Tom Jones – It’s A Man’s Man’s Man’s World

About the song

While Tom Jones popularized the song with his powerful vocals in 1967, “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” was originally written and recorded by Godfather of Soul, James Brown, in 1966.

Themes:

The song presents a clear perspective: men hold the power. It talks about a woman needing a man and men being the “head of the house.” This reflects the social norms of the time, the mid-1960s.

Tom Jones’ Version:

Even though the lyrics promote a male-dominated view, Jones’ rendition became a popular hit. His powerful voice and soulful delivery resonated with audiences.

Legacy:

The song remains a cultural touchstone, sparking discussions about gender roles and equality. It’s been featured in movies and TV shows, and reinterpreted by female artists with a more feminist viewpoint.

Video

Lyrics

This is a man’s worldThis is a man’s world, don’t you know?But it wouldn’t mean nothing, nothingWithout a woman or a girl, oh no
You see, man made the carTo take us over the roadMan made the trainTo carry the heavy load
Man made the electric lightTo take us out of the darkMan made the boat for the water, oh yeahLike Noah made the ark
This is a man’s, man’s, man’s worldBut it wouldn’t mean nothingWithout a woman or a girl
Man make a little bit of baby girlAnd a baby boyMan made them happy, oh‘Cause man, man made them toys
And after a man makes everythingEverything little thing he canDon’t you know that, that man makes moneyTo buy from other man
This is a man’s world, man’s, man’s worldBut it wouldn’t mean nothingNot one little thingWithout a womanWithout a womanWithout a womanThis is a man’s world