Tom Jones’ timeless song “It’s Not Unusual” has captivated audiences for decades. But what exactly is the meaning behind this beloved classic? Join us as we explore the lyrics, their emotional depth, and the story that made “It’s Not Unusual” an unforgettable hit.
The Meaning of “It’s Not Unusual” by Tom Jones
When Tom Jones belted out “It’s Not Unusual” in 1965, he was capturing the universal experience of unrequited love and the rollercoaster of emotions that come with it. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious brass section might make you want to dance, but its lyrics tell a different story—a tale of longing, jealousy, and heartache. Jones’s soulful voice perfectly conveys the bittersweet realization that seeing the one you love with someone else is, unfortunately, all too common. This juxtaposition of lively music with poignant lyrics creates a powerful emotional impact, making “It’s Not Unusual” a timeless anthem for anyone who’s ever loved and lost.
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
It’s not unusual to be loved by anyone
It’s not unusual to have fun with anyone
But when I see you hanging about with anyone
It’s not unusual to see me cry
Oh, I wanna die
[Verse 2]
It’s not unusual to go out at any time
But when I see you out and about it’s such a crime
If you should ever want to be loved by anyone
It’s not unusual
[Bridge]
It happens every day, no matter what you say
You find it happens all the time
Love will never do, what you want it to
Why can’t this crazy love be mine?
[Verse 3]
It’s not unusual, to be mad with anyone
It’s not unusual, to be sad with anyone
But if I ever find that you’ve changed at anytime
It’s not unusual to find out I’m in love with you
Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh
The Iconic Opening Verse
The song begins with a simple yet profound declaration:
It’s not unusual to be loved by anyone
It’s not unusual to have fun with anyone
But when I see you hanging about with anyone
It’s not unusual to see me cry
Oh, I wanna die
Universal Experiences of Love and Fun
The opening lines highlight common experiences of love and joy. Being loved and having fun are universal aspects of human life. These emotions are relatable and serve as a foundation for the deeper message of the song.
The Pain of Seeing a Loved One with Someone Else
The mood shifts dramatically when the singer sees his beloved with someone else. The sight brings intense pain, symbolized by the desire to cry and even die. This juxtaposition of joy and sorrow sets the tone for the rest of the song.
Emotional Vulnerability
The raw emotion in these lines speaks to the vulnerability that love brings. The singer’s willingness to express his sadness openly resonates with listeners, making it a powerful and relatable moment.
Exploring Verse Two
The second verse continues to explore the theme of love and its complications:
It’s not unusual to go out at any time
But when I see you out and about it’s such a crime
If you should ever want to be loved by anyone
It’s not unusual
Social Norms and Personal Agony
Going out and socializing are normal activities, but for the singer, seeing his beloved with someone else turns these innocent actions into a personal torment. The word “crime” emphasizes the severity of his feelings.
Unrequited Love
The verse also touches on unrequited love. The singer acknowledges that being loved by others is not unusual, yet it highlights the painful reality that his love interest does not reciprocate his feelings.
The Struggle of Acceptance
The singer struggles to accept the situation. Despite understanding that love from others is not unusual, he cannot help but feel the sting of rejection.
The Heartfelt Bridge
The bridge offers a philosophical reflection on the nature of love:
It happens every day, no matter what you say
You find it happens all the time
Love will never do, what you want it to
Why can’t this crazy love be mine?
Love’s Unpredictable Nature
Love is unpredictable and often defies our desires. The bridge captures this sentiment, acknowledging that love’s outcomes are beyond our control.
The Inevitability of Love’s Challenges
The singer points out that the challenges of love are a daily occurrence. This universality makes the song’s message even more poignant, as it reflects a common human experience.
The Longing for Fulfillment
The final line of the bridge, “Why can’t this crazy love be mine?” encapsulates the singer’s longing for his love to be reciprocated. This question underscores the irrational and passionate nature of love.
Verse Three’s Emotional Finale
The third verse brings the song to an emotional climax:
It’s not unusual, to be mad with anyone
It’s not unusual, to be sad with anyone
But if I ever find that you’ve changed at anytime
It’s not unusual to find out I’m in love with you
Whoa-oh-oh-oh-oh
The Spectrum of Human Emotion
This verse acknowledges the wide range of emotions that love can evoke, from anger to sadness. These feelings are natural and expected in the complex landscape of love.
Hope for Change
The singer holds onto a glimmer of hope that his beloved might change her mind. This possibility keeps his love alive, even in the face of rejection.
A Declaration of Love
The final line is a powerful declaration of love. Despite the ups and downs, the singer’s love remains steadfast. This enduring affection is what makes the song resonate with so many listeners.
The Story Behind the Song
To fully appreciate “It’s Not Unusual,” it’s essential to understand its background. Written by Les Reed and Gordon Mills, the song was initially intended for singer Sandie Shaw. However, Tom Jones’ powerful voice and charismatic performance made it his breakout hit in 1965.
Tom Jones’ Rise to Fame
The success of “It’s Not Unusual” catapulted Tom Jones to international stardom. His unique blend of pop and soulful delivery made him an icon of the 1960s.
The Cultural Impact
The song’s catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it a staple in popular culture. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its place in music history.
Why “It’s Not Unusual” Still Matters
Decades after its release, “It’s Not Unusual” continues to resonate with audiences. Its universal themes of love, longing, and emotional vulnerability make it timeless.
A Song for All Ages
The song’s appeal spans generations. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or the hundredth, its emotional depth and catchy tune remain captivating.
A Reminder of Love’s Complexities
“It’s Not Unusual” serves as a reminder that love is both beautiful and challenging. It encourages us to embrace our emotions and understand that love’s unpredictability is part of its charm.
Conclusion
“It’s Not Unusual” by Tom Jones is more than just a catchy tune. It’s a deeply emotional exploration of love, vulnerability, and the human experience. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to resonate with listeners on a personal level. The song’s rich history and enduring popularity make it a classic that will continue to touch hearts for generations to come.