your comments
Gordon Griffiths, Westgate on Sea
My late wife sang under the name of Lee Francis - one night she was singing a Shirley Bassey number, with Miss Bassey in the audience. When she had finished, Miss Bassey raised her glass to her and said, 'I couldn't have done it better' and gave her one of the songs she had received. Because of family commitments my late wife stopped singing professionally but she made her own arrangements to it and made a personal record of it.
Kevin Simons from Perth, Western Australia
I have seen Dame Shirley 7 times live on stage in Perth. I have put together a book in the format of a scrap book which I made sure I got 2 copies to Dame Shirley and donated 2 copies to 2 libaries in Perth. That's how much I love this woman. She lives every song, she becomes the song. I wish you shelter from the rain Shirley, God bless you.
June Hughes, North Wales
I have always kept in touch with Dame Shirley - she has never denied being from Splott, or of being Welsh. Having such a great talent you are bound to widen your horizons. As Shirley once said "I didn't leave my friends, they left me." She loved her mum and I am sure she still misses her every day.
Clive, Adelaide, Australia
Dame Shirley Bassey is still the worlds number one diva.Forget Miley, Beyonce, Gaga, Madonna, Whitney, and all the other wannabe female so called divas. This dame is the real deal. She can sing she can sell records - she can hold her notes and she can entertain like no other female singer. And she can still do this at 72. For me there is only one true entertainer and her name is Dame Shirley Bassey.
Allan Beard from Worcester
Shirley is the salt of the earth, I have known of her since I lived in Splott and my mother used to work with her when she was sixteen and she makes me proud of being (at least) part Welsh.
Maureen McCole, New York, USA
I went to three Shirley Bassey concerts in New York City and have to reiterate her brillance and boundless talent in her interpretation of song. My Mom loved her as well as my Uncle who met her in Florida at a party. He said that Shirley was a very attractive woman and would have dated her if she gave him the chance. My Mom and Uncle are now gone, but I'm happy I took my Mom to see Shirley in concert.
Dr Zauba A. Al-Rawi from Iraq
Madam, just to tell you that your songs were my best teacher in English. Wish you health and prosperity. Kind regards, Zauba.
Goran from, Flagstaff, Arizona, USA
Unquestionably the greatest female popular music singer ever. Period!
Rhonda Mcclements N.Ireland
In my opinion Dame Shirley Bassey is the greatest diva. She is my all time favourite singer. She has manners, breeding and a wonderful sense of humour. She looks amazing and has some beautiful dresses I don't think there is anyone that can top her talent.Many congratulations for an amazing career. Rock on Dame Shirley.
Stacey, Cardiff
I didn't know her personally but my grandmother Marina was her sister. My nan died in late 2002 and none of the family heard nothing from her. I was only 12 at the time but I remember going to see her in concert a few years later with my dad. He refused to go backstage to see her even though I wanted to. My dad's side of the family don't mention her and I can see why - she has forgotten her roots.
Mrs Gillian Byne nee White, Spain
I went to Moorland Road school and Shirley was in a lower class than myself as I was older than her. However I knew her sister Marina quite well too. I also knew where her mother lived right near the Royal Oak. They were very big houses and I often saw Shirley's car outside - a big white Jag. I live in Spain now but have followed Shirley's career. Well done
Joy From Great Notley, Essex UK
Our mum was a huge fan of Shirley. We took her to see her at the Royal Festival Hall a few years back. She thoroughly enjoyed herself. Mum died in April 2005 at the ripe old age of 91. My sisters and I are so glad we took her.
Anthony McLoughlin
My auntie who before she married was Ann McLoughlin was a friend of Shirley Bassey's, and played in the same works baseball team as Shirley in Cardiff in the early 1950's. A photo of this team appeared on Shirley's " This is Your Life" show in the early 1970's. I would be delighted to get a copy of it. Any ideas?
charles b.s. Mohamed, cardiff
i was born in Tiger Bay in 1936 almost the same year as Shirley. My brother and I saw her sing in the Rainbow Club in Bute Road i was in the GODS gallery when she sang in the New Theatre Cardiff and then in St David's in Cardiff. I go back to the bay for reunions dances Shirley is still the best female singer of all time but the remaining residents from the fifties are dissappointed she has never returned to see her friends and schoolmates. She could have started afund for other would be singers latley she has been donating old frocks and shoes to charities. Yes she is the best but you must ! never forget your roots especially now were all in our seventies. I was of Malaysian and Welsh origin but will never deny my heritage as they say in the bay 'THE GIRL DUN GOOD' but please dont ignore us.
Josie
Shirley Bassey would never have attended a school in Tiger Bay as she was just 2 years old when Eliza moved to Portmanmoor Rd, Splott. Shirley went to the same schools as me, Moorland Rd Junior and Splott Secondary Modern. I recall Miss Powell the head telling off Shirley for singing in class. Saying that, Shirley always loved the bay.
Josie
Shirley would never have attended a school in Tiger Bay as she was just two years old when Eliza moved to Portmanmoor Road, Splott. Shirley went to the same schools as me, Moorland Road Junior and Splott Secondary Modern. I recall Miss Powell the head telling off Shirley for singing in class. Saying that, Shirley always loved the bay.
Terry Pope from Exeter
I have been a Dame Shirley Bassey fan since she started out. She sings with such passion and is so full of life that no wonder she is at the top of her professional tree. I like all the songs she sings because this lady makes them her own, even though they could have been around for many years, you forget who has sung them before she did. She deserves the title "THE FABULOUS DAME SHIRLEY BASSEY". As soon as she starts to sing she sends shivers down my spine and I get goose pimples as well. If I feel down I will put on one of her CDs on and I'm in heaven. Thank you so much for giving your all over the past five decades and please keep on singing for as long as feel able to.
Chris Graham, Cardiff
I love Shirley - she's from the bay where my family all come from. My mum and her family all went to school with Shirley, I went to the same school years later but still had the same headmaster at South Church St boarding school. My father sang with Shirley in the pubs down the bay - even my mum was a great singer down there, so Shirley's like an old family friend. Love her.
Scottish Bassey Fan
To Roy Lloyd, Pontypridd! The song with the line 'Let Me Breathe' is called The Living Tree. It was released as a single last year (2007) and can also be found on the 'Get The Party Started' album!
Paul Lucas, East Liverpool, Ohio, USA
I would like to apologize to Shirley. Believe it or not I never knew or heard her name until a few months ago and I'm 67 and sing many many of the songs she sings. If you can read this Shirley, you're the most talented, gorgeous entertainer, with the cutest personality I have ever seen or heard and that includes Streisand and all the modern ones today. I have a new saying now - Shirley Bassey is the greatest talent to have drawn breath. What an honor to have to have watched you Shirley. The Lord really made something special when he made you. Long Life Peace & Love.
Pat Moeller (Durrant) from Indianapolis USA
I remember Shirley from Moorland Road School. I was bumped up two classes so I could take the eleven-plus (or whatever it was called back then) and was in Mrs. Lewis' scholarship class with Dame Bassey and my older sis Shirley. I have a distinct memory of her singing "Can't help lovin' that man of mine" from Showboat. Even then she sang with such feeling that she made our teacher uncomfortable. And for those who criticize her for not embracing her Splott background - don't judge - you have no idea what life was like for all of us then. I was one of seven children too. Way to go Shirley, your talent and drive got you out of Portmanmoor Road. Enjoy your amazing success from poverty in Splott to Dame of the British Empire -y ou did it all yourself.
John Lamacraft, USA, originally Ebbw Vale
Happy birthday, & many more to come. Saw you in Melbourne in '58, what a thrill. Have not been able to see you since but listen to you as and when I can. Have a great birthday, and keep up the Welsh tradition.
Richard from Rhondda
Dame Shirley Bassey is a superstar and such a beautiful woman.
Brandon from Shaker Heights
Shirley has taken care of her voice like no other 70 year old I have ever heard. For me I like the depth age has added to her voice, it has a more full rich sound than her early years, now this goes just the opposite for me with Streisand, her voice was pristine most of her career....she did not vocalize and it is starting to show now...I love when Bassey belts out those notes, Streisand has more dynamics to her voice...but it is comparing apples to oranges, they have both earned their place in divadom.
Tony Mac, New South Wales, Australia
I have been an ardent fan of Dame Shirley Bassey since 1957. There is no other that can express a voice such as her - the feeling just gets your hair to tingle on the nape of your neck, it's awesome! There are other great singers out there such as Della Reese etc that also have wonderfull voices, but none can top Shirley! I would like to take this time to wish Dame Shirley a very Happy forthcoming 71st Birthday on Tuesday the 8th January 2008.May you have many more and may we still hear that wonderfull voice for years to come. Thank you. God Bless you Shirley!
Cameron McKenna, Glasgow
Well what can you say about the dame, she is just fantastic. I work in radio and television and have interviewed loads of stars over the years but the person I would most like to speak to is Miss Bassey.
Alika Innocent, Splott
Shirley Bassey has the cheek to say "I don't feel Welsh". What a load of old rubbish - she moved to Splott when she was only 2 years old as my family knew her. Shirley should be proud of the place she came from, which was Splott, not Tiger Bay. One person asked her why she was not proud of where she came from and her answer was, "what, Splott?" She went to Moorland primary and then Splott secondary because she is the same age as my aunty Sidonia. If I was as famous as her I would shout from the rooftops that I am from Splott ... she should be proud of Splott, because I am. She is a great singer though.
Nancy , from Kuala Lumpur
We had the Dutch singer Ronnie Tober sing for our Miss Princess of the World. After Ronnie's show in the ballroom of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Kuala Lumpur. He told us all about Dame Shirley Bassey. It seems that he and his family are great Bassey fans. I know why, I bought her CDs and fell in love with her too. She is a dream to hear and see sing. We all are very thankful that Ronnie told us about Dame Shirley Bassey. She is the top, the best, she is magnificent!
Maria from Brick, New Jersey, USA
She is the greatest ... she is right up there with Garland and Mina. Streisand doesn't even come close. Hope she comes to Atlantic City again...I remember her on the Ed Sullivan show and her show which was televised on NBC on Sunday at 11:30 pm.
B Woods, Australia
Bassey female ... Elvis male ... the only two God given voices meant to be... only they will know this. Bassey never aged and will never die when entombed. I would so much like to meet her before I die as I'm only 46 and would love my mum to meet her before my mum dies. A lovely way to finish life happy for my mum.
Henrique, Madeira Islands, Portugal
My ears are addicted to her fabulous voice and I finally saw her performing live last year and that moment brought me lots of happiness that I will never forget. Thank you Dame Shirley.
Trevor Sheridan, Bilsby, Lincolnshire
I have been an ardent fan of Shirley Bassey since she began her career in 1955. I believe that there is no-one the planet that can still stand and perform live (as always) after over 50 years of singing with that amazing voice and sound as perfect as she does on her recordings. Many of today's performers do not even have to be able to sing to have a hit record - it can all be done by technology in the studio. Thank God for the genuine article Dame Shirley Bassey. Don't forget Shirley, because You Are What You Are We Will Love You As We Love You All Our Lives and As Long As We Need You, Never, Never, Never stop singing and continue to Do It Your Way.
Bohdan Gadomski, Poland
Only of its kind! Eternal! Swift by {through} no other star! The voice of the century!!! Impressive even in 70 year of the life! The specific phenomenon!
Sandra Silverwood, West Yorkshire
Shirley Bassey is a treasured part of my life. I come from Cardiff and left in 1968. I remember going to The New Theatre Cardiff every night to see her in 1958 and waiting at the stage door for her autograph. Her dresses were wonderful even then, and I remember her white Jaguar SB 21. At home I would sing her songs and pretend to be her. She has always been in my heart - in 1958to leave home and better yourself, and to be a star, I thought was wonderful. Not many people left home to work away in those days. I have always been proud of herthroughout the years, felt sad for her at times, but she has always come through the bad times. She has given the world much more with her singing than what she has taken, and watching her at Glastonbury made me feel even prouder.So come on all of you from Cardiff that claim you knew her and are quoting negative things. She is from Cardiff, be it Tiger Bay or Splott, what does it matter? She has a voice that has continued to excel over the years, filled with great emotion, emotions that she has experienced in life. When she sings it comes from the heart and captivates you. When I hear her sing she takes me back to Cardiff and I am sure she still has fond memories of Cardiff in her heart. Loved you at 21, Shirley - love you even more at 70.
Terry Pope from Exeter
I first saw Dame Shirley Bassey sing at The Talk of the Town in London in 1957. As it was the last night she sang for an hour. She held the audience in the palm of her hand. It was a magical sixty minutes and whenever I hear her sing I have to stop and listen to her as she sings with such passion and emotion - the main thing is that you can hear every word of the song which is so important. I think that Dame Shirley is the best female vocalist in the world today as she is able to sing any song that she is presented with and the listener can understand what she is singing about. I feel that she is a truly fantastic singer and also an actress and a comedienne. I hope that she feels able to sing for some time to come.
Robert Kutner from Ramsey village nr Harwich
This lady will never be replaced. There are no other artists that will ever come close. I have and will allways try to attend her concerts while she still graces the the stage and gives her all to the public. I nearly managed to have her signature once but she was about to go on stage to perform. Oh well, perhaps next time eh Shirley? By the way I must have at least 20 albums on CD.
Sylvia Doran, Australia
She is the best - I remember my mother telling me that when Shirley used to sing in the Victoria pub in Cardiff they had many jokes and laughs together. Shirley used to borrow money from my mother but always paid it back. It was from the Vic pub that she made her way to where she is today. All the best Shirley - you deserve it.
Michael from Borehamwood, Hertfordshire
I have been a huge fan since the fifties when I first heard this fantastic voice - now I have not stopped buying her records. I have them all and have been to all the big venues to hear and see her sing, what a voice!! No one in this world sings like Dame Shirley - long may she reign and bring us all joy, passion and beauty in the music business. Love you Dame Shirley!!!
Bill Lorimer, Plattsburgh, New York
I love Shirley - as a wee lad growing up in Scotland, I heard her sing Reach For The Stars. I love that song.
Rholu D Augusto, Ormoc, Philippines
Shirley Bassey is the only foreign name I had heard from my mother's lips when she was still alive. I love her touching song "Thank You For The Years".
Emma Edwards from Carmarthen
I love Shirley. She's so down to earth and she doesn't care what anyone thinks of her. She has class and she has an unique sense of style. She is also from Wales and that's what makes her so special. I love all of her dresses and often watch all of her shows. I am very young and I still know who Shirley Bassey is. Though, if you don't know who she is, you need to start watching your TV and start listening to your radio. She's on there everyday nearly. I love you Shirley!!
Anita Wills, California, USA
Shirley Bassey is one of my favorite female artists, and I did not know she was still around. She left the radar like so many other singers from that era. I am pleased to hear she is still around and still has that beautiful voice. YOU GO GIRL!
Brian from Philadelphia, PA-USA
When I was a young boy I remember hearing Goldfinger and I loved it. However in 1974 at the ripe old age of 17 I heard Never, Never, Never on the radio and I was hooked. I ran out and bought the album and that was the beginning of a marvelous collection of songs sung by a lady with an addictive voice and ever enticing charm. Even if the world stops turning...I'll Never, Never, Never stop listening and loving Miss Shirley Bassey.
Jim Smith, Kearny, New Jersey, USA
Shirley Bassey is such a fabulous personality that it's difficult to put into words. Her voice and music lift my spirts whenever I hear her perform. Of all the singers in the world, Shirley is definitely at the very top. There is no finer gal than this lady. Thanks again, Dame Shirley!
Collin Mweene, Lusaka, Zambia
Shirley Bassey, we Africans are proud of you. Happy birthday!
Vince Chicarino from Miami Beach, Florida, USA
Ms Dame Bassey - she is simply THE BEST. Do you know when she will be coming to South Florida Miami Beach USA????
Strachan from Brisbane, Australia
Happy birthday Shirley, one of the greatest singers and entertainers ever.
Clive P White
Shirley is more than just a girl from Tiger Bay. People knew she was going to be someone who would have her name in lights in the coming years. But no one could imagine how big a star she has become! Shirley is now a superstar and rightly so. I'm not a big fan of hers, but you can't not enjoy some of her hits records - the James Bond themes she recorded are now classics, Kiss Kiss is another. I would like to wish Shirley a very happy Birthday and when you get back to Cardiff don't forget you can pick up your bus pass. Good Luck and Best Wishes and a Happy 2007.
Barbara MacArthur, Cardiff
The news of Shirley's birthday reminded me of the 1950’s when I worked in the Citizens’ Advice Bureau located in Cardiff City Hall. The Citizens’ Advice Officer was absent for long periods because of ill-health and, though I was just on a clerk-typist’s pay, I ran the Bureau single-handed. One day a shy young lady called in and said she wanted a career as a singer and needed an agent. I confessed that I probably knew less than she did about agents. However, I pulled out directories, and, as it was a quiet period of the day, we spent some time making phone calls to make enquiries about different agents. When the young lady had made a note of the information she thanked me and left. It was only in recent years that I realized that the shy young girl was - Shirley Bassey.
Joan Rees, Aberdare
Special birthday greetings Shirley ... we all love you. Penblwydd hapus from Aberdare Trefoil Guild (the Guide Association).
Cynthia Chilcott nee Rees, California, USA
Congratulations Shirley. I remember my father Sid Rees, who was a journalist for the Echo and Western Mail, writing an article about Shirley and her success for the paper and it was used in the London papers. My husband Keith and I saw her show in California a couple of years ago and loved it. Hope she comes back soon.
David Morgan from Peacehaven
I remember seeing Shirley Bassey sing in Ely in the early 50s. She sang standing on the concrete slab of a demolished prefab, demolished by a tenant looking for a gas leak with a lighted candle! This was in Cwrt-yr-Ala Road. My sister Jean remarked that this young girl would go far. How right she was.
Brian Griffiths from Kilmany, Scotland
Welcome to the 70's club Shirley. I have enjoyed your singing through the years - you have been a wonderful ambassador for the aptly titled Land of Song, my home country Wales.
Paul Young, Chepstow
70 and the spinning wheel still keeps on going ... Thank you to Shirley for giving me many memorable highlights in my life. From home to Australia to Middle East to home, I have been priviledged to see and hear her in some exotic places around the world. She is the real diamond whose songs will be heard forever. Thanks for being you Shirley.
Roy Pepworth, Bristol
A song she never recorded but best sums her up - "Simply The Best". It is typical that M&S should use her to spearhead their recovery in her 70th year.
Caroline and William Watkins
We all here in Western Australia would love to see her - keep up the good work Shirley.
Graham from Australia
Love the lady. Superb voice, with real emotion and stunning good looks, that even now belie her age! May she long continue and enjoy good health.
Wendy & John Carter, Australia
The Best - Happy Birthday, Shirley.
Pamela Morgan, Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada
Dame Shirley the Greatest....Happy Birthday to you...Please Please come to Vancouver Canada one more time, the only chance we will ever get to see you again.....Have a wonderful birthday, you have brought the world such pleasure...P.S My husband Russ, said you are the best ever and sends his love too, and also hopes you will come to Vancouver, it was the thrill of a lifetime to see you when you were last here.....
Shirley Chaplin, Altamonte Springs, Florida, USA
I remember Temperence Town, Tiger Bay and Splott, my husband was a Splott boy and knew Shirley well in the old days. The last time we saw her,we had a drink together in the club in London, if I remember correctly was called Talk of the Town. Great voice, great girl.
Garry Alexander
She is a star amongst the galaxies of stars, she is the brightest. She puts feeling in the music that makes you feel pure sensation. Thank you very very much!
Doris McLaurin from New York
Dame Shirley Bassey, lost for words. I miss seeing her in concert on PBS TV every now and then. I get such a thrill hearing her singing Just a Little Bit of History Repeating. If you read this 'Lady Shirl' please come back to the states to PBS - we love you.
Roy-Al, Pasadena, California, USA
"Ballad of the Sad Men". Where once I was one of those, sadly now I am growing old. Shirley, you make me remember and still I feel young. Have seen you twice in my lifetime and have often searched for words to describe how you made me feel. In these messages to you and about you I finally found them thanks to ... Charles Sudbury, Canada
The rarest of jewels, only one of in the whole world. If an angel sang to me this is what I would hear. Her voice doesn't just move you, it separates your spirit from your body and lets it fly away to places only your heart and soul could ever recognize, and or even begin to understand. Purity, strength, beauty. Diamonds are Forever.
John A Ayala from Fayetteville, North Carolina, US
Ms Bassey is an inspiration to me since I heard Goldfinger and Diamonds Are For Ever. What a master voice this beautiful lady has. I have never heard such clear high tones and lower tones.
Norma Harper, California
Steve from Newport - I am 60 years old and lived in Tiger Bay and it's a place you could never forget. I knew Shirley Bassey from going to the Rainbow Club. Her mam's best friend lived two doors from my nana's house. I think Shirley spent more time in the bay than Splott.
Allison, Cardiff
Shirley loved Tiger Bay, but she also entertained In Splott, another much loved district of Cardiff. I wonder if Shirley feels sad how these two areas have disappeared. Oh for the old days!
Viv Gregson, Portsmouth
My brother Desmond used to be a friend of Shirley's sisters son Chris. I was introduced to her in the sixties as she and her sister were coming out of Woolworths in Countisbury Ave in Llanrumney. What a lovely lady.
Maximo Saiz from Argentina
The greatest British singer. She is really a lady of song. It's breathtaking to listen to her live in concert. Those of you who were able to see her performing in person, you "darlings" ... you were and are very lucky. In short, my standing ovation for one of the greatest singers and entertainers of all times!
Wayne Mullins, Blackwood
She's our Shirl, a great lady from Wales, who I think means more to us than her title means to her. If Wales could have its own Queen Shirley Bassey would be ours, The Queen of song.
Terence Lee, Penang Island, Malaysia
Dame Shirley Bassey is unique. She acts her songs the you can feel the emotion and drama. If you think she is good in the recording studio, you will be amazed as some of her live versions of the same songs are even more powerful. BBC should remaster her 2 BBC TV series and release them on DVD as 2 boxsets. That's a fitting tribute to this legendary dame.
Roy Lloyd, Pontypridd
My wife and myself attended the recent concert at the CIA in Cardiff (summer 2006) and were absolutely thrilled at the live performance. We were prompted to go to see our "Shirl the Whirl" from her topping the bill at the "Royal Performance". Just one question - she sang a song in both shows with the line "Let me Breathe", can you tell me the name of the song and where I can buy it from please?
Vicente Chicarino, Miami Beach, Florida, USA
She is the real diva. When will she be in Miami Beach, Florida again????? We all miss her.
Jeff Straw
Powered by your eternal spirit Shirley your majestically transcendant talent empowered & moved me like no other. Truly you are the greatest female artist ever. The Albert Hall is still ringing with your outstanding voice that lead so many of us to a uniqe mountain top experience.
Lucy Johns from Wales
When is Shirley Bassey going to sing in Cardiff again?
Keith Bechares from Cardiff
I would say to anyone if you haven't been to a Shirley Bassey concert please go. Her performance at the CIA in June 2006 was fantastic. She gets better and better. She makes me feel very proud to be Welsh.
Tony Sabatella From New Jersey
Saw Shirley for the first time on TV singing Almost Like Being In Love. I've have been a fan ever since. Went to see her in Atlantic City. Keep going Shirley. No one better.
Mark from Portsmouth
I've just seen Dame Shirley Bassey in concert at Wembley Arena (June 9th 2006) and although I've seen her live many times before, she's better now than ever. With a new single due out 'The Living Tree' and a new album later in the year, Matthew in Sydney...you're quite wrong about her ability to sell albums. She's one of the last of the truly great international super-stars and her many fans of all ages remain as loyal today as they've always been.
Jose Basterchea, Beverly Hills, California
I am right now in the Netherlands, as I am going to one of Dame Shirley's concerts. Dame Shirley is absolutely amazing. A truly magnificent singer with all the style and panache of a great performer! Dame Shirley is the UK's most successful female chart act of all time with 30+ entries in both the singles and album charts. A friend of mine from the Netherlands has met her and told me that she is beautiful. I can't wait to see her and hear her sing later next month in England! She's simply the best.
Loildo, Brazil
Elis Regina is Better.
Jean Haigh from Manchester
Shirley, you're the best.
Eddie Williams Cardiff
a truly wonderful talent and beautiful with it.
xx luv ya Shirl
Pauline White from Washington D C USA
Steve from Newport - I was born and raised on Maria Street 1944-1963. Old Bute Street police station was on the corner of Bute & Maria street. There was no printers opposite. If you want to find people who remember Tiger Bay - go to a funeral at St Mary church when an old docks person dies and you will see a least 100 people who remember Tiger Bay, many of whom still live there. My cousins and sisters for instance live in Loudon Square - still hanging on to what is left. I think you should read Neil Sinclair's book on the area because afterall you lived in Victoria Park which seemed a world away to us living in the bay. The Echo usually has pictures of the funerals because they are big and escorted down Bute Street to St Mary's by all those people who remember Tiger Bay.
Charles Sudbury, Canada
The rarest of jewels, only one of in the whole world. If an angel sang to me this is what I would hear. Her voice doesn't just move you, it seperates your spirit from your body and lets it fly away to places only your heart and soul could ever recognize, and or even begin to understand. Purity, strength, beauty. Diamonds are Forever.
NORMA GIALANZE
still the greatest and always will be.
Leo from London
Shirley Bassey has lead a very chequered life, some of which she must be very embarassed about,yet this seems to have been swept under the carpet now she is a Dame.Question what kind of Dame is she really
Sheila From Liverpool
Just watched Shirley on the television. It has been ages since she was on and she is still FANTASTIC dont stay away for so long.
Brenda Freeman
I love Shirley! I have just watched Shirley on television and it was absolutly great.
robert smyth rutherglen glasgow
i have just watched shirley bassey on t.v and it brought back memorious of the time i saw her in glasgow in the 1960s she was fantastic then and she is still fantastic now.having seen frank sinatra live at ibrox stadium glasgow in 1990 i can say that i have seen live two of the greatest singers that the world has ever seen. god bless her and long may she keep entertaining us.
Keith Leggett Dorset
i first heard shirley sing, when her beautiful voice blasted out from a jukebox in a cafe in London 1961. That's when i fell in love with her and her music. As i type this on the 11th march 2006, she is singing Diamonds are forever on ITV's Another audience with Shirley Bassey. Yes of course i'm still in love with her and i'm now 61. Is shirley really only 25 !!
Ivor from Glasgow, Scotland
Magnificent performance on TV tonight.Spine tingling !!!!!
Gordon Setterfield
Arriving home from my 1st trip in the Merchant Navy in 1953, I went to see Shirley at the Palace Theatre in Hull.
Shirley was the last performer before the interval, what a performance.
Most of the audience spent the whole of the post interval show stamping & shouting for Shirley to return.
What a pity for the rest of the performers, they must have been embarassed, but like us thrilled to have witnessed such a star in the making. I was 18, am now 70 and sadly have never been able to see Shirley live since. It is my ambition to do so before I die, so Shirley if you read this, HELP
Chris from Wigan
Superb recordings; stunning in concert...nobody does it like Dame Shirley!!
Alison Bassey, Pontypridd
I would say that the best complete lp she has produced is "Something". A close second is "Something Else" and there are very many gems that can be found on Never Never Never (Somehow, Someone Who Cares), Good, Bad but Beautiful (All In Love Is Fair, Jesse) and Love, Life and Feelings (If I Never Sing Another Song). And yes, I can understand that people could compare Shirley Bassey with Barbra Streisand, but if you hear them both sing All In Love Is Fair you can only have one winner. Babs may have the range, but no-one can come near Shirley Bassey for the emotion and power. And that's why we love her; she not only sings the song, she lives it.
Robin in Quebec, Canada
Total class, beauty, talent. I have seen her in concert several times in Europe and North America ... each time is better than the last. Dame Shirley Bassey, you're the best. Tonight the 25th Feb 06 she is in Quebec City, performing in the James Bond Unicef gala ... AND I CAN'T GO!!!!!!
Maria from Tiger Bay
This is for Steve from Newport I think. Although Dame Bassey was brought up in Splott you have to remember that she´s a Docks girl all the way. She was born there. And to answer your question if anyone remembers the Tiger Bay well I can surely asure you that YES!!! many of us who were born in the DOCKS our roots are from the TIGER BAY because that is where my parents emigrated to and although I don´t live in Wales anymore and hold it deep in my heart. BASSEY THE BEST
hollie from wales
i love shirley even though im only twelve i have liked her for ages keep goin shirley x x xx
shakeera,cardiff,[mermaid quay]
i am so happy that she comes from cardiff because i dont think our country would have stood out like it has.
Valentina Kibuyaga from Chicago, USA
I was introduced to Madame Shirley Bassey while watching my James Bond marathon. She captivated me with "Goldfinger" and "Diamonds Are Forever." Now, I am searching and hunting for her albums. She is truly magnetic, enchanting everyone who hears her voice!
Ann Marie, New York
I bought Kanye West's CD where he samples Shirley Bassey's 'Diamonds are Forever' and immediately went out and bought many of her CDs. Now Kanye West is on the backburner and Shirley is all I listen to now. She is one of a kind.
adam
alright evry body iam at college with shilrey basseys grand son he is safe as u like living it up bad boy
love u sebey baby
Jennie Foster from Ventura, California
Dame Shirley Bassey grew up in Splott, Cardiff not Tiger Bay. My Grandmother's house backed onto the street where her family lived. When living with my grandmother in Splott my brother and I would play football in the street with Shirley and her siblings. She has come a long way since Splott and is Great Britain's greatest singer.
Alan Griffiths, Cardiff Bay
The word "Diva" could've been invented for Shirley. Have seen her sing on many occasions and even met the great lady once when she performed at Cardiff Castle where I was working at the time. True hair on the back of the neck standing on end style, and totally making anything Shirley sings her own is her style. A true star. XX
bernie from ottawa, canada
dame shirley......one of a kind...good role model & superb artiste.....who 'did-it-her-way'.!!
Indira
I've listened to Shirley Bassey since I was a teenager. I've never seen her live and would love to. Where is she appearing the next ten months?
Tom Bellgard
I don't know about her move to Splott, but I remember she used to spend quite some time with relatives or friends in a street diagonally across Loudon Square backing on to the canal and that we used to pole rafts made of timber deck cargo up and down the canal togethewr.
Clivey from Adelaide, Australia
Shirley is the most energetic electric singer I have ever seen. I've seen her perform 5 times and hope I get the opportunity again.
Mrs Joyce Rosano, Albany, New York
I have to say that our family has always been a big fan of Dame Shirley Bassey. My brother Ronnie Tober, the Dutch singer, has gotten to meet Dame Shirley several times. He told me that Dame Shirley is a wonderful warm, beautiful Lady. We think that she is the best singer/entertainer that the world has. Except for my brother, I love him too!
liz tantrum cwmfelinfach
just fab
Ophelia Lopes from Lisbon,Portugal
I used to listen "Jessie" when I lived in Salisbury, Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe for hours and hours and never get tired.For me you and Barbra Streisand are the greatest singers of the world.My sincere wishes for a long and happy life.
Stephen, Sydney Australia
Shirley has the greatest singing voice of all time. Coupled with her natural warmth and ability to inject pure emotion into every song she sings, make her recordings a masterpiece. It's her live performances that give Shirley Bassey the platform to prove that she is the master of her craft with no other contenders, and why she is the genuine megastar she is. In someone elses words 'the audience is drawn to her in moth to flame fashion".
I marvel at her strength, control, warmth and sophistication.
Aussie fans all over want her to start performing again and to come back here for a great time.
Nope, she's not the best singer that Wales has produced, she's not the best that Britain has produced. See a Shirley Bassey show and you'll quickly realise that she's the best that our planet has produced.
Luciane from Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
Dame Shirley Bassey is simply... THE BEST! Nobody can passed the Emotions in a music, when sings, like her. For me, she and Barbra Streisand is the best divas of the World Music, of the show-business. When you want to deep inside in your Heart, your Emotions, just listen MISS BASSEY and certainly you will do it!
Harriet from Swansea
Sheer Brilliance,she has produced some classic songs that every one knows or have heard of. A real Star!
Ronnie Tober...The Netherlands
Since the late 1960's I have always been a huge fan of Dame Shirley Bassey! I saw her live at "The Talk Of The Town" in London and it was love at first sight! This past June the 15th, I got to meet her at a after party from Royal Ascot. She was so warm and out going! Then I was asked to attend a party in honour of Dame Shirley. It was a wonderful evening for a beautiful warm and caring person with a excellent voice! She is truly the Grand Lady of Show Business!!!!
Jan from Cardiff
I am the same age as Shirley Bassey and have seen her in concert in Cardiff every time she has performed here. She is fabulous.
I would like her to see her brothers and sisters, and mend links that have somewhere along the line been broken. Life's too short to hold animosities.
Tony from Paignton, Devon.
I have been a fan of Shirley's from the very beginning of her career. Up to now, I have never heard anyone that comes up to her level. Having been to a few of her concerts, she causes the hairs on the back of my neck to rise because of the amount of emotion she puts into everything she sings. The song says "there is nothing like a dame", and that certainly rings true in Shirley's case. Long may she reign supreme.
Jean from Lake Placid, Florida, USA
I have always enjoyed listening to
Shirley Bassey. The one time I saw her
was when she was coming out of the Cardiff New Theater. She was soooooooo petite.
My favourite song has always been "I who
have nothing". Nobody can sing it like her. I lived in Tremorfa and moved to
Canada in 1960 and from there moved to the
USA where I reside in Lake Placid. I would love to see her perform close to where I live, i.e. Orlando, West Palm Beach
Fort Myers, or Port Charlotte.
Mark in Portsmouth:
To Norman Mallimud - The song is called 'Jessie'
Norman Malamud barrington IL. USA 60010
I have seen your concerts and have all your records. You're the best. I am looking for 'Come Home There's a Hole In The Bed'. I can't find it anywhere.
lowri from hirwaun aka wales aka pit
shirley dame rocks you knows it clart massive from the pit!
Pamela Morgan Nanaimo Canada
It's not where you are from it's where you are at. Dame Shirley is at the top and will always be so. I wonder if anyone knows if wonderful Dame Shirley will be appearing in Vancouver B.C. in the near future.
Steve from Newport
I used to live in Cardiff in the Victoria Park area. My late father used to work in a printers opposite the old Bute Street police station. Why am I telling you this? Ask any older (say 55+) resident of the docks and they will tell you Shirley Bassey is not a Tiger bay girl. Also they would doubt if there is anyone living that can remember Tiger Bay. Can any one remember temperance Town?
Eric Gentile from San Francisco, USA
I have been a great fan of Shirley's for almost 40 years now! I would describe her vocal talent accordingly: A thrilling, emotionally intense singer with the most operatic voice in pop music. And she's beautiful, charming, charismatic, funny and sexy to boot. How can you top that? God bless you, Shirley!
Josie from Splott.
Claire's right! Shirley was only two when her family moved to Portmanmoor Road in Splott. She attended Moorland and Splott Secondary. She was in my older sister's classes and also worked with my mother in Currans Enamels. She used to sing in the 'Bomb & Dagger social club' and the 'Lord Wimbourne' which was opposite her house. I doubt if she even remembers living in Tiger Bay! I grew up with her daughter Sharon.
Jon, Redcar
I saw Shirley on the TV on her first appearance and she has been there throughout my life ever since, giving me pleasure with every song she has sung. You are the diamond in my life - God bless you and keep you singing forever. Love, Jon.
D in the US
Dame Shirley is absolutely amazing. The sheer power of Shirley on stage is an experience one will never, ever forget, and her love and gratitude to her fans is breathtaking to see. Shirley is, without question, the UK's and the world's top female performer, with no exception. Bless her for the blessings she has given her fans for 50 unforgettable years.
Ricardo from S. Paulo, Brasil
Shirley is a reference for anyone who wants to express yourself as a true singer. Shirley, Judy Garland and Elis Regina - my singing teachers.
Paul Fairmen from Cardiff
Considering she was born and bred in Cardiff, and probably lived as a child with Welsh taxpayers money, she has a cheek to say on a documentary 'I don't feel Welsh'.
Erick Wessels from Holland
The Bassey magic has always been there, in our yesterdays, tomorrows, and in our futures in one way or another. Truly the best live entertainer. She lives to perform and that shows!
Caryl from Beddau, nr Pontypridd
I have inherited a Scandalli piano accordion with which my deceased father Bob regularly accompanied Dame Shirley Bassey in both the Craddock and The Wells (pubs in Riverside, Cardiff) in the early 50s. I'm looking for a buyer. Is there a Dame Shirley Museum? I often wonder, and wish there was a route in which to personally contact Shirley to ask her if she remembers those early days, backed by a left handed accordianist who had to play it upside down..and 'the hat' which was passed around the pub after each performance? My father 'Bob' was an ex merchant seaman and Grangetown character - I am sure 'once met.. never forgotten'. Sadly, we very seldom know about the lives of our parents until they pass away, and it is only now I am looking into the 'providence' of an accordion he called Shirley's Dukebox'. Perhaps someone can assist by contacting your site?
Will from Singapore
The world's greatest live entertainer. Nobody does it like her ever.... Dame Shirley Bassey is simply the best.
T. Crispin from Germany
One of the greatest voices of all times.
Chloe Winstone from Magor
I am a great fan Of Shirley even though I'm 10. My dad has all the CDs and I listen to them regularly. I listen to her more than I listen to rock bands. Rock On Shirley!!!!!!
Jamie from London
Dame Shirley is the UK's most successful female chart act of all time with 30+ entries in both the singles and album charts. Proving she is still as popular as ever, her latest release 'Thank You For The Years' hit the UK Top 20 in 2003. To see her live is an unforgettable experience. Nobody does it like Shirley!
Matthew from Sydney
Not the best singer on earth. Too loud all the time. But probably one of the last true entertainers. Couldn't sell an album now if she tried and was always up to nicking someone else's song, but as far as pure entertainment and ego goes she is NUMBER 1.
Claire from Sheffield
She's good - but she's not from Tiger Bay. She's from Splott.
Keith from Ynysybwl
She is one of the best entertainers of our time.
Col Burton - Ex Pom now in Perth, Western Australia
Have always been a huge fan of Shirley and am so looking forward to the 50th Anniversary Concert here in Perth later this month. Will try and send my comments after seeing her performance if you UK fans are interested.
D Yule from Rutherglen, Glasgow
A truly magnificent singer with all the style and panache of a great performer. Her stage shows are a joy to behold. Wales can be truly proud of this Dame. It will take a great one to match her.
A Buchan in Brixham, Devon
Shirley Bassey is fabulous. If you are lucky enough to see her live in concert it's a night that you will never forget. There will never be anybody like her again. She will live on in her records for ever.
Tony Breen
The best female singer of her type this century. Additionally she looks great!
Shelagh in Manchester
Shirley Bassey is not only Wales' best song diva, she is the best that Britain has ever produced. We will be hard pressed to find a replacement for her. Long may she continue.
Anibal Macellari from Mar del Plata, Argentina
A perfect mix of Judy Garland, Ella, Barbra and all the greatest voices around the world, like Vicky Carr, Eydie Gorme, Mina etc. I think there won't be another like her.
Keith from Gainesville, USA
Shirley's greatest work is the Something Else Album.
First lady of song - big voice from Tiger Bay
