Tom Jones at Hampton Court Palace

23^rd August 2021

Michael Higgs

Michael Higgs

23 August 2021

The Hampton Court Festival continues to impress its huge audiences in a post-pandemic fever with the return of old and new stars – and even invites its attendees to a picnic in the majestic gardens beforehand! 

Oozing, as ever, the magnificence of the world-famous palace walls of Hampton Court, the venue is excellent in highlighting the equally world-famous sounds of Sir Tom Jones. Despite his age, 81-year-old Jones remains on top of his game, including a voice that never breaks – not even once – during the more than 90-minute runtime.

The concert comprises a mixture of his old hits and songs from his new album Surrounded by Time, incorporating various covers. He starts with all-time favourites What’s New Pussycat? and It’s Not Unusual, before he impresses with the recent Pop Star, an upbeat number that radiates 80s vibes. 

Spanning a career that has lasted more than five decades, Tom Jones displays an unbelievably wide range of musical styles. His cover of Bob Dylan’s tantalising and brooding One More Cup of Coffee is spectacular, and his heart-wrenching take on Leonard Cohen’s Tower of Song leaves the audience breathless. 

With the audience captivated by the singer’s stage presence, one can hardly help but be swept away by the sheer joyous clamour sounding from every corner of Hampton Court Palace as they sing along with the old classics, showing their enduring love for the musical legend whose voice and charisma have not been marred by time.

After an outstanding spectacle, Jones is persuaded by a raving crowd to perform several extra numbers. He finishes on the glorious Strange Things Happen Everyday, a country-blues-rock mélange that is perfect to end the concert on a high yet conclusive note. There is no doubt that this event is a tremendous success – and an engaging party for the listeners. Both young and old fans are swept off their feet by a magical performance.

Michael Higgs
Photos: Nick Bennett

For further information and future events visit Tom Jones’s website here.

Watch the video for the single Pop Star here: