The Best Of Bond #2: Main Title Songs
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Continuing today is the new review series: The Best Of Bond, which is much in line with the previous Countdown: CBn Reviews The James Bond 007 Films series.
A variety of topics which relate to the James Bond films will be chosen in the upcoming weeks where fans choose their favourites (and least favourites) of the films on the basis of the current topic.
The second topic is: Main Title Songs
Be sure to also check out (and add in your choices if you have not yet) The Best Of Bond #1: The Stunts
Simply choose up to 3 of your favourite and 3 of your least favourite James Bond films based on the stunts of that film and please explain the reasoning behind your choices.
The Best Of Bond #2: Main Title Songs
Started by
Qwerty
, Jun 12 2007 09:28 PM
59 replies to this topic
#1
Qwerty
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Posted 12 June 2007 - 09:28 PM
#2
Qwerty
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Posted 12 June 2007 - 09:40 PM
[box]FAVOURITES:
1 - Moonraker by Shirley Bassey
Compared to Shirley Bassey's previous two title tracks, Goldfinger and Diamonds Are Forever, Moonraker is the one that is almost always overlooked. Bassey herself only recently started to perform this song in public along with the other two. With lyrics by Hal David, its haunting melody and conviction from Bassey that strikes in all the right places (but never goes over the top), Moonraker is a winner and the best of the best.
2 - [film=99]On Her Majesty
1 - Moonraker by Shirley Bassey
Compared to Shirley Bassey's previous two title tracks, Goldfinger and Diamonds Are Forever, Moonraker is the one that is almost always overlooked. Bassey herself only recently started to perform this song in public along with the other two. With lyrics by Hal David, its haunting melody and conviction from Bassey that strikes in all the right places (but never goes over the top), Moonraker is a winner and the best of the best.
2 - [film=99]On Her Majesty
#3
tdalton
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Posted 12 June 2007 - 09:50 PM
Favorites:
1. "For Your Eyes Only" by Sheena Easton
Perfectly fits the mood of the film, and is very well peformed by Sheena Easton. I think that the series needs more title tracks like this one.
2. "Nobody Does it Better" by Carly Simon
I like this one because it is a very iconic song that has really transcended the movie that it's in. It's also in a similar style to "For Your Eyes Only", which I think is very fitting for a Bond movie moreso than other styles of music.
3. "You Know My Name" by Chris Cornell
A great rock song that really introduced the best James Bond (Daniel Craig) with a great deal of energy that has been lacking from the franchise for quite a while.
Least Favorites:
1. "Die Another Day" by Madonna
Just a very bad song. I also find it very inappropriate when considering that this feels very much like a dance song that one might hear in a club, yet it is set to Bond being tortured. It really took the tension and suspense out of that scene.
2. "The Man With The Golden Gun" by Lulu
This one just doesn't sound good. I don't like the musical arrangement on this one at all.
3. "Tomorrow Never Dies" by Sheryl Crow
I wouldn't necesarilly say that this is a bad song, as I certainly don't dislike it, but I can't think of anything else to put below it in the rankings. Also, K.d. Lange's "Surrender" that is featured in the closing credits would have been a far superior title song for the film.
1. "For Your Eyes Only" by Sheena Easton
Perfectly fits the mood of the film, and is very well peformed by Sheena Easton. I think that the series needs more title tracks like this one.
2. "Nobody Does it Better" by Carly Simon
I like this one because it is a very iconic song that has really transcended the movie that it's in. It's also in a similar style to "For Your Eyes Only", which I think is very fitting for a Bond movie moreso than other styles of music.
3. "You Know My Name" by Chris Cornell
A great rock song that really introduced the best James Bond (Daniel Craig) with a great deal of energy that has been lacking from the franchise for quite a while.
Least Favorites:
1. "Die Another Day" by Madonna
Just a very bad song. I also find it very inappropriate when considering that this feels very much like a dance song that one might hear in a club, yet it is set to Bond being tortured. It really took the tension and suspense out of that scene.
2. "The Man With The Golden Gun" by Lulu
This one just doesn't sound good. I don't like the musical arrangement on this one at all.
3. "Tomorrow Never Dies" by Sheryl Crow
I wouldn't necesarilly say that this is a bad song, as I certainly don't dislike it, but I can't think of anything else to put below it in the rankings. Also, K.d. Lange's "Surrender" that is featured in the closing credits would have been a far superior title song for the film.
#4
LadySylvia
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Posted 12 June 2007 - 10:09 PM
3 Best:
1. "Nobody Does It Better" (The Spy Who Loved Me) - I'm not surprised that this song had received an Oscar nomination. I'm only surprised that it lost to "You Light Up My Life".
2. "Live and Let Die" (Live and Let Die) - The best thing that Paul McCartney has ever done without the Beatles.
3. "Goldfinger" (Goldfinger) - Although I like "Moonraker" very much, I like this Shirley Bassey even more. A Bond tune at its brassiest, without being tacky.
3 Worst:
1. "Goldeneye" (Goldeneye) - My God, my God! Without a doubt the worst Bond song I have ever heard. Poor Tina Turner! Does this song have some semblance of a tune or rhythm?
2. "The Man With the Golden Gun" (The Man With the Golden Gun) - There is something about this song that seems decidedly off . . . like the movie it is part of. It seems as if the singer, Lulu and the songwriter were trying to hard to make this a Bond song.
3. "Thunderball" (Thunderball) - Actually, the beat isn't bad, but there is something unpleasantly sexist about the song's lyrics. And Tom Jones is a bit too over-the-top in his singing.
1. "Nobody Does It Better" (The Spy Who Loved Me) - I'm not surprised that this song had received an Oscar nomination. I'm only surprised that it lost to "You Light Up My Life".
2. "Live and Let Die" (Live and Let Die) - The best thing that Paul McCartney has ever done without the Beatles.
3. "Goldfinger" (Goldfinger) - Although I like "Moonraker" very much, I like this Shirley Bassey even more. A Bond tune at its brassiest, without being tacky.
3 Worst:
1. "Goldeneye" (Goldeneye) - My God, my God! Without a doubt the worst Bond song I have ever heard. Poor Tina Turner! Does this song have some semblance of a tune or rhythm?
2. "The Man With the Golden Gun" (The Man With the Golden Gun) - There is something about this song that seems decidedly off . . . like the movie it is part of. It seems as if the singer, Lulu and the songwriter were trying to hard to make this a Bond song.
3. "Thunderball" (Thunderball) - Actually, the beat isn't bad, but there is something unpleasantly sexist about the song's lyrics. And Tom Jones is a bit too over-the-top in his singing.
#5
AZabko007
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Posted 13 June 2007 - 09:23 PM
Top 3:
1) "Nobody Does It Better" - Carly Simon. The Oscar nom was well worth it for this song. Not just a great Bond song, though it does work incredibly well for the character, but a great song, period.
2) "You Know My Name" - Chris Cornell. Perfectly encapsulates the sound of the new Bond while giving a nod to the roots of the Bond songs of the past.
3) "Moonraker" - Shirley Bassey. Though many find "Goldfinger" to be Bassey's best, I would put this one just above it as the better song. A beautiful melody paired with beautiful lyrics gets me every time, and this song illustrates both, well, beautifully. And yes, I'm referring to the main titles version (though the end credits "disco" mix is a bit of a guilty pleasure
) It also helps that I keep hearing the first 20 seconds or so being used in a commercial these days; every time I do, I can't help but play the rest of it!
Bottom 3:
1) "Die Another Day" - Madonna. Simply terrible. I agree with the earlier post that it does not at all belong being played over the montage of Bond's torture. This is the perfect example of how Bond started to go off the deep edge. My advice: wait for the credits to start, hit mute, and focus on watching the character of Bond rather than listening to something even more painful.
2) "The Man With The Golden Gun" - Lulu. Here's an example of a decent melody (at least when Barry infuses his score with it) being butchered by terrible lyrics and a cheesy arrangement. Another factor that ruined the film's potential as being one of the best.
3) "All Time High" - Rita Coolidge. Another less-than-mediocre, cheesy song which felt out of place, even during the Moore era.
1) "Nobody Does It Better" - Carly Simon. The Oscar nom was well worth it for this song. Not just a great Bond song, though it does work incredibly well for the character, but a great song, period.
2) "You Know My Name" - Chris Cornell. Perfectly encapsulates the sound of the new Bond while giving a nod to the roots of the Bond songs of the past.
3) "Moonraker" - Shirley Bassey. Though many find "Goldfinger" to be Bassey's best, I would put this one just above it as the better song. A beautiful melody paired with beautiful lyrics gets me every time, and this song illustrates both, well, beautifully. And yes, I'm referring to the main titles version (though the end credits "disco" mix is a bit of a guilty pleasure
) It also helps that I keep hearing the first 20 seconds or so being used in a commercial these days; every time I do, I can't help but play the rest of it!Bottom 3:
1) "Die Another Day" - Madonna. Simply terrible. I agree with the earlier post that it does not at all belong being played over the montage of Bond's torture. This is the perfect example of how Bond started to go off the deep edge. My advice: wait for the credits to start, hit mute, and focus on watching the character of Bond rather than listening to something even more painful.
2) "The Man With The Golden Gun" - Lulu. Here's an example of a decent melody (at least when Barry infuses his score with it) being butchered by terrible lyrics and a cheesy arrangement. Another factor that ruined the film's potential as being one of the best.
3) "All Time High" - Rita Coolidge. Another less-than-mediocre, cheesy song which felt out of place, even during the Moore era.
#6
00Twelve
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Posted 13 June 2007 - 10:01 PM
1. You Know My Name - I've heard it over and over, and it's just grown to be my favorite to listen to, and the most driving title tune I can think of in the series. I love the version in the film and the pop mix, as they do sound more Bondian with the orchestration. The lyrics are some of my favorite (as Bond lyrics go...none of them are extremely profound), and it's woven well into Casino Royale's score.
2. Live And Let Die - You can't go wrong with Paul McCartney and a driving orchestral interlude like the one in this song. This song really broke Bond out of the crooner/belter box, and showed that rock can sound great in these films. It paved the way for CR's title tune above.
3. Diamonds Are Forever - Bassey at her best, IMO. I liked her seductive sound much more than her big belting in Goldfinger, and this song is just way sexier than Moonraker, IMO. This song and its orchestration are the best parts of the whole score as well.
_______
(3 = worst)
1. Tomorrow Never Dies - People can go on forever about Cornell "not being right" for a Bond song all they want. He'll never be a worse choice than Sheryl Crow, IMO. She may be good at accoustic stuff, but crooning/belting isn't her bag. And that's okay. 'Surrender' absolutely should have been the main title.
2. The Man With The Golden Gun - The lyrics are amusing, and are at least a good try for the story that the song accompanied. But they don't save the song from Lulu. She's doing a Bassey imitation, and it grates.
3. Die Another Day - Props for being experimental, but no. The strings were the saving grace of this one. Too bad, too. Madonna has the chops to do a potentially great song, but the over-mixed stuff has been her style lately, and it's just awkward here. Plus, the song wasn't even orchestrated for the film (oh, another problem for TND!). Arnold has gotten a bum deal twice being stuck with artists hired for their commercial potential at the last minute, so he can't use their song in the film.
2. Live And Let Die - You can't go wrong with Paul McCartney and a driving orchestral interlude like the one in this song. This song really broke Bond out of the crooner/belter box, and showed that rock can sound great in these films. It paved the way for CR's title tune above.
3. Diamonds Are Forever - Bassey at her best, IMO. I liked her seductive sound much more than her big belting in Goldfinger, and this song is just way sexier than Moonraker, IMO. This song and its orchestration are the best parts of the whole score as well.
_______
(3 = worst)
1. Tomorrow Never Dies - People can go on forever about Cornell "not being right" for a Bond song all they want. He'll never be a worse choice than Sheryl Crow, IMO. She may be good at accoustic stuff, but crooning/belting isn't her bag. And that's okay. 'Surrender' absolutely should have been the main title.
2. The Man With The Golden Gun - The lyrics are amusing, and are at least a good try for the story that the song accompanied. But they don't save the song from Lulu. She's doing a Bassey imitation, and it grates.
3. Die Another Day - Props for being experimental, but no. The strings were the saving grace of this one. Too bad, too. Madonna has the chops to do a potentially great song, but the over-mixed stuff has been her style lately, and it's just awkward here. Plus, the song wasn't even orchestrated for the film (oh, another problem for TND!). Arnold has gotten a bum deal twice being stuck with artists hired for their commercial potential at the last minute, so he can't use their song in the film.
#7
RJJB
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Posted 13 June 2007 - 10:03 PM
BEST:
1. Goldfinger If there is any Bond song that has status as a music icon for the series, it's Goldfinger. Brassy, and completely suitable and relevant to the movie. You can not hear this song without remembering the movie. Some of the later songs do not share this quality.
2. Thunderball Big, epic and powerful, again tying in beautifully to the movie. I like the Mr. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang song, but this is the song that the movie deserved.
3. From Russia With Love I just like this song. Both versions in the movie, instrumental and vocal certainly fit the themes of the movie. The instrumental has enough of a tone of mystery for the movie's Eastern European settings. Having the vocal version at the film's conclusion is a fitting way to end the love story.
I especially like these songs as they incoporate the James Bond theme as secondary melodies. It underlies the GF and TB tracks. And in FRWL, it finishes off the instrumental version to produce the tie in to Bond. Maybe unnecessary, but still enjoyable.
Worst.
1. All Time High Quick--put Rita Coolidge out of her misery. This song is just painful to hear. It belongs to a girly movie, not a Bond movie, even a Roger Moore movie.
2. The Man with the Golden Gun Bad melody and lyrics sink this one. It should have been an instrumental. Trying to make the title into a melody is just poor. Even John Barry admits this is a stinker. "Will he bang? We shall see!"
3. Nobody Does It Better More girly lyrics and Carly Simon's screeching add up to a song that went high on the pop charts, but it still is a weak Bond song.
1. Goldfinger If there is any Bond song that has status as a music icon for the series, it's Goldfinger. Brassy, and completely suitable and relevant to the movie. You can not hear this song without remembering the movie. Some of the later songs do not share this quality.
2. Thunderball Big, epic and powerful, again tying in beautifully to the movie. I like the Mr. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang song, but this is the song that the movie deserved.
3. From Russia With Love I just like this song. Both versions in the movie, instrumental and vocal certainly fit the themes of the movie. The instrumental has enough of a tone of mystery for the movie's Eastern European settings. Having the vocal version at the film's conclusion is a fitting way to end the love story.
I especially like these songs as they incoporate the James Bond theme as secondary melodies. It underlies the GF and TB tracks. And in FRWL, it finishes off the instrumental version to produce the tie in to Bond. Maybe unnecessary, but still enjoyable.
Worst.
1. All Time High Quick--put Rita Coolidge out of her misery. This song is just painful to hear. It belongs to a girly movie, not a Bond movie, even a Roger Moore movie.
2. The Man with the Golden Gun Bad melody and lyrics sink this one. It should have been an instrumental. Trying to make the title into a melody is just poor. Even John Barry admits this is a stinker. "Will he bang? We shall see!"
3. Nobody Does It Better More girly lyrics and Carly Simon's screeching add up to a song that went high on the pop charts, but it still is a weak Bond song.
#8
Bond111
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Posted 14 June 2007 - 04:18 AM
[box]FAVORITES:
1) [film=99]On Her Majesty
1) [film=99]On Her Majesty
#9
sharpshooter
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Posted 16 June 2007 - 01:25 AM
1. You Know My Name - Rousing and upbeat. The chorus sells it for me.
2. Live and Let Die - Killer theme. Does not rely on lyrics as such. Very catchy.
3. The Living Daylights - Another male vocalist. Strong song.
4. OHMSS - One of the best themes of all time. Enough said.
5. GoldenEye - Fits the tone for the rest of the movie. Bono and the Edge collaborated on this one.
6. The World is not Enough - Slick and haunting. Has been a favourite since I heard it on the big screen.
2. Live and Let Die - Killer theme. Does not rely on lyrics as such. Very catchy.
3. The Living Daylights - Another male vocalist. Strong song.
4. OHMSS - One of the best themes of all time. Enough said.
5. GoldenEye - Fits the tone for the rest of the movie. Bono and the Edge collaborated on this one.
6. The World is not Enough - Slick and haunting. Has been a favourite since I heard it on the big screen.
Edited by sharpshooter, 16 June 2007 - 01:33 AM.
#10
erniecureo
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Posted 17 June 2007 - 09:30 PM
Best: Diamonds Are Forever
This is the best song by far. The opening crytalline notes, Shirley's voice easing in, then the horns and bass line picking up the pace. Clever lyrics--this song has it all. Like the best Bond songs, this one has sophistication, menace and a memorable tune that stays in your head long after hearing it.
Worst: Tie between Octopussy and License to Kill--
Neither impresses me--both of them sound like B-sides that were hurriedly slapped together to get an album out...
This is the best song by far. The opening crytalline notes, Shirley's voice easing in, then the horns and bass line picking up the pace. Clever lyrics--this song has it all. Like the best Bond songs, this one has sophistication, menace and a memorable tune that stays in your head long after hearing it.
Worst: Tie between Octopussy and License to Kill--
Neither impresses me--both of them sound like B-sides that were hurriedly slapped together to get an album out...
#11
Steed
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Posted 20 June 2007 - 10:34 AM
Best: 1- We Have All The Time In The World (as hauntingly beautiful as the film itself often is)
2- James Bond Theme (the most iconic, arguably)
3- Live And Let Die (remains very exciting and powerful)
I rather like All Time High as a tune but I suppose it doesn't have the characteristics one would expect of a Bond theme.
Worst:
1- Die Another Day (wretched, doesn't inspire much confidence in the rest of the film...)
2- The Man With The Golden Gun (even John Barry calls this the worst thing he's ever been associated with- the lyrics are the worst ever for a Bond theme, imho)
3- The Living Daylights (just doesn't work for me at all- rather a damp squib, imho)
2- James Bond Theme (the most iconic, arguably)
3- Live And Let Die (remains very exciting and powerful)
I rather like All Time High as a tune but I suppose it doesn't have the characteristics one would expect of a Bond theme.
Worst:
1- Die Another Day (wretched, doesn't inspire much confidence in the rest of the film...)
2- The Man With The Golden Gun (even John Barry calls this the worst thing he's ever been associated with- the lyrics are the worst ever for a Bond theme, imho)
3- The Living Daylights (just doesn't work for me at all- rather a damp squib, imho)
#12
Harmsway
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Posted 21 June 2007 - 05:14 AM
FAVORITES:
1) You Only Live Twice by Nancy Sinatra
A beautiful, haunting song with the best set of lyrics ever written for a Bond song. None of the others quite compare.
2) Diamonds Are Forever by Shirley Bassey
Fun, overblown, and sexy. Bassey's cranking out the attitude, and Barry's put together a great melody that perfectly fits the title lyrics.
3) You Know My Name by Chris Cornell
A rollicking Bond song that's horribly underrated. One of the best ever, really - hard edged and fun, and with a really Bondian core.
LEAST FAVOURITES:
1) Die Another Day by Madonna
A tuneless abortion of a song. It's simply not a good song, Bond song or no. And while Bond songs have had horrid lyrics, I think Madonna's lyrics really have to take the cake.
2) All Time High by Rita Coolidge
A mediocre effort without a particularly stunning melody, lyrics, or orchestration.
3) The Man with the Golden Gun by Lulu
The lyrics are awful, and the melody isn't that great, either. Really uninspired.
#13
The Richmond Spy
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Posted 21 June 2007 - 05:51 AM
FAVORITES
1) A View To A Kill- The opening of this song screams 80's Bond and the mixture of rock and vocals make it the anthem for a new Bond film. I would've been completely psyched to see the beginning of AVTAK after this in theaters...turns out it wasn't so bad on DVD either
2) The Living Daylights- Great way for Tim to start his first film. The chorus of this song definitely makes me think 80's Bond as well and the instrumental part at about the 3:00 mark is fantastic!
3) Thunderball- Has it all. Magnificent beginning with chilling vocals from Tom Jones...I wouldn't mind if this was used for more than a few films.
Honorable Mentions-
"You Know My Name"
"Licence To Kill"
LEAST FAVORITES
1) Never Say Never Again- In my opinion this is the worst part of the film, especially since (in the absence of a gunbarrel) more attention is put on it, IMO. Maybe if they'd put a AVTAK/TLD-like title song then the film would've done better than OP.
2) The Man With The Golden Gun- Feels like a rushed song...to go with a somewhat rushed film.
3) All Time High- I just about fall asleep thinking about how it goes.
Dishonorable Mentions-
"Die Another Day"- fun, but so long and non-Bond
"For Your Eyes Only"- non-Bond, IMO
1) A View To A Kill- The opening of this song screams 80's Bond and the mixture of rock and vocals make it the anthem for a new Bond film. I would've been completely psyched to see the beginning of AVTAK after this in theaters...turns out it wasn't so bad on DVD either
2) The Living Daylights- Great way for Tim to start his first film. The chorus of this song definitely makes me think 80's Bond as well and the instrumental part at about the 3:00 mark is fantastic!
3) Thunderball- Has it all. Magnificent beginning with chilling vocals from Tom Jones...I wouldn't mind if this was used for more than a few films.
Honorable Mentions-
"You Know My Name"
"Licence To Kill"
LEAST FAVORITES
1) Never Say Never Again- In my opinion this is the worst part of the film, especially since (in the absence of a gunbarrel) more attention is put on it, IMO. Maybe if they'd put a AVTAK/TLD-like title song then the film would've done better than OP.
2) The Man With The Golden Gun- Feels like a rushed song...to go with a somewhat rushed film.
3) All Time High- I just about fall asleep thinking about how it goes.
Dishonorable Mentions-
"Die Another Day"- fun, but so long and non-Bond
"For Your Eyes Only"- non-Bond, IMO
#14
mrsbonds_ppk
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Posted 21 June 2007 - 07:34 AM
BEST:
1. Nobody Does It Better - This song has a great melody and the lyrics are superb and describe James Bond very good and also the feelings that this woman has for him. Perfect Bond song.
2. Moonraker - So mellow and smooth. Such a lovely song and the way Shirley Bassey sings it is terrific. It can put you in a trance.
3. Live and Let Die - Suites the movie perfectly with it's touch of funk and classic styles. Paul and Linda McCartney and George Martin had the right idea.
Honorable Mentions:
Diamonds Are Forever
You Only Live Twice
A View To a Kill
Thunderball
Goldfinger
Worst:
1.sorry folks You Know My Name - It does nothing for me--and why?-- it's not the lyrics-- it's not really the music-- it's Chris Cornell. He doesn't sound right to me. And trust me I've tried to like this song, but it just doesn't work for me. It sounds cheap and phony.
2. Die Another Day - I like this way better than the previously mentioned song but this one is kinda strange and repetitive.
3. GoldenEye - It's boring. Tina Turner could've really knocked a Bond song out the park, but it was just...boring.
1. Nobody Does It Better - This song has a great melody and the lyrics are superb and describe James Bond very good and also the feelings that this woman has for him. Perfect Bond song.
2. Moonraker - So mellow and smooth. Such a lovely song and the way Shirley Bassey sings it is terrific. It can put you in a trance.
3. Live and Let Die - Suites the movie perfectly with it's touch of funk and classic styles. Paul and Linda McCartney and George Martin had the right idea.
Honorable Mentions:
Diamonds Are Forever
You Only Live Twice
A View To a Kill
Thunderball
Goldfinger
Worst:
1.sorry folks You Know My Name - It does nothing for me--and why?-- it's not the lyrics-- it's not really the music-- it's Chris Cornell. He doesn't sound right to me. And trust me I've tried to like this song, but it just doesn't work for me. It sounds cheap and phony.
2. Die Another Day - I like this way better than the previously mentioned song but this one is kinda strange and repetitive.
3. GoldenEye - It's boring. Tina Turner could've really knocked a Bond song out the park, but it was just...boring.
Edited by mrsbonds_ppk, 21 June 2007 - 07:36 AM.
#15
Brock Samson
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Posted 21 June 2007 - 01:22 PM
Favourites:
1)OHMSS. By a country mile. Probably the greatest spy theme ever. Catchy, dynamic and driving. Like the Mission: Impossible theme, instantly recognisable and evoking the pre-80s ideal that themes really sold the film/TV show in a bold and brassy way.
2)Live and Let Die. Balls out. This is a new Bond, get used to it.
3)Goldfinger. Great music, great lyrics, great voice. A veritable institution. Bond has arrived and things will never be the same.
Special mentions: Diamonds are Forever. Bassey does it again.
View to a Kill. Getting the biggest band in the world (at the time) to do a totally bonkers pop song? Twisted genius.
DR. NO/From Russia With Love. The Bond theme. Again, instantly recognisable and insanely catchy.
Least favourites:
I'm not bothering to rank them as they're all awful.
Die Another Day. Slapped together cod-electro nonsense, 'sung' by probably the most famous thieving magpie of all time who even manages to wangle a dreadful cameo.
Tomorrow Never Dies. "We've got this GREAT title song. It really evokes the classic Bond themes and the singer has a fantastic voice. I know, let's lob it on the end credits and get a more popular artist on the titles who, although totally unsuited to this type of song, will shift more units. Yeah."
All Time High/License to Kill. Definitive proof, if it were needed, that the 80s totally sucked.
1)OHMSS. By a country mile. Probably the greatest spy theme ever. Catchy, dynamic and driving. Like the Mission: Impossible theme, instantly recognisable and evoking the pre-80s ideal that themes really sold the film/TV show in a bold and brassy way.
2)Live and Let Die. Balls out. This is a new Bond, get used to it.
3)Goldfinger. Great music, great lyrics, great voice. A veritable institution. Bond has arrived and things will never be the same.
Special mentions: Diamonds are Forever. Bassey does it again.
View to a Kill. Getting the biggest band in the world (at the time) to do a totally bonkers pop song? Twisted genius.
DR. NO/From Russia With Love. The Bond theme. Again, instantly recognisable and insanely catchy.
Least favourites:
I'm not bothering to rank them as they're all awful.
Die Another Day. Slapped together cod-electro nonsense, 'sung' by probably the most famous thieving magpie of all time who even manages to wangle a dreadful cameo.
Tomorrow Never Dies. "We've got this GREAT title song. It really evokes the classic Bond themes and the singer has a fantastic voice. I know, let's lob it on the end credits and get a more popular artist on the titles who, although totally unsuited to this type of song, will shift more units. Yeah."
All Time High/License to Kill. Definitive proof, if it were needed, that the 80s totally sucked.
Edited by Brock Samson, 21 June 2007 - 01:23 PM.
#16
HawkEye007
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Posted 21 June 2007 - 02:09 PM
Favorites
1. The Living Daylights by A-Ha
Great '80s sound and it was woven into the film quite well.
2. A View To A Kill by Duran Duran
Its a great title song for what ended up being a lame film overall.
3. Nobody Does It Better by Carly Simon
When I was a kid I associated this song with all things Bond
Least Favorites
1. Die Another Day by Madonna
Worst ever, no doubt about it. Way to poppy and synth.
2. All Time High by Rita Coolidge
Boring and it sounds like it should be on the soundtrack of a chick flick.
3. Moonraker by Shirley Bassey
She does a great job vocally, but it can't change the fact that the song stinks lyrically.
1. The Living Daylights by A-Ha
Great '80s sound and it was woven into the film quite well.
2. A View To A Kill by Duran Duran
Its a great title song for what ended up being a lame film overall.
3. Nobody Does It Better by Carly Simon
When I was a kid I associated this song with all things Bond
Least Favorites
1. Die Another Day by Madonna
Worst ever, no doubt about it. Way to poppy and synth.
2. All Time High by Rita Coolidge
Boring and it sounds like it should be on the soundtrack of a chick flick.
3. Moonraker by Shirley Bassey
She does a great job vocally, but it can't change the fact that the song stinks lyrically.
#17
erniecureo
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Commander CMG
Posted 21 June 2007 - 09:24 PM
Die Another Day. Slapped together cod-electro nonsense, 'sung' by probably the most famous thieving magpie of all time who even manages to wangle a dreadful cameo.
So you didn't like it? LOL...funny stuff, Brock.
#18
Fiona Volpe lover
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Posted 23 June 2007 - 08:25 PM
Assuming I can't have We Have All The Time In The World as it wasn't used in the main titles...
BEST
1/ On Her Majesty's Secret Service-one of the greatest action themes ever,easily as good as the actual James Bond theme. It's also used superbly in the score,with John Barry occasionally alluding to it but holding back until two thirds of the way through,where it takes over and dominates the score
2/ Live And Let Die-encompassing at least three different musical styles,this really rather odd song still just works magnificently,exciting,original and still catchy and unforgettable. It's used in bits and pieces throughout the score,as straight orcestral adaptations are pretty much impossible
3/ Moonraker-just like most aspects of the film,a much underrated song,through not so much by people on this board it seems! Beautiful,ethereal and slightly spacy,with Shirley Bassey holding back to great effect. As an instrumental 'love theme' it's just as lovely
Honorable mentions-
Diamonds Are Forever
You Only Live Twice
Goldfinger
WORST
1/ Die Another Day-I actually like a lot of dance music,but this lame excuse for a Bonbd title theme succeeds neither as a song or a dance track. But then I could never stand Madonna,so I'm baised. I like the film a lot and will always defend it-but not the theme song
2/ Licence To Kill-bland soul with a two-chord statement from Goldfinger to remind you that this actually a Bond theme. But then,I don't like this kind of music either,so a lot of this is down to personal taste
3/ Goldeneye-Tina Turner does a bad Shirley Bassey imitation and everyone is obviously trying to make it Bond-like,but that's precisely the problem-they're trying to hard to create a 'typical' Bond song rather than an original piece of music
Honorable mentions-
The Living Daylights
The Man With The Golden Gun
A View To A Kill
Surprised at the dislike for All Time High here,I think it's prefectly pleasent and a lovely tune,just a little bland.
BEST
1/ On Her Majesty's Secret Service-one of the greatest action themes ever,easily as good as the actual James Bond theme. It's also used superbly in the score,with John Barry occasionally alluding to it but holding back until two thirds of the way through,where it takes over and dominates the score
2/ Live And Let Die-encompassing at least three different musical styles,this really rather odd song still just works magnificently,exciting,original and still catchy and unforgettable. It's used in bits and pieces throughout the score,as straight orcestral adaptations are pretty much impossible
3/ Moonraker-just like most aspects of the film,a much underrated song,through not so much by people on this board it seems! Beautiful,ethereal and slightly spacy,with Shirley Bassey holding back to great effect. As an instrumental 'love theme' it's just as lovely
Honorable mentions-
Diamonds Are Forever
You Only Live Twice
Goldfinger
WORST
1/ Die Another Day-I actually like a lot of dance music,but this lame excuse for a Bonbd title theme succeeds neither as a song or a dance track. But then I could never stand Madonna,so I'm baised. I like the film a lot and will always defend it-but not the theme song
2/ Licence To Kill-bland soul with a two-chord statement from Goldfinger to remind you that this actually a Bond theme. But then,I don't like this kind of music either,so a lot of this is down to personal taste
3/ Goldeneye-Tina Turner does a bad Shirley Bassey imitation and everyone is obviously trying to make it Bond-like,but that's precisely the problem-they're trying to hard to create a 'typical' Bond song rather than an original piece of music
Honorable mentions-
The Living Daylights
The Man With The Golden Gun
A View To A Kill
Surprised at the dislike for All Time High here,I think it's prefectly pleasent and a lovely tune,just a little bland.
Edited by Fiona Volpe lover, 23 June 2007 - 08:27 PM.
#19
VisualStatic
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Posted 15 August 2007 - 02:34 PM
Best:
1. Live and Let Die - its just fun
2. Diamonds Are Forever - Bassey at her best
3. The original James Bond theme(Dr.No) - yes its short and only an instrumental, but its still one of the best.
Worst:
1. Die Another Day - does anything more really need to be said.
2. GoldenEye - uninspiring
3. The Living Daylights - too 80s.
1. Live and Let Die - its just fun
2. Diamonds Are Forever - Bassey at her best
3. The original James Bond theme(Dr.No) - yes its short and only an instrumental, but its still one of the best.
Worst:
1. Die Another Day - does anything more really need to be said.
2. GoldenEye - uninspiring
3. The Living Daylights - too 80s.
#20
Daddy Bond
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- Veterans
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Lt. Commander
- Location:Back in California
Posted 15 August 2007 - 02:36 PM
BEST
#1 - GF - the ultimate Bond song.
#2 - AVTAK - hey, I'm an 80's child, what can I say?
#3 - You Know My Name (the version in the credits with the orchestration) - Yes, this song has grown on me quite a bit.
WORST
#1 - I can hardly watch the credits to Moonraker because the song drives me crazy.
#2 - YOLT (sounds flat - off key)
#3 - the song from LTK (whatever it was)
#1 - GF - the ultimate Bond song.
#2 - AVTAK - hey, I'm an 80's child, what can I say?
#3 - You Know My Name (the version in the credits with the orchestration) - Yes, this song has grown on me quite a bit.
WORST
#1 - I can hardly watch the credits to Moonraker because the song drives me crazy.
#2 - YOLT (sounds flat - off key)
#3 - the song from LTK (whatever it was)
#21
Vauxhall
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- Executive Officers
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- 10744 posts
Commander
- Location:London, UK
Posted 15 August 2007 - 02:44 PM
FAVOURITES
"You Know My Name" - admittedly it is my favourite type of music, but I felt that it was punchy and captured the tone of Craig's Bond perfectly as an introduction to the reboot of the franchise. I feel it will grow in popularity.
"Nobody Does It Better" - it just captures the concept of James Bond for me, and the idea that he is the man for every occasion!!
LEAST FAVOURITE
"Die Another Day" - I don't really have too much of a problem with the song, but it just doesn't fit in with any of the other 20 themes, and I'm not entirely sure why the decision was made to go electro. A good song, but not for Bond.
"You Know My Name" - admittedly it is my favourite type of music, but I felt that it was punchy and captured the tone of Craig's Bond perfectly as an introduction to the reboot of the franchise. I feel it will grow in popularity.
"Nobody Does It Better" - it just captures the concept of James Bond for me, and the idea that he is the man for every occasion!!
LEAST FAVOURITE
"Die Another Day" - I don't really have too much of a problem with the song, but it just doesn't fit in with any of the other 20 themes, and I'm not entirely sure why the decision was made to go electro. A good song, but not for Bond.
#22
Daddy Bond
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Lt. Commander
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Posted 15 August 2007 - 02:58 PM
You know, I completely forgot about the Bond theme from Dr. No. Duh! That one, of course is always #1 - but I separate it out from the others in my mind for some reason.
#23
Orion
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Lt. Commander
- Location:Great Britain (rule Britania)
Posted 15 August 2007 - 03:08 PM
Favourite
1: YOU KNOW MY NAME the song just feels right, its got a Bondian sound while giving it a new edge, and like msot of the best its weaved brilliantly into the score
2: LIVE AND LET DIE rock song again but what a better way to usher in a new Bond than with a brilliantly up beat and catchy rock song
3: THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH for the simple reason that it partners the film brilliantly.
least favourite
ALL TIME HIGH i just can't listen to it, its so bad, its like strngling a cat with a backing track of nails ona chalk board.
1: YOU KNOW MY NAME the song just feels right, its got a Bondian sound while giving it a new edge, and like msot of the best its weaved brilliantly into the score
2: LIVE AND LET DIE rock song again but what a better way to usher in a new Bond than with a brilliantly up beat and catchy rock song
3: THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH for the simple reason that it partners the film brilliantly.
least favourite
ALL TIME HIGH i just can't listen to it, its so bad, its like strngling a cat with a backing track of nails ona chalk board.
#24
Qwerty
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Commander RNVR
- Location:New York / Pennsylvania
Posted 21 August 2007 - 02:12 AM
Keep the votes coming in everyone!
#25
Blonde Bond
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Lt. Commander
- Location:Station T , Finland
Posted 21 August 2007 - 07:41 AM
Favourites:
Shirley Bassey - Moonraker. Just hauntingly beautiful. Truly one of the best.
Chris Cornell - Being a fan of Cornell's, his rockin' tune had be from the beginning. I always get bumped me up for the right mood.
John Barry Orchestra - On Her Majesty's Secret Service. The best, the baddest. Catching tune. Shows that singer isn't always a must.
Least Favorite :
Lulu - Man With Golden Gun. Just irritating. Not for my ears.
Shirley Bassey - Moonraker. Just hauntingly beautiful. Truly one of the best.
Chris Cornell - Being a fan of Cornell's, his rockin' tune had be from the beginning. I always get bumped me up for the right mood.
John Barry Orchestra - On Her Majesty's Secret Service. The best, the baddest. Catching tune. Shows that singer isn't always a must.
Least Favorite :
Lulu - Man With Golden Gun. Just irritating. Not for my ears.
Edited by Blonde Bond, 21 August 2007 - 07:46 AM.
#26
Qwerty
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Commander RNVR
- Location:New York / Pennsylvania
Posted 17 October 2007 - 04:38 PM
Bumping this up.
#27
echomusic
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Sub-Lieutenant
Posted 17 October 2007 - 06:51 PM
BEST
1. You Only Live Twice -- not only a great Bond song, but just a great song in general. A fantastic melody and incredibly precise, simple lyric that says so much. This song is my fav.
2. On Her Majesty's Secret Service -- This song captures the epic sweep of Bond and his adventures. John Barry at his finest.
3. You Know My Name -- A bad-![[censored]](https://debrief.commanderbond.net/topic/41518-the-best-of-bond-2-main-title-songs/style_emoticons/default/censored.gif)
song for a newer, bad- Bond. Compliments the mood and tone of the new film as well as goes hand in hand with one the best opening title sequences ever.
4. Goldfinger - This is the one that set the bar for all songs that followed it. Bassey's powerhouse of a voice, the sweeping strings, the brass kicking you in the head with their attacks. A grand song for a grand movie.
5. The Living Daylights -- I love this song. I think it's got a killer groove, is the total epitome of the 80's sound but taken to the next level - The John Barry level. A really good song (without the sax solo that appears on some versions, though)
runner-ups - Moonraker, From Russia With Love, The World Is Not Enough, Nobody Does It Better
WORST
1. All Time High -- Was Rita Coolidge on cough syrup for this one? She sounds even less interesting than the less interesting melody in the song.
2. Die Another Day -- I don't mind this song as much as others do (although it has the vocoder in it which I think is the most lazy/evil tool used in recording vocals in music today
) but having said that, the song does seem to be missing some element to it , I just don't know what that is.
3. Licence To Kill -- Too derivative of Bond songs before it. Doesn't really have a lifeforce of it's own, other than the killer vocal from the great Gladys Knight.
that's all I can think of now
1. You Only Live Twice -- not only a great Bond song, but just a great song in general. A fantastic melody and incredibly precise, simple lyric that says so much. This song is my fav.
2. On Her Majesty's Secret Service -- This song captures the epic sweep of Bond and his adventures. John Barry at his finest.
3. You Know My Name -- A bad-
song for a newer, bad- Bond. Compliments the mood and tone of the new film as well as goes hand in hand with one the best opening title sequences ever.4. Goldfinger - This is the one that set the bar for all songs that followed it. Bassey's powerhouse of a voice, the sweeping strings, the brass kicking you in the head with their attacks. A grand song for a grand movie.
5. The Living Daylights -- I love this song. I think it's got a killer groove, is the total epitome of the 80's sound but taken to the next level - The John Barry level. A really good song (without the sax solo that appears on some versions, though)
runner-ups - Moonraker, From Russia With Love, The World Is Not Enough, Nobody Does It Better
WORST
1. All Time High -- Was Rita Coolidge on cough syrup for this one? She sounds even less interesting than the less interesting melody in the song.
2. Die Another Day -- I don't mind this song as much as others do (although it has the vocoder in it which I think is the most lazy/evil tool used in recording vocals in music today
) but having said that, the song does seem to be missing some element to it , I just don't know what that is.3. Licence To Kill -- Too derivative of Bond songs before it. Doesn't really have a lifeforce of it's own, other than the killer vocal from the great Gladys Knight.
that's all I can think of now
#28
Agent 0015
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Posted 20 October 2007 - 10:07 PM
Favorites
1)The Living Daylights - Great 80's beat to it, and a great score done by the great John Barry.
2)You Only Live Twice - Nancy has a beautiful voice and goes perfectly with the orchestra. Very haunting yet elegant.
3)Goldfinger - Bassey at her best. The ending still gives me the goosebumps.
Least Favorites
1)All Time High - Very colorless and medicore.
2)Die Another Day - I'm a huge Madonna and I think this song stupid. They should of used her in her early days.
3)The Man with the Golden Gun - Just awful. They should of choosed Alice Cooper than LuLu.
1)The Living Daylights - Great 80's beat to it, and a great score done by the great John Barry.
2)You Only Live Twice - Nancy has a beautiful voice and goes perfectly with the orchestra. Very haunting yet elegant.
3)Goldfinger - Bassey at her best. The ending still gives me the goosebumps.
Least Favorites
1)All Time High - Very colorless and medicore.
2)Die Another Day - I'm a huge Madonna and I think this song stupid. They should of used her in her early days.
3)The Man with the Golden Gun - Just awful. They should of choosed Alice Cooper than LuLu.
#29
scaramunga
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Lt. Commander
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Posted 21 October 2007 - 10:34 PM
Favorites - Moonraker, A View To A Kill, Live and Let Die
Least favorite - Jump Up and / or Three Blind Mice in Dr. No.
: )
Sorry, I had to stir things up and not go with The Man With the Golden Gun or Die Another Day.
Least favorite - Jump Up and / or Three Blind Mice in Dr. No.
: )
Sorry, I had to stir things up and not go with The Man With the Golden Gun or Die Another Day.
#30
trumanlodge89
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Lieutenant
Posted 22 October 2007 - 01:22 AM
Favorites:
1) On Her Majesty's Secret Service-- not an original choice, I'm aware, but it is the perfect Bond theme. The melody, the instrumentation, the titles. I love the French horn, I love the synth. It is the definition of cool.
2) You Only Live Twice-- I'm pretty surprised not to see this on more lists. Again, a terrific song. The guitar lick is another melody synonymous with James Bond. Whereas OHMSS is a great action theme, YOLT is very chill, with a great use of the Eastern sound.
3) A View To A Kill-- a great, great pop song. It's a shame the movie didn't live up to the songs standards.
Least Favorites:
1) For Your Eyes Only-- terrible song, bad lyrics, too kitschy, too sentimental. And Sheena Easton' face is creepy. I skip the titles for this one.
2) The Man With the Golden Gun-- sooooooooo cheesy. A dumb song that was badly sung.
3) Die Another Day-- tried to hard to be different. The lyrics make no sense. They don't fit with the titles, which are a visual feast. Too bad the song sucks.
1) On Her Majesty's Secret Service-- not an original choice, I'm aware, but it is the perfect Bond theme. The melody, the instrumentation, the titles. I love the French horn, I love the synth. It is the definition of cool.
2) You Only Live Twice-- I'm pretty surprised not to see this on more lists. Again, a terrific song. The guitar lick is another melody synonymous with James Bond. Whereas OHMSS is a great action theme, YOLT is very chill, with a great use of the Eastern sound.
3) A View To A Kill-- a great, great pop song. It's a shame the movie didn't live up to the songs standards.
Least Favorites:
1) For Your Eyes Only-- terrible song, bad lyrics, too kitschy, too sentimental. And Sheena Easton' face is creepy. I skip the titles for this one.
2) The Man With the Golden Gun-- sooooooooo cheesy. A dumb song that was badly sung.
3) Die Another Day-- tried to hard to be different. The lyrics make no sense. They don't fit with the titles, which are a visual feast. Too bad the song sucks.