Introduction
Tom Jones, the Welsh sensation known for his powerful voice and charismatic stage presence, delighted audiences with his hit song “The Young New Mexican Puppeteer.” Released in 1972, this track stands out not only for its catchy melody and vibrant instrumentation but also for its poignant storytelling, a hallmark of Jones’ diverse musical repertoire.
“The Young New Mexican Puppeteer” tells the heartwarming tale of a young man from New Mexico who uses his puppeteering skills to inspire and bring joy to his community. Unlike the typical love ballads that dominated much of Tom Jones’ career, this song is a narrative of hope and social change, reflecting the turbulent yet hopeful spirit of the early 1970s. The young puppeteer, through his art, communicates powerful messages about freedom and justice, resonating deeply with the social movements of the time.
The song opens with a vibrant, almost theatrical instrumental arrangement, setting a lively tone that is maintained throughout. Tom Jones’ rich baritone voice brings the story to life, infusing it with emotion and a sense of urgency. His vocal delivery, marked by its characteristic strength and subtle tenderness, captures the listener’s attention right from the start. The vivid imagery of the lyrics paints a picture of the young puppeteer’s journey and the profound impact he has on his audience.
Musically, “The Young New Mexican Puppeteer” is a blend of pop and folk influences, featuring lush orchestrations that were typical of the era’s grandiose production styles. The use of traditional Mexican musical elements adds a unique flavor, giving the song an authentic touch that complements its narrative. This blend of styles not only showcases Jones’ versatility as a singer but also highlights the song’s cultural context, making it a rich auditory experience.
Tom Jones, already a household name by the early 70s, used his platform to explore different themes and genres, and “The Young New Mexican Puppeteer” is a testament to his artistic curiosity and willingness to take risks. While it may not be as frequently mentioned as some of his other hits like “Delilah” or “She’s a Lady,” this song holds a special place in his discography for its storytelling prowess and the emotional depth it conveys.
For listeners, especially those who grew up during the 70s, “The Young New Mexican Puppeteer” is more than just a song; it is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, a reminder of an era when music was a powerful vehicle for social commentary and change. Tom Jones’ masterful performance ensures that the song remains memorable, resonating with audiences both old and new. Whether you’re revisiting this classic or hearing it for the first time, the charm and message of “The Young New Mexican Puppeteer” are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Video
Lyrics
In a town near Albuquerque
Lived a most concerned young boy
He said lately I have noticed
Folks don’t live with peace and joy
With frowns and worry on their faces
They’re lost and don’t know where to go
He said I’ll get the people straightened
By putting on a puppet show
The young New Mexican puppeteer
He saw the people all lived in fear
He thought that maybe they’d listen to
A puppet telling them what to do
You know he got some string and he got some wood
He did some carving and he was good
And folks came running so they could hear
The young New Mexican puppeteer
First he carved out young Abe Lincoln
Abe will teach ’em civil rights
Then a king named Martin Luther
So they’d recall his peaceful fight
Old Mark Twain, his wit and wisdom
Will surely show them life is fun
But he smiled with satisfaction
When the prince of peace was done
The young New Mexican puppeteer
He saw the people all lived in fear
He thought that maybe they’d listen to
A puppet telling them what to do
You know he got some string and he got some wood
He did some carving and he was good
And folks came running so they could hear
The young New Mexican puppeteer
Now his puppet shows were clever
And he made the people laugh
When he got across the message
To walk along life’s open path
They built him his own puppet theater
Decked out with spotlights yellow and red
And then they wrote him up in all the papers
And this is what the story said
It said
The young New Mexican puppeteer
He saw the people all lived in fear
He thought that maybe they would listen to
A puppet telling them what to do
You know he got some string and he got some wood
He did some carving and he was good
And folks came running so they could hear
The young New Mexican puppeteer