James Bond wouldn’t be James Bond without the killer theme song. We take a moment out to give thanks to the man, who gave us one of the best spy themes of all time.
British composer Monty Norman’s (born Monty Noserovitch to Jewish parents in the East End of London in 1928), musical destiny was sealed upon receiving his first guitar at the age of 16.
The composer’s fate was further sealed when Norman was hired to compose the theme for the first James Bond film ‘Dr No’ in 1962. Norman went on to have a prolific career, going on to perform with big bands and in a variety double act with the British comedian Benny Hill, before going on to write stage musicals, and hit songs for the likes of Cliff Richard and Tommy Steele.
Hired by iconic producer Albert Broccoli to compose a theme for the first James Bond film, Dr. No, Norman, drew on a piece he had previously written for a proposed musical adaptation of VS Naipaul’s “A House for Mr. Biswas,” swapping the key riff from sitar to electric guitar. The result of which has gone to be used in all 25 Bond films.
A statement posted on Monday on Norman’s official website shared: “It is with sadness we share the news that Monty Norman died on 11th July 2022 after a short illness”.
We take our hat off to you Sir. Rest in Peace.
"We are saddened to learn of the passing of Monty Norman today. Monty created the iconic anthem to accompany the cinematic entrance of the world’s greatest secret agent, 007, and we are eternally grateful for his contribution to the franchise" Michael G. Wilson & Barbara Broccoli pic.twitter.com/R2IYZMYSac
— James Bond (@007) July 11, 2022
