I'm an unabashed huge fan of Tom Waits. The more I heard him, the more I searched. With lyrics that challenge in their phrase turning and origins, I still feel like I hear some songs for the first time, when I've heard them often. The lyrics are that well written. His vocals are often slammed in conversations with people I think are hearing without listening. On so many of his songs, he's playing a part, from the range he uses vocally to the style or accent. It's very easy to see why he made the smooth transition into acting for some of the best directors in the business. People of taste or accumen far greater than mine are understanding of what he is and represents. He will never be Roy Orbison or Freddie Mercury, but he makes you understand why there are different styles for different music.

This guy is "out there",all right,but also pretty likable.He's unique,if nothing else.

no

Tom Waits Is undoubtedly a Genius ! He is up there with the best of them,he will shake you to your core!

I just don't get it. He makes Bob Dylan sound like he is one of the three tenors. However, a ton of artists love him, so he must be influential on someone.

Tom waits is one of the most innovative and creative mastermind's i've ever heard. Waits' plays many kinds of genres and excels at them all. We are lucky that he's still stickin' it out, and keeps on makin' great records. Thanks Tom!

He's not neccessarily rock but he has the appeal, the following, and certainly the true attitude that rockers should have.

absolutely. Waits is a unique voice in rock and roll. he's raspy, bluesy, a scat-man supremem, a beat poet, a downtown bowery shouter. and he keeps getting better and pushing himself.