A world-famous singer with a big voice and a

glamorous reputation, Shirley Bassey has recorded

numerous hits, including three James Bond theme songs.

Shirley Bassey was born on January 8, 1937, in

Cardiff, Wales. A singer since childhood, Bassey's bold voice, along with her perseverance, helped

her move beyond her impoverished upbringing. Of mixed-race heritage (with an English mother and a Nigerian father), Bassey reached a level of

international acclaim that few other black British performers had seen before her. She recorded numerous hits throughout her career, including the theme songs for three James Bond films:

Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever and Moonraker.

Cool, white Nigerian......