Dame Shirley Bassey, a legendary Welsh singer, boasts a remarkable career that spans several decades. At 87 years old, her estimated net worth stands at $10 million, reflecting her success and influence in the music industry. Widely known for her powerful voice and unforgettable theme songs for James Bond films such as “Goldfinger,” “Diamonds Are Forever,” and “Moonraker,” Bassey has left an indelible mark on the world of music. Her personal life, marked by relationships and tragedy, adds depth to her illustrious career. Bassey was married twice and had two daughters, Sharon and Samantha.
Early Life
Shirley Bassey was born on January 8, 1937, in Cardiff, Wales. She was the youngest of six children born to English mother Eliza and Nigerian father Henry. Bassey grew up in a crowded household, living with her siblings and two of the four children her mother had from previous relationships. From a young age, Bassey displayed a talent for singing, participating in the school choir at Moorland Road School. Despite her early love for music, she left secondary modern school at the age of 14 to work at Curran Steels. In the evenings, Bassey honed her singing skills at local clubs and pubs.
Career Beginnings
In 1953, Bassey signed her first professional music contract as part of the “Memories of Jolson” variety show tour. Later that year, she secured a two-performance engagement with Columbia Productions. Bassey’s breakthrough came when she toured with the show “Hot from Harlem.” Her talent caught the attention of English impresario Jack Hylton, who invited her to appear in the West End show “Such is Life.” Bassey’s performance was a showstopper, leading to a recording contract with Philips record producer Johnny Franz. Her first single, “Burn My Candle,” was banned by the BBC for being too suggestive. However, in 1957, Bassey achieved her first hit single in the UK with “The Banana Boat Song,” and soon after, she made her American stage debut in Las Vegas.
Rise to Stardom
Bassey’s career soared in the late 1950s and early 1960s. In 1958, she released acclaimed singles “As I Love You” and “Hands Across the Sea,” followed by “Kiss Me, Honey Honey, Kiss Me.” Signing with Columbia, she released the hit album “The Fabulous Shirley Bassey.” Her star continued to rise with top-ten UK hits like “As Long As He Needs Me” and “Reach for the Stars.” In 1964, Bassey recorded her most famous song, the theme for the James Bond film “Goldfinger.” The song’s success cemented her status as an international star.
Hits of the 60s and 70s
The 1960s and 1970s were highly successful for Bassey. She had numerous hits, including “What Now My Love” and “Big Spender.” After a brief period as a tax exile, she made a triumphant return in 1970 with shows at London’s Talk of the Town nightclub and the hit album “Something.” Bassey recorded the theme song for another James Bond film, “Diamonds Are Forever,” in 1971. The decade saw her release successful albums like “Something Else,” “I Capricorn,” and “You Take My Heart Away.” She concluded the 1970s with her third James Bond theme, “Moonraker.”
Continuing Career
Though Bassey entered semi-retirement in the 1980s and 1990s, she continued to record music. Albums like “All by Myself,” “I Am What I Am,” and “Keep the Music Playing” showcased her enduring talent. In 2003, she celebrated 50 years in the industry with “Thank You for the Years.” Four years later, she released the hit album “Get the Party Started.” Recent albums include “The Performance,” “Hello Like Before,” and “I Owe it All to You.” The latter, which peaked at number five in the UK, made Bassey the first female artist to chart in the UK Albums Chart’s top 40 across seven consecutive decades.
BBC Television Specials
Bassey’s presence extended to television, with numerous BBC specials over the years. Her first, “Shirley Comes Home,” aired in 1957. She had five specials in the 1960s and seven in the 1970s, including her own variety show from 1976 to 1979. Bassey continued to star in BBC specials into the 1990s and 2000s, maintaining a strong connection with her audience.
Personal Life and Tragedy
In 1961, Bassey married her first husband, Kenneth Hume, but they divorced in 1965 following her affair with actor Peter Finch. She later married Sergio Novak in 1968, but the marriage ended in 1979. Bassey had two daughters, Sharon and Samantha, whose fathers remain unknown. Tragically, Samantha was found dead in the River Avon at the age of 21 in 1985.
Honors and Recognition
Bassey’s contributions to music and entertainment have been widely recognized. In 1994, she was named a Commander of the British Empire. On New Year’s Eve in 1999, she was honored as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire. Bassey has also received the Legion d’Honneur, France’s highest order of merit, further solidifying her international acclaim.
Conclusion
Dame Shirley Bassey’s career is a testament to her extraordinary talent and resilience. From her humble beginnings in Cardiff to becoming a global music icon, Bassey has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her powerful voice, unforgettable performances, and enduring influence continue to inspire artists and fans alike. As she approaches her 90th year, Bassey’s legacy as a trailblazer in music and entertainment remains unmatched.