How Radiohead Wrote the Perfect Bond Theme

[@ListeningIn]

Hi everyone! Over the past two and a half years, I've been writing my first novel, called 'The Quiet'. It's coming out in May next year, published by Macmillan. Pre-order in the UK: shorturl.at/enn27 or the US: shorturl.at/4LIAP More info here: www.barnabymartin.com/the-quiet

[@Brownaldo2]

Wow a review by Ernest Cline and a good publisher! 👏🏻

[@makelovenotwar2467]

Hope to hear from you again :)

[@Aaronies]

Imagine asking for Radiohead, then complaining when you get Radiohead

[@UranusMcVitieFish-yd7oq]

They did the same with Scott Walker on The World Is Not Enough. And supposedly Alice Cooper re The Man With The Golden Gun

[@SparklRebel]

It was rejected for ‘being too sad’

[@n8zog584]

​​@@SparklRebel honestly i do have a problem with the vocalizations. They were a turn off. I think the vocals in this song had too much lilt and throat preassure behind them for a James bond theme... it sounds overdramatic in a depressing way and unlike skyfall theres no courageous upswelling to contrast that sadness. It just gives this impression that 007 is a spineless wimp throwing a pity party. That's just my impression though. The instrumentals and the words themselves were awesome. When all is said and done I cant believe that studio exec's would just SCRAP IT rather than workshop it further. Yet I can understand why this was scrapped if Radiohead was unwilling to compromise on the tambre of the singer's voice. Radiohead being radiohead, I could see them being uncompromising in their artistic vision.

[@adamschneider868]

@@n8zog584 Hilarious that you are the first person to realize that a bond theme has much more to do with how we feel about bond then how we think about bond.

[@theshadowking3198]

They just wanted the name ig

[@Lollovovisossa7]

Me who knows absolutely no musical theory: "wow...sure sounds nice"

[@bryanrogers5648]

"Indeed."

[@deblaker7372]

Well knowing shit about music theory does not make the music better

[@simonedgbaston]

🎶 Well Jonny Greenwood is classically trained & has written many film scores & is in Radiohead 🎵

[@hede638]

IKRRR makes me want to learn music theory rn

[@cjjj5156]

@@deblaker7372 Well let's say it makes the experience different.

[@natedogsturdikat8538]

The fact that they took time off of recording one of their best albums to make this incredible theme only for it to be scrapped is just atrocious.

[@AllegedlySpiffy]

That's Hollywood for ya... Instead they had to shove Sam Smith's attempt at recreating Adele's (iconic) Skyfall theme down our throats because he was "popular" at the time.

[@youtubeviolatedme7123]

People argue that Smith's theme isn't bad as a piece on its own, and I do agree that it's not a bad song at all, which is why I'm fine with it winning an award. But on that note, Madonna's theme isn't an unbearable piece either. I'd be fine listening to "Die Another Day" at the local karaoke bar. Doesn't mean I think it suits Bond. "Writing's on the Wall" simply wasn't made with the same passion for Bond as Radiohead's piece (nor was "Die Another Day" for that matter). The harmonic chord movement (as mentioned in this video) in almost every Bond theme, even in Radiohead's "Spectre," isn't clearly presented in "Writing's on the Wall," and while it has the F minor (add 9) moving to A-flat major 7 which conveys a delicacy and vulnerability that I do quite like and is characteristic of Smith's music, it simply doesn't cut it as "Bond" to me. Like "Die Another Day" was a Madonna song rather than a Bond theme, "Writing's on the Wall" is a Sam Smith song, not a Bond theme. It didn't fool me, nor did it fool anyone else, as it's not regarded well as a Bond theme, but more as a nice attempt at making a contemplative song. As said in this video, Radiohead's Spectre is a Bond theme first and foremost, and a Radiohead song second. I don't think Smith was genuinely trying to redefine the standard for Bond themes, because I don't feel like giving the benefit of the doubt. I don't think he actually cared enough to preserve the motifs of Bond themes.

[@daneast]

Someone needs to make a video of songs written for James Bond that were rejected for one reason or another. Ace of Base wrote this for Goldeneye but it didn't work out (I think it was Ace of Base's label that couldn't work out a deal?). They changed the lyrics from "The Goldeneye" to "The Juvenile", but the music is unmistakably Bond. There is a version out there that actually has the Goldeneye lyrics, but it is a demo and the music isn't nearly as complete as this The Juvenile. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fpDWYnqriM-fY6s

[@zitools]

most of their albums are the best one.

[@yxyz8150]

@@AllegedlySpiffy agree, that the reason, well said man

[@novemberraiinn]

I will never forgive them for rejecting this song. It is so perfect.

[@redskies4530]

Hi I recommend a song called 'The Bond Villain' By Robert Nix

[@AdamBlack]

Its NOT for the opening title sequence. maybe if they speeded it up 2-3x This is a denounment , not an starter.

[@oliraceking]

If Radiohead had delivered this song from the outset (rather than something else previously purposed which had to be rejected) then the chances are it would be the song for Spectre. Sam Mendes said they delivered this masterpiece just too late in the day and they'd committed to Sam Smith. A real shame as this is an amazing song.

[@dionysschub5350]

@@oliraceking Maybe they use it in a future Bond film

[@alphaenterprise2232]

​@@dionysschub5350too bad it wasn't used in "no time to die" instead they used Billies Eillish song or something.

[@JayTemple]

In addition to all the sonic qualities, Radiohead gets bonus points for using the word "spectre" in the lyrics, and having it make sense!

[@theguy2227]

It not only makes sense, it's also pretty hard hitting and deep emotionally. It shows that they tried their best on this one

[@miked1869]

Much as I love Carly Simon's "Nobody Does It Better", the shoehorning-in of the film's title - "And like heaven above me, the spy who loved me" - does make you go, "Wait, what?!"

[@daniel.s.stefanov]

It's tacky. It was when Skyfall did it too. But at least Skyfall wasn't a boring song.

[@cockatoo010]

AND being british

[@AcherontiaStyx]

​@@daniel.s.stefanov You got some weird music opinions, either that or you're just really into Sam Smyth and don't like everyone acknowledging someone did it better.

[@1234n00b]

And they thought Radiohead's song was "too dark" for a bond movie. What a shame.

[@AnnaLVajda]

Yeah assassins are never dark characters ?

[@Yora21]

I'd call it "too lethargic".

[@davidgitano27]

Too dark for a bond film that was essentially about the Illuminati and conspiracy theories… they sold out, spectre was kind of lame

[@hammerhals]

it's honestly depressive whereas the usual themes work against the tragedy by colliding with a very artificial tightness. radiohead's theme doesn't have this paradox. but this paradox is, i believe, a very weighted bond character aspect. completely unnatural and bizarre. (IMHO)

[@ashadder795]

It was a really depressing song, which fits with the movie, but honestly it didn’t feel like a bond song because it wasn’t over the top

[@prettyaverage97]

I do not hate Writing's on the Wall -- in fact, I think it's a pretty solid Bond theme. But man, Radiohead's Spectre truly is a mesmerizing wonder of a theme. It fits Craig's Bond perfectly, talks about the character's internal struggle throughout the movies, and still has the flavour of the greatest Radiohead songs. I really hope they get another chance at Bond

[@treytison1444]

I like Spectre better but they probably went with Writing on the Wall because it's simpler and more easily memorable.

[@wadthecrap]

Kinda like how people don’t remember Ian Fleming’s books but remember Bond for his six packs and martini.

[@amrabdelazeem9689]

@@treytison1444 honestly, this is just a hunch so take it with a grain of salt, I really think they were going for what was popular. It happens all the time in Hollywood. Sam Smith's debut album in 2014 was a pop hit. It became extremely popular, won a bunch of Grammie awards. And he was a popular name probably near the peak of his popularity. It seems that Adele's skyfall was also near the height of her popularity. For an example outside bond, remember Transformers? 3 movies with Linkin Park, then they drop them for the fourth to go with Imagine Dragons who had just achieved their pop break. I can't say with any certainty that's what happened, but I honestly think it is

[@redskies4530]

Hi I recommend a new Bond theme song-the indie rock song: 'The Bond Villain' By Robert Nix

[@redskies4530]

Hi I recommend an indie rock song Called 'The Bond Villain' by Robert Nix

[@edwardchan9204]

Radiohead songs are never understood or appreciated until you hear multiple times and realize the genius and beauty behind it. Spectre is a classic example of why Radiohead were never mainstream and still so revered.

[@kylefer]

Amen.

[@ToniToniChopaaa]

They were mainstream tho?

[@bfab7036]

Yeah they can't be described as not being mainstream. During the 90s they were everywhere. And right now in 2024 they could still sell out 150 stadium dates worldwide in an hour with fans missing out on a ticket

[@mallroyfoxisgayyy366]

Lmao you’re just another elitist Radiohead fan 😂

[@ToniToniChopaaa]

@@mallroyfoxisgayyy366 well, Radiohead is the greatest band of all time.

[@NASkeywest]

As a Radiohead fan it’s super depressing that the song didn’t get used. As a Radiohead fan, I don’t have much more room For more depression.

[@Westcoastrocksduh]

Why man? Why get depressed over something so trivial?

[@collybeans586]

@@Westcoastrocksduh Sam Smith is a turd

[@PlanetXerox]

@@Westcoastrocksduh why not?

[@Westcoastrocksduh]

@@PlanetXerox why chose to be depressed when you can choose to not be depressed especially about something so insignificant? Self explanatory.

[@PlanetXerox]

@@Westcoastrocksduh I love depression man

[@steezystudio]

Radiohead's Spectre just makes me want to move. So beautiful

[@MamadNobari]

Sam Smith's song wants me to move. Move away from the headset and to the toilet.

[@steezystudio]

@@MamadNobari Love Sam Smith's Writing's On The Wall as well!

[@banktoll1109]

@@MamadNobari sam smiths song was amazing dude wdym

[@eugenefullstack7613]

I have to break with most of the comments on this video and say this song makes me want to fall asleep immediately...which is exactly why I think it was rejected.

[@gabrielp9646]

Radiohead´s Bond theme also sucks. It seems the movie was doomed to have the worst Bond theme of all time, no matter what...

[@joelkulesha8284]

Jesus the editing on this. This video must have taken forever! Mad respect!

[@ListeningIn]

Yep… thank you!

[@No-fw8ee]

yea Crazy good job man u deserve so much more

[@chimenea214]

Is filled with small details in video and audio. It’s amazing

[@parmidaaf3829]

Oof i just wanted to mention that:/ THAT is called dedication to video quality

[@JustifiedHope]

Glad people noticed too yeah it’s amazing

[@calebhawk6868]

I really love how much Spectre points towards Moon Shaped Pool, the album they were working on while making this. The strings, especially in the climax, sound exactly like something you'd hear on that album. It really would've fit on it quite well.

[@torna2508]

I would've loved Spectre as some kind prologue in AMSP

[@joewadsworth1760]

I'd read somewhere that they pulled the Radiohead version as late as after the animated opening credit sequence had been made, that's why the two fit together perfectly. You can find it on KZbin lined up with the exisiting title credits. What a waste!

[@jeremylarson6267]

yeah, but how do you explain pink floyd and the wizard of oz

[@MiguelBaptista1981]

@@jeremylarson6267 Drugs.

[@JohnsysChannel]

@@MiguelBaptista1981 Cocaines a hell of a drug.

[@scarfacegaming9848]

@@JohnsysChannel much more likely lsd or shrooms

[@JohnsysChannel]

@@scarfacegaming9848 Yeah, but Cocaines a hell of a drug! :)

[@Em4gdn1m]

YES. This is one of the best Radiohead songs. And it was CRIMINAL to cut it from the film.

[@hand587]

To add insult to injury: Sam Smith won an Oscar for his song. It depicted Bond as fragile. Not raw and complicated, just fragile, almost whimpy. It didn’t get the tone right whereas Radiohead just GOT that complexity.

[@HerenBass]

This breakdown has a really beautiful tone of Gordon Ramsay explaining a dish.

[@TheSlowPianist]

That's exactly what crossed my mind too. Great to see it in the comments.

[@adrleao15]

Paused and marked rhythm, toned and ondulate accent

[@giuliocallegari9366]

"Fuckin delicious..."

[@tudorinbogdan240]

@@giuliocallegari9366 *Finally...*

[@TheInfiniteSheldon]

"The World is Not Enough" is one of the best villain themes out there, and remains my favorite Bond theme.

[@redskies4530]

Hi I recommend a song called 'The Bond Villain' By Robert Nix

[@k.upward]

Yessssss

[@Owl90]

It's my favorite Bond song together with You Know My Name. I couldn't choose which one I love most between those two.

[@hckroess]

@@Owl90 Strangely for me those mentioned songs rank as the worst together with the Madonna song and Keys+Whites crap.

[@lockyp204]

Radiohead for the win. Spectre is a slow motion, fatalist, whirlpool of seduction and deceit. Ticks all boxes. But probably Thom’ muffled vocals worked against them, in this world where everything has to be spelt out and obvious. New subscriber 👍

[@PandorasFolly]

Good observation. Bonds world needs to be over the top

[@eeeeyyyees]

and today we have some sort of whisper singing from angsty teenager

[@crob3545]

@@eeeeyyyees no time to die is a good theme

[@eeeeyyyees]

@@crob3545 it is. never said it was a bad song

[@joshedillon9534]

I wouldn't really equate muted vocals in the vague shape of a word to "artistic subtlety." People are having to read through the lyrics not because they want to be spoonfed the message, but because they barely had any idea what he was saying. But in all honesty, Thom's vocals were otherwise excellent in this track. Still a shame that this was rejected.

[@fivewattworld]

Really well done man. Beautiful production.

[@ListeningIn]

Thank you! Glad you found the video!

[@laan_the_man7577]

Hey! Five watt’s here

[@bingbongabinga2954]

There is no darkness here. Just a sadness. I think so anyway. And a threat. I like that. There is a silver lining. Motherfuckers gonna die.

[@Calatriste54]

Very good analysis. Two other songs I identify with are; "Island", by Justin Hayward. "All or Nothing" by Tom Petty.. Skyfall's sweet..

[@x_arnie]

Totally agree, even though I don't think the song is that great.

[@luckyluke4276]

“...one of the greatest Bond themes ever written” And this, my friend, is one of the best videos I’ve ever seen

[@MM-vq2cd]

I completely agree. I have never seen a better musical analysis, everything in its right place.

[@TheGothicHangman]

Casino Royales theme by Chris Cornell, You Know My Name is more what I prefer in a Bond theme. The playing card animation opening sequence is one of the best too. One can hardly go wrong with any 007 theme, we all have our favorites.

[@urethrafranklin5981]

That track was perfect for Casino Royale just as this this track would have been perfect for what Spectre was aiming for.

[@thanos6346]

RIP Chris Cornell, an incredible vocalist

[@simonandsimbagaming]

@@urethrafranklin5981 Casino Royale deserved a bombastic theme, this was Craig's Bond's first outing, and following Die Another Day the series needed to let the audience know they were going to take things seriously. Between the opening scene with Dryden and You Know My Name, it more than delivered. Radiohead's song fit what Spectre was going for, but I'd be lying if I'm not a little pleased it was rejected. A song that good deserved a better film.

[@smokingcrab2290]

I love, love, love Chris Cornell, but for some reason I couldn't help but feel the music in that song was a tad bit cheezy. Like it didn't do Chris's voice any justice.

[@TheGothicHangman]

⁠Oh you’re absolutely right, let’s do everything exactly the same as always. We can call every progress woke to show them how perfectly staid we are. @@recline69

[@falcongal63]

As a Radiohead fan I’m just embarrassed that I didn’t know this piece existed. I’m looking forward to listening to it on it’s own. Thanks for expanding my knowledge once again. The time and care you put into your videos is incredible!

[@mattwilliamson6628]

It was released on Christmas Day shortly after the film's release. I'd argue it's their best song of the last 5 years - certainly up there with the best from A Moon Shaped Pool.

[@quinnmarchese6313]

i remember when i was in high school and Spectre came out and i had a very specific friend who i talked about A Moon Shaped Pool and all other Radiohead with as we were both musically very inspired by them, he told me about their Spectre song and even showed me the video of the intro sequence edited to it and its astounding to me that not only do they pass on Spectre, but also how much better it fits with both the tone of the movie and actual animated sequence. Im still angry about it.

[@darlantro]

@@quinnmarchese6313 if it makes you feel better, the final decision was not made by music aficionados or even the film director, these are ultimately marketing and producer decisions made around money concerns. Personally I'm just thankful that the track was released at all... in the past thing like this didn't have a way to be shared so easily, and the band would take their money and be told to forget about the song as the master recording was filed away in some warehouse.

[@quinnmarchese6313]

@@darlantro if i ever come to own a copy of spectre, ill rip it to a file, and personally reedit the sequence. the sam smith song is not only bad for the movie, but its actually bad, unlike Adeles song, Chris Cornells (rip), and almost any other theme. But personally, i wasn't a fan of the movie either

[@basslightyeah]

It's very similar to Pyramid Song imo. But clearly belongs to the AMSP era. In fact it's a perfect prologue to that album

[@X_TheHuntsman_X]

I straight up cannot remember the Spectre Sam Smith theme, but Casino Royale and Skyfall were iconic. Quantum of Solace was just a thing that happened. The music may have been good, but I can't remember the movie, so of course I don't remember the song.

[@xanpenguin754]

Quantum of Solace music was definitely better than the movie, but well it was for Quantum of Solace so it’s forgotten for the same reason you forgot it.

[@Scuuurbs]

I’ve forgotten about them all, except Casino Royale.

[@ryukan250]

Quantum theme was garbage. Alicia Keys and Jack White have zero musical chemistry.

[@spaceodds1985]

What? You mean Alicia The Cat Strangler with garage sale Jack

[@hailmedia45]

another way to die is a banger

[@abbedurgut3743]

Imagine choosing the Sam Smith song over Radiohead. Edit: 90% of the responses to this comment have been made by literal monkeys.

[@hammerjohn9290]

Fock no

[@Fuzzybro123]

Ikr

[@transformtransmitt]

Right? This is puzzling!

[@max_mittler]

Puzzling for a Radiohead fan, slightly less so for some tasteless boomer studio exec

[@spanishpeaches2930]

The least deserving music Oscar in the entire history od Academy Awards. That John Barry never got one for Bond , but Sam Smith and Jimmy Napes did...I'd be embarassed to have accepted it.

[@ToeCutter454]

Portishead's "All Mine" is one that i say is absolutely Bond theme worthy and definitely needs to be used but i've never seen anyone talk about.

[@eylul4831]

YES

[@lizziewalker7844]

Radiohead’s song absolutely matches the title sequence of Spectre in tone and pacing. How it was rejected I don’t know!

[@funbigly]

I would have rejected it too, depressing jibberish for the woke sensibility

[@abd_cheese7353]

@@funbigly only a loser brings politics into a non-political art piece

[@funbigly]

@@abd_cheese7353 Aww, were you offended at my one year old comment. Did you like your own comment too. Yea, talk about loser

[@abd_cheese7353]

@@funbigly i don't need to say anymore than i already have

[@TheGunman.9447]

@@abd_cheese7353yeah

[@stronglyacidic]

A lot of the more modern bond themes are picked because they'll be popular. Sam Smith was the flavour of the time, just liked Billie Eilish was for this most recent one.

[@Falf_lw]

I don't think that was it. They went to Radiohead first, they just didn't like what they produced.

[@OhhLoz]

@@Falf_lw I would say its probably that Sam Smith was more marketable since he was a pop artist and well known. Radiohead has somewhat of a niche that wouldn't appeal to most people despite how beautiful the song is. Since Radioheads niche is more melancholy they didn't like it for the movie.

[@Falf_lw]

@@OhhLoz he was, you're right. They wanted more of a romantic song so they went with Sam Smith's song. But he wasn't their first choice is all I'm saying

[@OhhLoz]

@@Falf_lw Fair enough. I think Radioheads fits the movie more and this is the first time im hearing it.

[@heisenberg5373]

when I first heard that no time to die was by Billie Eilish I was pissed. But after listening to it at home and at the theatre it is much better than I possibly imagined. Its just not the same genre of music that I would typically enjoy but really liked it because it fit the film well.

[@wadthecrap]

I love thé way you analyzed how Radiohead mixed their trademark style with John Barry’s iconic theme. Coming in 2nd doesn’t always mean 2nd best.

[@kitchenbriks3685]

No it means it just wasn’t good enough 😂

[@harrylane4]

@@kitchenbriks3685 Look, I like Sam Smith just fine, they're decent. But let's not pretend it was a better choice for spectre lmao

[@MrDynamite2002]

absolute criminal shame that this wasnt used, was a big Radiohead fan and found out about this a few years after it happened and was awestruck, one of my favorites.

[@liamouziel211]

I genuinely think that the best bond song of all time is sky fall. It’s just as iconic as the bond theme music and the films themselves

[@Phatboino1]

She did do a bang up job

[@xylothemagnificent420]

ugh omg I absolutely love that one

[@TSL73]

It also charted really well when it was released. I heard that song everywhere.

[@Erinbold]

@@TSL73 awful song , shite

[@marianorivera3272]

The movie was pretty good to add to it.

[@mradriankool]

Sam Smith said he took about 30minutes to write his Bond theme. I wouldn’t of been boasting about that, I’ve had poos that lasted longer and I’ve been prouder of them

[@diogeneslantern18]

zhe's a wank.

[@daughj]

I bet they sounded better too

[@TheNewton]

It's worse it actually took all of his life up to that point to write that.

[@TwitterAR3]

lmfao

[@cyro1079]

That last part caught me off guard!! 😂🤣 BRAVO..

[@partytempo]

Do you edit the videos yourself? This is my first watch and it's immediately apparent how much effort goes into arranging and presenting the information. Truly impressive.

[@jazzvonteese]

I too am blown away by the editing, and the voiceover is also remarkable. I just wish I understood what he was talking about - one more reason to learn music theory.

[@jojolostie]

I am blown away as well. Bravo. Your videos are remarkable.

[@banjopiggottwright1802]

While for me, Casino Royale's Title song You Know My Name will always be number one. Spectre is certainly a masterpiece of musical storytelling in every way.

[@AnyOldMusic]

Sensational video. I cannot believe I didn’t know there was a Radiohead song written for Spectre. I also cannot believe that it was rejected.

[@Fuzzybro123]

I would recommend tinker Taylor soldier sailer rich man poor man

[@emgee44]

Ditto

[@saswatamohanta1023]

Pretty sure they removed it for being too 'dark'

[@aul8819]

It was a bit too good for the film it was written for lmao

[@vrucewayne]

@@Fuzzybro123 bingo

[@tommyaction]

I was the guy who placed the £15k bet as Radiohead doing the song. It led to all betting closing. Look it up in the news. Worst day of my life, if it had come through like it should have I would of made a nice lump sum. The even worse part was that when Spam Smith was interviewed and asked what he thought about Radiohead he replied with 'Radiohead who'. A bad day for music.

[@whym5780]

Sure was

[@DaveyMulholland]

He said that? And here's me thinking I hated him already!

[@whym5780]

@@DaveyMulholland would be funny if they picked sam shit because they didnt want to lose money cause of your bet.

[@tommyaction]

@@DaveyMulholland his exact words were "who's Thom Yorke" when asked if he was shocked that Radiohead released their Spectre song on Xmas day. The fact that Sam then went on to win an Oscar for his song. So now that bloated piece of human excrement thinks they are deserving of praise.

[@stiggystigmarnason9077]

Why was it the worst day of your life?.. because you'd just thrown 15k away? Easy solution to that next time isn't there.

[@afinecupofcoffee8476]

I love how the song was seen as too dark with an opening full of fire and spooky octopus. I'm still hopeful that Portishead is able to do a Bond song. I'm sure Jessie Ware gets one which would be nice.

[@anitavarma8342]

+1 for Portishead

[@victorscarpes]

It's my third comment on this video. This video lives in my consciousness. Whenever I'm felling emotional, be it happy or sad, this video pops up on the forefeont of my head. It's amazing how powerful it is. It's not something that I think about all the time, but since it came out it has been one of the most consistent experiences that I think about. I love the song to death, which I came to know from this video, and I listen to it regularly, but this video is something else. I've never cried listening to Spectre, but from the half a dozen times I've watched this video, I didn't cry only on the first time. I don't quite know how to describe it. The narration with the heart wrenching melody and harmony just make feel like no song by itself was ever able to. Every couple of months or so ai come back here, and every time, it sticks with me for a while.

[@Jvdbreemen]

Man if we can get a Snyder’s cut we can also get a Radiohead’s Spectre

[@leewalker101172]

When you remember that Jonny Greenwood the guitarist is a multi-instrumentalist and wrote the entire scores for films like there will be blood and phantom thread its easy to see how they would come up with such an amazing piece of music. I cannot for the life of me understand why they went with sam smith.

[@bigpauliep6992]

Cash. Profit over product quality : it's the modern mantra.

[@DoctorSess]

Because Sam Smith is in “The Club”

[@crooker2]

My favorite bond song ever is Cornell's "You know my name". Such an exciting song. Perfect for Bond. Second is Duran Duran "View to a kill".

[@eugenefullstack7613]

I have a secret soft-spot for Thunderball because it is so incredibly BOTH Tom Jones AND James Bond. It's like Tom Jones was born in the same universe as Bond himself, they're both too shiny to be real lol.

[@crooker2]

@@eugenefullstack7613 That's a good one! I actually forgot about that one. Well done! The ones I mentioned are certainly... unconventional... bond themes.

[@pelekalikimaka]

A View To A Kill is class

[@tatevikdanielyan8795]

same!! the best

[@crooker2]

@@tatevikdanielyan8795 Right?? :)

[@Woody1000]

Spectre is such a dark movie... James confronting his past and it almost consuming him. The Radiohead song really was perfect

[@noizmeister]

The song is way way too good for the movie.

[@AlejandroShredderDJ]

indeed

[@ToneSherpa]

Radiohead dodged a bullet not being associated with such crap.

[@halbouma6720]

Yep. No surprise the theme song would get wrecked given how bad they screwed up the rest of the movie.

[@taykitrleevitt4314]

Love Radiohead and this is technically great - but the 3/4 time feels like a stilted dance instead of a sweeping ballet, that gives Bond's intro it's energy...I.M.O.☺️

[@AngelicusImmortus]

They wrote the best ever Bond theme. “You know my name” was perfectly apt for the reimagining of Bond with Daniel Craig. (Written & performed by the late great Chris Cornell) Radiohead wrote them a theme that pretty much outclassed the film. It takes the title of the film and creates a true story of Bond, almost a psychological explanation of his mind set. “My hunger burns a bullet hole, spectre of my mortal soul” how perfect it that??

[@markrichards5630]

Ya, Sam's lyrics took me back to trying to write a poem in grade 1 - you just stuck in the first word that rhymed that came into your head. Compared to some of the lines in the RH version, Sam phoned it in. (Hmmm, maybe his phone composed it with those new AI writing tools)

[@swans184]

Itd be funny if they just used it in No Time to Die

[@t3ss33]

Though Radiohead's version would have suited perfectly for Craig's Bond, I wouldn't say its the best Bond theme. In the end, the Bond movies are a collection of simple yet classic and entertaining agent movies. Most often there is no shading of good and bad and Bond is far less nuanced than Craig's version is. I feel the perfect bond theme should resemble that and thus Shirley Bassey's iconic songs will be on top in my opinion. Or if I'd want to be edgy, I could very well go with Paul McCartney :D Jokes aside, Radiohead is a masterpiece but sometimes a genius goes too overboard for the general.

[@AngelicusImmortus]

@@t3ss33 I think Goldfinger was as a theme, for your eyes only is great. Thom Yorke said “Nobody does it better” is possibly the sexy track around. (Radiohead do a good cover of it) Golden Eye announced a new style of Bond theme to a degree. A view to a kill was brilliant because they were able to use part of it as a slower instrumental backing in the film. However, Bond themes traditionally contain the title of the film, Radiohead did that but integrated it more. Though, it has to go on record, this version is what Radiohead released after they rejected it, Thom & Jonny said “we got it back and made it more of a Radiohead music track” So you could wonder what they submitted but we probably won’t hear it as they’re happy with this version. Jonny has done the whole score for a number of films now and was, bizarrely, he BBC’s composer in residence for a while. Which actually means he would have worked on the score for many programmes but if the pieces didn’t have lyrics he would go uncredited. Either way his track suits Daniel Craig’s Bond particularly as it ties to his version. In terms of perfection “You know my name” was a great piece of work, because we know the name so well. It was almost a “Did you miss me?” I’m a bit of an oddball when it comes to Bond themes because I don’t go for the big brass section ones so much. I prefer the more atmospheric ones.

[@souloftheage]

well said

[@SolamenteVees]

I was floored when RH released Spectre on Christmas Day, 2015. While I am admittedly a fan-boy, I simply could not fathom how this song was rejected. I wrote an arrangement for baritone guitar that works pretty well, tuned B-to-b... Congratulations on your expert analysis and clever editing. Top-notch.

[@Brian6587]

Just listened to Radiohead's Spectre for the first time and it's marvelous. Would have worked extremely well! It's got that haunting disjointing vibe to it and love the orchestrals. Thank you for making a video on it! I had no idea this even existed and I'm a huge Bond fan!

[@keithspencer4554]

The greatest Bond song that never was. As soon as I heard it I loved it.

[@victorscarpes]

It is very rare for me to rewatch KZbin videos. This is one exception. From time to time, I just go back and rewatch this masterpiece of a video that introduced me to this masterpiece of a song. Most of those times I've cried, both from the powerful emotional content of the song and the absolutely goosebumps inducing voice over. It's just an emotional trip to me.

[@scoopertdoopert2217]

I think this is my second time watching this video

[@Deadandr3]

"Spectre" by Radiohead and "Supremacy" by Muse are the best Bond themes, that never were...

[@Gabriel87100]

I edited Spectre's opening to Supremacy and it was a bit weird how much it fit.

[@Deadandr3]

@@Gabriel87100 Nice vid, mate. It would be interesting to see if it fits the Skyfall intro, cause it was intended to be in that movie…

[@StellarStreak]

"Supremacy" is such an underrated song. The best part is you don't even need to edit the song to fit into a Bond movie. You just use the song as it is. The opening lines "Wake to see, your true emancipation is a fantasy" fits so well with the overall Bond arc along with the violins, the bass line and the all powerful "SUPREMACYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY...". I don't know whether MUSE created this surprisingly fitting Bond theme by accident. Anyways, we got this masterpiece. So, thanks MUSE.

[@Osharejunkie]

I'd add these ones to the list as worthy contenders, also. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jaHLk3aOhq-Hbqc kzbin.info/www/bejne/r56om5mmlNRgr7M

[@imaXkillXya]

Snake eater too

[@mrkiddguy]

I never knew about this song, and it's wild it was rejected. It reminds me, I always wondered about muse's "supremacy" and how it felt like it was engineered to be a Bond song until Adelle's "Skyfall". amazing video, I'm going to go listen to this 800 times now

[@nathansinclair9019]

I had exactly the same thought about Supremacy by Muse. Chatting with a mate not long after The Second Law was released and I quote "you know, the one that sounds like a Bond theme!"

[@mihaelanegritu1709]

I ,also,didn't know this song,neither the fact that Supremacy was an option for Bond's songs.But for me, Bond series ,didn't deserve Muse's song.Neither,Twilight Saga.But i would choose in any moment Radiohead,instead the Eilish person.Strange days,we are living,nowadays !

[@lukak1774]

yeah definitely thought supremacy sounded bondy

[@Triattt]

@@mihaelanegritu1709 Say what you will about the Twilight Saga, but the soundtrack was great. Especially the first movie (imo). Even the original score was nice.

[@mihaelanegritu1709]

@@Triattt What are you talking about ? You didn't understand the point .My point.Muse is too good to make music for series.Which seems to not end.The commercial movies,i mean.Any movie would be like,"Muse ft.Twilght Saga".Just an example,and it didn't mean i didn't like the Saga.Every movie which continue with dozens of parts (Bond ),become weaker and weaker,each part ! IMHO !

[@rory_wilson]

This video is brilliant. I love how you've put this together, setting up the story of the theme, the chord progression, then letting it all explore through playing the radio head song and annotating it live. It's powerful. Such a shame they didn't use it. You're right. It's perfect.

[@ListeningIn]

Thank you so much Rory!

[@osamabinladen824]

@@ListeningIn You're a legend

[@CoyoteLofi]

I know they chose Sam Smith cause he was a big deal at the time but, in my mind, they heard Radiohead's song and knew the movie couldn't measure up.

[@shanelyon414]

You bring this song/movie/story to look life. I can not get enough of this!

[@JerkyMurky]

It is almost unnatural how incredibly bond radio heads song is. The only other not bond song i have ever heard that captures the sound of bond that perfectly is feeling good. How this could have gotten passed over is beyond me.

[@Book7BrokeMyBrain]

TIL that Radiohead was hired to make the perfect bond theme and the producers chickened out. What a beautiful piece! Thank you for this video about it. This is like Surrender sung by kd lang, which likewise came second in the Bond race.

[@DefenestrateYourself]

@@MrMetagaming lol Radiohead dodged a bullet on this one. Spectre's an embarrassment of a Bond movie, just as Sam Smith's song is an embarrassment of a Bond theme. Bless your little heart though sweetie

[@Keith-op4qs]

I am hardly an audiophile, but Wow! This is an amazing analysis of the musical world behind the James Bond films (and of course, "Spectre" specifically). Well done, Maestro!

[@paulfromperth5713]

One of my favourite Radiohead songs and by far and away the best Bond theme. The orchestration is absolutely stunning. Perfection 👌

[@yotube1ful]

Dude. Let me be blunt: You fucking killed it. I knew this song was superior to the chosen song but you give learned words as to why that I couldn’t possibly begin to access. Had you been in the meeting and thusly explained it, it would’ve been chosen because they too would’ve understood. This I know to be true. I’d put considerable money on it. Bravo!

[@marc-andrerenaud1394]

That theme? Pure majesty. Your analysis? Pure poetry. Thank you for this glorious peak behind the curtain of musical arrangement and Radiohead's continued genius.

[@woozy96]

I dont understand notes, but here's what I can say: 1. Ethereal 2. Progressive 3. Ambient 4. Playful arrangement

[@straydog02]

Pure genius! .. What a shame this wasn't used for the movie.

[@chazbones23]

This song definitely captures Bond’s soul beautifully. My all time favorite song

[@kitanavalentina]

Billie Eilish "No Time to Die" has all the DNA of the original Bond Theme. But all Bond opening themes were great for that era except Madonna's take. OUCH!

[@john_duncan]

Radiohead is one of the most talented bands ever.

[@masterninja9716]

correct

[@growskull]

uhh not really kid

[@john_duncan]

@@growskull they are, and I'm not a kid.

[@growskull]

@@john_duncan well you must be a kid mentally if you think radiohead is even in the top 100 most talented bands

[@john_duncan]

@@growskull no i am not. But i can see you are an asshole.

[@Lilah_Ninigigun_Belet-Eanna]

Thom Yorke's Suspiria soundtrack is masterful. He is an amazing singer & composer. I listen to it all the time. Sad that this song was rejected, it's so beautiful.

[@gracewenzel]

I’ll always hold that the Shirley Bassey ones are the best ones. Pure distilled camp. And gold!

[@str1ve305]

I can just imagine Jonny Greenwood arranging this. Also, how has this guy not composed for a Bond movie yet?

[@jeremyrcole]

This video is a movie in its own right. The editing is amazing and the analysis so well done.

[@DanielPestanaTranslations]

This was a major loss for the Bond legacy. A mesmerizing song! I often play this song in my car when I’m feeling nostalgic or down. It brings me such a wonderful feeling I can’t even put to words.

[@silver1788]

Your music are just perfect You make a real movie experience out of a song analysis Your videos are something so special and unique

[@RealNacho]

You are right about this song being a masterpiece. I cannot only stop listening to this song, I am also mesmerized by your amazing voice! Well done man!

[@waavhal]

Honestly, this was the most beautiful KZbin video I've watched in a while.

[@thankyouforyourcompliance7386]

I often come back as I love this theme. The beginning is so fitting to Bond's inner struggle and pain and the vocals are both brave and full of despair. Great art. Perfect. The other song is just another pop song.

[@johnnymcgonigle6530]

Radiohead have been at the top of their game for so long now, incredible band, can't wait to see them again.

[@markilsemann950]

Dude, you just blew my mind. I stumbled upon this by accident, and am I glad I did! I´ve always been a huge Radiohead fan, but I lack the musical knowledge to make sense of it all. To see your analysis, combined with one of the greatest movie frachises of all time... What can I say, it really made my day. And your production values are top-notch. VERY well done, and kudos to you.

[@cghilltopper]

Perfect! When the the Radiohead version was released on KZbin -- following the rejection by the studio/producers -- I went mad for it, listening to it multiple times until it was pulled and only available for purchase via a music streaming service for a good while. I found the haunting music and lyrics quintessentially Bond-esque, if you will, and thanks to your explanation, I have a much better understanding why this is so!

[@shanelyon414]

Wow,what an amazing analysis! I have listened to this video over a dozen time, you bring this song to life. Showing off all of its little nuances and details on the context of Bond and Radiohead. Amazing job!

[@redskies4530]

Hi I recommend a song called 'The Bond Villain' By Robert Nix

[@crozraven]

For Craig's Era, I still think Casino Royale's "Chris Cornell - You Know My Name" is the best James Bond theme song. Also, this might be rather radical, but I think one of if not arguably the best James Bond-esque theme song is not even from James Bond movies, but a video game. That game is "MGS3 Snake Eater."

[@rus0004]

Have you heard the theme for "Budget Cuts"?

[@rey_s90]

Snake eater! What a song that was!

[@NightWanderer31415]

Ahh, Snake Eater. A fellow man of culture.

[@lespetitszoiseaux3774]

This. kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5KrgqF6iclkr5Y

[@keithklassen5320]

What a thrill...

[@michaelhird432]

I still think that man of war would've been the perfect bond theme

[@johnbeaker8721]

Absolutely

[@Triattt]

That's why this song came out so good. Radiohead already knew how to make a James Bond theme song since 95.

[@OLDSACKS]

Writing's on the wall deserves to be the theme for Spectre. Spectre was a disappointing movie when you look at the franchise, Sam Smith's discography is disappointing when you look at his musical skills. Meanwhile, Radiohead straight up releases one of the best songs they ever made.

[@jamesmccartney2523]

Got me in the first half, not gonna lie...

[@soaribb32]

Pretty much.

[@GReduxZ]

Totally. Spectre movie was a dissapointment. Sam Smith´s song, too.

[@The_RedVIII]

That being said, Radiohead should have won an Oscar for this song. It should have gotten all the marketing and radioplay. But instead it's an overlooked masterpiece. And that's what's so disappointing about all of this.

[@Grythpyke]

Samantha Smiths version was too girly for Bond

[@chazlewis8114]

So grateful that someone put the time and energy into faithfully analyzing this masterpiece.

[@hankfleming0560]

Spectre by Radiohead is a masterpiece

[@redskies4530]

Hi I recommend an indie rock song Called 'The Bond Villain' by Robert Nix

[@AC-hj9tv]

Fuck yea

[@maxmeier532]

Man of War is the bondiest Song of all Bonds songs and the fact it was denied cause it wasnt written for the movie specifically is basically factually wrong cause you can hear that it was written with Bond in mind, back in the day.

[@I_Am_Wasabi_Man]

@@redskies4530 Hi I recommend an indie rock song Called 'FREAKOUT' by 1 800 PAIN

[@pedro888mendes]

This song is more bond than bond's original tune itself... just transcends into another dimension altogether

[@chrisppraefecti373]

Yes. If Spectre had surpassed the darkness and intrigue of Skyfall it would have been worthy of this song.

[@georgerickard4915]

Something that did not get enough attention in Spectre was the amazing introductory music Los Muertos Vivos Estan. It perfectly blended Bond with Latin rhythms and was perfectly synchronized to the action in the film. I remember being in awe at my first viewing.

[@artyshefartsy]

What an amazing study! Thank you for making learning so stimulating and fun! I love the format and how everything was presented. The editing was absolutely stunning.

[@ryukan250]

Bjork - "Bachelorette" Ulver - "So Falls The World" Two perfect Bond themes that never were.

[@philbergen1567]

Whaaa? What are the odds? Bjork Bachelorette is my all time favorite should-have-been Bond theme too! May have to check out this Ulver.

[@ryukan250]

@@philbergen1567 Yeah man, Bachelorette is a fantastic song. The Ulver song is much darker but has a noir atmosphere and sense of grandiose that evokes the world of Fleming's novels. At least to my imagination anyway!

[@redlioness6627]

Goldfrapp Time Out from the World!

[@someonenamedbob]

Really gotta agree with you on Bachelorette, though the lyrics might have to change slightly.

[@daking7658]

Last Game - "Zwei" Mega Bond vibes

[@jleggett5995]

Suits the opening imagery so much better than Smith's song. The recent Suspiria was allowed to benefit from the majesty of a Thom Yorke soundtrack and it adds so so much.

[@error60091]

yup, agree... opening sequence with all its languid smoke and slinky octopii match Radiohead's song better than Smith...

[@ListeningIn]

What's your favourite Bond theme? Also, if you'd like to purchase a PDF of the score for my transcription of Radiohead's 'Spectre', visit my new Musicnotes page: www.musicnotes.com/l/CD5JW

[@petergivenbless900]

My favourite Bond song is 'You Only Live Twice' (those descending strings give me goosebumps!). But I think one of the qualities that stand the test of time for a Bond song is whether you can walk out of the cinema whistling the theme; this is something that, despite the beauty of the song, most might find challenging with Radiohead's offering.

RADIOHEAD from SPECTRE

[@NiekBrokkelkoek]

Chris Cornell's 'You Know My Name' without a doubt.

[@bengreen171]

'live and let die' is the finest actual Bond theme, for hte sheer weight of that brassy guitar build up - but I think Pulp's song 'this is hardcore' is the best bond theme that never was.

[@andreylucass]

Man of War is the perfect Bond theme.

[@selbie]

Not to downplay Thom Yorke's singing, but Radiohead's Spectre with a powerful female singer would have been icing on the cake. The flourish into B major with a strong vocal note behind it would send shivers down anyone's back.

[@redskies4530]

Hi I recommend a song called 'The Bond Villain' By Robert Nix

[@yotube1ful]

You could simply have it also played by others too at that point. Radiohead song not sung by thom York would then no llonger be a Radiohead song. It’d only be written by. Doable but a whole other animal entirely

[@zb4358]

Completely agree. I’m a fan of Radiohead however a female voice on this track would make it superior and more fitting to Bond in my opinion. That’s not to say I think Sam Smiths voice is any more fitting. I do not.

[@johndodd7870]

Beth Gibbons. Radio versus Portis! Head to Head!

[@simonfrasch3066]

Your editing is just so good! I don't know many channels with a production quality like yours.

[@victortrying]

Oh, this one... It was December 2015 when they released it on Soundcloud. I still can't believe how good this song is.

[@jalabi99]

"Writing's On The Wall" is a solid Bond theme, but Radiohead's "Spectre" blows it out of the water. And I'm not even that much of a Radiohead fan!

[@tokyo.r6]

Sam Smith's version blows Radiohead's out the water. The only reason people are all over the thought that Radiohead did a better job is purely because they found out that they got rejected over Sam Smith. Radiohead did a good attempt but just didn't fit as well as Writing's On The Wall did specifically for Spectre. If anyone thinks it's because they chose Hollywood over underground bands are dead wrong. Some artists that have been rejected for Bond films in the past include Alice Cooper for Man With the Golden Gun, Muse for Skyfall, Blondie for Your Eyes Only and Johnny Cash for Thunderball to name a few. Radiohead did have a good attempt but Sam Smith killed it with Writing's On The Wall. The music, the lyrics really fit the film perfectly.

[@amiccus_]

@@tokyo.r6 Exactly!! A bad song for a bad film :)

[@Jvksiew]

@@tokyo.r6 Sam Smith's lyrics literally makes no sense, it's just sam smith does what sam smith always do: Emo pop

[@tokyo.r6]

@@amiccus_ I'm sorry that you're wrong about the film. Maybe Dora the Explorer is more your speed.

[@tokyo.r6]

@@Jvksiew You clearly haven't even read the lyrics and I doubt you really watched the film beyond shoot shoot bang bang. Radiohead is a has been band. It wasn't even Sam Smith who wrote the song. He just sang it clown.

[@outsidestuff5283]

This is such a well produced video, I've rewatched it several times now

[@KipperStudios]

I don't know musical theory, but I've shared this with some friends of mine who do because... WOW. This was an exemplary video, absolutely loved it! I love how you can teach us what you have without being a snob in the slightest. It really did welcome me in with open arms, and I have a huge amount of gratitude and respect for that. Thank you ever so much for making this content!

[@KipperStudios]

Oh, and I completely agree with you. I never even knew Radiohead had written a prospective Bond song, but even just hearing it in this video, I completely agree with you. That's how amazing not just the song itself is, but also your ability to make me understand/convince me why the song was the better fit. Such a shame that it wasn't chosen, but thanks to people like yourself, that doesn't mean it can't be loved!

[@BoudiccaPLG]

you made me 'hear' what I have been listening to for years. I studied music for decades and just never saw this and I do love a good minor key composition. P.S How good is this video. So much work and thought.

[@tccandler]

Does anyone else remember that "Rip it out" scene from "Dead Poets Society" performed by Robin Williams?

[@gnaaruag6744]

I did not expect to see you here

[@thijsbergman2424]

@@gnaaruag6744 who is he

[@JohnsysChannel]

@@thijsbergman2424 TC Candler.

[@minners71]

@@JohnsysChannel Thanks for clearing that up, smh.

[@JohnsysChannel]

@@minners71 :) It's good to know.I actually have no idea who it is.

[@80b]

I agree with your harmonic analysis of the Radiohead piece and your emotional response to it. However, in my opinion, as a bond theme it just doesn't hold the emotional punch of other themes, and I can understand why it was not chosen first.

[@Bronxtale7645]

The hell are you talking about lmao, This is ten times more emotional than the song that was used in the final cut

[@zzszszszszz]

​@@Bronxtale7645 nah radios song didnt rlly hit me at all just left me kinda confused about what he was saying cus its so muffled.. sam smiths was miles better

[@bigpauliep6992]

​@@zzszszszszzJust by the way you express yourself in the written form, it's not hard to see why you find Smith's effort the better of the two.

[@MarionRelics]

The director must have heard that gentle opening and turned it off before it got to the badass breakdown because there's no way you hear that part and think "nah."

[@octave_stuff3087]

You are a brilliant editor and an even better presenter. The amount I can take away from your videos and how much they make me feel always surprises me. The most underrated channel on KZbin for sure. Keep up the hard work to make these kinds of videos possible :)

[@antdujar]

I remember when it was announced that this song was cut, it blew my mind that it was rejected , but at the same time, the song was too good for the movie anyway. It’s just another great track in their discography. But man, that song would have been perfect for the movie.

[@robertprice2911]

Ha ha couldn't agree more, movie wasn't good enough for the song

[@natalee5588]

"Sometimes the truth can only be seen by looking in the shadows." What a brilliant line! And a perfect seductive hint to the movie itself. Well done! That will stay with me all day.🤩