Fan Fare, What's New, Pussycat?
Here’s where you’ll find TJ photos and stories that don’t fit into any other categories. It is, as its name says, just for fans — and, hopefully, for fun.
A Note From Herman Matthews To The Fans On TJI
Tuesday, December 1st, 2009Herman Matthews read the post and subsequent comments about Tom and the US band and sent the message below to us at TJI:
Well folks, I’m finding all of this very interesting.
The bottom line is this…The show will go on regardless who’s swinging the sticks behind Sir Tom. What you all will miss are the personalities that the “Old Band” had to offer. I for one have made many, many friends over the past seven years and all of you, young, old, black, white, British, Texan, rhythm, no rhythm, etc… have one thing in common — Tom Jones. Tom brought us together.
I’ve seen the new band on YouTube. Are they better? Are they worse? It doesn’t matter — they are now responsible for keeping it together for Tom. Gary Wallis does not play drums like I do. I don’t play drums like he does. And I guarantee you that he doesn’t play a shuffle like I do either… last I checked Tom doesn’t have many shuffles in his show.
The only thing that disappoints me is how Management handled the whole thing. I feel that Tom deserves better and if Management has a problem with what I’ve just said, they should contact me. (In fact I insist they do!)
I want you folks to continue to see The Voice. He is by far one of the greatest singers I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with.
— Herman
(Photo of Herman and bass player Ric Fierabracci, 2008, MGM Grand)
December 1st, 2009 at 1:03 am
Herman, you’re a class act, and I look forward to the day when I get to work with you and the others again. It will happen. It’s the nature of this business.
Wishing you and the rest of the band continued success,
from the dark side,
Lampie The Clown
December 1st, 2009 at 1:30 am
I can’t help wondering if a simular thing has happened to the time when Gordon Mills got rid of the Senators.Something dose not add up!
December 1st, 2009 at 2:12 am
yeah there’s a definite similarity to the way things were done by gordon unfortunately. it’s a shame – good luck!!
December 1st, 2009 at 3:17 am
Thanks for posting this message!
Better or worse, that’s indeed a matter of personal taste. I for one miss the old groove. Eventually I love most kinds of music and enjoyed the modern rhythms too. But I miss the blues and boogie numbers.
My radio station just played “Sex Bomb” and I thought back to the shows I just saw. Personally I don’t like that new arrangement. On the other hand I loved the changes in “Kiss” And so on…
My opinion of management is not a secret, a copy of my letter to them is on the official forums and I stand to that. Sadly this sort of things happen everywhere, I feel that the “working world” is turning into this big inhuman greedy machine and there’s not much we can do to change it. Just keep the passion alive and share the love!
December 1st, 2009 at 3:23 am
Thanks Herman, it was very nice to hear your thoughts, finally something proper about the issue. These two points were exactly what I wanted to know, about how the chance was done and also I was interested about what did you think about the new band. I think Herman and Gary both are terrific drummers but with different styles. I know there have been changes in the band on previous years too but during the last 10+ years there were only individual changes in the band, changing the whole band at once is far bigger thing. I hope all the best to you for the future and same for the rest of the “old band”. Thank god we have some live stuff from Cardiff castle, Australia and Ponty park that will remain as a great memory from the “old band” times!
Quess we’ll just have to stick with the new band from now. I did some googling around the band members and found out that they should be pretty talented dudes after all, judging from their previous backgrounds. So I’m hoping that they can prove their talent in the future concerts and we will be satisfied with them, as we have used simply to the best. About the management, you were right Ellen that they don’t owe us an explanation. But even a few words would be very very nice, that’s not really much to ask. I’m not interested in advising the management nor have done so in the past but my humble opinion is that being management and being god is two different things that should not be mixed up together. The way these things are handled may not be seen nowhere in Tom’s fanbase sizes or stuff but it just leaves you a bad taste in your mouth which I’m not really keen to.
December 1st, 2009 at 3:29 am
Correction my letter is still on the forums but it can’t be accessed through the menu anymore…
http://forum.tomjones.com/tm.asp?m=41787&mpage=1&key=ꌻ
Funny how I used the same sort of expression as you Mika. Of course I never got an answer to my mail to them, not that I expected one.
December 1st, 2009 at 4:35 am
Yes Dragonlady, I think we used two same kind of expressions. One on your forum post and one here
December 1st, 2009 at 6:13 am
and that is why we love you…………….
December 1st, 2009 at 6:33 am
Herman – you are not only the best drummer but also a wonderful person – please never change
…and yes I also hope Management will contact you and all because the Band and TOM Jones deserve better!
December 1st, 2009 at 8:11 am
Herman, thanks for being honest and open with us. We can only hope that you do hear from management.
December 1st, 2009 at 8:42 am
does tom not have an own voice in all of this or does he only listen to his Management ?? maybe it is because the new band is cheaper???I don’t think Tom has a moneyproblem……
or maybe he needed an change in music….we don’t know ..for me i still are an hughe fan ,but prefer performers like Elvis or others who have the same band for an long time..
December 1st, 2009 at 9:12 am
Herman It was so nice to hear your thoughts and know that you do read this site and are aware and concerned by what is being written.Your band was the best and even though I haven’t heard the new one I say,why fix something that ain’t broken!You were a real team and it showed in every single show.It deeply saddens me to know that the anticipation of when Tom comes out will not be met with the same energy in our hearts as when we knew all of you guys would be.I don’t have the same interest in seeing him invegas like I used to because its like losing part of your family and adopting others.Feeling is definately not the same for sure.As far as management is concerned,doesn’t Tom have a say in his own life since he’s the star?Seems a little wacky if you ask me.Best wishes to all of you and even though your talents will be in high demand you were like family to one another and will feel the loss for some time to come I’m sure.
December 1st, 2009 at 9:20 am
This is a change that has not pleased me or any other “Tom” fans I know and there are many. When I told my daughter she said surely not the drummer. We love you Herman, not only for your talent but for your downhome Texas charm. We will still see Tom and will give this group a chance but I don’t believe anyone can come up to the quality of the previous band. We will continue to follow your career Herman & wish much luck & happiness. SAndy
December 1st, 2009 at 9:31 am
Wow, I’m speechless. Thank you for your post Herman.
December 1st, 2009 at 9:57 am
THX for posting, Herman!
Changing the band was one of the worst things the managment ever did. I couldnt believe it!
A friend told me about the change and that she wasnt happy with what she saw an heard. I went to see them without prejudice and gave them a chance but it’ll never be the same without the “old band”. I do miss the personality of each member.
December 1st, 2009 at 1:00 pm
I am definately going to miss the old band… no other one can replcae the memories that I have made with them over the years. It is a shame, but the show must go on. Best of Luck to everyone.. I know you will do just fine. Love ‘yas <3
December 1st, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Herman thanks for your post on tji, i’ve seen and heard you drum many times youre one of the best out there and i wish you all the best.
December 1st, 2009 at 1:46 pm
Herman i enjoyed reading you journal, and i’m sure i wasn’t the only one, thanks for that.
December 1st, 2009 at 2:49 pm
I am so sorry I wont get to meet up with again in Vegas in January.
Tom’s shows will not be quite the same with not having a word and some hugs with you before they begin……
All the very best for the future, you are one of the very best…..
Luv ya Herman X
December 1st, 2009 at 3:48 pm
You and all the band will be missed Herman. I know good things are in store for you and I hope for all the rest of the “old” band too
December 1st, 2009 at 5:41 pm
Herman for sure I will miss seeing you behind the drums at the shows. Thanks for being you
I do hope management does the right thing. What I really want to say I can’t have to respect the sites rules
December 1st, 2009 at 6:47 pm
I have always had great respect for Herman, what a amazing musician! Your eloquent and honest response has magnified my respect. I wish you all of the best in your career and in life:)
December 1st, 2009 at 7:20 pm
Herman thank you for the explanation, on the changes of the bands, I must say you have shown more appreciation & courtesy to your fan base than the managment, not that they owe an explanation but courtesy for the fans that have followed Tom and his career for years and have been loyal to him and his music and pretty much help keep him going all these years, I do remember hearing him say in the past his fans and the shows is what keeps him going. With that being said I would like to know what he was thinking when he allowed the drastic change to happen. He and all of you seemed to be just the right blend together. I hope for his sake that his career change in these days & times can survive. I’m afraid management may not realize how much the band belongs with Tom and how the fans may not feel the same. I wish you all the best of luck and I’m sure Toms lost will be anothers gain. good luck to all hope to see you again.
December 1st, 2009 at 9:05 pm
You are a great man, hope to keep in touch, from Carmel
December 1st, 2009 at 9:17 pm
Herman…You are and will continue to be THE BEST drummer, but as you note indicates, an exceptional person as well. Success and Happiness Herman!!! TO all the band..THANK YOU for all the great shows…I wish each of you continued success and happiness.
December 1st, 2009 at 10:11 pm
Dear Herman,
The most memorable TJ concert I’ve attended was one in Atlantic City where you came out after the show to greet fans. You were so sweet and humble and showed a genuine interest in my incoherent, overexcited ranting and raving about my love of Tom. A became a huge fan of yours after that and have really enjoyed discovering your music through your website.
I wish you all much good health, success and happiness in all your future endeavors and I hope to come hear you in NY/NJ someday.
December 1st, 2009 at 11:02 pm
Herman, I deeply feel your statement….like musician, I mean. I’m really happy about your quite words said on the new band. You’re a great musician and a great man to have had this behavior in this situation. Take care and God bless you.
December 2nd, 2009 at 12:25 pm
Thank you, Herman, it is always a pleasure to hear from you! Best wishes for the Holiday!
December 2nd, 2009 at 3:42 pm
Oh my good friend Herman, You are by far the classiest man I have ever met. Please let all the guys know how much I loved seeing them all and that I hope they let us know when and where they will be playing. Toms management could take a lesson from you!!!! Have a great holiday season and know I will miss you all very much. Lynn
December 2nd, 2009 at 7:24 pm
Dear Herman,
I read your post and I respect you for it, you showed great restraint. I kinda wish you’d just let it all out and said everything, but you have far too much class than to do it on this site. Yes, it’s Tom’s decision too, not only management. Tom’s still the boss, especially when it comes to the touring band.
Never forget that you are in the music biz, and the music biz is totally ruthless. They changed the band because they wanted a new look. (it may be the look that was more important than the sound?) The change may very well be for the worse, but that’s the risk they’re taking. To be frank, it’s not much of a risk, because Tom Jones is a solo act, and most people can’t tell the difference between a good band, and a great band. I think if Tom came out in his underwear and sang a capella, nobody would be disappointed.
They took a much bigger risk with the producers of 24 Hours, and in my opinion was a big mistake, the direction of the CD was good, the songs were excellent, but the production was sub par. I’m sure you know that, and that did have consequences that Tom paid for, because it was presented to the world, not just TJ fans. If Tom wants to win new young fans, he has to knock them out. He’s done it in the past with Kiss and Sex Bomb, but failed with 24 Hours, and that was the mistake of Tom and his management, as they chose the producers.
December 2nd, 2009 at 9:19 pm
Sharon: Interesting, well-put post. As for the part about a capella and underwear….no argument. I am sure many would prefer it.
December 2nd, 2009 at 10:46 pm
Dittos to Sharon. Very well put and right to the point.
December 3rd, 2009 at 12:19 pm
I can understand wanting change for changes sake. What I can’t understand is the unprofessional way things were handled by management and TJ too (after all he is the boss). You’re together day in and day out for years and common courtesy would call for some explanation (to the band, not us fans) or at the very least a “good bye.” As a pagan I still believe in “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
Will this stop me for seeing Tom again…HELL NO. I’ll give the new group a try. Let hope they live up to the talent of Sir Tom and give him the support and respect he deserves.
GOOD LUCK to Herman, Brian, Frank and whole talented bunch! You’ll be missed terribly.
December 3rd, 2009 at 2:33 pm
The first time I saw Tom live was in 1980 and continued through 1990, averaging 20 to 25 shows a year. I can’t speak about everyone, but although Tom is a solo act, he plays up to the excitement in the audience and as well as the support from the band behind him. If the excitement is a little low key in the audience, he always has the band. During the ten years I traveled, I had a great rapport with The Blossoms (his backup singers back then), as well as a few members of the band. Herman, although I’ve been to a few shows in the past six years, I can feel the excitement these fans have for you and the “old band”. This is the excitement I felt back in the ’80s. Yes, we are all there to see The Voice, but it is The Tom Jones Show, and the band is part of the show. If the audience can’t connect to the band, there will be something missing. It’s unfortunate that the dedication that you and the band has shown, was not appreciated. I’m sorry, but there are ways that these type of things should be handled. Tom’s management is his family, therefore, I find it very unlikely that he was not part of this decision. From someone who came from his type of background to the superstar he is today, IT’S UNUSUAL, that with the economy the way it is, the fact that people need to pay mortgages and put food on their tables, that you feel the need to DISCARD your “old band” for a new one. It’s unfortunate, but it happens everywhere, corporate world, etc. I wish you the best of luck and happy holidays to you.
December 3rd, 2009 at 7:48 pm
Since this is a hot topic, I will give my opinion. Keep in mind that this is just my opinion. I think that the TJ camp believes that the core fans (people like us) will never leave him until the day we die. Therefore there is no risk whatsoever of loosing us. Tom has never lost his core fans, so we don’t need to be considered with any new decision that is made. If he records a country record, we’ll by it, a punk rock record, we’ll buy, anything he does, we’re there. So, the focus is on getting new fans. (new young fans)
I think the band was changed primarily due to the fact that the band was getting older. For the hardcore fans, if the Lawrence Welk Orchestra was backing up TJ we’d be there, but not the new kids that he wants. If he wants new young fans, he needs to have something on stage that they can relate to. That means a young cool looking band. Everybody must understand, show biz is a huge ego trip.
December 4th, 2009 at 7:20 am
Well, Sharon, I consider myself a core fan , and he has ,indeed, lost me.
December 4th, 2009 at 2:13 pm
As you said Herman Tom has the greatest voice . I wish you and the rest of the band all the very best of luck .
just a thought about a young cool looking band ,it could make the man standing in front of them look older.
December 4th, 2009 at 2:37 pm
I agree Pat. We have to all remember that Sir Tom will be 70 years old. God Bless him for continuing to have “the voice” and the stamina to come out on stage night after night and give us his all, but…….he is 69 years old. Having a much younger looking band behind you, well…….and another thing, someone mentioned he may have gotten a younger band to attract younger fans, but let’s face reality here, there’s a small percentage compared to the older crowd, that would be interested in seeing him. Maybe I’m wrong, but Sir Tom is quite older than me, but not old enough where I can’t relate to his music, but the younger crowd, I am not too sure. When I went to see him years ago, he was younger, no gray hair, and the younger crowd came mostly because the older crowd brought their daughters, nieces, even granddaughters, but now he is old and the older crowd is old too. I can’t see him continue to attract the younger crowd for too much longer. I hope he performs forever, but the band he did have, suited his appearance better. Again, this is my opinion. Due to financial reasons, unless he comes to my home state, I won’t be seeing him live any time soon, so I will have to depend on all of your comments.
December 7th, 2009 at 2:02 pm
Still don’t want to believe that you all won’t be up on stage at the MGM in Jan. SOB!