In early 2020, the Band of HM Royal Marines dropped their usual military music to perform a pop cover unlike any other.
The marines brought their show-stopping rendition of Tom Jones’ debut hit, “It’s Not Unusual,” to the stage of London’s prestigious Royal Albert Hall, in a viral video that’s racked up more than 1.5 million views to date! Music Man readers can watch the magic unfold in the clip below…
With Band Lance Corporal Sam McIndoe and Musician George Gissing stealing the track’s top lines, the vocalists were joined by an entire military orchestra for this fantastically feel-good rendition.
George delivers his rich and bassy vocal tones like a pop legend sent straight from the 1950s—a dash of Frank Sinatra lingering about his classy performance as he takes a number of solo lines throughout this duet.
But it’s Sam’s bright and bouncy voice which steals the limelight; the female singer inadvertently highlights an almost feminist edge as she stars before the Marines’ huge, mixed-gender orchestra, proving the perks of the military’s transition into accepting female fighters amongst its ranks.
Meanwhile, the backing band recreates Tom Jones’ original pop hit with a sparkling orchestral twist, keeping Tom’s classic atmosphere intact whilst adding a rare intrigue through their brand new arrangement. Blending the quirks of both vintage and modern pop music into one elated, fresh, and catchy concoction, their rendition brings military band music into the new century, sounding like nothing we’ve come across before.
Don’t miss the moment the stage becomes flooded with backing dancers, adding to the pure marvelry powering this performance!
It’s a feat of world-class talent, and fans have been falling in love, not only with the musicians, but with what they symbolize. One top commenter on this viral YouTube clip pointed out, “Not only is Sam beautiful and talented but she is also wearing an OSM for Afghanistan. All around woman, I’d say.”
Another top commenter even shared a rare insight into the importance of the Bandsmen in the forces, writing: “As an ex Royal Marine Commando, when serving abroad with 40 CDO in the early 70s, I shared a room with two “bandies” (Royal Marine Bandsmen). They are not to be underestimated because they play an instrument.
“In reality, in combat and under fire, I would be keeping my head down, hugging the dirt. Meanwhile, those “bandies” would be doing the opposite as stretcher bearers in saving and rescuing the likes of me or my “oppos.” Indeed, they have my greatest and deepest respect as a very brave & honourable body of people.”