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Sir Tom Jones thought he was going to die after suffering a medical scare last week.
The 86-year-old music icon recalled the trauma from his illness while appearing on stage for his rescheduled concert at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles on Wednesday.
“I thought this was it. You had a wonderful life Tommy but it’s over right now,” Jones told the crowd according to the New York Post and BBC.
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Sir Tom Jones returned to the stage Wednesday night after being hospitalized for a week in Los Angeles. (Michael Kovac)
The “She’s a Lady” singer was reportedly rushed to UCLA Medical Center after contracting pneumonia, which he initially believed to be symptoms of the flu.
“And then they had to get the paramedics in, and I was like I can’t breathe,” he said.
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Jones admitted he was in the hospital for a week, including two days in the ICU, and upon being discharged from UCLA, doctors asked the singer what he wanted to do now that he was healthy again.
“I have to get back on the stage,” Jones recalled. “This is where I belong. I can’t live without it, believe me. This is true.”
Sir Tom Jones praised UCLA healthcare workers after his week-long hospital stay. (Jim Dyson)
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After the audience erupted in cheers, the crooner reflected on his first stint at the Greek in 1969, just before “It’s Not Unusual” became his first No. 1 hit.
“This song really changed my life,” he said.
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The show was initially slated for the end of October but rescheduled due to his health concerns.
“I’ve had a great time these last few weeks, completing 20 shows and singing for wonderful audiences across the USA, but unexpectedly I’ve been hit with a bad case of the flu,” he wrote online last month.
“Following doctor’s advice, I unfortunately have to reschedule tonight’s show in Los Angeles and tomorrow’s show in San Diego.”
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He added, “I’m truly sorry for any inconvenience caused. I look forward to seeing you all soon.”
Tom Jones became a household name in the ‘60s with “It’s Not Unusual.” (Walt Disney Television )
Jones embarked on his 25-date “Come Gather Round” tour in September, after a successful run in England over the summer.
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The Welsh singer was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1998, and knighted by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace in 2006.