James Bond Theme

(featured in conjunction with the opening of Spectre this week)

James Bond 007 Theme
One of the most iconic movie themes ever.

Timeless and instantly recognizable.
Theme by Monty Norman, arranged by John Barry.
First released in the movie Dr No (1962).

Minor base harmony and creative use of M7 and m7 gives
 jazzy feel and evokes sense of mystery and excitement.

Surf rock style guitar bassline.

Key Elements:

1. Syncopated chord intro

2. Chromatically undulating harmonic base

3. Bass Guitar Theme

(source: http://www.filmmusicnotes.com/john-barrys-james-bond-scores-part-4-of-6-moonraker/)

4. Second Theme

(source: http://www.filmmusicnotes.com/john-barrys-james-bond-scores-part-4-of-6-moonraker/)

5. Third Theme

6. James Bond Chord or Spy Chord (Em M9)

(source: http://chord-a-day.blogspot.my/2010/04/james-bond-spy-chord-em-major9.html)

Wiki entry here.
Good description of the Bond Theme history here.
Interesting analysis of different parts of the Bond Theme here.

Enjoy the following compilation of performances from Youtube.



John Barry conducting - Live
 Full symphony orchestra performance.
Performed at the right tempo and with the right groove. 
Main theme by strings instead of bass guitar.
Third theme well-executed by powerful brass section.
Ends with a standard minor chord instead of the James Bond Chord.

BBC Symphony Orchestra (2011)
At the BBC Proms 2011.
Bass guitar plays the first theme.
Nice punchy brass plays the third theme.
Drummer seems to be having fun.
Bass guitarist looks rather serious.
Ends with the James Bond Chord in tutti.
Trumpeteer redeems himself.






History 1
Interviews with composer and arranger.
Fascinating insight into the development of this iconic theme.






History 2
Traces genealogy of this popular theme and arrangement.
Some interesting comparisons with previous works of both Norman and Barry.






Nicholas Dodd and Radio Orchestra Vienna
Clear sound.  Professionally performed.

Electone - Marco Cerbella
Surprisingly faithful sound regeneration.

Gunbarrel Sequences 1962-2012

(The Bond Theme is usually first played at the beginning of each Bond movie where the gunbarrel sequence is shown) 

Excellent compilation from the actual Bond movies.
Interesting to compare different arrangements and orchestrations.
Some minor tweaks in harmonization.
Notice how the range of sounds evolve over the years.