Original Artist and Song History
The song "What's New Pussycat?" was recorded by Tom Jones and released as a single in 1965. It was written by the songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David, and it served as the theme song for the 1965 film of the same name starring Peter Sellers. The track became one of Jones's signature hits, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and number one in the United Kingdom. Its upbeat, swinging arrangement and playful lyrics captured the mid-1960s cultural moment and solidified Jones's status as a leading pop vocalist of the era.
Tom Jones, born Thomas John Woodward in Wales, rose to fame in the 1960s with a string of chart-topping singles, including "It's Not Unusual," "Delilah," and "She's a Lady." His powerful, versatile voice and energetic performance style made him a staple of both pop and easy listening radio. The success of "What's New Pussycat?" contributed to his international stardom, and the song remains a frequently licensed track in films, commercials, and compilations. The original recording is widely available on major streaming platforms and is cataloged by his long-time record label, which has managed his extensive discography for decades.
Notable Covers and Modern Renditions
Over the decades, "What's New Pussycat?" has been covered by numerous artists across different genres. One of the most well-known versions is by the British rock band The Rolling Stones, who recorded a live rendition that captured their signature blues-rock energy. The song has also been interpreted by various jazz and swing artists, often appearing on albums that pay homage to the Great American Songbook and the Brill Building sound of the 1960s. These covers demonstrate the song's enduring melodic structure and its adaptability to different musical styles.
In the digital age, the song continues to find new audiences through streaming platforms and social media. User-generated content featuring the track has introduced it to younger listeners who may not be familiar with the original 1965 release. The composition's timeless quality ensures its relevance in playlists that span classic pop, film soundtracks, and retro-themed collections. Its frequent appearance in media keeps the song in the public consciousness and drives continued interest in Tom Jones's catalog and the Bacharach-David songwriting partnership.
Licensing, Streaming, and Cultural Impact
The publishing rights for "What's New Pussycat?" are managed by companies that represent the estates of Bacharach and David, ensuring the song remains commercially available and properly licensed for sync deals in film, television, and advertising. Its use in movies and TV shows often highlights its playful, retro charm, and it frequently appears in compilations of 1960s pop hits. The track's enduring presence in licensing catalogs reflects its status as a recognizable cultural artifact of the swinging sixties.
On streaming services, Tom Jones's original version of "What's New Pussycat?" consistently appears in curated playlists dedicated to classic pop and film themes, maintaining steady listener engagement. The song's performance metrics on these platforms contribute to the ongoing revenue streams managed by his label and publishing administrators. For those interested in the full catalog and licensing history, resources provided by industry organizations offer detailed information on the song's ownership and distribution.
Forbes coverage of music catalog valuations provides context on the commercial value of classic songs like this one. Further details on the song's chart performance and licensing history can be found in the SEC filings related to music publishing royalties.