When people think of Tom Jones, they often picture a bright smile, explosive energy, and a song that makes the whole world move. But few realize that “It’s Not Unusual” — the song that launched his career — also became the biggest shadow he ever had to escape.
A life-changing accident of a song
Released in early 1965, “It’s Not Unusual” arrived at a time when Tom Jones was still a young Welsh singer searching for a breakthrough. Written by Les Reed and Gordon Mills, the song was not originally intended for him.
Everything changed when Tom Jones recorded the demo. His powerful, joyful voice transformed the track instantly, convincing the producers that they had found something special.
The result was immediate and overwhelming:
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No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart
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Top 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100
Overnight, Tom Jones became an international star.
The smile that defined — and confined — him
With its upbeat brass section and irresistible rhythm, “It’s Not Unusual” became a symbol of joy. But success came with an unexpected cost.
The public quickly labeled Tom Jones as:
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The always-happy singer
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The entertainer with endless energy
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A performer known more for fun than depth
What many overlooked was his remarkable ability to sing blues, soul, ballads, and gospel — styles that demanded emotional weight rather than smiles.
When success becomes pressure
In later interviews, Tom Jones admitted:
“I was grateful for the song, but I worried about being stuck with it forever.”
By the late 1960s, audiences expected “It’s Not Unusual” at every appearance, regardless of the setting. The song had become both his calling card and his cage.
To break free, Tom Jones consciously shifted his musical direction with songs like:
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“Delilah” — dramatic and dark
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“Green, Green Grass of Home” — nostalgic and sorrowful
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“I (Who Have Nothing)” — emotionally raw and intense
These performances revealed a depth that many didn’t know he possessed.
A song that refuses to fade
Even after more than six decades on stage, “It’s Not Unusual” remains one of Tom Jones’ most requested songs. Younger generations rediscovered it through films, television, and iconic comedic dance scenes.
For Tom Jones, however, the song represents more than a hit:
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It is the sound of his youth
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A turning point that changed everything
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And the challenge he had to overcome to survive as a serious artist
Nothing “unusual” about its impact
The title may say “It’s Not Unusual,” but nothing about what followed was ordinary. From a single joyful song, Tom Jones was thrust into global fame — and forced to grow beyond it.