On Friday 4th July, Jockey Club Live welcomed Sir Tom Jones with open arms to a very rainy Haydock Park. The baritone boss arrived at the racecourse in true ‘music royalty’ style – by helicopter. Crowds cheered on, raising their glasses, embracing Sir Tom’s stylish arrival.
Just after the final race, crowds gathered at the JCL stage anticipating a fun filled evening with the Welsh national treasure and like a true professional, he didn’t disappoint (unlike the weather).
Admittedly, I’ve grown up listening to Tom Jones, but I’d never seen him perform live so this was my first time. In all honesty, I really didn’t know what to expect but was informed by a fellow photographer “he doesn’t’ move around much anymore but he doesn’t need to, you’ll just be in awe of his voice”. I was excited.
He wasn’t wrong. Shortly after this conversation, Sir Tom walked on stage to deafening cheers and began with the beautiful song “I’m growing old”. I found it difficult to concentrate on taking photos, feeling moved and privileged to experience this stunning legend at such a distance.
Sir Tom may not ‘move’ like he used to but he certainly knows how to create a ‘party vibe’ where people danced everywhere you looked. The rain and winds were at this point relentless, but that didn’t seem to have any real effect on the audience. Weirdly, it seemed to bring people closer, many danced out in the rain, absolutely drenched. Umbrellas lovingly shared with strangers stretched out into the horizon whilst Sir Tom thanked everyone for their continuing support for battling the elements.
With his powerful vocals and heartfelt crowd interactions, Sir Tom had the audience captivated from the off. He had expressed that still being able to sing live was the ‘centre’ of his life which was very much reflected in his performance tonight. Songs included a good mix of well-known classics alongside some new material and unexpected covers. Now holding the record for oldest male recording artist to achieve a number one album (beating Bob Dylan) Sir Tom covered Dylan’s stunning ‘One more cup of coffee’.
Well-loved hits ‘Its not unusual’, ‘what’s new pussycat’ and Delilah’ prompted a mass ‘rain-dance’ with many invoking their inner ‘Gene Kelly’! Sharp three-piece suits and pretty dresses were now beautifully accessorised with the ‘typical British summer’ staple – the plastic poncho! It was clear the weather had no part to play in dampening the spirits of the audience.
For me, this show was ‘something else’. I feel extremely lucky I was able to see Sir Tom in all his glory performing iconic songs spanning over five decades, an experience I will never forget. There lies a beauty in being able to enjoy something so simple as someone singing, enough to move you to tears or with awe. I find it hard to take when I hear phrases like “good for his age” on the end of complimentary statements. The truth of the matter is – this has nothing to do with age. Fancy lighting and gimmicks were totally unnecessary and redundant.
Words and Photos by Shavorne Wilbraham
When you’re in the presence of a true musical legend, you know it.
Sir Tom continues his tour with the following dates.
Sunday, July 27 – Slessor Gardens, Dundee
Wednesday, July 30 – Sandown Park Racecourse, Esher
Friday, August 1 – Newmarket Racecourses, Newmarket
Sunday, August 3 – Camp Bestival Dorset 2025, East Lulworth
Saturday, August 16 – Market Rasen Racecourse, Market Rasen
Monday, August 18 – Colchester Castle Park, Colchester
Wednesday, August 20 – TK Maxx presents Depot Live at Cardiff Castle, Cardiff
Thursday, August 21 – TK Maxx presents Depot Live at Cardiff Castle, Cardiff
