I Owe It All To You - Share your fondest memories of Dame Shirley Bassey

My early memories started in the 80’ with never never never on my walk man,the en direct to the record store,after the love affair started,the ultimate after seeing you on stage ,you know the crazy one front row at carnaghie all giving ou gifs ,was when I flew to London in 2003 at Christie’s and I got the no 1 gown La Pigalle gown,now that was a dream come trough,we chat and you were lovely.

Jean francois

first time i saw Dame Shirley was at the Horden Pavilion in Sydney about 1973 and i've been hooked ever since i was 16 at the time and i remember the gown she wore was green velvet with a glittering peacock embroided on the inside of the gown and when she kicked up her heals you could see the peacock, i have been to at least one of her concerts every time she toured since

ross

I remember when I was 7 years old and I heard Get the party started I was impressed by her wonderful voice, since then I became a fan of her and her incredible career, each song touches my heart, now with 20 years I sing her songs with my younger sister every day, I confess that it makes my days happy and I will continue listening and loving her music and her personality until the last of my days❤️

Diego

In 2015 my now husband Tim and created a campaign for Dame Shirley to record the next Bond theme. We created a video in which we edited ourselves into scenes from every James Bond film holding a sign saying 'It's Got To Be Bassey'. The campaign got a lot of attention and press and Dame Shirley herself saw it, loved it and we even got to meet her and chat about it. She was charming and great fun!

Paul

I am writing this on behalf of a wonderful lady who has worked with you sometime after 1966 her name is Sheila Worth a child xylophonist and recalls working with you at the cabaret club in Oxford street Manchester. She is writing her memoires but unfortunately and this is the last piece of the book would you be able to help recall the actual time this wonderful memory was? Thanks for any help you

Audra

In the 70s, I was about 11 or 12 years old and my uncle Marcel Blanche (famous drummer) gave me 2 audio tapes of Shirley Bassey. And since this then, even if I have thousands of albums of music, Dame Shirley is still my very first favorite singer.

Isabelle

I am an Italian author, performer and life coach moved to Canada a few years ago. I was a very young child when I saw Dame Shirley Bassey for the first time during a TV show. I still remember how much her presence, beauty, moves and voice made me feel amazed and willing to pursue a career as a performing artist. She is an inspiration and I am so grateful to her!

Monica

I was second row from the front and ran to the stage when Shirley was throwing the flowers and I coughs a rose I was over the moon until the fellow behind me broke the roses head off and I was left withe the stem I was heartbroke

Kevin

как меломан сменил в 92 году два диска Its my Life and Brodway Bassey Way с тех пор люблю

владимир

My dad used to play your cassettes in the car and my favourite was your 25th Anniversary album. On the cover you're wearing the most beautiful deep pink feathered gown and my mum would tell me how you're never seen in the same dress twice. My dad and big brother would try to guess when you would start singing during I Who Have Nothing while I would sit in the back dreaming of singing like you.

Helen

ESCUCHO A LA MAGESTUOSA SHIRLEY BASSEY DESDE EL AÑO DE 1974 ESTABA YO EN EL NIVEL PRIMARIA EN MI PAIS Y DIARIO ESCUCHABA A SHIRLEY BASSEY HACIENDO LA TAREA ME FACINAN TODAS SUS CANCIONES PERO LA QUE MAS ME GUSTO EN ESA EPOCA Y ME SIGUE GUSTANDO ES LA DE THE OLD FASHIONED WAY DEL ALBUN NEVER,NEVER,NEVER POR FALTA DE RECURSOS NO LA PUDE VER LA UNICA VEZ QUE SE PRESENTO EN MI PAIS EN CIUDAD DE MEXICO

MARTHA ELENA

As a kid in the mid 60s I was scared to death by the trumpets in Goldfinger. When I was 14 my mom bought the Carnegie Hall album and we saw you live for the first time. The rest is history. Love you forever, Joop. xx facebook.com/groups/ShirleyBasseyThisIsMyLife

Joop

Aged 11 in 1972 I was taken to see Diamonds Are Forever. Mesmerized by the Opening Credits of dancing girls, glitz, glamour, diamonds & the brilliant theme song, that twinkled & soared far above & beyond the cinema screen. Not a great Bond film, but boy I knew I was listening to a truly great voice. From that moment, I’ve been hooked on all things Bassey, Bond & Beyond, Dame Shirley is Forever!

Jeremy

To start yesssss I have the CD so happy, my mother was a big fan and I used to hear the music when I was little my mother died but the music from Dame Shirley Bassey has always remained number 1 for me and always will be Dame Shirlrley Bassey you are the number 1 in music your personality inside and out is so pure Love to you Dame Shirley Bassey and keep you safe in this time Love Yvette xx

yvette

My most treasured memory will always be meeting Dame Shirley at the Christie’s auction in 2003. I successfully bid on and bought the gown I first ever saw her perform in (lot 33 ). She autographed my invitation by leaning on my back, which was amazing . My only regret was when she sang a Capella in the auctioneers box that I should have offered to bid more if she let me sing a duet with her

Steven

I saw Dame Shirley Bassey in concert in Connecticut back in 2000. She dazzled and engaged the audience with her brilliant voice and quick wit, I vividly remember each song, from Goldfinger, to Big Spender, to the finale, surprising the audience, she threw flowers to her adoring fans, including me. I cherish the memory and sincerely thank Dame Shirley for the music that makes my spirit soar!

Frank

I was 16,1970s, in Belfast , bought my first Shirley Bassey album, my friend and I played it all the time wearing towels as headdresses and singing along! We always watched Shirley on Saturday night tv before going out to the the only gay bar. Moved to London late 70s,went to see Shirley several times at the RAH,what spectacular shows, costumes and singing! Friends passed away but happy memories!

John

I recall the moment I realised and accepted a relationship with a special guy was over, when Shirley came over the speakers singing The Party's Over. To this day, I always think back 25 years ago to that special moment when I hear Shirley sing that special song.

Ken

My dad loved you, it was his birthday 14th November 1970, I was 20, for his birthday I bought him Shirley Bassey at Talk of the town, on vinyl in those days. over that weekend he was playing it all the time & clever me managed to scratch it, he could never be cross with me. 10 days after his birthday 24/11 he suddenly died.50 years on I still have the album, & now your new album it’s grear I

Jayne

I remember my mother telling me the day I was born someone in the hospital was playing this is my life and I have been hooked on Dame Shirley's music ever since she was the first singer I ever heard and the only one I ever truly idolised she's the very reason why I wanted to be a singer myself

Paul Laurence

I atttended a concert in the Odean in Bradford in 1964 and another at Batley Varieyy club and got a signed album from you,Have been a fan for over 58 years I have most of you records albums and cds I was over the moon when my cd came last friday I have played it at least once a day since.Have plenty time as I am in lockdown and your cd cheers me up.Thank you .love Jacqueline.

Jacqueline

My late dad was a huge fan, we were brought up watching you on TV and listening to your music, and it's continued with me. Love the new album,xx

Lorraine

I saw you at Carnegie Hall four times over the years, but the fourth time, in the early 90s, was the best. I was sitting in a first-tier box near the stage. As you were greeting the audience after your first song, I stood up and yelled " ... Hi, Shirley ... !" You waved back, from the stage of Carnegie Hall. I then could've JUMPED OUT THE BOX. Not good, though. Thank you, Dame Shirley.

Todd

For a while we shared the same circle...mutual friends...concerts...dinners...you were truly magical and inspiring and generous to a fan! Xx

Adrian

My first memory of Dame Shirley was with my Dad at the Empire Pool, now the Wembley Arena in March 1959. My Dad predicted "All the other stars are brilliant, but this one..you wait and see what’s going to happen!! This little lady will go far!" Being a fan of hers ever since, I was able to watch her unveil her handprints in the Arena Square in September 2019, some 60 years later, just magical.

Carole

I'm Anthony, I'm 21 years old and live in the USA. I first heard of Dame Shirley Bassey in 2014 when Janelle Monae performed ’Goldfinger’ at The White House for Barack Obama. I saw that performance and knew that I had to find out who Shirley Bassey was! Six years later and I'm one of Dame Shirley Bassey’s biggest fans! I love you Dame Shirley! 💓🙌🏾🙌🏾

Anthony

I was lucky enough to be in the front row at Ms Bassey's concert in Perth Australia in I think 1997/98 with my father and mother. Absolutely fantastic! I was only 20 at the time but now being 43, I still play her music and forever will. Bless!

Isaac

It was my Dad’s love of music that I first heard DSB sing Diamonds are forever. I was mesmerised! We would listen to DSB in the car together all the time. He bought me a video of Dame Shirley’s concert, opening Cardiff arena. I’ve been in complete awe ever since. Have bought or watched everything DSB has done. There will never be anyone to match Dame Shirley Bassey!! I love you and your music!! 💗

Nicole

My memories stretch back to 1971 but for me I have two very special memories. Firstly in 1995 at Cardiff Castle in front of your home crowd WHAT A NIGHT! Secondly at the open air concert at Somerley when I was seated with a friend in the front row. You took a sip of water and came over to me with your thumbs up wanting some of my champagne - I couldn't oblige due to the railings .. ugh! Terry.

Terry

SO many memories at the front of the stage, at concerts! Two particularly at Birmingham NEC, once when I presented a disc to Dame Shirley in 1998 and another when I did the Morecambe and Wise gag with my boot in 2003 when she had bad feet! She has great humour and love for her fans. 'Thank you for the Years' and your amazing gift of music!! Ian x.

IAN

My nan being a patriotic welsh woman adored Shirley Bassey. Growing up she would alway play her records and dance around the room singing big spender. From my nan came my adoration for Shirley Bassey and not a day goes by where I don’t listen to her songs. How I wish I could have seen her live.

Adam

I was eight years old when my father took my sister and I to see Goldfinger when it hit the big screen in 1964. My first thought was WOW! Her voice was so mesmerizing!! Over the years I have purchased several of her albums and love every one of them!! Can't wait for her latest album to arrive, already have it ordered! Thank you Dame Shirley!!

Stephen

My mother was a big fan of Shirley's music. I was introduced to her powerful voice through her. My mother passed away in April but prior to her death, i would play her favorite Shirley Bassey music. I would play the songs from the "Four Decades of Song" collection. I used Shirley's version of "What I did for love" as the soundtrack for my mother's tribute video. No one sings it like Shirley! Thx!

Nancy

Running into Dame Shirley at Pearson International Airport in Toronto. She had just flown in from New York after appearing on the Regis and Kathy show. I ran up to her, gave her a kiss and a hug. We chatted and walked to her waiting limo. Another encounter was in Lucerne, Switzerland in front of the Grand Hotel....all memorable encounters.

Paul

My Mother was living in Pennsylvania and we had tickets to see Shirley Bassey. That performance was cancelled. In 1997 Shirley Bassey was performing at the Westbury Music Fair. I drove out to Pennsylvania and brought my Mother back to New York to see the show. She said it was the greatest concert she ever saw and that Shirley Bassey is the greatest performer.

Keith

I discovered her not too long ago. I‘m a huge Queen fan and Queen used to sing Big Spender during their live shows. I saw the footage and was blown away by that track. I few month later I watched my first James Bond film: Goldfinger. Again by Shirley Bassey. And that’s when she really got me. I find it also quite amusing that we share the same name. It’s an honor!

Shirley

the first time I listened to his Stupenda voice, it was in the theme song of the movie 007, I was immediately struck by his warm, sensual, vibrant voice, slowly I started looking for his records and I discovered one of the greatest ARTISTS in the world, I have never had the pleasure of attending a live concert or even meeting her, Dear Dame Shirley THANK YOU for wonderful emotions you give us!!!!!

Giuseppe

"The Millennium Tour" at The Waterfront Hall in Belfast, Northern Ireland in 2000. I kid you not I saw this special lady bring an audience of over two thousand people to tears when she sang "Born To Lose". A night that has stayed in my memory for twenty years and will stay with me until the day I die.

David

My mum won money at the bingo one night came home with it and was excited about the win , it was back in the day when stereograms were fashionable, she had seen one in a shop window and admired it , she bought it with the winnings and that’s when I heard for the first time diamonds are forever, my personal favorite because it takes me back to that time.

Ed

It was 1976 and I was 14. Travelling back from a weekend in the country in a new Rolls-Royce, over the radio it was announced that tickets were on sale for Shirley Bassey at the Hordern Pavilion. Who wanted to go? Me please!! She wore a silver dress and I was simply knocked out. A love affair since then and probably someone who has taught me more about the expression of emotions than anyone else.

Tony

I remember watching a Bond film when I was about 13 ( 1991-1992) - I really loved the song, I asked my mum who sang it, oh that’s goldfinger by Shirley Bassey, she was your Grans favourite. I was hooked, mum bought me an album that year for Christmas and I never looked back, Shirley got me through some tough times in my life, and the performance is my favourite album of all time.

Lisa

I've been a big fan since I was twenty (...now I'm 53). Dame Shirley's voice touched my heart in 1987 (the fabulous Berlin concert). Her music has accompanied me through all ups and downs in life. Not a day goes by that I don't listen to her music. Currently I'm sick. I'm having surgery this month. The 'I OWE IT ALL TO YOU' album will be my medicine. Thanks Dame Shirley! Best regards, Ann Rose

Annette

So many happy memories! Receiving a letter from Dame Shirley on Shirley Bassey headed notepaper in 1979 after I had written to her thanking her following a concert at the Manchester Apollo. Writing to her again many years later saying I'd never heard her sing one of my favourites, Razzle Dazzle live and then sitting in awe as she opened the next tour with that song. I could go on and on!

Mike

It was November 1970 as a 15 year old that i went to my first Shirley concert. Centre front row seat at the Liverpool Empire.This was a magic night and was to be the first of many concerts over the years in various parts of the country..Another I could never forget was at an open air concert in 1998 at Powderham Castle in Exeter.the heavens opened with rain of which I'd never seen or heard before

ALAN

This is my very special friend Marlene I met her 45 years ago when I was 16, she took me to a theatre in Manchester to see you (quite small and personal place). I am forever grateful to her and you for changing my appreciation of music. Lynda Milburn

Lynda

Tengo 10 años , y me encantan las canciones de Shirley Bassey ☺️me inspira confianza al cantar sus canciones ,mis canciones favoritas son Goldfinger ,Feelings ,Send in the clowns🥺 i (who have nothing) y Look but don’t touch!💐 La admiro mucho 🤩 Yo y mi hermano le deseamos salud y felicidad en estos tiempos dificiles y a todos los demas fans Thank you so so much Dame Shirley Bassey💝

Andrea

I fondly remember discovering Dame Shirley Bassey as a child. My late Grandmother used to play her albums a lot. It formed the background music to a very happy, very content childhood. My fondest memory was hearing ‘Big Spender’ for the first time and my Grandmother sashaying into the living room in time to the music singing along and copying Shirley’s moves. Always making me smile.

Juke

Saw you at Wembley Arena, back in the 80s. Absolutely the closest thing I have ever come to a religious experience! Laughed, cried (more than once) but never stopped smiling. Still sends shivers down my spine whenever I hear you sing x

David

My late father Bill Armon worked with Dame Shirley back in the 1970/80/90s leading the violinists/orchestras in the Bond recordings,TV shows,Albums and on tour in concerts. My late brother Vaughan Armon also worked on tour. I remember the concerts, your wonderful vocals, lovely memories, standing in the gods of the Albert Hall looking down, my dad waving to me and the concert in Brighton(1988).

Mel

Although I knew of the film's Goldfinger, Diamonds are forever, and Moonraker. I did not know the artist behind them until 2017. In 2017, I lost five people to death closest to me and a cat. On the verge of suicide one day, a song on YouTube began to play from a list that I had selected. It began with " It's funny how a lonely day can make a person say how good is my life." It saved my life.

Deanna

I can’t remember a time when Dame Shirley wasn’t a firm favourite. My Grandfather, who was a WW1 veteran was the first in my family to appreciate her magic. Apparently he played her music on the jukebox in the pub he ran. My mum then passed that appreciation ion to me. I’ve seen Dame Shirley eight times in concert now and would go again in a heartbeat. Thank you Dame Shirley for sharing your gift

Samantha

The first time my son ever clapped was when he saw you singing Goldfinger. We would play your songs whenever he was upset and it would calm him down. I sent a card to tell you and you wrote him a lovely letter and sent a beautiful signed photo. Dylan has just turned 4 and he still loves you.

Mary

At Christie’s 2003 at the auction I ask to take her picture and to sign my catalog,I took the pic and when she ask my name she laugh and said ;ITS TO LONG GIVE ME A KISS; well she did sign it and I got lot no 1 the Pigalle gown,,it is here with my in New York,,,my most precious memory ,,thank youDame SHIRLEY.

Jean francois

I may end up in a load of trouble for this but have to risk sharing one of the most memorable and stupid things from my younger self! Forgive me Dame Shirley ? I was at a Shirley Bassey concert at the Apollo Theatre Manchester on impulse I was out of my seat and climbed on stage with the Dame. I hugged her briefly before leaving the stage when she said ‘So bold, so brave but so foolish’ . Sorry x

Jon

I arrived in the big city of Montreal, Canada I was attending a female impersonator show, this artist personified Dame Shirley Bassey. I fell in love with this great artist. I bought all the albums and followed his career since that day. I am also an artist since that day and I present songs by Dame Shirley Bassey. My greatest joy, for my 25 years of career, with the help of a friend I receive

Michel

I have loved dame shirley ever since I was a young child, I’m 33 now. My nan now 104, listens to the Dame on a daily basis. I am ever so great full for all the moments of memories I have. The new album is as fabulous and gorgeous just like all of the others. Can I just say thank you for the music.

Michael

I love you Shirley. I’m 62 now my Father was a huge fan and if music was ever played it would be you. I have listened to you almost daily for a great deal of my life. I love watching on YouTube your wonderful performance in Berlin.. At that concert you sang so many of my favourites especially born to lose, never never never and something. You are a legend and have given huge enjoyment to me & many

Mark

As a kid my parents would have drinks with friends in the evening and play their records, early 70’s. I must have been 8 when they put on a Shirley Bassey album and that was it! Long after their passing and my having my own family that exact album is now framed and hung on the wall as a reminder of good times past and of the times we had singing along to those amazing songs and that unique voice!

George

I first came across your voice at a friends who was on a defibrillator he was gravely ill his confidante put record 1 on of Shirley Bassey-Something Wonderful-6 x LP Box Set I was blown away by the unique tonal quality and tranfixed ever since 29 years on I am still breathing you in but it's not just your voice your presence is ever present in my life and will be for eternity.. Love SB X

Stephen

I started singing aged 7 and my father was my biggest fan we bonded over Shirley bassey and I was raised singing Shirley's music Shirley is still my idol now at age 28 I sadly lost my dad to covid in april but he got.to see me.perform one of shirleys songs on bbc on all together now in 2019 one of our dreams was for me to sing with Shirley and I still aim to maake that come true love mandi xx

Mandi

I have lovely memories of seeing Shirley at the Liverpool Empire in about 1968. I was 16 at the time and was thrilled to attend with my mum Theresa and auntie Eileen. They were both big fans and were very excited to see you live for the first time. It was a fantastic show and never to be forgotten . Thank you for the wonderful memories ❤️

Lynn

I was three or four in the early 70s and we had a record player in the dining room. I remember playing (repeatedly) the single “Kiss Me, Honey Honey, Kiss Me” and singing sling with it! My mum told me that my grandad liked Shirley Bassey too.

Marcus

Am privileged to have seen Dame Shirley Bassey perform on stages around the globe, including Royal Albert Hall and Carnegie Hall. But her entrances when she performed at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam with its famous staircase that leads to the stage, I will never forget! But then, she is part of my yesterdays, todays and tomorrows!

Erick

DEAR DAME SHIRLEY I HAVE LOVED YOU SINCE I WAS A LITTLE BOY I AM NOW 53 AND SEEN YOU SO MANY TIMES I WAS LUCKY ENOUGH TO MEET YOU AT THE RFH IN 1998 WHEN YOU DID YOUR 10 NIGHT RUN AND YOU SIGNED MY BOOK, I GAVE YOU ROSES NO PHOTOS WERE ALLOWED BUT MY MUM AND I WILL NEVER FORGET IT I HAVE PHYSICAL ISSUES & OTHER HEALTH ISSUES SO YOU HAVE HELPED ME MORE THAN YOU WILL EVER KNOW LOVE HOWARD XX

Howard

After many years of travelling to see Dame Shirley live in concert, I got my best Mail ever directly from Monaco. Shirley will be always a Part of my life. Michael

Michael

My very first memory from Shirley Bassey goes back to 2010 when I was 12 years old. More specifically, my parents and I went to the cinema to watch Cats and Dogs: The revenge of Kitty Galore. There, I heard for the very first time Shirley's song: ''Get this Party Started''. I was truly impressed and enchanted by her powerful and sweet voice. Since then I became a fan of Shirley ❤

Katerina

1977 Shirley was appearing at The Concord Hotel in Monticello, NY. My mom was the pianist for trumpeter Erskine Hawkins in the Night Owl Lounge. I went to see Shirley's show and what an awesome performance. When her show was over, everyone went into the Night Owl Lounge where Charlie and Yvonne Brown's were performing, in comes Shirley. She was seated at Erskine's table where I was seated.HEAVEN!

Yvette

It was May 1971 I was 13 my Mum was going to see her at Blackpool Opera House with my Aunty who went sick so she took me instead. I didn’t know who Shirley Bassey was but when she started off stage with does anybody miss me the came on too what about today she blew me away and I’ve been hooked ever since. She is the best

John

I have many memories but I wanted to share how I first was introduced to her music. I was on Leeds in a working mans club with my Aunt where a turn was singing Natalie. I was mesmerised by the music and the words - my Auntie told me that it was a Shirley song. The very next day I went to Morrison’s and bought my first album - Life, love and feelings. I was 14, now 60. You have enriched my life.

Neil

Hi I'm writing on behalf of my mother Dorothy Sullivan formerly Dorothy Hill. You were friends and worked at a cigar factory in Cardiff. Both my Mum and Dad still listen to you .I hope you remember.

Terry

1976 at Festival Hall, at the end of your concert many older men were grabbing you and trying to get a kiss from you, I was 18 and loved your concert I simply grabbed your hand and kissed it, you took a rose from your bouquet and handed it to me, thank you and my best wished to you, cheers, Peter

Peter

With my first pay cheque I bought The Shirley Bassey Collection Vol 2 on vinyl. The first track I played was 'Now You Want To Be Loved' and it was like the world stood still for three minutes. I had never heard of anything like it and 41 years later this is still one of my all time favourite recordings. Seeing you live at Colston Hall in 1981 will always be a standout moment. The anticipation!!!!!

Paul

I am 29 years old, i adore your music, from I, Who Have Nothing to This Time which both my dad and myself fell in love with 10 years ago. Shirley, i first heard you singing Goldfinger, then to Diamonds Are Forever, (which is my dad's favourite). To see you had covered my favourite Queen track brought literal tears to my eyes, i almost burned my blondies when i was listening to it. Thank you.

Rachel

My father was a huge fan of yours, Dame Shirley Bassey. He bought the wonderful lp "The music is you". My brother and I couldn't help falling in love with you too from the moment dad played that record for the first time. Sadly, he passed away last February 10th. So, listening to your most recent album is a mixture of deep melancholy and joy. Thanks for illuminating our lives with your gift.

Joaquín

As a 3 year old I loved my 1 on 1 car journeys with my grandad because it was our special time and because he had this great tape in the car that I loved to sing along to. The tape was Shirley Bassey ‘The Singles’ and the song that I loved was Big Spender and since that age I have become a life long fan. And now I’m driving my daughter along in my car and she is listening to ‘Look but don’t touch

Ben

It was in 2003 during my first visiting of Saint-Petersburg where I found "Shirley Bassey. The Ultimate" by EMI, without any thoughts who she is, I decided that "The woman with so charming smile should not sing bad", I bought the CD which cost as twofold than my stipendium at the University. So does my love started

Roman

In 2004 i was in primary school yet. I remember sitting in the livingroom and goldfinger was on tv... thats when i heard that powerfull, fierce , extravagant and distinctive voice . I asked my mother furiously whos that lady... and that was it! Instant admiration and love! Im a 26 years old actor now, planning to move to London... and D.Shirley is a daily inspiration that moves me....

Panayotis

Miss Bassey, I saw you perform at the Escondido Center for the Performing Arts in Escondido Ca about 20yrs ago..A friend who could not attend gave me his two tickets 5th row center..I took a friend with me who at the time believed music began and ended with Beyonce..Needless to say he was in for a big surprise as I had been a big fan for many years..Thank You!

Dan

well thats a hard question, The oscars being introduced by adele, but heres my quest to interview Miss Shirley Bassey, I have my own radio program on CHIN Radio here in Toronto, its an irish/ scottish old country magazine type broadcast i have been on teh air for over 32 years, and sitting here in the midst of the pandemic my son asked who would i really like on my program to cheer me up only 1

Hugh

I was born into a religious cult who had banned us listening to most music due the “ worldly influence “ and Shirley was one of those artists mostly due to her song Hey Big Spender. I remember hearing a song from her This is my Life Album ( vinyl)and secretly went out and bought .My father was horrified and demanded I destroy it which I said I would but I secretly hid it and still play it now

John

My memory is when I sung Diamonds Are Forever to Dame Shirley Bassey on the Graham Norton show in red chair.. and she applauded me and said I was very good I have done my drag act the Dame Shirley Bassey experience for 27 years now with me having cystic fibrosis she has kept me alive with me singing the power that she does. my step-dad give me a tape years ago the first song was Goldfinger

Christopher

I love you so much. As someone who studied music their entire life, it is impossible to encapsulate what you mean to me and to so many of us. You broke so many barriers socially, but truly broke barriers with your beautiful and enduring vibrato. Your songs have hallmarked some of my happiest moments in my life. I'm so grateful for the light you bring into this dark world. Long live the dame <3

Gary

I’ve always loved Shirley’s music. ‘This is my life’ is my personal anthem and as a singer I have performed it many many times myself too. My partner never was a fan (he is much more into techno music) until Glastonbury was on tv. We watched together and I saw him convert into a fan too! He had suddenly realised just how amazing the Dame is. He’s been a fan ever since!

Steve

My mum still tells the tale, of when you had one of your first auditions , you borrowed a dress from her. Her name then was Sylvia Harris. Shes 83 now and still a great fan x

Sharon

In October 2016 (when I was 13) I saw your performance at the Royal Albert hall from 1972. I was stunned by pure perfection. It was absolutely amazing. Easy the best music I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. My favourite song being "This is My Life" at the end of the concert. Since then, I listen to that performance every day. It would be amazing to hear from you. I hope you read this.

Lewis

The 25th Anniversary Album was the very first album I ever bought, secondhand. I was 12 at the time. Over the years I have been fortunate to see DSB live in London and Amsterdam on half a dozen occasions in the UK and Holland. We only met once, briefly, after I had waited outside the Amsterdam Concertgebouw in the freezing cold for an hour and a half. She was very kind to us and posed for photos.

Adrie

Shirley Bassey was my Nans, (Joan) favourite singer, everyone thought of my Nan when Shirley Bassey sang, and she even looked like her when she was all glammed up! She went to see her at the NEC Birmingham. She always used to play her CDs and sing along in the kitchen when ever I was there. My Nan sadly passed at the start of this year, ‘you’ll never know’ was played at her funeral ❤️

Laura

I will never forget the moment when I got two VIP tickets from the director of AHOY theater in Rotterdam, to watch your show. You have been a great example to me since I was a child. As a singer, as a mother, but also your technique which you use while singing your songs. I am a singer in The Netherlands, and especially your songs are a welcome challenge for me to sing.

Soraya

You were my Dad’s all time favourite, and as a surprise for him in 1978 I bought tickets for the two of us to see you at the Preston Guild Hall. It was a magical evening, and you were fabulous as always!

Sue

My lovely dad was a big Big fan of you shirley he said you were just beautiful his favourite song and played at his funeral was never never never he was one of a kind and when we got tickets for both my parents to go see you in Glasgow I think that went to the top of the greatest memory he would ever have. So thank you for all the wonderful music and smiles xx💖💖💖

Agnes

My dad was always a fan, we lost him a couple of years ago age 90.The first time he played “Excuse me” from the “Something Else” Album, I remember how moved he was telling me the story of the song, I still cry if I hear it, the album a gatefold sleeve with an amazing photo of Shirley in full 70s glam! In later years we loved looking up live performances on YouTube, thank you for the memories

Michele

I was 13, I heard "never never never" - it was rumba. I did not know the name of the singer for a long time, the name of Shirley Bassey was not widely known in the Soviet Union. then, when the iron curtain fell, I recognized the name of the singer. now I'm 46. and 33 of them - I'm your devoted fan. thanks!

Nikita

I remember scrolling on Spotify and seeing her name there and I just clicked, and I always check the most recent album and the it was The Performance, so I put it on shuffle. The first song was As God is my Witness, and I fell in love instantly. I remember not hearing well the lyrics, but her voice blew me away, after that I kept hearing her discography and just fell head over heels ever since...

Gadiel

This is my very special friend Marlene I met her 45 years ago when I was 16, she took me to a theatre in Manchester to see you (quite small and personal place). I am forever grateful to her and you for changing my appreciation of music.

Lynda

I was watching Graham Norton when you sang The Girl from Tiger Bay and I and I was amazed by such presence and voice that you gave, so I decided to look further and found your concert at Glastonbury and instantly became your fan, and although my years as a fan are few like others, I will always have you in my heart and my mind. You are a diamond Dame Shirley.

Enzo

I remember seeing you in Concert many years ago in Coventry with my Mum, Dad, Grandma and Mum and Dads Friend Emily. Mum and Dad have been fans of yours for years. They moved to Dorset 7 years ago and now my dad is in a home with dementia, my mum misses him terribly. They have most of your albums in their record collection.

Carol

Blackpool Opera House ....90s ...After the medley Almost like being in Love , I confidently marched upto the stage with a sumptuous bouquet of flowers. DSB kissed my cheek , which made my day , and I went back to my seat . The next song start " I'll be your audience " then to my horror , the flowers tipped over and water began to fill the stage . I had stopped the show ! Great concerts ! Simon

Simon C

As a child in 1990 my nan with excitement and hugs would sing Shirley Bassey songs from memory no radio just memory, we would dance together and play, In turn now aged 35 in 2020 I pass the legacy down to my nieces and nephews, aged 5 - 11 who I sing “S Wonderful” I now understand why nan sang it to me and my 4 sister because the lyrics expressed unconditional the love she felt for us.

Lucy

1989 New York Carnegie Hall! What a night. One of my idols is on stage. I could not believe my eyes! Being a singer myself it was a dream come true! A religious experience!A miracle! God bless you dame Shirley Bassey! Thank you for the memories... I never never never will stop loving you. Xoxo

Leandro