Part II of Mark Cerulli's interview with Gloria Hendry: The Music

By: Mark Cerulli

Published:
2024-06-20

Gloria Hendry, singer, interview, the music

The second and final part of FSWL writer Mark Cerulli's exclusive interview with actress and singer Gloria Hendry focuses on her music. Hendry is well-known in the James Bond community as Rosie Carver in the eigth film, Live and Let Die (1973), directed by Guy Hamilton who returned for his third film at the helm. (Part I one this interview was published on 24th March 2024.)

“I love Shirley Bassey,” Gloria Hendry enthuses during our long-ranging interview from her home in Los Angeles, “She is THE Bond vocalist, especially of those yesteryear songs. Those songs helped make Bond.”

Along with acting, Gloria has developed a solid singing career, selling out clubs and – of course – covering some Bond title tracks, especially “Live and Let Die”: “It’s still relevant today, isn’t it?” she says of the Paul McCartney classic. Gloria also sings “Diamonds Are Forever”, “All Time High”, “Look of Love”, “Goldfinger”, “You Only Live Twice”, “Thunderball” and “GoldenEye”, each with her unique jazzy spin.

A big part of her show is the massive orchestra that backs her. For many years, it was led by the legendary bandleader, Jimmy McConnell. “He was my introduction to singing with an 18-piece big band. What an opportunity to work with them and rehearse with them.” Recently, Gloria put together her own big band, finding 18 seasoned musicians in LA’s jumping music scene. They backed her at her sold-out concert in Hollywood’s Catalina Club in May. Other dates will be announced.

Gloria Hendry, concert, Vibrato Jazz Grill

Gloria Hendry, concert, Vibrato Jazz Grill

Gloria Hendry during a concert at Vibrato Jazz and Grill in Los Angeles on 8th February 2024. Photo by Mark Cerulli.

When Gloria does a show, she has a routine – “I lock onto the band, not the people because they’re there to watch us,” she explains. “It’s theater, we have to have a good time up there.” Many of her shows are hosted by Gloria’s cousin, Robert Parham, a 6-time world champion Martial artist who she trades fight moves with during “Live and Let Die.” Her theme is Martial arts which Gloria believes should be a part of physical education, from grade school right through college. “Martial arts and one-on-one physical victim crime have been a big part of my life.” Nonetheless, Gloria is a true survivor, climbing her way to the top of a ruthless business using her looks, talent and inner strength.

Every Bond fan should check out at least one of Gloria’s electric shows – just don’t get in the way of her punches during “Live And Let Die!”

Want to hear Gloria in your own home? Listen to her album Gloria Hendry Sings with Legendary Jimmy McConnell and his Big Band Live on Spotify.

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Part II of Mark Cerulli's interview with Gloria Hendry: The Music

Every Bond fan should check out at least one of Gloria’s electric shows – just don’t get in the way of her punches during “Live And Let Die!”

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