Tom Jones – If I Only Knew

About the song

Tom Jones has been a household name for decades, renowned for his rich, soulful voice and charismatic stage presence. His musical journey, spanning over six decades, has seen him evolve from a pop sensation in the 1960s to a respected elder statesman of the music world. One of the standout tracks that encapsulates his enduring appeal is “If I Only Knew.” This song, released in 1994, showcases a different side of Jones, blending his timeless vocal prowess with contemporary production to create a track that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

“If I Only Knew” is a testament to Jones’s ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes while maintaining his unique identity. The song features a dynamic arrangement, driven by a funky, brass-heavy backing that harkens back to the classic sounds of soul and funk. This is complemented by modern production techniques that were cutting-edge at the time of its release. The result is a track that feels both timeless and current, appealing to both longtime fans and a new generation of listeners.

Lyrically, “If I Only Knew” explores themes of regret and longing, emotions that are universally relatable. Jones delivers these sentiments with a palpable sense of sincerity and emotion, making the listener feel every word. The chorus, with its catchy hook and heartfelt delivery, stays with you long after the song has ended. This ability to convey deep emotion through music is a hallmark of Jones’s career and is particularly evident in this track.

One of the most striking aspects of “If I Only Knew” is its energy. The song bursts with vitality, driven by its infectious rhythm and Jones’s powerful vocal performance. Even as he sings of missed opportunities and what-ifs, there’s an underlying sense of resilience and determination. It’s a reminder of Jones’s enduring spirit and his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.

In terms of production, “If I Only Knew” benefits from the expertise of some of the best in the business. The track was produced by the renowned Trevor Horn, whose work with artists like Frankie Goes to Hollywood and Seal is legendary. Horn’s influence is evident in the polished, dynamic sound of the track, which perfectly complements Jones’s vocal performance.

Overall, “If I Only Knew” is a brilliant example of Tom Jones’s ability to reinvent himself and stay relevant in an ever-changing music industry. It’s a song that captures the essence of his artistry: powerful, emotive, and timeless. For anyone looking to understand why Tom Jones remains a beloved figure in music, this track is an essential listen. It’s a testament to his talent, his adaptability, and his enduring appeal, making it clear why he continues to be a force in the music world.

Video

Lyrics

Yeah!
Yeah

Home-grown, on the bone
All the channels show the same old war zone
As I walk alone in the city
Makin’ me an offer, now don’t they look pretty

New cinema
Live action, all the noise of attraction beats up
On the streets, the sellers do mark up
Better than tellin’ em off, don’t stock up

Shark, they don’t bite
All that matters is you’re not here tonight
And now that I wonder
Am I gonna dig a hole ten feet under?
Under sea, under me, under you, under we, undivided
Undecided

If I only knew what I could do
To make you, make you love me (to make you, make you love me)
If I only knew what I could do
To make you, make you love me (to make you, make you love me)

Up north where the snow grows colder, I travel onward ‘cross the border
Looked up a girl that I once knew frozen
I found that I was chosen to be the follower of the deity
Make myself scarce while they come to plea bargain for my body and soul
All the flames go around, surround me
I won’t go

I need the ozone
I wanna cuddle up behind your backbone
I never stay long where I’m not wanted
I feel haunted

Yo brother
Where ya gonna go?
Back to the war zone to break down the walls?

If I only knew what I could do
To make you, make you love me (to make you, make you love me)
If I only knew what I should do
To make you, make you love me (to make you, make you love me)
If I only knew what I could do
To make you, make you happy (to make you, make you happy)
If only I knew what I should do, yeah
To make you, make you love me

I bared my soul to the golden traces
Went to the forest of the holy places

And now I wonder
Am I gonna dig a hole ten feet under?
Under sea, under me, under you, under we, undivided
Undecided (wow!)

Yeah!

If I only knew what I could do
To make you, make you happy (to make you, make you happy)
If I only knew what I should do
To make you, make you happy (to make you, make you happy)
If I only knew what I could do
To make you, make you love me

If I only knew what I should do
To make you, make you love me
If I only knew what I should do
If I only knew what I should do
If I only knew what I should do