Sir Tom Jones Comes Home to Cardiff Castle

At 85 years old, Sir Tom Jones returned to Cardiff Castle for the first of two sold-out homecoming shows, proving across six decades of music that he’s still every bit the icon. Looking sharp, sounding timeless, and armed with stories only he can tell, the Welsh legend gave the capital a night to remember.

The evening opened with Cardiff’s own Ben Ellis, a rising local star whose youthful energy and loyal crowd of fans sang back every word. By the end of his set, the field was almost full, a testament to his growing appeal. Next up, the Midlands’ eight-piece soul outfit Stone Foundation lifted the tempo with an energetic set, complete with a track co-written with Paul Weller, warming the stage perfectly for the main event.

When Tom appeared, he needed a steadying hand to make his way through the band instruments, but once he reached the spotlight, the frailty disappeared. Opening with his poignant number one, “Growing Old”, he delivered an intimate performance, eyes closed, voice as commanding as ever. From there, he moved through “Tower of Song” and“Not Dark Yet”, with a slow, brooding energy.

Then came the moment the crowd had been waiting for. With a grin, he declared: “It’s great to be home – Cardiff! People ask if I’m from Wales and I tell them: I lived in Wales, I was born in Treforest, but Wales lives in me.” From that point on, Tom lit up. The hips began to move, and the classics rolled out – “It’s Not Unusual”, “What’s New Pussycat?”, and Sex Bomb, Delilah and many more. Between songs, he shared Tom’s tales of friendships with Burt Bacharach, Cat Stevens, and stories from his knighthood, quipping: “I’ve had one hell of a life.”

Each track was delivered with fresh arrangements, showing his instinct to reinvent rather than rely on nostalgia. Familiar songs felt reborn, his voice still rich, powerful, and instantly recognisable and his smile as seductive as ever. By the end, Cardiff Castle knew it had witnessed something special – not just a performance, but a living legend sharing his legacy at his favourite place, the Green, Green Grass of home.

We don’t know when, or if, Tom Jones will grace Cardiff or even Wales again. But for those lucky enough to be there, this show was a reminder of just how extraordinary he is and how much we love him– and for those with tickets to night two, you’re in for something unforgettable.

There are some extra tickets released for tonight show at Cardiff castle so grab them while you can, you won’t regret it.