Music has this incredible power to transport us back in time, doesn’t it? If you were an AM radio enthusiast during the late '60s and '70s, chances are you remember the legendary B.J. Thomas. This five-time Grammy winner captured the hearts of millions with hits like "Hooked on a Feeling," "Don’t Worry Baby," and the iconic "Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head." Penned by the legendary Burt Bacharach and Hal David, "Raindrops" played a pivotal role in the 1969 classic film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, where it became an unforgettable part of a memorable bicycle scene. The song spent four consecutive weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in early 1970, solidifying its place in music history.
Looking back, B.J., now 78, shares a vivid memory with Closer. “I performed ‘Raindrops’ at the Academy Awards ceremony," he recalls with a warm smile. "We won, and it was such a beautiful moment. It’s something I’ll always treasure."
Beyond his early successes, B.J. Thomas has left an indelible mark on the pop, country, and Christian music charts. His 1975 chart-topper, "(Hey Won’t You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song," further cemented his status as a versatile artist. Reflecting on his storied career, B.J. says, "I’ve been so fortunate to experience so many incredible highlights. The music from that era holds a special place in my heart, and being a part of it brings back so many wonderful memories." Recently, he’s joined Time Life’s Forever ’70s music collection as a spokesperson, continuing to celebrate the magic of that unforgettable decade.
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Scroll down for Closer’s exclusive Q&A with the legendary B.J. Thomas!
Did You Always Dream of Becoming a Singer?
You might be surprised to learn that B.J. never set out to become a professional singer. “I never even imagined it until my brother took me to a rehearsal," he says. "These guys were starting a band, and while they could barely play, I could barely sing! But we clicked and started performing at small parties. It was the beginning of something incredible."
Who Were Your Early Influences?
Gospel singers were B.J.'s first inspirations, but it was Elvis Presley who truly lit a fire in him. "I was around 12 when Elvis released his first record, and I was hooked," he remembers. "I also loved watching The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. Ricky Nelson was my favorite performer. He had this cool, relaxed vibe that I tried to emulate in my own performances to mask my insecurities."
Recording "Raindrops" for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
B.J.'s involvement in the film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid was nothing short of serendipitous. "I happened to be in the right place at the right time," he explains. "They flew me out to California, and we worked on the bicycle scene with Burt Bacharach. Six weeks later, we re-recorded it for the single, with 100 musicians in the studio. It was an awe-inspiring experience, and I’ll forever be grateful to Burt Bacharach for his genius."
Meeting Robert Redford and Paul Newman
Despite the film's success, B.J. never had the chance to meet its stars, Robert Redford and Paul Newman. "Surprisingly, neither did Burt Bacharach, who won two Academy Awards for the film," he shares with a laugh. "So, I didn’t feel too bad about it!"
Overcoming Personal Struggles
Behind the scenes, B.J. faced his own battles with drugs and alcohol. "I had some serious issues, and while I achieved success during that time, it wasn’t fulfilling," he admits. "‘Raindrops’ was actually one of the lowest points in my life. But sobriety has been the most meaningful achievement. It’s given me a peace and happiness that nothing else could."
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