Tom Waits, born as Thomas Alan Waits, is an American singer and actor famous for his unconventional songs in music genres such as, blues, jazz and vaudeville. Blessed with a distinctive voice that is intoxicating, gravelly and mellow, all at once, he easily carved a niche for himself in the booming music scenario in the America of the 1970s. Along with singing and acting, this talented guy also composes music and writes songs. Never one to adhere to traditions, Waits experimented with different music styles and acting roles, though he also loved to perform conventional ballads. He has a deep love for his profession and has been singing for over four decades now. Because of its unconventional nature his music has received mixed reviews in the United States though he has managed to earn himself a devoted cult following all over the world. His fascination with music started in childhood when he would play music on his neighbour’s piano. He was a great fan of musicians like Bob Dylan, Lord Buckley, Jack Kerouac, and Louis Armstrong. Even though he greatly admired these musicians, he never attempted to imitate any of them—he was more interested in developing his own style that would distinguish him from the other musicians.