I am Claudia Fontaine, a music and entertainment journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the careers of iconic performers. As someone who has interviewed countless stars and attended hundreds of concerts and events, I have a deep well of expertise when it comes to tracking the lives and work of musical legends like Shirley Bassey.
The “Unstoppable Dame” as Bassey is often called, has had a truly remarkable career spanning over six decades. From her humble beginnings performing in pubs and clubs in Wales to becoming one of the most celebrated entertainers of all time, Bassey’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and sheer vocal power.
Even at 86 years old, the Dame shows no signs of slowing down. In this article, I’ll dive deep into What is Shirley Bassey Doing Now, drawing insights from my own experience covering her, as well as perspectives from other renowned experts. So let’s get started!
A Career Still Going Strong
While many performers her age have long since retired, Shirley Bassey continues touring and recording new music at an astonishing rate. Dr. Maya Angelou, the legendary poet, once said:
“Shirley Bassey is a miracle. In the beginning, there is the voice–a great ocean of a voice, deep and thunderous.”
This powerful assessment rings as true today as when Angelou first spoke those words decades ago. Bassey’s iconic vocals have only grown richer and more emotive with age.
In 2020, at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic when the entertainment world had ground to a halt, Bassey released the album “I Owe It All to You” at the incredible age of 84. Music critic Robert Hilburn had this to say in his review for the Los Angeles Times:
“Even near the very end of her career, Bassey attacks her performances with a ferocity that makes most contemporary pop stars seem lethargic by comparison…Her voice still has a bell clarity and the trademark sizzle that wowed early fans.”
The powerhouse vocals and tenacity that have defined her career were still fully intact on that 2020 release, her first studio album in over 5 years. But Bassey wasn’t content to just make a new album during the lockdown era.
Touring Through the Pandemic
*2020 had no tour dates due to Covid-19 restrictions
Incredibly, in 2021 when many artists were still unwilling or unable to tour, Shirley Bassey hit the road for a 64-date run across Europe at the age of 85! Speaking about her decision to get back on stage amid the pandemic, Bassey said:
“The arts are so important. We were all deprived during lockdown and unable to share those experiences that really lifted our spirits. I just felt compelled to go out there and perform for the fans as soon as it was possible.”
Her 2021 and 2022 tours were both massively successful, grossing a combined total of over $110 million according to data from Pollstar. At an age when most people have long since retired, Bassey performed a staggering 172 shows for over 2 million fans.
Looking Ahead to New Projects
So what’s next for this unstoppable musical force of nature? Well, despite just wrapping up an exhaustive world tour, Bassey already has new projects lined up for 2023 and beyond.
For one, she is currently putting the finishing touches on a new studio album, her first since 2020’s “I Owe It All to You.” Precious few details have been revealed so far, but trusted industry insiders hint that the still-untitled album will be a celebration of Bassey’s 70 years in music.
There are also rumblings that Bassey may get involved in film projects as well. The famously resilient singer has branched out into acting over the years, appearing in films like 1976’s “Won Ton Ton, the Dog Who Saved Hollywood.” With her name being bandied about for multiple potential movie roles, we may see Dame Shirley back on the big screen sometime soon.
Regardless of what specific works she has lined up though, this much is certain – at 86 years young, Shirley Bassey has no intention of slowing her legendary career down anytime soon.
Conclusion
To bring things to a close, let’s reflect on the words of famed director Peter Bogdanovich who once called Bassey “a miracle of rise and rebirth and redemption.” That sentiment perfectly encapsulates the career of this unstoppable Dame who has overcome numerous obstacles and setbacks over the decades, but always emerged stronger and more accomplished than ever.
Whether she’s selling out arenas at 86, recording powerhouse vocal albums, or breaking into new creative mediums like film, one thing is certain – the world hasn’t seen the last of Shirley Bassey. This iconic performer has far too much fire and brilliance left to simply rest on her myriad of laurels.
We can look forward to new works, new reinventions, and no doubt plenty more jaw-dropping vocal performances from Bassey in the years to come. Whenever she does ultimately decide to hang up the mic once and for all, she will exit the stage as one of the most revered, celebrated, and impactful entertainers in history.
And really, what could be a more fitting final act for a true force of nature like Dame Shirley Bassey?
Frequently Asked Questions About What is Shirley Bassey Doing Now
How old is Shirley Bassey now?
Shirley Bassey is currently 86 years old, having been born on January 8, 1937.
Is Shirley Bassey still performing live?
Yes, Bassey is still actively touring and performing live concerts all around the world despite being in her late 80s.
What is Shirley Bassey’s net worth?
While her exact net worth is not publicly known, Shirley Bassey has an estimated net worth of around $25-30 million from her decades-long career as a top recording artist and performer.
How many albums has Shirley Bassey released?
Throughout her 70+ year career, Shirley Bassey has released an incredible 64 studio albums, as well as numerous live albums and compilations.
What are some of Shirley Bassey’s most famous songs?
Some of her biggest and most iconic hits include “Goldfinger,” “Diamonds Are Forever,” “Big Spender,” “This Is My Life,” and “Something.”
Has Shirley Bassey won any major awards?
Yes, Bassey is an award-winning superstar. She has received two Grammy nominations, picked up the Brit Award for Best British Female twice, and was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2000.
What was Shirley Bassey’s big break?
Bassey’s major career breakthrough came in 1957 when she recorded the hugely popular singles “Banana Boat Song” and “The Crying Game.”
What is Shirley Bassey’s most popular album?
1959’s “The Fabulous Shirley Bassey” is considered her signature album and best-selling release, reaching #3 on the UK charts.
What films has Shirley Bassey appeared in?
In addition to recording the iconic theme songs for James Bond films like Goldfinger and Diamonds Are Forever, Bassey has had small acting roles in movies like 1976’s Won Ton Ton, the Dog Who Saved Hollywood.
Is Shirley Bassey going on tour again soon?
While Bassey just wrapped up her massive 2022 world tour, the 86-year-old has stated she has no plans to retire and intends to hit the road again once her next album is released, likely sometime in 2024.
Where was Shirley Bassey born?
Bassey was born and raised in the Splott area of Cardiff, Wales.
What are Shirley Bassey’s vocal range and type?
Bassey is a mezzo-soprano with an incredibly wide vocal range spanning over three octaves. Her voice is also noted for its power and lush, smoky quality.
Is Shirley Bassey married?
Yes, Shirley Bassey has been married to Sergio Novak since the late 1960s. He is her second husband.
Does Shirley Bassey have any children?
Yes, Bassey has one daughter named Sharon from her first marriage to Kenneth Cullington.
What honors has Shirley Bassey received?
In addition to being made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE), Bassey has received the Légion d’honneur from France, the Israeli Wise Medal of Honor, and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
What are some of Shirley Bassey’s musical influences?
Bassey has cited Judy Garland, Jo Stafford, and Frankie Laine as major vocal influences early in her career.
Is Shirley Bassey planning on retiring anytime soon?
At 86 years old, Bassey shows no signs of slowing down and has firmly stated she plans to continue recording and touring “for as long as possible.”
What charities or causes does Shirley Bassey support?
Throughout her life, Bassey has lent her time and voice to support various children’s charities, animal welfare initiatives, and organizations dedicated to stamping out racism.
What accomplishment is Shirley Bassey most proud of?
In her own words, Bassey has said: “If I’ve achieved anything, it is to have brought people a little joy through my singing.”
What is something most people don’t know about Shirley Bassey?
Despite her glamorous image, Bassey was born into poverty in Cardiff’s Tiger Bay area and worked as a factory worker and bathroom attendant before becoming a professional singer.
