Dame Shirley Bassey receives top honour from King Charles

Written by Jack Grey from PA Media, this article was featured on BBC News.

Singer Dame Shirley Bassey admitted that being honored by King Charles III made her feel more anxious than performing for him on stage.

The 87-year-old legend from Wales mentioned that she "neglected to perform a curtsy" when she was honored with the title of Companion of Honour during a ceremony at Windsor Castle.

The prestigious honor is given for outstanding service of great significance to the nation and is only given to 65 individuals.

Dame Shirley, who was knighted in 1999, mentioned that it was her first meeting with the King since he ascended the throne.

She said that she feels more anxious getting the award from him than singing in front of him.

I'm saying, it's fresh, unique, whereas singing is something I've been doing since I was young.

I neglected to do a curtsy, so instead I quickly took his hands as a way to make up for my mistake.

When inquired about being labeled as an icon, she responded, "It can feel great at times, but it can also be lonely and bothersome - especially when you're trying to enjoy a meal at a restaurant and strangers come to sit at your table without being asked."

The most dazzling moment of her life, according to her, was when she performed for the late Queen at the Royal Variety Performance for the first time.

"I have experienced 70 years of exciting and flashy moments," she exclaimed.

I believe the initial time I performed for the Queen at the Royal Variety was during my debut show. After that, I had the opportunity to perform a number of times and became quite nonchalant about it.

The singer from Cardiff expressed her gratitude and overwhelming emotions when she found out she would be receiving the title in the upcoming New Year Honours list.

"When I was a young girl in Tiger Bay, I used to fantasize about exploring different parts of the world. I never thought that my talent would lead me to where I am today," she expressed during that period.

Throughout my career journey, I have always been willing to take risks, have faith in my abilities, and boldly seize new opportunities.