Who are Shirley Bassey Parents? Meet Henry Bassey and Eliza Jane Start

Who is Shirley Bassey?

Shirley Bassey, born in Tiger Bay, Cardiff, in 1937, isn't just a singer; she's a force of nature, a vocal siren who has left an indelible mark on the world of music and pop culture. With a career spanning over seven decades, she has traversed genres, defied expectations, and cemented her legacy as a global icon, renowned for her powerful voice, sequined gowns, and unwavering self-confidence.

Born to a working-class family in the vibrant Tiger Bay district of Cardiff, Wales, Bassey's voice echoed a unique blend of grit and glamour. She began performing as a teenager, captivating audiences with her raw talent and fearless stage presence. Early career highlights included winning talent shows and recording her first hit, "Banana Boat Song," in 1957. Soon, she crossed international borders, mesmerizing audiences in Europe and beyond with her soulful renditions of pop standards and her own chart-topping hits.

Bassey's voice is her instrument, a force of nature capable of expressing both delicate vulnerability and electrifying power. Her early years were marked by soulful performances of jazz and pop standards, but she never remained confined to one genre. She embraced rock, disco, and even operatic elements, crafting a signature sound that defied categorization. Her fearless exploration of musical styles, coupled with her captivating stage presence, earned her the title "The Queen of Showbusiness."

Brain Teaser: Find the Odd One in 10 Seconds

How to Hide Your Location on Snapchat? How to Turn Off Your Snapchat Location?

Optical Illusion: Can You Try to Find the Hidden Number in 10 Seconds?

O

---

p

---

t

---

Shirley Bassey Early Life

Born on January 8, 1937, in Tiger Bay, Cardiff, Wales, Shirley Bassey emerged as the youngest of seven children in a family with a Nigerian father and an English mother. Her father's departure when she was two marked a turning point in her early life. To support her family, Bassey took on roles in an enamelware factory and as a babysitter. Her passion for music ignited through her mother's influence, as jazz and blues records filled their home.

Delving into the local music scene in Cardiff, Bassey's talent shone, leading to a pivotal encounter with agent Mike Sullivan in 1955. She became one of the earliest Black British entertainers to achieve widespread acclaim. Following her American debut in Las Vegas in 1958, Bassey's career soared with hits like "As I Love You" and "Hands Across the Sea." Her iconic rendition of the Goldfinger theme in 1964 further solidified her status as an international sensation.

Stay in the loop with Fresherslive's articles to explore the newest developments in the Entertainment industry, from celebrity updates to film premieres and popular TV shows.

Shirley Bassey Nationality

Shirley Bassey, the legendary vocalist, proudly claims Welsh nationality, as she was born on January 8, 1937, in Tiger Bay, Cardiff, Wales. Her heritage adds a unique dimension to her remarkable journey, being the youngest of seven children born to a Nigerian father and an English mother. Despite familial challenges, including her father's departure when she was two years old, Bassey's resilience and talent led her to become one of the first Black British entertainers to achieve national and international acclaim.