Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 22, 2025 · Entertainment

Tom Jones Faces Boos Over 'Delilah' Ban at Welsh Gig

Loud boos could be heard on Wednesday night as Tom Jones headlined Cardiff Castle as part of its summer of live outdoor shows

Scandal Erupts as Tom Jones Takes the Stage!

The 85-year-old legend, known for his smooth vocals and iconic hits like "What's New Pussycat?" and "Sex Bomb," was back in action at Cardiff Castle on Wednesday night, kicking off his two-night outdoor extravaganza. But little did fans know, a major controversy was brewing - all thanks to one of Tom's most beloved tracks: "Delilah."

The Banned Song: A Stirring Debate

The singer, 85, took to the stage to perform his greatest hits - including What's New Pussycat?, Sex Bomb and I'm Growing Old as he opened the first of his two nights there

When Tom belted out the 1968 classic, the crowd's reaction turned icy cold. You see, "Delilah" had been banned from Welsh Rugby Union sporting fixtures just last year, thanks to its gruesome lyrics about a lover stabbing his former partner. The rugby bosses took umbrage with the song's dark themes and Tom's rendition didn't exactly ease their concerns.

However, the singer wasn't having it! With a hint of defiance in his voice, Tom addressed the controversy head-on: "Who's that man who said we shouldn't sing that song anymore?" he asked the audience. "That used to make my day when on an international match!"

In a bold move, Tom continued to defend the song, saying, "You shouldn't take it literally." The crowd, seemingly divided, responded with boos - but not from those in support of Tom's views!

When Tom moved onto his hit track Delilah, which was released in 1968, the crowd's reception took a frosty turn as he addressed its controversy

A Swipe at Politicians

But that wasn't all. During his set, Tom took aim at MPs across the spectrum, quipping, "You know when a politician is lying? When his lips move!" The audience erupted into cheers and applause, as if to say, "Preach, Tom!"

The Voice UK Coach's Health Scare

Delilah had previously been adopted by the Welsh Rugby Union for a number of years before it was banned from sporting fixtures in 2023

This isn't the first time Tom has been in the headlines. Just last month, he was forced to cancel a show in Bremen, Germany, due to health issues. Taking to Instagram, Sir Tom revealed he'd contracted an upper respiratory infection that required "treatment and rest."

"I'm very sorry" for disappointing fans, he wrote, "but the show will now go ahead on Monday 28th July." Fans flooded the comments with supportive messages, including a kind word from former Voice UK co-star Anne-Marie.

The Verdict: Love Him or Hate Him

Delilah tells of an opportunistic murder by a man who waits until his former partner's lover leaves her home before making his move, though Tom told his fans not to take the lyrics literally

It's no secret Tom Jones has been in the music industry for decades. He's seen it all - and he's still rocking on! Whether you love his smooth vocals or can't stand his defiant attitude, one thing is certain: Sir Tom will always keep it real.

The question remains: Will "Delilah" make a comeback at future rugby matches? Only time (and the rugby bosses) will tell.