One of the more intriguing Voice UK appearances. For his blind audition in 2019, Peter Donegan sang Rascal Flatts’ Bless the Broken Road. Though in good voice, he only earned one chair turn—Sir Tom Jones’. Peter Donegan valued this chair best. Peter said, “He’s my father.” Jones inquired if he was related to skiffle legend Lonnie Donegan. Tom Jones discussed his bond with Lonnie and the song he wrote for him.
Jones suggested they sing I’ll Never Fall In Love Again after being surprised that Donegan had a young son. The 1967 UK #2 single was still in Jones’ concerts. Peter agreed to play it on the piano, his main instrument and instrument in his father’s band from age 18. Jones sang the first stanza before inviting Donegan. Jones told the journalists, “That was real” and not a set-up. Watch this!
Coach will.i.am smiled: “That was magical. Just everything that transpired globally to make that happen. Even in the 1960s, when his dad penned the song for Tom Jones and had the infant join in, it was amazing. There’s never been anything like that, Jones said. A movie-like experience.” To create drama, Jones had to pick between Donegan and Deana Walmsley, who sang Make You Feel My Love together, in the Battle Round.
Both performed well. Some viewers cried, others suggested they create a pair. Jones chose Walmsley, saying, “That’s the hallmark of a brilliant judge. Tom Jones went with Dina despite being Peter’s dad’s friend. No favors.” I’m glad Peter Donegan is continuing his music career after The Voice. Who was his dad, Lonnie, and why did he matter in British popular music? This fun video educates.