Tom Waits

Background

Thomas Alan Waits, or Tom Waits, is an American singer and performer who is known for his non-conformist songs in genres such as blues, jazz, and vaudeville. He carved out a place for himself in the blossoming music scene of 1970s America. Waits was born in California on December 7, 1949, to teachers Alma Fern McMurray and Jesse Frank Waits. His parents divorced when he was a child. He would often accompany his father on trips to Mexico, so his work and style are deeply influenced by Mexican music. He started performing in local bands while attending Hilltop High School. Later, he dropped out of high school when he was 18.

Blessed with a seductive and mellow voice, Waits composes music and creates songs in addition to singing and acting. Never a crowd follower, he experimented with a variety of musical styles and enjoys traditional ballads apart from country music. He is passionate about his work and has been singing for over four decades. Given his non-conformist and unorthodox image and temperament, his music has garnered mixed reviews in the U.S. He has a passionate cult following around the world.

He was interested in music right from an early age. Bob Dylan, Lord Buckley, Jack Kerouac, and Louis Armstrong were among his favorite musicians. However, he never tried to emulate them and worked hard to improve his distinctive style. He married his longtime collaborator, Kathleen Brennan, in 1980. They have three children: Kelle Simone, Casey, and Sullivan. The family resides in Sonoma County, California.