15 Best Theme Songs From James Bond Movies, Ranked
James Bond films are legendary for their high-octane action, sleek style, and theme songs that launch each adventure with flair. Performed by music’s biggest stars, these tracks weave drama, danger, and charisma, becoming as iconic as 007 himself.
I’ve ranked the top 15 Bond themes, from least to most iconic, based on their memorability, impact, and how well they capture the franchise’s spirit. From soulful ballads to electrifying anthems, these songs elevate their films and remain timeless classics.
Octopussy (1983) – All Time High
Rita Coolidge’s jazzy ballad for ‘Octopussy’ offers a smooth, romantic vibe that feels more like a lounge hit than a spy thriller’s opener. Its gentle melody and soft lyrics don’t match the high-energy Roger Moore adventure. The song is pleasant but fades quickly.
Coolidge’s warm vocals carry the track, but it lacks the bold spark of classic Bond themes. It’s an easy listen that doesn’t evoke the thrill of espionage.
The Man with the Golden Gun (1974) – The Man with the Golden Gun
Lulu’s brassy performance for ‘The Man with the Golden Gun’ dives into campy fun with cheeky lyrics and jazzy flair. The playful tone suits the film’s quirky vibe but feels more like a gimmick than a timeless 007 anthem. It’s spirited yet forgettable.
Written by John Barry and Don Black, the song aims to capture the villain’s menace but misses the mark. Lulu’s energy is fun, but the track doesn’t linger like the greats.
Die Another Day (2002) – Die Another Day
Madonna’s techno-charged theme for ‘Die Another Day’ takes a daring leap with pulsing beats and heavy Auto-Tune. The dance-club vibe feels jarring for a Bond film, missing the spy’s suave charm despite its bold creativity. It’s an ambitious misfire.
Her cameo in the movie adds some spark, but the song’s robotic tone and odd lyrics don’t suit 007. It’s a unique effort that doesn’t hit classic status.
Spectre (2015) – Writing’s on the Wall
Sam Smith’s soaring ballad for ‘Spectre’ won an Oscar but feels too somber for a Bond opener. Its slow, emotional tone fits a drama better than a spy thriller, lacking the kick needed to launch an adventure. It’s heartfelt but heavy.
Smith’s falsetto is impressive, but the track doesn’t ignite the excitement of top Bond themes. Its awards show its quality, yet it leans more reflective than thrilling.
The Living Daylights (1987) – The Living Daylights
A-ha’s synth-pop track for ‘The Living Daylights’ brings ‘80s flair to Timothy Dalton’s Bond debut. The catchy beat and moody vibe suit the era but lean more pop single than classic 007 anthem. It’s fun for its time.
The band’s distinct sound stands out, but the song lacks the timeless edge of the best Bond tracks. It’s a nostalgic piece that doesn’t fully define the series.
Moonraker (1979) – Moonraker
Shirley Bassey’s third Bond theme for ‘Moonraker’ is soft and dreamy, unlike her earlier bold hits. The gentle melody matches the film’s spacey tone but lacks the fire of her best work. It’s elegant but understated.
Bassey’s voice is still captivating, yet the track feels too delicate for a Bond adventure. It’s a lovely ballad that falls short of iconic status.
From Russia with Love (1963) – From Russia with Love
Matt Monro’s crooner-style theme for ‘From Russia with Love’ adds a romantic touch to the Sean Connery era. Heard over the end credits, its lounge vibe is charming but lacks the bold energy of later openers. It’s a classic early effort.
The instrumental version sets the film’s mood, while Monro’s vocals bring warmth. It helped shape Bond ballads but doesn’t stand as tall as others.
For Your Eyes Only (1981) – For Your Eyes Only
Sheena Easton’s tender ballad for ‘For Your Eyes Only’ is a romantic gem in Roger Moore’s run. Its soft pop melody and sincere lyrics make a great love song, but it’s too gentle for a thrilling Bond intro. Easton’s credit cameo adds charm.
The ‘80s sound is catchy, but the track lacks the danger of top themes. It’s a sweet standout that doesn’t fully capture the spy vibe.
No Time to Die (2021) – No Time to Die
Billie Eilish’s haunting theme for ‘No Time to Die’ fits Daniel Craig’s emotional final Bond film. Its moody tone and subtle nods to the classic Bond theme work well, but the slow pace feels more introspective than action-ready. It’s a modern spin.
Eilish’s whispery vocals add a unique vibe, but the song lacks the high-energy spark of the best Bond tracks. Its Oscar win shows strength, though it’s not the most thrilling.
Diamonds Are Forever (1971) – Diamonds Are Forever
Shirley Bassey’s sultry theme for ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ brings glamour to Sean Connery’s return. It’s bold and dramatic but doesn’t match her earlier masterpiece. The song’s glitzy vibe fits the film but feels slightly repetitive.
Bassey’s powerhouse vocals lift the track, though the melody lacks a lasting hook. It’s a strong entry that just misses the top tier of Bond classics.
Thunderball (1965) – Thunderball
Tom Jones’ booming vocals drive ‘Thunderball,’ a dramatic track that matches the film’s high-stakes action. Its brassy sound and intense energy fit the Connery era, though the lyrics aren’t as memorable. It’s a true 007 anthem.
Jones’ raw power shines, but the song lacks the iconic catchiness of the best themes. It sets a thrilling tone for Bond’s underwater mission.
The World Is Not Enough (1999) – The World Is Not Enough
Garbage’s alt-rock anthem for ‘The World Is Not Enough’ blends ‘90s edge with Bond’s drama. Shirley Manson’s sultry vocals and the song’s dark tone suit Pierce Brosnan’s film, though it’s not as timeless as earlier hits. It’s a cool mix.
The track’s rock vibe adds a fresh twist, but it doesn’t fully capture the classic Bond spirit. It’s a standout for the Brosnan era.
You Only Live Twice (1967) – You Only Live Twice
Nancy Sinatra’s dreamy, psychedelic theme for ‘You Only Live Twice’ brings a unique vibe to Connery’s run. Its soft melody and floating vocals contrast the film’s action, creating a haunting effect. It’s a cult favorite for its style.
Sinatra’s delicate delivery and the track’s ethereal sound make it stand out. Its unconventional approach cements it as a memorable Bond theme.
GoldenEye (1995) – GoldenEye
Tina Turner’s fiery theme for ‘GoldenEye’ marked Bond’s return with Pierce Brosnan. Written by Bono and The Edge, its dramatic build and bold vocals capture 007’s cool confidence. It’s a ‘90s classic that hits hard.
Turner’s commanding presence and the sleek production make the song unforgettable. Its energy and swagger rank it among Bond’s finest themes.
Casino Royale (2006) – You Know My Name
Chris Cornell’s gritty rock anthem for ‘Casino Royale’ introduces Daniel Craig’s raw Bond. Its driving guitars and intense vocals match the film’s bold reboot, making it a standout. It’s a perfect fit for a new 007.
Cornell’s husky voice and the track’s power earned a Grammy nod. Its thrilling energy makes it one of the most electrifying Bond themes ever.
The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) – Nobody Does It Better
Carly Simon’s soulful ballad for ‘The Spy Who Loved Me’ is a romantic gem. Its jazzy melody and heartfelt lyrics about love break the Bond mold but feel perfect for Roger Moore’s film. It topped charts worldwide.
Simon’s warm vocals and the song’s emotional depth make it timeless. An Oscar nominee, it’s a rare Bond theme that stands alone as a classic.
Live and Let Die (1973) – Live and Let Die
Paul McCartney and Wings’ rock epic for ‘Live and Let Die’ is a wild ride, blending quiet verses with explosive choruses. It matches Roger Moore’s first Bond adventure with bold energy. The track’s a cultural icon.
McCartney’s genius and the song’s dynamic structure earned an Oscar nod. Its unique style and lasting popularity make it a Bond standout.
A View to a Kill (1985) – A View to a Kill
Duran Duran’s synth-pop anthem for ‘A View to a Kill’ topped the Billboard Hot 100 with its ‘80s flair. Its pulsing beat and catchy hooks fit Roger Moore’s final Bond outing perfectly. The song oozes cool.
The band’s vibrant energy and John Barry’s brass accents create a timeless vibe. It’s one of the most commercially successful Bond themes ever.
Goldfinger (1964) – Goldfinger
Shirley Bassey’s ‘Goldfinger’ is the ultimate Bond theme, with its brassy power and dramatic flair. Her commanding vocals and John Barry’s score match the film’s villainous edge. It defined the 007 sound.
The song’s bold energy, with a young Jimmy Page on guitar, makes it iconic. Bassey’s performance set the standard for every Bond theme that followed.
Skyfall (2012) – Skyfall
Adele’s ‘Skyfall’ is a soulful triumph that captures Daniel Craig’s intense Bond. Its classic horns, soaring chorus, and modern edge make it timeless, earning an Oscar. It’s a perfect blend of old and new.
Adele’s powerful vocals and Paul Epworth’s production fit the film’s emotional weight. It’s the pinnacle of Bond themes, delivering unmatched drama and swagger.
Which Bond theme is your top pick, or did I skip one you’d rank higher? Share your thoughts in the comments!