Check out these new and used Tom Waits vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Tom Waits vinyl collection with the essential albums Closing Time, The Heart Of Saturday Night and Small Change. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from rock musicians.

Tom Waits: A Musical Alchemist

The Early Years and Formation of the Band

Tom Waits, born on December 7, 1949, in Pomona, California, is an iconic singer-songwriter, composer, and actor known for his distinctive voice, eclectic musical style, and lyrical storytelling. Waits’ musical journey has been a captivating one, evolving from his early days as a folk-influenced singer to a gravel-voiced, experimental maestro. The formation of the band marked a pivotal moment in Waits’ career, amplifying the richness of his musical tapestry.

The Asylum Years: A Creative Explosion

Closing Time (1973)

Tom Waits’ debut album, Closing Time, released in 1973, showcased his talent as a storyteller and balladeer. The album, produced by Jerry Yester, unveiled Waits’ early folk and jazz influences. Songs like “Ol’ ’55” and “Martha” set the tone for the soulful, melancholic storytelling that would become a hallmark of Waits’ career.

The Heart of Saturday Night (1974)

Following the success of his debut, Waits released The Heart of Saturday Night in 1974. The album delved deeper into jazz and blues, capturing the essence of urban life. Tracks like “New Coat of Paint” and the title track highlighted Waits’ ability to create vivid, atmospheric narratives.

Nighthawks at the Diner (1975)

In 1975, Waits took an unconventional approach with Nighthawks at the Diner, a live album that simulated a nightclub performance. The album featured spoken-word interludes and showcased Waits’ evolving stage persona. It marked a departure from traditional studio recordings and added a layer of raw authenticity to his discography.

The Experimental Phase: Swordfishtrombones and Rain Dogs

Swordfishtrombones (1983)

The early ’80s marked a significant shift in Waits’ musical style with the release of Swordfishtrombones. Produced by Waits himself, the album embraced avant-garde elements, incorporating unconventional instruments and experimental arrangements. Tracks like “16 Shells from a Thirty-Ought-Six” signaled a departure from his earlier sound, paving the way for a more adventurous sonic landscape.

Rain Dogs (1985)

Continuing the experimental journey, Rain Dogs further solidified Waits’ reputation as a musical innovator. The album blended influences from various genres, including rock, blues, and cabaret. Songs like “Downtown Train” and “Clap Hands” showcased Waits’ ability to create a collage of musical styles, offering listeners a truly immersive experience.

The Later Years: Mule Variations and Real Gone

Mule Variations (1999)

Mule Variations marked a return to a more accessible sound while retaining Waits’ signature experimentation. Released in 1999, the album won a Grammy for Best Contemporary Folk Album. Tracks like “Hold On” and “Chocolate Jesus” demonstrated a perfect balance between Waits’ experimental instincts and his ability to craft soul-stirring melodies.

Real Gone (2004)

Released in 2004, Real Gone showcased Waits’ continued evolution. The album incorporated elements of blues, rock, and electronica, creating a gritty and modern sonic landscape. The use of unconventional instruments, beatboxing, and Waits’ growling vocals on tracks like “Hoist That Rag” exemplified his fearless approach to musical exploration.

Tom Waits’ Influence and Legacy

Tom Waits’ musical journey has left an indelible mark on the music industry, influencing a diverse array of artists across genres. His experimental phase inspired musicians to push the boundaries of conventional sound, while his storytelling prowess set a benchmark for lyricists.

Similar Artists

1. Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen, like Waits, is renowned for his poetic lyrics and deep, gravelly voice. Both artists share a penchant for storytelling, creating songs that resonate with emotional depth and introspection.

2. Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds

Nick Cave’s dark and brooding style, akin to Waits’ later experimental phase, draws parallels between the two artists. Both have explored the fringes of various genres, creating a sound that is uniquely theirs.

3. Bob Dylan

As a fellow troubadour, Bob Dylan’s influence on Waits is evident in their shared roots in folk music. Both artists have navigated through different musical phases, continuously evolving their styles.

Bands Influenced by Tom Waits

1. The Black Keys

The blues-infused rock of The Black Keys reflects Waits’ ability to blend disparate genres seamlessly. The raw, unpolished sound of both artists resonates with a shared appreciation for authenticity.

2. Primus

The experimental and genre-defying nature of Primus’s music can be traced back to Waits’ influence. Both artists challenge the conventional norms of sound, creating a musical experience that defies categorization.

3. PJ Harvey

PJ Harvey’s eclectic musical style and lyrical depth bear traces of Waits’ influence. Her ability to seamlessly move between genres and experiment with different sounds echoes Waits’ fearless approach to music.

Tom Waits: An Ever-Evolving Artistic Force

Tom Waits’ musical journey is a testament to his artistic courage and willingness to embrace change. From the intimate ballads of Closing Time to the avant-garde landscapes of Swordfishtrombones and the eclectic fusion of Real Gone, Waits has consistently pushed the boundaries of musical expression.

As a storyteller, musician, and actor, Tom Waits remains a towering figure in the realm of artistic innovation. His influence on a diverse range of artists and his ability to evolve without losing his essence solidify his place in the pantheon of musical legends.