Introduction
Tom Jones – “Puppet Man”: When Pop Becomes a Stage for Power and Passion
Released in 1971 as part of the album She’s a Lady, “Puppet Man” stands out as a fascinating chapter in Tom Jones’s expansive career. Written by the legendary songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David, the song carries their signature sophistication while allowing Jones’s commanding voice to take center stage. From its first release, “Puppet Man” drew attention for its bold, dramatic arrangement—one that seemed tailor-made to amplify his charismatic and powerful vocal delivery.
Although it never reached the very top of the charts, the track perfectly illustrates Tom Jones’s rare ability to transform a straightforward pop composition into a high-energy, theatrical performance. The playful lyrics compare falling in love to becoming a puppet on a string, blending humor with passion and giving the song a lighthearted yet emotionally charged tone.
More than just a single, “Puppet Man” reflects the essence of Tom Jones’s artistry: fearless showmanship, vocal strength, and an unmistakable stage presence. These qualities helped cement his status as one of the most dynamic performers of his era, and they continue to make “Puppet Man” a memorable and enduring entry in his musical legacy.
Video
Lyrics
Puppet man
Puppet ma-an
Puppet man
Puppet ma-an
Baby, baby you know it’s true
I’m a puppet just for you
I’ll do any little thing you say
I wouldn’t have it any other way
Take my heart and take my soul
I’m givin’ you complete control
If you want to see me do my thing, baby pull my string, huh yea
Puppet man, puppet man-an
Baby, baby, I’m your sweet pet
I’m just your personal marionette
Wind me up and let me go
Don’t you know I’m a one man show?
Raise your finger and I’ll perform
I’ll crack a jack ’til the crack a dawn
If you want to see me do my thing, baby pull my string
Pu-pa-pu-pa-pu-pa-pu-pa
Pu-pa-pu-pa-pu-pa-pu-pa
Ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-na-na-na
Shna- na-na-na-na-na-na
Ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-na-na-na
Ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-na-na-na
Shna- na-na-na-na-na-na
Na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na
Puppet man, puppet ma-an
Baby, baby I’m warning you, satisfaction guaranteed
Anytime you feel uptight
I’m at your service morning noon or night
I do whatcha’ want me to
‘Cause I’m a puppet just for you
But if you want to see me do my thing
Baby pull my string
Pu-pa-pu-pa-pu-pa-pu-pa
Pu-pa-pu-pa-pu-pa-pu-pa
Ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-na-na-na
Shna- na-na-na-na-na-na
Ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-na-na-na
Ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-ba-na-na-na
Shna- na-na-na-na-na-na
Na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na-na
Puppet man
Baby, I’m your puppet man
Ya I might even…
If you pull my string
I’ll do anything
Baby, baby I’m your puppet man
Can’t do anything unless ya pull my string
Love ya, love ya, love ya, love ya!
Down deep in your soul
Do anything, I might even love you
Wow-oh