Shirley Bassey, widely known as the singer behind several classic James Bond themes, will perform a surprise 007 theme at the upcoming BAFTA awards. At age 85, Bassey has been a part of the Bond franchise since her voice was first heard at the start of 1964’s Goldfinger. In the years since then, she was also credited with performing the themes for Diamonds Are Forever and Moonraker, firmly establishing herself as a vital part of 007’s history.
In addition to the decision of which actor will actually play author Ian Fleming’s famed super-spy, deciding who will perform the next Bond theme is of considerable importance to fans. Over the years, there have been a wide variety of performers who have lent their talents to the franchise’s various opening theme songs. And while not all of these have been fan favorites, Bassey’s unique voice has long since become as synonymous with 007 as martinis have, though it’s difficult to say exactly why. Obviously, the quality of her performances has a great deal to do with this, but there’s something more about her vocals that have stuck with fans. Diamonds Are Forever and Moonraker may not have gone on to top many Bond fans’ lists of the best entries in the series, but Goldfinger has long been regarded as one of – if not the best Bond films of all time. Bassey’s theme song undoubtedly played a role in that.
This year BAFTA celebrates its 75th anniversary, with the award ceremony taking place on March 13. In addition to this milestone, the Bond franchise is also marking a special achievement by celebrating its 60th anniversary. As Deadline reports, the Bond franchise and BAFTAs have a special treat planned for 007 fans with a live performance from Bassey. The acclaimed singer will perform a surprise Bond theme that won’t be chosen until the night of the BAFTAs. Bassey’s performance will open the awards ceremony.
It’s fair to say that of the three Bond themes that Bassey is associated with, most fans would want to hear her sing Goldfinger. In addition to the song being one of the best in the Bond catalog, it also is a fitting selection to help celebrate 60 years of 007. Oddly enough, the song, which was composed by famed Bond franchise composer John Barry, actually includes the work of legendary Led Zeppelin founder Jimmy Page, as Page was working as a session musician at the time. Goldfinger is also known for being the first Bond anthem to establish the tradition of a Bond theme playing over the film’s opening credits. All in all, the song boasts a substantial number of reasons for being highly regarded and worthy of a Bassey performance.
Possibly the only wrong decision that could be made in this situation is getting Bassey to sing a medley. While it’s the most obvious choice in terms of allowing her to celebrate the three classic James Bond themes she’s been a part of, the sixtieth anniversary of the franchise should be marked by what is arguably its most familiar theme song. It’s not every day that someone as remarkable as Bassey performs for something like this and as such, it makes sense to have her acknowledge where it all began.
Source: Deadline