Monty Norman was an English singer and composer who wrote the James Bond theme song.
- Died: July 11, 2022 (Who else died on July 11?)
- Details of death: Died after a short illness at the age of 94.
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Musical career
Norman got his start in music as a singer, working with big bands in the 1950s and 1960s. After several years of performing, he found his niche as a songwriter, composing songs for notable musicians including Count Basie and Bob Hope. Norman also wrote lyrics for musicals including “Expresso Bongo” and an English-language version of “Irma la Douce.” But it was an instrumental piece that became his greatest legacy. Producer Albert “Cubby” Broccoli asked him to write music for “Dr. No,” the first James Bond film. Norman wrote both the score and the now-iconic theme song, which has been used in Bond films ever since. However, the producers asked another musician, John Barry, for a new arrangement of Norman’s composition. That was the version that became famous – and in later years, Barry claimed he had written the tune. Norman successfully sued the Times of London for libel after they backed up Barry’s claim.
Notable quote
“From the moment I [wrote it] I knew I had the James Bond theme. I wanted the character, the mystery, the atmosphere and it was all there.” —from a 2012 interview for the Scotsman
Tributes to Monty Norman
Full obituary: Variety
