TW’s albums in the 70’s are his best work - IMO.
1. Small Change (every track is a masterpiece - esp “Step Right Up” and the title track
2. Blue Valentine (title track and “Christmas Card from a Hooker in Minneapolis” are standouts
3. Foreign Affairs (includes a GREAT duet w/Bette Midler)
He’s had commercial rockers cover his songs...
Eagles: Ol’ 55
Rod Stewart: Downtown Train
A word of caution - TW’s voice is an acquired taste. His lyrics describe the people you meet at 2am...
TW was hilarious on the old “Fernwood Tonight” with Martin Mull. His part begins at 4:35 - sings “The Piano Has been Drinking” and the follow-up interview is LOL hilarious.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acyT_1AKPDE
btw, Tom Waits has had a few bit parts in movies including “the Book of Eli” where he played the pawnshop owner who recharges a battery for Denzel Washington/Eli.
He is quite the character. I bet he was a blast to hang out with back then.