Tom Jones – The Young New Mexican Puppeteer

About the song

Tom Jones, one of the most charismatic performers of the 20th century, has always had a knack for blending his powerful voice with compelling storytelling. His song “The Young New Mexican Puppeteer” is no exception. Released as a single in March 1972, the track became part of his album “Close Up” and stands out as a socially conscious piece with a heartwarming narrative. The song reached No. 6 on the UK Singles Chart and remains a beloved example of Jones’s ability to infuse music with both emotion and meaning.

“The Young New Mexican Puppeteer” tells the story of a young man in New Mexico who uses his talent for carving puppets to inspire and unite his community. The protagonist’s art becomes a medium for spreading messages of hope, justice, and love, resonating deeply with listeners who yearned for positive change during a time of global unrest. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a humble artist with a big heart, who creates puppets modeled after historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr., symbolizing ideals of equality and freedom.

Thematically, the song is an anthem of empowerment and optimism. It reflects the early 1970s cultural landscape, where the world was grappling with social and political upheaval, and the arts often served as a catalyst for change. By highlighting a narrative of creative activism, “The Young New Mexican Puppeteer” resonates with anyone who believes in the transformative power of art and community.

Musically, the track has a distinct folk-pop vibe, enriched by orchestral flourishes that complement Tom Jones’s commanding vocal delivery. The arrangement features bright melodies, rhythmic guitar strums, and an uplifting chorus, all of which evoke a sense of warmth and hope. The song’s orchestration adds depth to the storytelling, making it feel as much like a folk tale as a pop hit.

Tom Jones brought his signature charisma to this song, delivering the lyrics with sincerity and passion. While Jones was already known for his hits like “It’s Not Unusual” and “Delilah”, “The Young New Mexican Puppeteer” showcased a more reflective side of his artistry. It revealed his ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level, addressing societal themes while maintaining his status as a pop icon.

The song’s impact lies in its timeless message. It reminds us of the potential within each individual to make a difference, no matter how small their beginnings might seem. For a generation seeking inspiration in turbulent times, “The Young New Mexican Puppeteer” was a beacon of hope. Decades later, its message remains relevant, proving that music can indeed serve as a powerful tool for change. Through this track, Tom Jones not only entertained but also inspired, solidifying his legacy as an artist with a unique ability to touch the hearts and minds of his audience.

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