The Lead and How to Swing It cover

The Lead and How to Swing It

Tom Jones · 1994

80 min · 19 tracks · blues

A vibrant mix of blue-eyed soul and pop with a touch of blues, showcasing Tom Jones' dynamic vocal range.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    If I Only Knew Start here — The opening track sets the tone with its infectious energy and showcases Jones' powerful vocals, grounding the album in emotional depth.
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    Walking in Memphis — This cover highlights Jones' ability to reinterpret classic songs, adding his unique flair while maintaining the song's heartfelt essence.
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    Take Me to the River — Jones delivers a soulful rendition that emphasizes his vocal prowess and connects deeply with the rhythmic undertones of the original.
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    I Wanna Get Back With You — This track exemplifies the blend of pop and blues influences, showcasing catchy hooks alongside expressive storytelling.

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

  • 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
Moods
Uplifting· Chill
Career context
Released in 1994, The Lead and How to Swing It marked Tom Jones' return to recording after a brief hiatus during the early '90s. This album followed his successful period in the '80s and sought to re-establish his relevance in the evolving music landscape, blending contemporary sounds with his classic style.
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Tracklist

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

Tom Jones Sings Rock & Soul
Listen next

Tom Jones Sings Rock & Soul

1999

Continues the vibrant sound with a mix of rock and soul influences.
Carrying a Torch
Go back to

Carrying a Torch

1991

Leads into the current album's exploration of rich instrumentation and vocals.
Full Tom Jones discography Where to start with Tom Jones Artists like Tom Jones Which Tom Jones albums to start with
blue-eyed soul

If this landed

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata