Introduction
Tom Jones – I (Who Have Nothing)
Tom Jones released his version in 1970, and it quickly became a standout performance. His rendition reached No. 14 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, showcasing his ability to transform a classic tune with raw emotion and vocal strength. The song’s lyrics portray a man who feels he has nothing to offer but love, watching helplessly as the object of his affection is embraced by someone who can “give her the world.” Jones’s performance taps directly into that emotional vulnerability, making the song both a declaration of devotion and a lament of longing.
Live performances of “I (Who Have Nothing)” stand out in Jones’s concert history because they capture his dramatic delivery and commanding stage presence. Videos from the late 1960s and early 1970s — including televised performances and live shows such as his 1971 Live at Caesar’s Palace — highlight how he used dynamic phrasing and intense vocal power to bring the song to life in front of audiences.
Jones’s live interpretations are marked by his ability to sustain and project emotional depth, often building the song from a quiet plea into a climactic outpouring of feeling. That combination of technical skill and emotional authenticity made his performances memorable and continues to attract listeners who appreciate his dramatic take on the classic ballad.
In essence, Tom Jones’s live performances of “I (Who Have Nothing)” exemplify his gift for conveying heartbreak and desire — transforming a well-known cover into one of the defining moments of his live repertoire.