Tom Jones was born Thomas John Woodward in Pontypridd, Wales, in 1940, and began his professional career in the early 1960s as the frontman for Tommy Scott and the Senators. He became known for a powerful baritone voice and a style that crossed pop, rock, soul, country, and jazz, with a stage presence that was often described as energetic and direct. Jones rose to international prominence in the mid-1960s with hits including "It's Not Unusual," and later recorded albums and television appearances that sustained a long career across several decades. He is also known for live performances built around strong vocals, audience engagement, and a repertoire that draws from multiple genres.