The Lead and How to Swing It
Tom Jones · 1994
80 min · 19 tracks · country · R&B · blue-eyed soul
A vibrant blend of pop and soul, showcasing Tom Jones' powerful vocals against lush instrumentation.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady pacing for relaxed listening
- uplifting tracks for feel-good vibes
- sing-along moments with friends
- nostalgic melodies for warm memories
- for weekend gatherings
Maybe skip if you want
- prefer fast-paced, energetic music
- seek experimental or avant-garde sounds
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album solidified Jones' reputation in the contemporary music scene.
- Themes
- heartfelt longing· Memphis soul revival· nostalgic romance
- Career context
- By the time 'The Lead and How to Swing It' was released in 1994, Tom Jones had transitioned from a 1960s heartthrob to a respected artist in the contemporary music scene. This album marked his return after a gap of several years since his previous studio album, 'Jumping Jack Flash', highlighting his ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes while maintaining his signature style.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Joe Cocker· Engelbert Humperdinck· Wilson Pickett
- If this clicks, go next to
- Tom Jones Sings Rock & Soul — Continues the vibrant sound with a mix of rock and soul influences.
- Sounds like this from elsewhere
-
Night Calls by Joe Cocker — Shares a similar blend of soulful vocals and lush instrumentation with a contemporary edge.Some People's Lives by Bette Midler — Combines powerful vocals and pop elements, featuring emotional storytelling and rich arrangements.A Spanner in the Works by Rod Stewart — Offers a vibrant mix of pop and soul, showcasing strong vocal performances against varied musical backdrops.
Tracklist
New here? Start with "If I Only Knew".
Disc 1
- 1 If I Only Knew Start here 4:07
- 2 A Girl Like You 4:42
- 3 I Wanna Get Back With You 5:00
- 4 Situation 3:10
- 5 Something for Your Head 5:12
- 6 Fly Away 4:38
- 7 Love Is on Our Side 4:02
- 8 I Don't Think So 5:18
- 9 Lift Me Up 3:45
- 10 Show Me 3:48
- 11 I'm Ready 4:13
- 12 Changes 4:06
- 13 Are You Gonna Go My Way 4:03
Disc 2
- 1 Unbelievable 4:23
- 2 Take Me to the River 3:38
- 3 Walking in Memphis 4:56
- 4 Green Green Grass of Home 3:12
- 5 It's Not Unusual 3:07
- 6 Kiss 5:02
What to play next
This album is considered a Breakthrough in Tom Jones's catalog. This album solidified Jones' reputation in the contemporary music scene.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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