Voice of WISDOM

SIR TOM JONES on mentoring future chart-toppers

- VICTORIA WILSON

THE VOICE UK SATURDAY, 8PM, ITV ENTERTAINMENT

Watching those red chairs spin around on hit show The Voice UK is the stuff of dreams for the wannabe stars who are trying to break into the music industry.

Knowing that experienced hands such as Sir Tom Jones are there to guide them on their journeys is as valuable as snagging the winning recording contract itself – with the legendary Welsh singer taking his role as a coach very seriously.

‘I love listening to new singers and helping any way I can,’ says Sir Tom, who at 82 has enjoyed hit after hit in a career spanning six decades. 

‘If somebody comes to me and says, “I’d love to be able to do what you do. How do I do it?” I’ll give them advice. I’m living proof to young singers that, if you really want to do this for a living, it can be done. But you need to keep your mind and ears open and be a sponge, soaking up guidance.’

As the Blind Auditions continue this week, here, Sir Tom tells TV Times more about helping the next generation of singers…

Have you had any standout mentors in your career, Sir Tom?