In the history of popular music, there are certain songs that do more than simply top the charts—they introduce the world to a voice, a personality, and a presence that becomes impossible to ignore. “It’s Not Unusual” is one of those songs. When Tom Jones burst onto the scene with this electrifying single in 1965, he didn’t just score a hit record—he launched a career that would span decades and cement his place among the most recognizable voices in pop and soul music.
At first listen, “It’s Not Unusual” feels like a burst of energy. The punchy brass section, the upbeat tempo, and Jones’ commanding vocal delivery create a song that instantly grabs attention. Yet beneath its lively rhythm lies a story of complicated emotions—love, jealousy, longing, and the quiet acceptance that sometimes the person you care about most might not belong to you.
A Song That Almost Went to Someone Else
Interestingly, the song that would define Tom Jones’ early career was never originally meant for him. Written by acclaimed songwriting duo Les Reed and Gordon Mills, “It’s Not Unusual” was initially intended for British singer Sandie Shaw. At the time, Shaw was already a rising star in the UK pop scene, and the songwriters believed the tune would suit her style.
However, when Tom Jones recorded a demo version of the track, everything changed.
Jones’ deep, resonant voice gave the song a completely different dimension. Where the melody had originally been conceived as a straightforward pop tune, Jones infused it with power, passion, and dramatic flair. His performance was so compelling that the producers quickly realized the song belonged to him. Rather than handing it off to another artist, they decided to release Jones’ version as the official recording.
It proved to be a decision that would alter the trajectory of pop music history.
The Breakthrough Moment
Released in 1965, “It’s Not Unusual” became Tom Jones’ second single—but it was the one that truly introduced him to the world.
In the United Kingdom, the song exploded onto the charts and quickly climbed to No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart. The success established Jones as a major new voice in British music, standing alongside the wave of artists redefining the pop landscape during the 1960s.
Across the Atlantic, the song also made a powerful impression. In the United States, it reached No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 3 on Billboard’s Easy Listening chart, introducing American audiences to the charismatic Welsh singer with the booming voice.
At a time when the music world was dominated by British acts riding the momentum of the “British Invasion,” Tom Jones stood out for a different reason. While many groups relied on guitars and youthful charm, Jones delivered something closer to classic showmanship—a powerful voice backed by dramatic orchestration and undeniable stage presence.
The Horn-Driven Sound That Defined an Era
One of the most distinctive features of “It’s Not Unusual” is its vibrant brass arrangement. The bold horns give the track an infectious swagger, creating a sound that feels both theatrical and irresistibly danceable.
This horn-driven style would soon become a signature element of Tom Jones’ music. The success of the track paved the way for similarly arranged hits, including songs like “What’s New Pussycat?” and the explosive James Bond theme “Thunderball.” In many ways, “It’s Not Unusual” set the template for the dramatic pop-soul sound that would define Jones’ early career.
The song’s instrumentation perfectly complements Jones’ voice. His vocals soar over the brass, shifting between smooth phrasing and powerful bursts of emotion. It’s a performance that feels both controlled and spontaneous, capturing the feeling of someone wrestling with conflicting emotions.
The Emotional Story Behind the Lyrics
Despite its upbeat tempo, the lyrics of “It’s Not Unusual” explore the complex and sometimes painful side of love.
The narrator observes someone they care deeply about spending time with other people. Rather than expressing outright anger, the singer adopts a tone of reluctant acceptance. After all, he admits, it’s “not unusual” for someone to go out with someone else.
But beneath that calm acknowledgment lies an unmistakable sense of jealousy and heartbreak.
The emotional tension of the song comes from this contrast. The lively rhythm suggests celebration and movement, while the lyrics reveal a more vulnerable inner world. It’s a clever songwriting technique—one that allows listeners to dance to the song even while feeling the sting of its message.
Many fans have connected with the track precisely because of this duality. Love rarely follows a simple path, and “It’s Not Unusual” captures the awkward moment when affection collides with reality.
A Star Is Born
Beyond its musical qualities, “It’s Not Unusual” also introduced audiences to the magnetic personality of Tom Jones himself.
From the moment the song began climbing the charts, Jones’ image became inseparable from the music. His powerful voice, confident style, and charismatic stage presence quickly turned him into a star. Television appearances, live performances, and radio broadcasts spread his reputation far beyond the UK.
Within a few years, he would become known not only as a chart-topping singer but also as one of the most dynamic performers of his generation.
Enduring Popularity Through the Decades
More than half a century after its release, “It’s Not Unusual” remains one of Tom Jones’ most recognizable songs. It has appeared in countless films, television shows, and commercials, ensuring that new generations continue to discover its infectious energy.
The track has also become a staple of Jones’ live performances. Whenever the opening brass notes ring out, audiences immediately recognize the song that started it all. It’s a moment that connects the singer’s early career to his enduring legacy.
Even today, the song retains the same spark that made it unforgettable in 1965. Its blend of lively orchestration, emotional storytelling, and powerhouse vocals continues to resonate with listeners across generations.
A Timeless Pop Classic
In retrospect, “It’s Not Unusual” represents more than just a successful single—it marks the beginning of one of the most remarkable careers in popular music. The song introduced the world to Tom Jones’ extraordinary voice and set the stage for decades of chart hits, sold-out concerts, and enduring influence.
What makes the track truly timeless is its balance of joy and vulnerability. It invites listeners to sing along, dance, and celebrate, while quietly acknowledging that love can be unpredictable and bittersweet.
And perhaps that’s the secret of its lasting appeal.
Because in matters of the heart, as the song reminds us, it’s really not unusual at all.