Singing legend Tom Jones has hit out at Simon Cowell's ability to judge singers - saying that he is "not qualified" to do the job. The 71-year-old - who will be making his debut as a talent show judge on The Voice next Saturday night alongside Jessie J, will.i.am and The Script's Danny O'Donoghue - told the Mirror that he does not think the mogul is in a position to pass his verdict on singing talent, as he has never been a singer himself. "I have problems when people who have never got up on a stage to sing judge those who do," he said. "Who are they to say? Simon Cowell is a record man, not a singer. How can someone give advice if he or she is not qualified?" "It's like critics who criticise actors, having never been on a stage," Tom added. "Or having a teacher not experienced in teaching." The singer also revealed that he had been offered judging roles on other talent shows in the past, but had turned them all down. "I've been approached by other talent shows, not directly but through my agent, and I've always said no," he admitted. "I've never wanted to do one until I saw The Voice." However he added that he only agreed to do the show after knowing that he would be sharing space on the judging panel with other singers. "There are loads of judges with experience in the record industry, but can’t sing," Tom said. "They may work for a record company, but to have stood where that person is standing is a unique thing. That’s the difference."
