In early January 2021, during the blind audition phase of The Voice UK (Series 10), legendary Welsh singer Sir Tom Jones stunned both viewers and fellow judges with an impromptu rendition of the 1961 soul classic “Cry To Me” by Solomon Burke.
Originally penned and produced by Bert Berns (credited as “Bert Russell”), the song was brought to life by Solomon Burke at Atlantic Records in December 1961. It was released in 1962 and became one of Burke’s most enduring hits, peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard R&B chart and reaching No. 44 on the Hot 100.. The song’s fervent gospel-soul fusion cemented Burke’s influence as a forefather of soul music, and “Cry To Me” later gained further cultural resonance through its inclusion in the beloved film Dirty Dancing.
On The Voice UK, while judges were taking a break between blind auditions, a fan prompted Sir Tom to sing. He chose “Cry To Me,” performing it from his chair with the show’s live band backing him and the judges watching in awe. The performance was unforgettable—Judge Anne‑Marie was visibly moved, even wiping away a tear, as Olly Murs bobbed along in the virtual audience. It was described as a jaw‑dropping moment that reminded everyone why Tom Jones remains an electrifying performer even decades into his legendary career.
Tom himself shared that “Cry To Me” has stayed with him for years, calling it his favorite Solomon Burke song—one he had performed in concerts since the mid‑1960s.
