Gabriel Rickles
James Bond theme songs are a big part of what makes the movies memorable. Each melody adds its own vibe, reflecting the action and drama of 007. From jazzy tunes to rock hits, these tracks connect fans to the world of Bond in a unique way.
From Russia with Love by Matt Monro (1963)
Matt Monro’s From Russia with Love has a subtle and romantic take on the title music with a soft, nostalgic feel. The 1963 track created an emotional connection for fans and helped shape the franchise’s early musical identity, gaining international appeal.
Goldfinger by Shirley Bassey (1964)
Goldfinger remains iconic with Shirley Bassey’s unforgettable vocal delivery. Released in 1964, this number set the standard for future compositions with its jazz style. It climbed to the eighth spot on the US Billboard Hot 100. The retakes were only due to technical and musical issues, as Bassey’s singing was perfect each time!
Diamonds Are Forever (1971) by Shirley Bassey
Shirley Bassey’s second Bond composition, Diamonds Are Forever, is another hit. The number features catchy beats and clever lyrics. Known for her strong voice, Bassey makes the track memorable and inspired artists like Kanye West and Arctic Monkeys, showing its lasting popularity in the Bond series.
Nobody Does It Better by Carly Simon (1977)
A Bond song without the movie’s title? Nobody Does It Better changed the rules and captured hearts with its sweeping romantic vibe. Carly Simon’s voice and heartfelt lyrics brought out a softer side of Bond, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100—a fan favorite, without a doubt.
The Living Daylights by A-ha (1987)
A chart-topping hit in Europe, The Living Daylight is among the ‘A’s in A-ha’s setlist. With this theme, A-ha introduced their synth-pop sound to the scene. Their new wave music, rich in synthesizer tunes and bassline, captured a new side of Bond—moody and mysterious.
License to Kill by Gladys Knight (1989)
Gladys Knight lent her deep voice, giving Bond fans a taste of soul. License to Kill tips its hat to the classic Goldfinger theme from an emotional depth. It reached top-10 status in the UK, blending Bond’s danger and Knight’s unmistakable voice for a fresh twist.
GoldenEye by Tina Turner (1995)
Released in 1995, Tina Turner’s composition reinvigorated the list through her sultry and commanding chorus. The melody’s lyrics explore betrayal and desire, similar to the film’s character dynamics. Co-written by Bono and The Edge, GoldenEye achieved global success.
Tomorrow Never Dies by Sheryl Crow (1997)
Sheryl Crow put her own stamp on the film sound with Tomorrow Never Dies. It’s a song that sticks in your mind. Crow’s edgy vocals and sharp lyrics gave the series a modern feel. The song earned Golden Globe and Grammy nominations.
The World Is Not Enough by Garbage (1999)
The World Is Not Enough has an alternative twist. This theme by Garbage has layered sound and haunting lyrics that perfectly fit the franchise’s darker turn of intensity of espionage. Fans appreciated this fresh, angsty approach, and it earned a place on top charts around the world.
Die Another Day by Madonna (2002)
This title mixes pop and electronic music, focusing on ideas of survival and resilience. Die Another Day reached number 8 on the US Billboard Hot 100, later reaching the top spot in several countries. It also became one of the best-selling singles of all time and boosted Madonna’s status in pop culture.
You Know My Name by Chris Cornell (2006)
You Know My Name introduced a gritty rock sound to the franchise with Cornell’s gritty singing and intense guitar riffs. Despite leaking online in September 2006, it was officially released in November 2006. It charted globally and peaked at No. 7 in the UK, impressing fans through its raw energy.
Skyfall by Adele (2012)
Adele’s Skyfall is Bond ballad perfection. Her deep, soulful voice gave an emotional weight to the series, earning an Academy Award and topping charts in 11 countries. Selling over 7 million copies, Skyfall set an even higher bar for James Bond themes and re-established its music’s classic appeal.
Writing’s on the Wall by Sam Smith (2015)
Having expressive sound and moving lyrics, Writings on the Wall was released in 2015 for Spectre. Smith’s soaring chorus and heartfelt delivery spoke directly to the audience, leading to significant acclaim. It won the Golden Globe and Academy Award for Best Original Song.
No Time to Die by Billie Eilish (2020)
Billie Eilish brought a new generation into Bond’s world. Her signature moody sound and acoustic singing topped the UK charts and earned Grammy and Academy Awards. As the youngest Bond artist, Eilish’s approach is what keeps the themes fresh and relevant in the modern era.
Thunderball by Tom Jones (1965)
Tom Jones infused a dramatic flair to the series with Thunderball. Released in 1965, this track showcased Jones’ booming voice against an intense, orchestral backdrop. It resonated strongly with audiences, reaching #35 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying Jones’ place in Bond history.
