Sad news that the father of modern film soundtracks and scores has died. John
Barry is perhaps the most influential of film composers since his early 1960's
compositions and his rise in fame with the James Bond series. Barry was drafted
on to Dr.No to jazz up the score that Monty Norman had composed, Barry was
responsible for the staccato beat of the famous James Bond Theme while Norman
was always credited for the composition it was Barry's arrangement that gave it
notice.
Barry went on to have a secure relationship with the Bond films producing the
score for From Russia with Love while Lionel Bart composed the themes song. It
was Goldfinger that secured Barry's place in film music fame with his big sassy
title song and the employ of the big voiced Shirley Bassey. After Goldfinger
Barry was greatly in demand and was responsible for some of the most innovative
film music of the time with soundtracks to The Ipcress File, The Knack,
Midnight Cowboy for which he won an Oscar and many more. It was the soundtrack
for On Her Majesty's Secret Service that perhaps his best writing was evident.
Barry went on to create music to many films some fading into obscurity and yet
the music was always recognizable as having Barry's stamp. Since his retirement
from mainstream music Barry's banner has been carried high with the likes of
Michael Giacchino emulating him as well as other composers having influence
from John Barry - Danny Elfman, James Horner, Hans Zimmer to name but a few.
Together with Jerry Goldsmith and John Wiliams John Barry defined an era of
film music. He was responsible for some of the most recognised themes including
The Persuaders and possibly the greatest love theme ever We Have all the Time
in the World sung by Louis Armstrong.
Goodnight, goodnight John.
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