Remembering Monty Norman

Monty Norman, the prolific composer and lyricist whose works include the famous James Bond theme tune, has passed away at the age of 94. His Bond theme, commissioned for the 1962 film Dr No, has been used throughout the Bond franchise and is instantly recognisable. After switching the main riff from a sitar to an electric guitar, Norman knew he had captured the essence of Bond as a mysterious, gentlemanly spy.

"His sexiness, his mystery, his ruthlessness - it's all there in a few notes." Norman later recalled.

Bond producer Cubby Broccoli asked Norman to compose the first movie's score, having been impressed with his work in stage musicals. Norman had to be persuaded to write the Bond score initially due to being busy with two other stage projects. Broccoli then offered to fly out Norman and his wife to Jamaica, where the location work was to be filmed - all expenses paid so he agreed. Norman’s memory will live on in arguably one of the most iconic theme songs ever.