Hip-hop Loves Tom Jones

Last night I fulfilled a long term ambition and finally managed to see the legendary Tom Jones live during a string of dates at Cardiff Castle. At 83 years old he is still one of the all time greatest showmen and his voice still sounds like it would melt a million hearts. Growing up in Wales it’s hard not to have an affinity for the great man, but seems we’re not alone here as there have been a barrage of hip hop artists over the years who have sampled his music, from Run DMC, Big Daddy Kane, Kool G Rap and Erick Sermon to 2Pac, Rza, DJ Shadow and Jedi And Tricks.

His influence has been widespread since the 80s at least, plus a number of the original Bronx DJs have name checked his track ‘Looking Out My Window’ as a classic tune that got dropped in the early block parties. So here’s my tribute to the man and a celebration of his influence on Hip-hop. I’ve already started a Shirley Bassey one too.