There’s something magical about music—it can transport us to different eras and evoke emotions we didn’t even know we had. If you grew up listening to AM radio in the late ’60s and early ’70s, chances are you remember the smooth voice of five-time Grammy winner B.J. Thomas. Hits like “Hooked on a Feeling,” “Don’t Worry Baby,” and especially “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” became anthems of that era. Written by the legendary Burt Bacharach and Hal David, “Raindrops” was featured in a memorable scene in the 1969 film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The song spent four glorious weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1970, cementing its place in music history.
“I performed ‘Raindrops’ at the Academy Awards ceremony,” B.J., now 78, reminisces exclusively with Closer. “We won, and it was just one of those moments you never forget. Winning an award like that—it’s a beautiful thing.”
Since then, this Houston-raised performer has made waves across the pop, country, and Christian music charts. His 1975 chart-topper, “(Hey Won’t You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song,” solidified his status as a versatile artist. “I’ve been incredibly fortunate,” B.J. says. “There have been so many highlights in my career, and I’m grateful for every moment. That era in music was special, and being a small part of it brings back such wonderful memories.”
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Keep scrolling below for Closer’s exclusive Q&A interview with B.J. Thomas!
Did You Always Dream of Becoming a Singer?
Believe it or not, B.J. never imagined himself as a professional singer. “I didn’t even think about it until my brother took me to a rehearsal,” he shares. “These guys were starting a band, and they could barely play their instruments. I could barely sing, but we clicked. We started playing at little parties, and that’s where it all began. Sometimes, life surprises you in the best ways possible.”
Who Were Your Early Musical Inspirations?
B.J.’s early influences were rooted in gospel music, but he quickly found inspiration in other genres. “When Elvis came onto the scene, I was about 12 years old,” he recalls. “I was also a huge fan of The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. Ricky Nelson was my favorite. He had this cool, relaxed vibe that I admired. I tried to channel that same confidence when I performed, even though I was nervous as heck inside.”
Recording “Raindrops” for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
Recording “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid was a life-changing experience for B.J. “It was pure serendipity,” he explains. “They flew me out to California, and we worked on the bicycle scene with Burt Bacharach. Later, we re-recorded it with a full orchestra—100 musicians in the studio. It was breathtaking. Even today, I’m in awe of Burt’s genius.”
Did You Ever Meet Robert Redford and Paul Newman?
Surprisingly, B.J. never crossed paths with the stars of Butch Cassidy. “I never met Robert Redford or Paul Newman,” he admits. “But here’s the thing—Burt Bacharach, who won two Academy Awards for the song, said he never met them either. So, I guess I wasn’t alone in that!”
Facing Challenges: Drugs, Alcohol, and Recovery
B.J.’s journey hasn’t been without its struggles. During the height of his success, he battled addiction. “I had some dark times,” he confesses. “Even though I was achieving great things, I wasn’t truly happy. The turning point came when I realized that sobriety was the key to living a fulfilling life. ‘Raindrops’ was actually recorded during one of the lowest points in my life. It’s funny how music can be both a reflection of pain and a source of healing.”
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