During a memorable episode of The Voice in 2021, Tom Jones, the iconic voice behind “Sex Bomb,” 80 years old, found himself unexpectedly moved to tears.
The surprise came while Tom was discussing his musical roots with fellow judges Will.I.Am, Anne Marie, and Olly Murs. When asked about his early inspirations, Tom highlighted his admiration for gospel and rock ‘n’ roll legends like Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis, reflecting on the awe of performing alongside such icons.
“Mostly gospel singers,” Tom said. “And rock and roll singers as well as Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis. When you get a chance to sing with them you think, ‘My God, this is tremendous!’”
The conversation shifted when Will.I.Am shared his admiration for Stevie Wonder, a sentiment that resonated with everyone on the panel.
Anne Marie asked Will.I.Am about who inspired him at the start of his career. “I love Stevie,” he frankly answered and all the judges instantly agreed.
This led to Tom recounting his cherished moments working and performing with Stevie Wonder, emphasizing the deep friendship and mutual respect that developed between them.
Tom recalled the time the pair worked together on his TV show, in which they sang a medley of Stevie’s greatest hits together.
The emotional peak of the night occurred when Will.I.Am prompted the show’s producers to play a heartfelt video message from Stevie Wonder himself.
“I feel so very happy to congratulate you as you celebrate 80 years on this planet.”
Stevie’s message, filled with warmth and admiration, celebrated Tom’s 80th birthday, reminiscing about their shared moments and the lasting bond of their friendship.
He even serenaded Tom with a snippet of “It’s Not Unusual,” moving Tom to tears with the depth of his heartfelt words.
He said, “I had the pleasure of not just meeting the person who sang that song, but meeting a new friend and I know that friendship will last for a lifetime.”
“So many wonderful moments we’ve shared, I still remember when we did your show and I was telling you the words to ‘Uptight’ and you were telling me the words to ‘It’s not Unusual’. I played the drums and it was just a wonderful thing.”
“I love you with my whole heart and I want you to promise me you will do your best to give us another 80 years. Sir Tom Jones, God bless you.”
After hearing his friend’s birthday wishes, Tom wiped his tears away.
Tom, visibly touched by Stevie’s words and the surprise, expressed his deep affection and respect for Stevie, hoping for future collaborations.
