From Coal Mines to Chart-Topping: Sir Tom Jones' Journey and Family Roots

Sir Tom Jones, the legendary Welsh singer, first found fame in 1965 with his hit song 'It's Not Unusual'. At that time, his father was still working in the coal mines of the Rhondda Valley. Tom Jones was often called 'the miner's son from Pontypridd', and his journey from performing in local working men's clubs to signing a record deal with Decca Studios was remarkable. By his mid-20s, Jones was sharing a label with famous bands like The Rolling Stones and releasing a series of successful songs. Despite his growing fame and wealth, Tom Jones never forgot his roots or the community he came from.

In a BBC series called 'In My Own Words', Tom Jones spoke about the emotional struggle he felt as his life changed. The episode was filmed at the first house he bought with his wife Linda in 1966, located in Shepperton, Surrey, about 150 miles from his hometown. The area was home to many celebrities, but Jones always felt connected to Wales. He recalled, 'I had a new Jaguar, I had a new house, and I went back to Wales whenever I could. ' One memory that stood out to him was when his father was preparing to leave for a night shift at the mine. Tom tried to convince his father to stop working, saying he was earning enough money to support the family. However, his father replied, 'I'm a coal miner, that's what I do. ' This moment was significant for Tom, as he wanted to help his father leave the dangerous job.

Eventually, Tom Jones gave the house in Surrey to his parents, hoping they would enjoy their new life. However, his father struggled to adjust and sometimes felt depressed, missing everything familiar in Pontypridd. Tom Jones shared, 'Everything they knew was in Pontypridd. ' Growing up in that community, Tom experienced a childhood filled with love and togetherness. He enjoyed spending time at the local club with his father, uncles, and cousins, and looked forward to being part of that group. He described the community as 'the salt of the earth', with coal mining at its heart. Tom said, 'It was a wonderful experience and I wouldn't change it for the world. There was so much love. ' While many boys in Wales followed their fathers into the mines, Tom Jones always dreamed of being a singer. He explained, 'I never fancied it because I always wanted to be a pop singer. ' His story highlights the importance of family, community, and staying true to one's roots, even as life brings success and change.