The legendary crooner performed in Maryland
Sir Tom Jones took the stage at MGM National Harbor for a retrospective night through six decades of music on September 11th. As part of his Ages and Stages Tour, he sang his way through the breadth of his catalog.
Jones opened in near darkness, backed only by keyboard of a poignant “I’m Growing Old.” It set the tone for the night. Jones admits through song that in the battle between age and his legendary vitality, age will win out. Eventually. But not in 2024. His voice is still as full and rich as it has been for decades. His iconic timbre has not been muted through years of showbiz hoopla.
The 84-year-old Jones’ charisma is also fully intact. Part joyous goofball, part animal magnetism. During the opening verse of “Sexbomb,” my concert companion leaned in and said, “I may be his newest groupie.” My friend is 28.
Songs Jones had the privilege to record from Bacharach/David, Cat Stevens, and Bob Dylan were present. Most of these covers are from his latest studio album, 2021’s Surrounded By Time.
As were unique instruments that added to the depth of his distinctly European sound. Congos, and accordions carried the hooks on “It’s Not Unusual” and “What’s New Pussycat,” respectively. Every song had an arrangement that piqued aural curiosity. A flute sound, an upright bass, a thumping jungle sound. All immersed the crowd.
Showing his appreciation for a rootsy sound, Jones offered his version of “Green Green Grass of Home.” Later, he showed is affection for Prince with a cover of “Kiss.”
Jones stood and sang at center stage. His latex face danced with expression, taking the place of what his hips used to do. But it made him as fun to watch as he was to listen to. And listen we could: Tom Jones could sing the phone book, and anyone listening would say it’s not unusual.
