Download Instrumental It is the year 1965. An up-and-coming singer, who calls himself Tom Jones, sits in a studio ready to record “It’s Not Unusual” for the second time. The tune was written for Sandie Shaw, one of the most successful British singers of the 60’s. As was the custom in those days, an unknown artist would record a song with a full arrangement so that the intended “star” could listen and decide if they wanted to record it themselves. In this case, Tom Jones was the unknown singer on the demo. Shaw listened, then declared that the person to record it should be “whoever that is on the demo”. So our Mr. Jones got the nod and scored his first ever hit. Say “thank you”, Tom.
But in the studio that day in ’65, there was a problem. The keyboard player in his band couldn’t show up for the session. The piano part was not a major part of the tune – it was mostly brass – but there would still be subtle holes in the arrangement without piano. The drummer had an idea (drummers always do). He knew of a piano player working a coffee house just across the street who might be able to fill in. Tom said, “Go get him – we’re paying by the hour here”. When Reginald Dwight entered the studio to save the day, Jones thought “Odd-looking chap, but he can play well enough”. Reginald eventually adopted the stage name… wait for it… Elton John.
Oh… and the guitar player on the set that day? None other than Jimmy Page from Led Zeppelin. It’s a small world after all, folks… at least in the music biz.
This one inspired something called the Carlton Dance. One of the characters on “Fresh Prince of Bel Aire” (Carlton) loved Tom Jones and especially this song. Unfortunately, the guy couldn’t dance even a little bit. Actually, I can relate – it’s exactly how I dance. Check it out below. Peace… and out.
Stageworthy Backing Tracks by Dave Zobrist 