Tom Jones, born Thomas Jones Woodward, emerged from a traditional coal-mining family in Pontypridd, South Wales, with a unique blend of English and Welsh heritage. His father, Thomas Woodward, was of English descent, while his mother, Freda (Jones) Woodward, was of Welsh and English ancestry.
As a child, Tom Jones began singing in church and school choirs, nurturing his vocal talents at an early age. He left school at 16 and got married soon after, becoming a father a year later. To support his family, he took on various jobs, including singing in pubs at night.
By 1963, Jones was a regular performer with his own group in the demanding atmosphere of working men's clubs. It was here that he caught the attention of Gordon Mills, a performer who had branched out into songwriting and management. Mills became Jones' manager and secured him a record contract in 1964.
The partnership between Jones and Mills was a winning formula, and their second single, penned by Mills, "It's Not Unusual," became a huge international success. This marked the beginning of an avalanche of gold singles and albums that followed, showcasing Jones' vocal powerhouse and versatility in a wide range of musical styles.
Throughout his illustrious career, spanning over three decades, Tom Jones has sustained his popularity, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
