Tom Jones – A Boy From Nowhere

About the song

Tom Jones has a voice that transcends time and genre, a powerhouse of emotion and technical prowess. His song, “A Boy From Nowhere,” stands as a testament to his enduring talent and ability to convey profound sentiment through music. This particular track, released in 1987, is a masterful blend of pop and adult contemporary, capturing the essence of longing, nostalgia, and the perennial struggle for identity and belonging.

“A Boy From Nowhere” tells a poignant story, resonating with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or yearned for recognition and acceptance. The lyrics are a heartfelt narrative of a young man grappling with his place in the world, a universal theme that many can relate to. Tom Jones, with his rich baritone voice, brings a depth of emotion to the song that few can match. His vocal delivery is nothing short of powerful, yet it retains a sense of vulnerability that makes the song deeply personal and touching.

The song begins with a gentle, almost introspective melody that slowly builds, drawing listeners in with its simplicity and sincerity. As the track progresses, the instrumentation becomes more lush and dramatic, mirroring the increasing intensity of the lyrics. Jones’ voice, starting soft and contemplative, rises to a crescendo, reflecting the inner turmoil and determination of the protagonist.

One of the standout features of “A Boy From Nowhere” is its lyrical craftsmanship. Phrases like “I am only a boy from nowhere” and “now I know that there’s a better way to go” strike a chord, encapsulating the feelings of insignificance and the search for a better path. These lines, delivered with Jones’ unmistakable emotional weight, turn the song into a powerful anthem of self-discovery and resilience.

The production of the track is equally noteworthy. It blends traditional pop sensibilities with orchestral elements, creating a sound that is both timeless and grandiose. The arrangement complements Jones’ vocal performance perfectly, allowing his voice to shine while providing a rich, textured backdrop that enhances the song’s emotional impact.

Tom Jones has always been known for his ability to connect with his audience, and “A Boy From Nowhere” is no exception. The song’s universal themes, combined with Jones’ exceptional vocal delivery, make it a memorable and moving experience. It is a song that speaks to the heart, reminding us of our own journeys and the places we come from.

In conclusion, “A Boy From Nowhere” is more than just a song; it is a musical narrative that captures the essence of human experience. Tom Jones’ powerful voice and the song’s emotive lyrics make it a standout piece in his extensive discography. It is a testament to his talent and his ability to convey deep emotion through music, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.

Video

Lyrics

The nights grow cold
My search for gold is leading nowhere
Whichever lonely road I take
It seems to go nowhere
It’s a fight to survive just until tomorrow
How can I display what I know I’m worthy of
When they turn me away

The doors are closed to such as I
A boy from nowhere
But not to those who merely buy the right to go where
They’ll be met with respect, not humiliation
A man’s place on earth
I have come to realize is decided by birth

So what’s the future
No matter where I go
I will still belong in Andalusia
Where we don’t know where
The next penny’s coming from
Something’s wrong

I’m bound to Spain, I won’t remain
A boy from nowhere
There has to be a place for me
And I must go there
I don’t fantasize, unlike a million others
Who must bow and scrape
For my one means of escape
Is to flourish a cape

I’ll fight all odds
And fight the Gods if they oppose me
I have to win, I won’t give in
No one who knows me would expect me to fail
For the want of trying
Not a man alive
Had to beg or steal or fight
More than me to survive

So what’s the future
No matter where I go
I will still belong in Andalusia
Where good, honest men grow weak
And the rich grow strong
Something’s wrong

Another dawn, another boy
A boy from nowhere
My destiny will guarantee
And I must go there
It’s a fight to survive just until tomorrow
One more mouth to feed
And the way things are ’round here
That’s the last thing they need