, at first glance, almost unreal.
A song choice that raised eyebrows
“Kiss” is famously associated with Prince, a song drenched in funk, sensuality, and bold attitude. Choosing it for the pre-game entertainment at the AFL Grand Final was already a daring move. Pairing a legendary crooner in his seventies with one of the world’s biggest young pop stars made it even more intriguing.
Yet the performance was never about shock value. Instead, it was about reinterpretation.
Two generations, one conversation
Tom Jones brought decades of stage command, his voice rich with soul and authority. Ed Sheeran, guitar in hand, offered intimacy and vulnerability. Rather than clashing, the two artists met in the middle, reshaping “Kiss” into something warmer and more playful than provocative.
Their chemistry was rooted in mutual respect. Jones has long admired songwriters who truly understand melody and storytelling. Sheeran, in turn, grew up listening to voices like Jones’s — artists who defined what it meant to perform with conviction.
The stadium moment
Inside the Melbourne Cricket Ground, tens of thousands watched as the opening notes echoed across the field. There was no literal “kiss” on stage. What captured attention was the symbolic one: a meeting of eras, styles, and musical philosophies.
The crowd’s reaction said it all — initial surprise, followed by cheers and applause. Media coverage after the event focused less on controversy and more on how seamlessly the collaboration worked.
Beyond entertainment
This performance represented something bigger than a pre-game show. It reminded audiences that music evolves by building bridges, not walls. Legends remain relevant by embracing new voices, while younger artists grow by honoring those who came before them.
For Tom Jones, it reaffirmed his timeless presence. For Ed Sheeran, it showcased his versatility and respect for musical heritage.
A lasting memory
Years later, the 2014 AFL Grand Final “Kiss” remains a reference point whenever unexpected collaborations are discussed. It wasn’t about provocation — it was about connection.