James Bond films, regardless of the director or actor, adhere to a familiar structure. The opening scenes typically include several classic elements: the iconic gun-barrel sequence, a pre-title teaser, and, crucially, the elaborate title credits paired with an original theme song.
These theme songs are essential to the Bond experience. They not only enhance the dramatic visuals but also reflect the film’s era. (You wouldn’t expect to hear a Sean Connery-style theme in a Daniel Craig movie, for instance.) For musicians, recording a Bond theme is a notable milestone, though not all Many of them have endured throughout time.
Over the years, we’ve encountered some truly lackluster themes (looking at you, Madonna), others that are merely forgettable (like Sam Smith), and some that have become iconic, such as Shirley Bassey’s “Goldfinger.” Here’s our ranking of all the James Bond theme songs, from least to most memorable.
Chris Cornell – “You Know My Name”
In Daniel Craig’s debut as 007, the theme for Casino Royale didn’t quite capture the film’s fresh take on the iconic spy. Instead of a standout Bond song, it resembles a track from a late-’90s grunge compilation.
Tom Jones – “Thunderball”
Tom Jones was an ideal choice for a Bond theme after Shirley Bassey’s success. However, “Thunderball” ended up feeling like a rehash, with lyrics about a man striking “like thunderball,” which is puzzling.
Lulu – “The Man With the Golden Gun”
Lulu’s upbeat style typically shines in her hits, but this theme song comes off as awkward and disjointed.
Madonna – “Die Another Day”
Madonna might have made a stronger impact with a Bond song in the ’80s. Instead, her contribution to Pierce Brosnan’s final Bond film is a heavily Auto-Tuned dance track with the odd line, “Sigmund Freud: Analyze this.” Not the right fit!
A-ha – “The Living Daylights”
What a Bond theme David Bowie could have recorded! Instead, the producers chose A-ha, resulting in a song that didn’t quite live up to expectations.
Lani Hall – “Never Say Never Again”
With music by Michael Legrand and captivating vocals by Lani Hall, this song strays from the typical Bond sound. While pleasant, it doesn’t elevate the film’s opening.
Shirley Bassey – “Moonraker”
“Moonraker” features the classic Bond elements: grand orchestration, an engaging tempo, and Bassey’s powerful voice, yet it remains somewhat forgettable.
Sam Smith – “Writing’s on the Wall”
Sam Smith’s Oscar-winning song from Spectre is decent but ultimately feels like a standard ballad, lacking distinction.
Matt Monro – “From Russia With Love”
As the second Bond film, this entry included the first original song for the credits. Matt Monro’s contribution is nice but not particularly memorable.
Duran Duran – “A View to a Kill”
Though fun and upbeat, Duran Duran’s “A View to a Kill” feels like a missed opportunity without co-star Grace Jones lending her voice.
Garbage – “The World Is Not Enough”
Shirley Manson’s vocals fit the Bond aesthetic well, and “The World Is Not Enough” effectively merges traditional Bond elements with a rock vibe, though it isn’t a standout.
Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass – “Casino Royale”
This lively track from the 1967 parody Casino Royale, performed by Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass, captures a playful spirit, ideal for the film’s comedic tone.
Adele – “Skyfall”
Adele’s 2012 theme was the first Bond song to win an Oscar for Best Original Song, and it’s a fantastic addition, coinciding with the success of her album 21.
Sheryl Crow – “Tomorrow Never Dies”
Sheryl Crow’s unexpected entry into the Bond theme repertoire showcases her sultry vocals, encapsulating a laid-back ’90s vibe, even if it strays from her usual style.
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Gladys Knight – “License to Kill”
Gladys Knight infuses this Bond theme with soulful energy, balancing the dramatic elements of an ’80s love ballad with her signature flair, even pulling off a tux in the music video.
Jack White & Alicia Keys – “Another Way to Die”
The duet for Quantum of Solace stands out in the Bond franchise, combining White’s rock style with Keys’s soulful voice. It’s a solid collaboration, though not particularly unforgettable.