March 2, 2009 from WXPN - Global superstarTom Jones is "opening up shop" once more with the release of 24 Hours, his first U.S. album release in more than 15 years. The exuberant performer first rose to fame in the early 1960s, but it was his hit single "It's Not Unusual" in 1965 that made him a living legend. Jones' clean-cut style, infectious blues and energetic pop tunes have helped him sustain a long career that continues unabated. With 24 Hours, perhaps his most intimate album to date, Jones opted to get more involved in the songwriting process. The result is a highly personal collection, including a soul-baring track written for his wife of more than 50 years, Linda. The album also features a cover of Bruce Springsteen's "The Hitter" and a collaboration with Bono.
The genre-crossing crooner talks with host David Dye about how the vintage sound of new music by Amy Winehouse andDuffy inspired him to recapture the essence of his '60s-era work. He'll also share some priceless memories of encounters with Elvis Presley and Otis Redding.
Hear the full session here: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=100055024