Bond soundtracks have become iconic over the years. They’ve defined the suave yet dangerous world of 007.
But they’ve also had a significant influence on popular culture, as well as the films themselves, with many going down in history.
Here are ten of them that have left an indelible mark.
Goldfinger (1964) – Shirley Bassey
Goldfinger is the most iconic Bond movie theme of all time. Shirley Bassey’s powerful voice, coupled with John Barry’s dramatic orchestration, set the standard for all Bond songs moving forward.
Live and Let Die (1973) – Paul McCartney
Rock and orchestral flair were brought to the table by Paul McCartney in Live and Let Die.
The shift in dynamics in the song mirrored the unpredictability of the film itself. This track rightly earned an Oscar nomination.
You Know My Name (2006) – Chris Cornell
Casino Royale is renowned for its excellent gambling scenes that make you think of playing all your favourite casino slots.
But it’s also famed for the iconic Chris Cornell track You Know My Name.
Skyfall (2012) – Adele
Adele’s “Skyfall” did a fantastic job of blending contemporary sound with the iconic traditional Bond elements.
Her deep and soulful voice conveyed the track in a way that made it fresh and relevant. This theme also catapulted Adele to stardom.
You Only Live Twice (1967) – Nancy Sinatra
Nancy Sinatra’s “You Only Live Twice” was produced by John Barry in a way that makes it sophisticated yet appealing.
Sinatra’s voice and the dreamy strings lend themselves to the exotic and mysterious tone of the film.
Nobody Does It Better (1977) – Carly Simon
Carly Simon’s “Nobody Does It Better” is a beloved Bond song. It was a departure from the typical Bond style, as it was a soft rock ballad rather than being a dramatic anthem.
But it worked, as it encapsulated the romantic undercurrent of “The Spy Who Loved Me.”
A View to a Kill (1985) – Duran Duran
“A View to a Kill” by Duran Duran is the only Bond theme that ever made it to number one on the U.S. Billboard Top 100.
Duran Duran brought their new wave sound to the table, combining it with John Barry’s orchestral arrangement.
Thunderball (1965) – Tom Jones
“Thunderball,”, the music icon delivered one of the most powerful Bond themes of all time.
Jones’ intense performance with the dramatic brass made the song thrilling and unmistakably Bond.
GoldenEye (1995) – Tina Turner
“GoldenEye” was performed by Tina Turner after being written by U2’s Bono and The Edge.
The song marked a triumphant return for the Bond series, and Turner, with her commanding voice, was perfect for the occasion. It was an instant classic.
Diamonds Are Forever (1971) – Shirley Bassey
Shirley Bassey is no stranger to iconic Bond themes, and “Diamonds Are Forever” was her second.
The lyrics hint at the allure and danger associated with Bond’s world, and Bassey’s legendary performance took the track to the next level. It’s a track that’s still sampled today.