About the song
“With These Hands” by Tom Jones is a soulful ballad that showcases the Welsh singer’s powerful voice and emotional depth. Released in 1965, this song quickly became a favorite among fans and cemented Jones’s status as one of the most compelling vocalists of his time. Featured on his debut album, “Along Came Jones,” “With These Hands” is a testament to Jones’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music.
“With These Hands” is a love song that speaks of devotion, commitment, and the willingness to support and cherish a loved one. The lyrics are a heartfelt promise, with Jones singing about the many things he would do for his beloved, from drying her tears to building a dream world just for her. The song’s message is timeless, resonating with anyone who has ever experienced the depth of true love and the desire to care for someone deeply.
The song was written by Benny Davis and Abner Silver, and it had been performed by several artists before Tom Jones made it his own. However, it was Jones’s rendition that truly brought the song to life, thanks to his rich, baritone voice and emotive delivery. His performance is both tender and powerful, capturing the song’s blend of vulnerability and strength.
When Tom Jones released “With These Hands” in 1965, it came at a time when the music industry was in the midst of a significant transformation. The British Invasion was in full swing, with bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones dominating the charts. Amidst this wave of rock and roll, Jones’s soulful ballads offered a refreshing change of pace. His ability to blend pop with soul made him stand out, and “With These Hands” is a perfect example of his versatility as an artist.
The song’s impact on society and its audience was profound. It resonated deeply with listeners, not just in the UK but around the world. The emotional honesty of the lyrics, combined with Jones’s powerful voice, struck a chord with many, making it a staple at weddings and romantic occasions. It also helped solidify Jones’s reputation as a singer capable of delivering both upbeat, energetic hits and slow, heartfelt ballads.
“With These Hands” also showcased Jones’s talent for interpreting and reinventing songs. While the song had been performed by others before him, Jones’s version brought a new intensity and passion that made it uniquely his. This ability to take a song and make it his own would become a hallmark of his career, helping him to maintain his popularity over the decades.
In the broader context of Tom Jones’s career, “With These Hands” represents an early example of his incredible range as a performer. It demonstrated his ability to connect with an audience on an emotional level, a skill that would serve him well throughout his long and illustrious career. The song’s success helped pave the way for future hits and established Jones as a major force in the music industry.
In conclusion, “With These Hands” is more than just a love song; it’s a declaration of devotion that transcends time. Tom Jones’s heartfelt rendition captures the essence of what it means to love and be loved. The song remains a beloved classic, a testament to Jones’s enduring talent and the timeless appeal of a beautifully crafted ballad.
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Lyrics
With these hands, I will cling to you,
I’m yours forever and a day.
With these hands, I will bring to you,
A tender love as warm as May.
With this heart I will sing to you,
Long after stars have lost their glow,And with these hands, I’ll provide for you,
Should there be a stormy sea,
I’ll turn the tide for you,
And I’ll never,
No, I’ll never let you go.