Tom Jones has long been a celebrated artist, captivating audiences with his remarkable vocal prowess and his ability to seamlessly blend genres. Known for iconic hits spanning decades, his 1970 album, Tom—which includes the gem “Things I Wanna Do”—is a perfect showcase of his adaptability. This piece of music, nestled within the broader collection of the album, not only exemplifies his unparalleled ability to evoke emotion but also highlights his love for incorporating traditional country and classical elements into his work.
An Introduction to the Album: A Look at Tom
Released in 1970, Tom was a definitive moment in Jones’ career, serving as a bridge between his earlier pop-centric material and his forays into other genres, such as country and folk. The album showcases his evolution as a performer who is unafraid to explore new creative directions. Tracks on Tom range from soulful ballads to upbeat numbers that reflect his broad vocal range and stylistic versatility.
“Things I Wanna Do” is one of the standout tracks from this album. It’s a heartfelt ballad that blends classic country storytelling with a sophisticated production style, making it a perfect representation of the themes running through the entire collection. The album as a whole features lush instrumentation and Jones’ commanding voice, which elevates each song to a level of emotional resonance rarely matched by his peers.
Instrumentation and Sound: A Rich Musical Palette
One of the most striking elements of “Things I Wanna Do” is the sheer depth of its instrumentation. While the song is rooted in country tradition, its arrangement draws from both classical and contemporary styles, giving it a timeless appeal. Here’s a closer look at the instrumentation that makes this track unforgettable:
- Guitar Work: The Soul of the Song The guitar is a central figure in “Things I Wanna Do,” serving as both a rhythmic and melodic anchor. Its warm, acoustic tones evoke the pastoral simplicity of classic country music, while the occasional delicate fingerpicking adds a layer of intimacy to the piece. The electric guitar also makes a subtle but impactful appearance, offering a modern edge to the arrangement.
- Piano Accents: A Touch of Elegance Complementing the guitar is the piano, which provides soft, melodic accents throughout the track. The piano’s understated presence enhances the song’s emotional depth, adding a touch of elegance without overshadowing the primary melody. This balance creates a rich tapestry of sound that perfectly supports Jones’ voice.
- String Arrangements: A Classical Influence What sets “Things I Wanna Do” apart from standard country ballads is its use of string arrangements. The strings provide a lush, orchestral backdrop that amplifies the song’s emotional intensity. Their sweeping crescendos and tender harmonies infuse the track with a grandeur often associated with classical music.
- Rhythm Section: Steady and Subtle The rhythm section, consisting of drums and bass, offers a steady foundation without overpowering the other instruments. The drums maintain a restrained, almost heartbeat-like quality, while the bass lines add warmth and depth to the overall sound.
The Vocal Performance: Tom Jones at His Best
Tom Jones’ voice is the true star of “Things I Wanna Do.” His deep, resonant baritone captures the raw emotion of the lyrics, conveying longing, vulnerability, and passion in equal measure. Few artists can imbue a song with as much character and authenticity as Jones, and this track is a masterclass in vocal storytelling.
Jones’ phrasing is particularly noteworthy; he has an uncanny ability to draw out specific words and phrases, giving them a weight that resonates long after the song has ended. In “Things I Wanna Do,” this technique is used to great effect, emphasizing the yearning and introspection that lie at the heart of the lyrics.
Themes and Lyrics: A Universal Message
At its core, “Things I Wanna Do” is a song about love, desire, and the aspirations that come with being deeply connected to another person. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who dreams not only of romantic fulfillment but also of shared experiences and mutual growth. This universal message is one of the reasons why the song remains so relatable, even decades after its release.
The simplicity of the lyrics allows the listener to project their own experiences onto the song, making it a deeply personal piece of music. Whether you’re reflecting on a past relationship or envisioning a future one, “Things I Wanna Do” has a way of resonating with your innermost feelings.
Why This Song Stands Out
There are countless country ballads about love and longing, but “Things I Wanna Do” stands out for several reasons. First, the seamless integration of classical elements, such as the string arrangements, elevates it above the standard fare. Second, the interplay between the guitar and piano creates a soundscape that is both rich and inviting. Finally, Jones’ vocal delivery is nothing short of extraordinary, reminding us why he remains one of the most respected singers in music history.
Similar Songs: Recommendations for Further Listening
If you enjoyed “Things I Wanna Do,” here are a few similar tracks that you might find equally captivating:
- “Gentle on My Mind” by Glen Campbell This classic country tune features intricate guitar work and heartfelt lyrics, making it a perfect companion to Jones’ ballad.
- “Always on My Mind” by Willie Nelson Like “Things I Wanna Do,” this song explores themes of love and regret, delivered with emotional intensity.
- “She Believes in Me” by Kenny Rogers With its lush instrumentation and poignant lyrics, this track shares a similar emotional depth and timeless appeal.
- “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley For those who appreciate the classical influences in Jones’ music, this Presley classic offers a similar blend of elegance and emotion.
- “By the Time I Get to Phoenix” by Glen Campbell Another masterpiece by Campbell, this song is a beautifully orchestrated tale of love and heartbreak.
Conclusion: A Timeless Piece of Music
“Things I Wanna Do” is more than just a track on Tom Jones’ Tom album—it’s a testament to his ability to transcend genres and connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. The song’s rich instrumentation, featuring guitar, piano, and strings, creates a sound that is as timeless as it is captivating. Whether you’re a fan of country music, classical arrangements, or simply great storytelling, this track is sure to leave a lasting impression.
For those looking to explore similar works, the recommendations listed above offer a great starting point. Each of these songs, like “Things I Wanna Do,” captures the magic that happens when powerful vocals, masterful instrumentation, and heartfelt lyrics come together to create something truly unforgettable.