Hidden Gems: Songs That Deserve to Be James Bond Themes

Imagine if some of your favorite songs from the 80s, 90s, and even today's modern hits, played during the opening montage of a James Bond film. The idea alone is fascinating. While many iconic songs have been chosen for the iconic espionage agent, there are a myriad of missed opportunities worth exploring. Join me as we dive into a world where audio perfection meets cinematic brilliance.

Emerging from the Shadows

Below are some songs that, when imagined for a Bond film, paint a dazzling picture of adventure and intrigue:

The Price of Love - New Order

“The Price of Love” by New Order is a haunting elegy with a gothic nuance that could easily fit into a Bond film of the late 1980s. Its atmospheric keyboards and melancholic tunes suggest a shadowy world of super-spy action, much like the life of a 00 agent.

Killing Moon - Echo The Bunnymen

Another haunting track from the 80s, “Killing Moon” by Echo The Bunnymen offers an ethereal sound that could perfectly underscore the opening montage of a 007 film. Its mystical and melancholic vibe captures the dark and dramatic essence of Bond series.

The Stars Are Out Tonight - The Bunnymen

The Bunnymen’s “The Stars Are Out Tonight” is a love song with a lyrical poetic that could be used in a pre-title sequence of a Bond film. Its romantic yet mysterious tone fits well with the anticipation and excitement surrounding the upcoming film.

Eyes Without a Face - David Bowie

David Bowie’s “Eyes Without a Face” is a haunting and eerie song that could be perfect for a Bond film set in Paris or Rome, where villains often lurk within the shadows. Its surreal and dark nature aligns with the ominous and dangerous world of 007.

Surrender - k.d. Lang

A personal favorite, “Surrender” by k.d. Lang is a song that carries with it a sense of vulnerability and strength, precisely what one might hear during the opening credits of a Tomorrow Never Dies. Its emotional range and orchestral elements make it a fitting choice for a Bond film about international intrigue and espionage.

A Modern Interpretation

However, in the modern age, we can’t ignore the current hits that could fit the contemporary 007 film. Here are some newer tunes that could make excellent Bond theme candidates:

Blinding Lights - The Weeknd

“Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd is a pop song that could easily fit into a 21st-century Bond film. Its removal beats and electric guitar solos could add a dynamic and edge-of-your-seat feel to the opening montage.

Starboy - The Weeknd

Another track by The Weeknd, “Starboy,” fits perfectly with the modern Bond style. Its pulsating beat and melancholic lyrics could create a perfect mood for a leitmotif of a secret agent on the run.

In the Air Tonight - Phil Collins

Phil Collins’ “In the Air Tonight” is a timeless classic that could work well in an action-packed pre-title sequence. Its haunting and emotive sound is perfect for the mystery and suspense that defines the Bond film experience.

Breathe - Telepopmusic

“Breathe” by Telepopmusic is a current track that could fit naturally into a 2023 Bond film. Its soft, yet powerful beat and smooth vocals capture a sense of danger and excitement.

Hop on a Plane - Matt Dusk

“Hop on a Plane” by Matt Dusk offers a sense of urgency and adventure, fitting into the excitement of Bond films. Its upbeat and modern sound set the stage for a thrilling journey.

Shock Therapy - The Weeknd

“Shock Therapy” by The Weeknd is another song that could perfectly fit into a Bond film. Its pulsating and atmospheric sounds add to the sense of anticipation and danger.

Waiting for Tonight - Jennifer Lopez

“Waiting for Tonight” by Jennifer Lopez is a catchy and empowering track that could be perfect for an action scene. Its compelling rhythm and smooth vocals could make it a standout segment.

Loca - Shakira

“Loca” by Shakira is a powerful and energetic song that could fit into a high-energy action scene. Its Latin rhythms and empowering lyrics make it a thrilling choice.

Bittersweet Symphony - The Verve

“Bittersweet Symphony” by The Verve could work as a fitting soundtrack for a Bond film. Its melancholic yet powerful melody could create a dramatic and emotional backdrop for an exciting action sequence.

Desert Rose - Sting

Sting’s “Desert Rose” is a romantic ballad that could be perfect for the love interests in a Bond film. Its romantic and melancholic tone adds an emotional depth to the characters.

A Personal Touch

While these songs are evocative of certain 007 films, it’s true that the Bond series has a wealth of songs written specifically for the films. However, there’s an enjoyment in reimagining classic and modern hits in this context. Here are a few personal favorites from the rejected pool:

Forever

“Forever” by Eva Almer sings of enduring love, a sentiment that’s all too relatable for the intense and passionate romances found in Bond films.

No Good About Goodbye

“No Good about Goodbye” by Shirley Bassey beautifully captures the complexities of the bond between 007 and his love interest, a theme that often reappears in the series.

The Juvenile

“The Juvenile” by Ace of Bass is a lively and energetic track that could serve as an anthemic part of the film's soundtrack, embodying the dynamic and adventurous nature of the action sequences.

Mister Kiss Kiss Bang Bang

“Mister Kiss Kiss Bang Bang” by Dionne Warwick is a fun and quirky song that could add a light-hearted touch to a Bond film, perhaps in a scene filled with espionage and humor.

Conclusion

The world of James Bond is vast and captivating, and it’s exciting to imagine how these songs could fit into this larger narrative. Whether it’s the haunting tones of the 80s or the modern beats of today, each song offers a unique vision of the thrilling and mysterious world of the 007 series.

Do you have a favorite Bond song that you’d like to see chosen for the film? Let us know in the comments below. It could be the start of a captivating new saga, one filled with intrigue and excitement.