Dame Vera Lynn

Dame Vera Lynn, known as "Forces' Sweetheart," topped Britain's album chart 70 years after she first stepped into a recording studio.

The 92-year-old singer on Monday became the oldest living artist to have a number one record in Britain when her album "We'll Meet Again — The Very Best of Vera Lynn" beat the Arctic Monkeys and even the Beatles to capture the No. 1 record in Britain.

Lynn was known as the "Forces' Sweetheart," and her songs were evocative reminders of home for British soldiers during World War II. Besides "We'll Meet Again — The Very Best of Vera Lynn," her songs also include "We'll Meet Again," "As Time Goes By," and "White Cliffs of Dover."

"In a sense, it's comfort music," said music writer John Aizlewood. "These are quite uncertain times, and quite austere times, as well. And in these times, you need music to help pull you through."

He attributed much of Lynn's resurgence to nostalgia, a longing for simplicity and old-fashioned values, and "pensioner power."

Broadcaster Paul Gambaccini attributed part of the attraction to the convenience of having all of Lynn's seminal songs in one place.

Lynn said she doesn't intend to record again and told the BBC she was puzzled by her comeback.

"I think it's because of the problems going on with fighting in various parts and a bit of nostalgia, but I don't know," Lynn said. "I'd like someone to tell me."

Lynn is still working hard to urge support for troops fighting in Afghanistan.

(Xinhua/Agencies September 15, 2009)