T in the Park 2011: Sir Tom excites Main Stage masses

MUSIC legend Sir Tom Jones wowed one of T in the Park’s largest-ever Main Stage crowds on Friday evening as he dipped into his expansive back catalogue.Taking to the stage at 7.05pm, the Welsh superstar emerged under light blue Kinross–shire skies and addressed the 60,000-strong audience. “I thought it was meant to be raining, T in the Park,” he quipped. “It is great to be here!” Dressed in a black suit and a dark polo-neck top, Jones kicked-off his 12-song set with Burning Hell, taken from his 2010 album Praise And Blame, before launching into Elvis number Run On.

The varied audience cheered in appreciation for gospel track Strange Things and St James Infirmary Blues, which was recorded with Jools Holland. Chatting about the history of each song, a smiling Tom received a chuckle from the welcoming masses after inquiring: “If it’s called T in the Park, why is no one drinking tea?”

Supported by a full band, incorporating an organist, backing singers and a brass section, the sprightly showman then shuffled his way to into a spectacular finale after airing two of Jerry Lee Lewis’ country classics, Green Green Grass Of Home and Detroit City.

Conducting the loudest sing-a-long of the weekend, the charismatic 71-year-old bounced around the stage as revellers swayed and women screamed in excitement to the familiar melodic tones of Delilah.

Tom’s mighty vocals powered through toe-tappers Mama Told Me Not To Come, You Can Keep Your Hat On and It’s Not Unusual before closing with his popular version of Prince’s Kiss.

Revellers were left in great spirits by the impressive hour-long, feelgood set which proved to be the perfect start to the weekend.

Written by Greg Christison for the Perthshire Advertiser

Read the review here