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Shirley Bassey Net Worth - The Voice That Defined An Era And Continues To Inspire

Shirley Bassey is a Welsh singer whose powerful and captivating voice has made her one of the most iconic figures in the music industry. With a career spanning over six decades, Shirley Bassey has achieved tremendous success, earning numerous accolades and becoming known for her dynamic stage presence. Shirley Bassey net worth is $10 million.

Author:Alex Mercer
Reviewer:Nathanial Blackwood
Jun 26, 202310.9K Shares391.6K Views
Shirley Bassey is a Welsh singer whose powerful and captivating voice has made her one of the most iconic figures in the music industry. With a career spanning over six decades, Shirley Bassey has achieved tremendous success, earning numerous accolades and becoming known for her dynamic stage presence. Shirley Bassey net worthis $10 million.
Bassey's career took off in the 1950s and 1960s with a series of hit singles. Her powerful voice, characterized by its deep, rich tone and incredible range, quickly caught the attention of audiences worldwide. Some of her most notable songs include "Goldfinger," the theme song for the James Bond film of the same name, "Diamonds Are Forever," and "Big Spender."
Known for her glamorous stage presence and commanding performances, Shirley Bassey became a renowned live performer. Her dynamic and emotive delivery of songs has captivated audiences in concert halls and arenas across the globe.
In addition to her success as a solo artist, Shirley Bassey has collaborated with several notable musicians throughout her career. She has worked with artists such as Neil Diamond, Propellerheads, and Kanye West, showcasing her versatility and ability to adapt to different musical styles.
Bassey's contributions to music have been widely recognized. She has received numerous awards and honors, including being appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2000. Her influence on popular culture extends beyond her music, with her distinct style and commanding presence making her a revered figure in the entertainment industry.
Shirley Bassey's timeless voice and electrifying performances have solidified her status as one of the greatest vocalists of her generation. Her remarkable career continues to inspire and entertain audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.

Quick Facts About Shirley Bassey

NameShirley Bassey
Date Of BirthJan 8, 1937
Place Of BirthTiger Bay
GenderMale
ProfessionSinger
NationalityWales
Net Worth$10 Million

Shirley Bassey Personal Life

The youngest of Shirley Bassey's six siblings, she was born on January 8, 1937 in Cardiff, Wales to a Nigerian father, Henry, and an English mother, Eliza. She shared a home with two of the four kids her mother had from previous marriages, in addition to her own siblings. Bassey attended Moorland Road School as a child, when she sang in the school chorus. After that, she went to secondary modern school, but she left when she was 14 to work for the manufacturing firm Curran Steels. Bassey performed in the nights at local bars and clubs.
Bassey married Kenneth Hume, her first spouse, in 1961. Following Bassey's involvement with actor Peter Finch, the couple was divorced in 1965. Following her 1968 marriage to Sergio Novak, Bassey filed for divorce in 1979. Sharon and Samantha, the two girls Bassey had, do not yet know who their dads are. At age 21, the latter kid was discovered drowned in the River Avon in 1985.
In 1994, Bassey received the title of Commander of the British Empire. She received the title of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire on New Year's Eve 1999, five years later. Additionally, Bassey received the Legion d'Honneur, France's highest honor.

Career Of Shirley Bassey

Shirley Bassey wearing a red dress
Shirley Bassey wearing a red dress
As a participant in the "Memories of Jolson" variety show tour in 1953, Bassey inked her very first professional music contract. She obtained a contract with Columbia Productions later that year for a two-performance engagement. Bassey continued to perform on tour with "Hot from Harlem." She eventually caught the attention of English entrepreneurJack Hylton, who encouraged her to participate in the West End production of "Such is Life." Bassey received a lot of praise for her outstanding performance in the play, and Philips record producer Johnny Franz soon gave her a recording contract.
She quickly recorded "Burn My Candle," a song she had performed in "Such is Life," as her first single. The BBC, however, forbade the song because it was too provocative. The UK saw Bassey's first smash record, "The Banana Boat Song," in 1957. She then performed in Los Angeles after making her American stage debut in Las Vegas. Bassey produced two of her most well-known hits in 1958: "As I Love You" and "Hands Across the Sea." With her rendition of "Kiss Me, Honey Honey, Kiss Me," she scored another success. Bassey soon obtained a record deal with Columbia and issued the popular album "The Fabulous Shirley Bassey."
In the early 1960s, Bassey's celebrity became considerably more popular. Her top-ten UK hit songs in the first two years of the decade were "As Long As He Needs Me," "Reach for the Stars," "Climb Ev'ry Mountain," "I'll Get By," and "You'll Never Know." A collaboration between Nelson Riddle and his orchestra and Bassey, "Let's Face the Music" led to the success of the song "What Now My Love." The theme song for the James Bond movie "Goldfinger," which Bassey recorded in 1964, is perhaps her most well-known tune. It was released in the United States the following year and peaked at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100. Additionally in 1965, Bassey released the live album "Shirley Bassey at the Pigalle." Later, she released the track "Big Spender."

BBC Television

Over the years, Bassey has appeared in various BBC television specials. In 1957, "Shirley Comes Home," her first episode, was aired. Bassey released five specials throughout the 1960s. She had her own self-titled variety program from 1976 to 1979 in addition to seven specials in the 1970s. In the 1990s and 2000s, Bassey continued to appear in BBC television specials.

Top 5 Shirley Bassey’s Biggest Songs

Goldfinger

Goldfinger • Theme Song • Shirley Bassey

Diamonds Are Forever

Shirley Bassey - Diamonds Are Forever (Lyrics)

Big Spender

Shirley Bassey Big Spender (with Lyrics on screen)

I Who Have Nothing

Shirley Bassey - I Who Have Nothing (1979 Show #4)

This Is My Life

This is my life, SHIRLEY BASSEY

Shirley Bassey Net Worth

Welsh vocalist Dame Shirley Bassey has a $10 million fortune. Shirley Bassey is well-known for performing the themes for the James Bond movies "Goldfinger," "Diamonds Are Forever," and "Moonraker." Over the years, she has also published a number of successful albums, such as "Something," "I Capricorn," "Get the Party Started," and "I Owe it All to You." Bassey also presented her own variety show in the 1970s and appeared in a number of BBC television specials.

Shirley Bassey Oscars Performance

Shirley Bassey's iconic Oscars performance took place in 2013. She was invited to perform the song "Goldfinger" during the 85th Academy Awards, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of the James Bond film franchise. Bassey's performance was a highlight of the evening, as she mesmerized the audience with her powerful vocals and commanding stage presence.
Dressed in a stunning golden gown, Bassey delivered a flawless rendition of the classic Bond theme song that she originally recorded for the 1964 film. Her performance was met with a standing ovation and garnered widespread acclaim, reminding everyone of her undeniable talent and status as a legendary vocalist.
Shirley Bassey's Oscars performance not only paid tribute to her remarkable contribution to the Bond series but also solidified her place as an enduring musical icon. It remains a standout moment in the history of the Academy Awards and a testament to Bassey's ability to captivate audiences with her extraordinary voice.

Top 15 Interesting Facts About Shirley Bassey

Shirley Bassey smiling
Shirley Bassey smiling
  • Shirley Bassey received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2003, recognizing her significant contributions to the music industry.
  • Bassey's rendition of "Big Spender" was featured in the film "Sweet Charity" (1969), exposing her to a wider audience and further solidifying her status as a vocal powerhouse.
  • She has performed for multiple British monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles, showcasing her enduring popularity and royal appeal.
  • Bassey was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2011 Grammy Awards, recognizing her exceptional career and lasting impact on the music industry.
  • Despite announcing her retirement in 2011, Bassey made a triumphant comeback and continued to captivate audiences with her live performances, proving her enduring passion for music.
  • Shirley Bassey was born on January 8, 1937, in Tiger Bay, Cardiff, Wales, to a Nigerian father and an English mother.
  • She holds the record for the most performances by a single artist at London's Royal Albert Hall, with 45 appearances.
  • Bassey's rendition of "Goldfinger," the theme song from the James Bond film, became one of her signature songs.
  • She is the only artist to have recorded more than one Bond theme song, including "Diamonds Are Forever" and "Moonraker."
  • In 2000, Bassey was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her services to the performing arts.
  • She has sold over 135 million records worldwide, making her one of the most successful British female artists of all time.
  • Bassey has performed for presidents, royalty, and celebritiesaround the world, showcasing her remarkable vocal talent and stage presence.
  • She has received numerous prestigious awards, including Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, and a Tony Award.
  • Bassey collaborated with various artists, including the likes of Propellerheads, Kanye West, and the Pet Shop Boys, showcasing her versatility.
  • Despite facing personal challenges and setbacks, Bassey's enduring career and powerful voice have solidified her status as an iconic and influential figure in the music industry.

People Also Ask

What Was Shirley Bassey's Breakthrough Song?

Shirley Bassey's breakthrough song was "Goldfinger," the theme song for the 1964 James Bond film of the same name.

How Many James Bond Theme Songs Did Shirley Bassey Record?

Shirley Bassey recorded three James Bond theme songs: "Goldfinger," "Diamonds Are Forever," and "Moonraker."

What Prestigious Honor Was Shirley Bassey Awarded In 2000?

In 2000, Shirley Bassey was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her services to the performing arts.

How Many Records Has Shirley Bassey Sold Worldwide?

Shirley Bassey has sold over 135 million records worldwide, solidifying her position as one of the most successful British female artists.

Who Are Some Notable Artists Shirley Bassey Has Collaborated With?

Shirley Bassey has collaborated with artists such as Propellerheads, Kanye West, and the Pet Shop Boys, showcasing her versatility across genres.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Shirley Bassey's life and career are filled with fascinating facts and accomplishments. From her breakthrough with the James Bond theme song "Goldfinger" to her record-breaking performances and global success, Bassey's powerful voice and commanding stage presence have made her an iconic figure in the music industry.
Her contributions to the Bond franchise, as well as her collaborations with various artists, highlight her versatility and enduring influence. Bassey's honors, including her appointment as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, further exemplify her impact on the performing arts. With over 135 million records sold worldwide, Shirley Bassey's remarkable career continues to inspire and entertain audiences, solidifying her status as one of the most successful and beloved British female artists of all time.
Throughout her six-decade-long career, Shirley Bassey remained a timeless icon, transcending generations and leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. Her glamorous stage presence and unwavering passion for music continue to inspire artists and fans alike.
Today, Shirley Bassey's legacy endures, and her music continues to resonate with audiences around the world. Her extraordinary talent, remarkable achievements, and enduring charm make her a true legend in the music industry. Whether belting out a Bond theme or delivering an intimate ballad, Shirley Bassey's voice remains a force to be reckoned with, solidifying her as one of the greatest singersof her generation.
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Alex Mercer

Alex Mercer

Author
Alex Mercer is a seasoned author and analyst specializing in wealth research, with a keen focus on evaluating the net worth of individuals across various industries. With over a decade of experience in financial analysis and wealth assessment, Alex has developed a nuanced understanding of the factors that contribute to an individual's financial status, from investments and assets to market trends and economic policies. His work involves in-depth reviews and analyses, providing insightful observations on wealth accumulation, management strategies, and the socio-economic implications of wealth distribution. Throughout his career, Alex has become known for his ability to distill complex financial data into understandable and engaging narratives, making the subject of wealth and net worth accessible to a broad audience. His expertise is not just in numbers but in telling the stories behind them, highlighting the journeys, strategies, and decisions that lead to financial success or challenges. Alex's contributions to the field of wealth research are valuable resources for anyone looking to understand the dynamics of wealth in today's world, offering a unique perspective that bridges the gap between financial analysis and human interest.
Nathanial Blackwood

Nathanial Blackwood

Reviewer
Nathanial (Nate) Blackwood is a distinguished financial journalist with a decade of experience in net worth analysis. He holds an Economics degree from the University of Finance and a Data Analysis certification, enabling him to blend thorough insights with engaging storytelling. Nate is known for making complex financial information accessible to a wide audience, earning acclaim for his precise and reader-friendly analyses. Beyond his writing, Nate is dedicated to financial literacy, actively participating in educational forums and workshops. He is the founder of PureNetWealth, a platform that demystifies the financial achievements of public figures by exploring the strategies and decisions behind their fortunes. Nate's work bridges the gap between intricate economic concepts and the general public, inspiring a deeper understanding of wealth dynamics. Follow Nathanial Blackwood for essential insights into the financial narratives shaping our world.
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