Shirley Bassey

Shirley Bassey was born on January 8th, 1937

Full Name: Dame Shirley Veronica Bassey

Nationality: Welsh

Profession: Singer

Place of Birth: Tiger Bay, Cardiff

Date of Birth: January 8, 1937

Notable Songs: Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever

Awards: Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire

Genre: Pop, Jazz

A legendary vocalist renowned for powerful, soulful performances of iconic theme songs for James Bond films, including "Goldfinger" and "Diamonds Are Forever".

Written by:

Penelope Wildwood

The Inimitable Shirley Bassey: A Legendary Voice and Iconic Style

Known for her powerful, soul-stirring voice and iconic renditions of James Bond theme songs, Shirley Bassey is a Welsh singer and cultural treasure. With a career spanning over seven decades, Bassey has cemented her status as one of the most popular and enduring vocalists in Britain, with a legacy that continues to inspire generations of music lovers.

A Voice That Transcends Time

Born on January 8, 1937, in Cardiff, Wales, Bassey's rise to stardom began in the 1950s, when she started performing as a teenager. Her powerful voice and charismatic stage presence quickly gained her attention, and in 1959, she became the first Welsh person to top the UK Singles Chart with her hit single "As I Love You."

Throughout her illustrious career, Bassey has amassed an impressive 27 Top 40 hits in the UK, including two number one singles and a number one on the Dance Chart.
Her distinctive voice has been featured on numerous BBC television specials, and she has hosted her own variety series, Shirley Bassey.

The Bond Connection

Bassey's association with the James Bond franchise is one of the most enduring and iconic aspects of her career. She is the only artist to have performed theme songs for three Bond films:

Goldfinger (1964)
Diamonds Are Forever (1971)
Moonraker (1979)

These memorable performances have become an integral part of Bassey's legend, solidifying her status as a cultural icon.

Awards and Accolades

Bassey's contributions to the entertainment industry have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including:

The first award for Best British Female Solo Artist at the 1st Brit Awards in 1977
Appointment as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1999 for services to the performing arts
Inclusion in the list of 100 Great Black Britons in 2003
Induction of her song "Goldfinger" into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2008

A Lasting Legacy

Throughout her remarkable career, Bassey has sold over 140 million records worldwide, making her one of the bestselling female artists of all time. Her influence can be seen in many other singers, including the legendary Aretha Franklin.

In 2011, a television film about her life and career, Shirley, was broadcast on BBC, further cementing her status as a national treasure.

A Life Well-Lived

Bassey's personal life has been marked by milestones and key events, including her early life in Splott, Cardiff, and her Nigerian father and English mother. Her remarkable journey is a testament to her talent, dedication, and perseverance.

In conclusion, Shirley Bassey is a true legend, a singer and performer who has left an indelible mark on the world of music and entertainment. Her powerful voice, iconic style, and enduring legacy continue to inspire and delight audiences around the world.

Timeline

1937

Born in Tiger Bay, Wales

Shirley Bassey was born on January 8, 1937, in Tiger Bay, Wales, to a family of Nigerian and English descent.

1953

Started Singing Career

Bassey started her singing career in 1953, performing in local clubs and bars in Wales and England.

1964

Recorded Goldfinger

Bassey recorded the theme song for the James Bond film Goldfinger in 1964, which became a huge hit and launched her international career.

1970

Performed at Royal Command Performance

Bassey performed at the Royal Command Performance in 1970, singing in front of Queen Elizabeth II and other members of the royal family.

2000

Performed at Millennium Dome

Bassey performed at the Millennium Dome in 2000, celebrating the start of the new millennium with a live concert and fireworks display.

Shirley Bassey Quiz

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FAQ

What is Shirley Basseys most famous song?

Shirley Bassey is perhaps most famous for her iconic theme songs for the James Bond films, including Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever, and Moonraker.

How did Basseys early life influence her music career?

Shirley Bassey grew up in a large family in Tiger Bay, Wales, and was exposed to music from an early age, leading her to begin performing in local pubs and clubs as a teenager.

What is Shirley Basseys signature vocal style?

Shirley Bassey is known for her powerful, soulful, and distinctive vocal style, which has been praised for its emotional intensity and technical precision.

What awards and honors has Shirley Bassey received?

Shirley Bassey has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to music, including a DBE, multiple Grammy nominations, and a Brit Award.

How has Basseys music been used in popular culture?

Shirley Basseys music has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, and has been covered and sampled by numerous artists, cementing her status as a cultural icon.