LIVE: TOM JONES to headline SUMMER SESSIONS in PLYMOUTH alongside GABRIELLE, SOPHIE ELLIS-BEXTOR and STONE FOUNDATION - We found ten fascinating facts on each....
With Summer Sessions less than 6 weeks away, we here at musomuso wanted to share some fascinating facts about the acts performing over the 4 shows that will be taking place at Plymouth’s Hoe between 13th - 16th June.
TOM JONES will be headlining on 13th June, he’ll be joined by GABRIELLE, SOPHIE ELLIS-BEXTOR and STONE FOUNDATION.
Here are ten fascinating facts about TOM JONES that you might not have known.
Stage Name Origin: Tom Jones was born Thomas Woodward, but he adopted his famous stage name from the novel "Tom Jones" by Henry Fielding. His manager at the time, Gordon Mills, suggested the name change to capitalize on the popularity of the book and give him a more memorable persona.
Underwear Tossing: One of the most unusual traditions associated with Tom Jones concerts is the practice of fans throwing their underwear onto the stage. This phenomenon, which began in the 1960s, became so prevalent that it earned Jones the nickname "The Knicker King." He has since embraced this quirky aspect of his performances as a symbol of adoration from his fans.
Knighthood Controversy: In 2006, Tom Jones was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to music. However, his knighthood sparked controversy due to his reputation as a womaniser and reports of numerous extramarital affairs throughout his career. Despite the criticism, Jones accepted the honor with humility and gratitude.
Unlikely Collaboration: In 1999, Tom Jones surprised fans by teaming up with the alternative rock band The Cardigans for a cover of the song "Burning Down the House" by Talking Heads. The unexpected collaboration showcased Jones's versatility as an artist and introduced him to a new generation of listeners.
Welsh Roots: Tom Jones hails from Pontypridd, Wales, where he grew up in a working-class family. His Welsh heritage has always been a source of pride for him, and he often incorporates traditional Welsh songs into his live performances as a tribute to his roots.
James Bond Theme Rejection: Despite his iconic status, Tom Jones once missed out on the opportunity to record the theme song for a James Bond film. In 1965, he was approached to sing the theme for "Thunderball," but another artist was chosen instead. Jones later recorded the theme for "Thunderball," which became one of his signature songs.
Las Vegas Residency: In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Tom Jones established himself as a Las Vegas icon with his legendary residency at the Flamingo Las Vegas. His dynamic performances and charismatic stage presence drew crowds from around the world, solidifying his status as one of the city's most beloved entertainers.
Reality TV Revival: In the early 2000s, Tom Jones experienced a career resurgence thanks to his role as a coach on the British reality TV show "The Voice UK." His authoritative yet nurturing coaching style endeared him to audiences, and he became known for his trademark catchphrase, "It's not unusual."
Record-Breaking Performances: Throughout his career, Tom Jones has achieved numerous milestones and accolades. He holds the record for the most performances on "The Ed Sullivan Show," with a total of 12 appearances. Additionally, he has sold over 100 million records worldwide, cementing his legacy as one of the best-selling artists of all time.
Fitness Enthusiast: Despite being in his 80s, Tom Jones maintains a rigorous fitness routine to stay in shape for his demanding live performances. He credits regular exercise and a healthy diet for his vitality and endurance on stage, proving that age is no barrier to rocking the house.
And whilst we’re at it, here’s ten facts about GABRIELLE
Eye Patch Icon: One of Gabrielle's most distinctive features is her signature eye patch, which she wears due to a condition called ptosis that affects her left eye. Rather than concealing it, Gabrielle has embraced her unique look, turning it into a symbol of empowerment and individuality.
Early Inspiration: Gabrielle's love for music was sparked at a young age when she heard her mother singing in their home in London. Inspired by her mother's passion for music, Gabrielle began writing her own songs and dreaming of a career in the music industry.
Record-Breaking Debut: In 1993, Gabrielle burst onto the music scene with her debut single "Dreams," which reached number one on the UK Singles Chart. It became one of the fastest-selling singles of the year and earned her critical acclaim, establishing her as a rising star in the world of pop music.
Chart-Topping Success: Throughout her career, Gabrielle has achieved numerous chart-topping hits, including "Rise," "Out of Reach," and "Give Me a Little More Time." Her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have resonated with audiences worldwide, earning her multiple Brit Awards and a dedicated fan base.
Fashion Icon: In addition to her musical talents, Gabrielle is known for her distinctive sense of style. She often incorporates bold colors, statement accessories, and retro-inspired pieces into her wardrobe, creating a look that is uniquely her own and inspiring fashion trends for years to come.
Collaborative Ventures: Gabrielle has collaborated with a diverse range of artists throughout her career, from British rapper Giggs to pop sensation East 17. These unexpected collaborations have showcased her versatility as an artist and allowed her to explore new musical territories beyond the confines of pop.
International Recognition: While Gabrielle initially found success in her native UK, her music has also resonated with audiences around the world. She has achieved chart success in countries across Europe, Australia, and Asia, earning her a global fan base and solidifying her status as an international music sensation.
Personal Struggles: Despite her professional success, Gabrielle has faced personal challenges throughout her life, including battles with depression and low self-esteem. She has been open about her struggles, using her platform to raise awareness about mental health issues and inspire others to seek help and support.
Entrepreneurial Ventures: In addition to her music career, Gabrielle has ventured into entrepreneurship with the launch of her own line of fragrances. Inspired by her love for perfume and her desire to create scents that evoke emotions and memories, Gabrielle's fragrances have been well-received by fans and critics alike.
Legacy of Empowerment: Throughout her career, Gabrielle has been an advocate for self-love, empowerment, and authenticity. Her music and personal journey serve as a testament to the power of resilience, courage, and embracing one's true self, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their dreams.
Next up is Sophie Ellis-Bextor
Famous Parents: Sophie Ellis-Bextor comes from a family with ties to the entertainment industry. Her mother, Janet Ellis, is a television presenter best known for her role on the BBC children's program "Blue Peter." Growing up in a creative environment undoubtedly influenced Sophie's own career path in music.
Early Stardom: Sophie Ellis-Bextor's first taste of fame came as a teenager when she joined the British indie band Theaudience in the 1990s. The band achieved moderate success, but it was Sophie's distinctive vocals and stage presence that caught the attention of audiences and industry insiders alike.
Chart-Topping Debut: In 2000, Sophie Ellis-Bextor launched her solo career with the release of her debut album, "Read My Lips." The album spawned several hit singles, including "Murder on the Dancefloor" and "Take Me Home," which catapulted Sophie to international stardom and earned her critical acclaim.
Modeling Career: In addition to her music career, Sophie Ellis-Bextor has also dabbled in modeling. She has graced the covers of numerous fashion magazines and appeared in advertising campaigns for brands such as Rimmel London and L'Oreal. Her striking beauty and distinctive style have made her a sought-after muse for designers and photographers.
Musical Diversity: Sophie Ellis-Bextor is known for her eclectic musical style, which blends elements of pop, dance, and electronica. She has collaborated with a diverse range of artists and producers, including Freemasons, Armin van Buuren, and Calvin Harris, showcasing her versatility as an artist and her willingness to experiment with different genres.
Strictly Come Dancing: In 2013, Sophie Ellis-Bextor participated in the BBC reality TV show "Strictly Come Dancing." Known for her elegant dance moves and graceful demeanor, she wowed audiences and judges alike with her performances, ultimately finishing in fourth place.
Family Life: Sophie Ellis-Bextor is married to Richard Jones, the bassist of the British band The Feeling. The couple has five sons together, and Sophie often incorporates her experiences as a mother into her music, adding depth and authenticity to her songwriting.
Charitable Work: Sophie Ellis-Bextor is actively involved in various charitable causes, including organizations that support children with disabilities and life-threatening illnesses. She has lent her voice and her platform to raise awareness and funds for these important causes, demonstrating her commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
Classical Collaboration: In 2014, Sophie Ellis-Bextor surprised fans with the release of her album "Wanderlust," which marked a departure from her usual pop sound. Inspired by her love for orchestral music and folk melodies, the album featured a more stripped-down, acoustic sound, showcasing Sophie's versatility as a singer-songwriter.
Entrepreneurial Ventures: In recent years, Sophie Ellis-Bextor has expanded her creative endeavors beyond music with the launch of her own line of accessories. From handbags to scarves, her designs reflect her unique sense of style and her passion for fashion, allowing fans to incorporate a touch of Sophie's glamour into their own wardrobes.
And finally, Stone Foundation
Roots in Mod Culture: Stone Foundation is a British band deeply rooted in the mod subculture, drawing inspiration from the classic sounds of soul, jazz, and R&B. Their music pays homage to the mod movement of the 1960s while infusing contemporary elements, creating a unique blend of retro and modern vibes.
Formed in the Midlands: Stone Foundation was formed in 1997 in the West Midlands region of England, specifically in the city of Coventry. The band's Midlands roots have had a significant influence on their sound and lyrical themes, reflecting the rich musical heritage of the area.
Independent Spirit: Throughout their career, Stone Foundation has remained fiercely independent, releasing their music through their own record label, Stone Foundation Records. This DIY approach has allowed them to maintain creative control over their music and connect directly with their fans without the constraints of major record labels.
Collaborations with Legends: Stone Foundation has collaborated with several legendary musicians, including members of The Specials and Ocean Colour Scene. Notably, their 2017 album "Street Rituals" featured contributions from Paul Weller, who co-wrote and produced several tracks, further elevating the band's profile in the music industry.
Chart Success: Despite operating outside the mainstream music scene, Stone Foundation has achieved significant chart success in the UK. Their albums have consistently charted on the Official Albums Chart and the Independent Albums Chart, garnering critical acclaim and expanding their fan base with each release.
Inspired by Northern Soul: Stone Foundation's music is heavily influenced by the Northern Soul movement, which emerged in Northern England in the 1960s. Their infectious grooves, horn arrangements, and soulful vocals pay homage to the Northern Soul sound, capturing the energy and excitement of the dance floors of yesteryear.
Socially Conscious Lyrics: In addition to their infectious melodies, Stone Foundation is known for their socially conscious lyrics, which address themes of unity, resilience, and social justice. Their music serves as a rallying cry for positive change and solidarity in an increasingly divided world, resonating with listeners on a profound level.
International Acclaim: While Stone Foundation has its roots in the UK, their music has found a receptive audience around the world. They have toured extensively in Europe and beyond, captivating audiences with their dynamic live performances and infectious energy, solidifying their status as global ambassadors of soulful music.
Innovative Instrumentation: Stone Foundation's sound is characterized by its rich instrumentation, featuring a wide array of instruments such as horns, strings, and Hammond organ. Their attention to detail and commitment to crafting lush, layered arrangements set them apart from their contemporaries, creating a sonic tapestry that is both timeless and contemporary.
Dedication to Craft: Above all, Stone Foundation is dedicated to their craft, tirelessly honing their musical skills and pushing creative boundaries with each new project. Their passion for music shines through in every note, inspiring fans and fellow musicians alike to embrace the transformative power of soulful music.