Engelbert Humperdinck and Tom Jones — two legendary voices, two iconic careers, and one of the most whispered-about rivalries in British music history.
For decades, fans speculated about the strained relationship between the suave crooner of “Release Me” and the powerhouse voice behind “It’s Not Unusual.” On the surface, they were friendly competitors in a booming era for British music. But behind closed doors, the story was far more complicated.
The tension reportedly began in the late 1960s, when both artists were represented by the same manager, Gordon Mills. As Tom Jones’ career skyrocketed in the U.S., Engelbert’s explosive hit “Release Me” dethroned The Beatles from the #1 spot in the UK — a move that created subtle but growing friction.
“We were friends once,” Humperdinck revealed in a recent interview, “but the industry sometimes puts you in a ring without gloves.”
Tom Jones, for his part, has rarely commented on their relationship — though in his 2015 memoir, he mentioned “an artist who looked like a friend but acted like a rival.” Many believe this was a veiled reference to Engelbert.
Things came to a head in the 1970s when rumors surfaced that Jones had refused to perform on the same TV special as Humperdinck. The rift only deepened with competing Las Vegas residencies, clashing publicists, and tabloid headlines. Fans were divided — #TeamTom or #TeamEngelbert became an unspoken debate in homes across the UK and U.S.
Yet, time has a way of softening even the hardest notes. In recent years, Humperdinck has expressed hope for reconciliation. He’s even floated the idea of a “Legends United” concert that would bring them together for a final, unforgettable show. Tom Jones, however, has remained silent.
Will the two ever share a stage again? Or will this remain one of music’s greatest “what ifs”?