Tom Thum whirls together beatboxing, performance and an array of mouthsounds.

Why you should listen

It's been said many times that beatboxer Tom Thum appears to have not only a symphony orchestra but also a jazz band, techno DJ, 80s synth pop group and collection of exotic world instruments all residing somewhere in his throat. Recognized worldwide for his obscure talent to warp and manipulate his vocal chords, he provides confirmation to his audience that there is no sound he cannot mimic to perfection. 

Like many artists, Thum's talents were honed from behind his bedroom door. Spending hours listening to artists such as The Fat Boys and Dougie Fresh, he began echoing their boom-bap beats and synths with his voice. Performing at open mic nights and hip-hop jams in his hometown of Brisbane, Australia, it wasn't long before his part-time hobby became a full-time reality.

Thum's unique abilities have seen him perform to sold-out crowds all over the world. His recent "Thum Prints" collaboration with Gordon Hamilton & the Queensland Symphony Orchestra has put him in a league of his own. With his vocal talents being sought out by Disney, Audi, DAB+ and more, Thum has proven that his sound is truly world class and transcends expectations.

What others say

“Tom Thum appears to have swallowed an entire orchestra and several backing singers.” — The Guardian

Tom Thum’s TED talks

More news and ideas from Tom Thum

Entertainment

Sonic insanity: 10 TED videos all about beatboxing

July 19, 2013

[ted id=1792] Today’s incredible talk contains insane beats, bizarre sound effects, voiceovers in the style of multiple eras and instruments like the didgeridoo, sitar, trumpet and double bass. And yet, only one person is on the stage. As beatboxer Tom Thum puts it in this talk from TEDxSydney, “All the sounds you just heard were […]

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