About the song
“What’s New Pussycat?” by Tom Jones is a vibrant and energetic track that became a defining hit in the mid-1960s. Released on August 2, 1965, the song was featured on the soundtrack of the film “What’s New Pussycat?”, which starred Peter Sellers, Romy Schneider, and Ursula Andress. Written by the legendary songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David, the song captures the playful and charismatic style that Tom Jones is renowned for.
The track is notable for its catchy melody and lively arrangement, which perfectly align with the upbeat tone of the film it was created for. Tom Jones, with his powerful and distinctive voice, delivers the lyrics with a blend of humor and charm. The song’s lyrics are a lighthearted exploration of romance and flirtation, expressing both affection and a playful challenge to the “pussycat” in question. The refrain, “What’s new pussycat?” serves as a whimsical greeting that underscores the song’s fun and engaging nature.
“What’s New Pussycat?” was released as a single in 1965 and quickly became a major hit, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the charts in several other countries. Its success was fueled by its infectious rhythm and the distinctive vocal delivery of Tom Jones, who was already gaining recognition for his dynamic stage presence and powerful voice.
The impact of “What’s New Pussycat?” extended beyond just its commercial success. It became a quintessential representation of Tom Jones’s style and contributed significantly to his rise as an international star. The song’s playful and exuberant nature also captured the spirit of the 1960s, an era marked by vibrant cultural and musical changes. It showcased how music could be both entertaining and emotionally engaging, blending sophisticated songwriting with popular appeal.
Socially, the song helped cement Tom Jones’s status as a charismatic performer who could cross various musical genres. It also highlighted the creative collaboration between Bacharach and David, whose songwriting prowess was influential in shaping the pop and easy listening music of the time. The song’s lively orchestration and memorable lyrics made it a lasting favorite, often associated with the glamour and fun of the 1960s entertainment scene.
In summary, “What’s New Pussycat?” by Tom Jones is more than just a catchy tune from the 1960s. Released as part of the film soundtrack and showcasing the songwriting brilliance of Bacharach and David, the song is a testament to Tom Jones’s vibrant performance style and the era’s musical innovation. Its enduring popularity reflects both its cultural significance and its role in defining the sound of its time.
Video
Lyrics
What’s new pussycat?
Whoa, whoa, whoa
What’s new pussycat?
Whoa, whoa, whoa
Pussycat, pussycat, I’ve got flowers
And lots of hours to spend with you
So go and power, and spend with me
And the end of the hour
What’s new pussycat?
Whoa, whoa, whoa
What’s new pussycat?
Whoa, whoa, whoa
Pussycat, pussycat, you’re so thrilling
And I’m so willing to care for you
So go and make up your sweet little mind
‘Cause I ain’t got much time
And I’ve got flowers
And lots of hours to spend with you
So go and power, and spend with me
And the end of the hour
What’s new pussycat?
Whoa, whoa, whoa
What’s new pussycat?
Whoa, whoa, whoa
Pussycat, pussycat, you’re so thrilling
And I’m so willing to care for you
So go and make up your sweet little mind
‘Cause I ain’t got much time
And I’ve got flowers
And lots of hours to spend with you
So go and power, and spend with me
And the end of the hour
What’s new pussycat?
Whoa, whoa, whoa
What’s new pussycat?
Whoa, whoa, whoa
What’s new pussycat?
Whoa, whoa, whoa
What’s new pussycat?
Whoa, whoa, whoa