Both his parents died when he was a child and he grew up in an orphanage, later working as a van driver in Covent Garden Market[1] before undertaking National Service in Hannover, Germany.

[1] Mason suggested he record a version of the song "Ain't Misbehavin'", written by Fats Waller, in a style similar to "Chantilly Lace", a recent hit single by the Big Bopper.

[2][3] Backed by the Bruisers, a group of Birmingham musicians, he toured the UK on large variety bills with Billy Fury and others and they made a number of television appearances.

[4] From 1963, he became a regular performer on the ITV variety show Stars and Garters, becoming involved in comedy routines as well as singing.

[2][3] Tommy Bruce was presented with a lifetime achievement award from the Heritage Foundation Arts & Entertainment Trust in March 2006.