john barry scores · N^o441

The late John Barry's compositions are some of the most famous in cinema history - his infamous Bond themes featuring the likes of Nancy Sinatra and Shirley Bassey helped forge the sleek, dangerous image of Ian Fleming's spy that we all know so well. Barry's musical legacy spanned most of his life, gained him international acclaim, five Oscars, and our deepest respect.

John Barry made the violin cool and had a Midas-like touch - casting a sensuous glow over everything he put his very talented hands to. We're leaving it to Barry to explain exactly what made him such a sensation:

"You know when you’ve got it, and you know when you haven’t. When you’ve got it, you say, ‘Ah, Jesus, that’s it.’ And if someone asks, ‘Please explain what it is,’ I say, ‘It’s working, isn’t it? That’s what it is.’ It’s got the goods because it’s affecting you in a lovely way, or in a sad way that breaks your heart.”

Cheers Mr. Barry

This post comes to us courtesy of Chloe Hayward of PastPresentFutureLondon. For more on Chloe, her impeccable taste, and a look at art, fashion & culture through a Londoner's eye, visit Chloe's blog: PastPresentFutureLondon.