Shirley Bassey

Date of Birth: January 8, 1937

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Biography

Dame Shirley Veronica Bassey, born on January 8, 1937, in Tiger Bay, Cardiff, Wales, is a world-renowned Welsh singer known for her powerful voice and dramatic performances. She rose to international fame in the 1960s and 1970s, becoming one of the most iconic and enduring voices of her generation. Bassey is particularly famous for her work on James Bond soundtracks, having recorded the theme songs for “Goldfinger” (1964), “Diamonds Are Forever” (1971), and “Moonraker” (1979). Her career began in the mid-1950s when she was discovered while performing in a revue show. Bassey’s first major hit, “As I Love You,” topped the UK Singles Chart in 1959. Over the years, she has released numerous albums and singles, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. Bassey has been awarded several accolades, including a DBE (Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 2000 for her contributions to the performing arts. Her powerful and emotive voice, combined with her glamorous stage presence, has secured her a place in music history.

5 Interesting Facts about Shirley Bassey

1. Shirley Bassey was the first Welsh person to gain a No. 1 single in the UK.

2. She is the only singer to have recorded more than one James Bond theme song.

3. Bassey was honored with the title of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2000.

4. Her song “Goldfinger” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2008.

5. Bassey performed at the 85th Academy Awards in 2013 in a tribute to the James Bond franchise, earning a standing ovation.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Shirley Bassey

1. “You don’t get older, you get better.”

2. “My voice has given me everything, even my friends and my family.”

3. “I learned by listening to the best singers and trying to emulate them.”

4. “I hate being called a diva!”

5. “There’s one thing I always wanted to do before I quit… retire!”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Dame Shirley Bassey’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $10 million.

Children

Shirley Bassey has two daughters. Her first daughter, Sharon Bassey, was born in 1954. Her second daughter, Samantha Bassey, was born in 1963 but tragically died in 1985 at the age of 21.