Oscar-winning composer for James Bond films, John Barry died today. He was 77. As the man behind the sound of the swinging Sixties 007 era and beyond, he presented the big band extravaganzas for the Bond films. He won Oscars for his work on Dances with Wolves, Out of Africa, and Born Free, but he will be best known for his opening themes for the Bonds (though, famously, NOT for the James Bond theme itself, credited to Monty Norman). Over the 12 films he scored, he saw four different Bonds: Sean Connery, George Lazenby(?!), Timothy Dalton, and Roger Moore. He also enlisted Nancy Sinatra, A-Ha, Duran Duran, Tom Jones and the amazing Shirley Bassey for these iconic theme songs. They just don't make 'em like they used to. So for a look back at John Barry's work, we present all of John Barry's opening songs for James Bond films.
12. Dr. No
Year: 1962
Facts: There have been disputes as to who actually wrote the iconic James Bond theme. Some have alleged that Barry not Monty Norman was behind it all.
11. Octopussy
Year: 1983
Featuring: Rita Coolidge
10. Thunderball
Year: 1965
Featuring: Tom Jones
Facts: Johnny Cash wrote a theme song for the film that was never used.
9. Moonraker
Year: 1979
Featuring: Shirley Bassey
8. The Living Daylights
Year: 1987
Featuring: Norwegian popsters, A-Ha
7. Man with the Golden Gun
Year: 1974
Featuring: Scottish popstar Lulu
6. A View to Kill
Year: 1985
Featuring: Duran Duran
5. You Only Live Twice
Year: 1967
Featuring: Nancy Sinatra
4. From Russia With Love
Year: 1963
Featuring: Matt Monro
3. On Her Majesty's Secret Service
Year: 1969
Facts: Barry also wrote “We Have All the Time in the World” featuring Louis Armstrong for the film. The theme song was also the first time a Moog synth was used on a soundtrack.
2. Diamonds Are Forever
Year: 1971
Featuring: Shirley Bassey
1. Gold Finger
Year: 1964
Featuring: Shirley Bassey
Which one is your favorite?
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