Shirley Bassey

Dame Shirley Veronica Bassey CH DBE is a celebrated Welsh singer, recognized for her remarkable career longevity, powerful voice, and for recording the theme songs to three James Bond films. Born in Cardiff, Bassey's ascent to fame began as a teenager in 1953. By 1959, she achieved significant acclaim as the first Welsh person to secure a number-one single on the UK Singles Chart. Her success continued with 27 Top 40 hits in the UK and recognition for Bond themes like 'Goldfinger' (1964), 'Diamonds Are Forever' (1971), and 'Moonraker' (1979). Awarded a Dame in 1999 and having sold over 140 million records globally, Bassey stands as a monumental figure in British music history.