I've been a fan of Tom Jones, more correctly Sir Tom Jones, forever. When I was a kid, I thought the dark and handsome Welsh singer was everything — and you know what? He's still everything!

The 80-year-old Grammy and multiple award winner has a new album out called 'Surrounded by Time,' which is his 41st studio project The music was produced with a live band backing Sir Tom. There are 12 songs he previously recorded that the singer reworks on this release. The first song is a homage to his wife of 59 years, Linda, who passed away of lung cancer in 2016. "I Won’t Crumble With You if You Fall" is a testament to Linda's unconditional love. Among her final wishes was that her husband continue to sing. 

Much has been written about Tom Jones' dalliances — that he had affairs with up to 250 groupies and megastars like Mary Wilson of the Supremes; among others. I don't care about that. Frankly, that should be between the artist and his wife. I liked the way his music made me feel-- uplifted and ready to dance. He was irresistible: countless girls and women threw their panties onstage as Tom belted. He was (and still is) buff, charming and has undeniable sex appeal and charisma. R & B, soul, he does it all.

Two of my favorite pair-ups Jones did were with the late great Janis Joplin, and more recently, British songstress Jesse J at the 2015 Grammys. I mean, come on, how can you NOT like him? Queen Elizabeth herself likes Jones, to the point that he was knighted in 2006. Previously, in 1999, Jones had been awarded the prestigious Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

What contributed to Jones becoming such an exceptional and distinctive singer? He had somewhat of a rough upbringing. That early experience can prepare a singer to understand life's trials — and therefore emote more effectively. Sir Tom, son of a coal miner, tasted reality with jobs in a factory and construction. But Tom Jones had a passion for singing from childhood. He started with a band in the 6os and the rest, as they say, is history.

Sir Tom plans to start to tour again. He has not slowed down, even as he approaches his 81st year. I have not been to a concert in ages due to the pandemic and would love to see Jones perform live. Not too long ago, a girlfriend and her husband saw him in Florida and said it was more than worth the price of the tickets.

Tom Jones distinctive baritone does justice to It's not Unusual, Delilah, Green, Green Grass of Home and What's New Pussycat and his other classic hits. The list of artists he has performed duets with is endless.

I have always thought of the Welshman as "Mick Jagger in a tuxedo." Tom Jones redefines aging and makes it cool to be mature. I'm glad he's still rocking it.