The Badass Babes of 007: A Playlist

The sexualization of women in James Bond movies can be pretty questionable but it’s hard to deny how many badass babes are a part of the Bond world. Whether they’re a Bond Girl or a villain, they’re always strong, witty and drop dead gorgeous. From 1995-2012, the Bond movies casted Judi Dench as M (Bond’s superior), the only female to be casted in this role who is both steadfast and wise and calls out James Bond in his misogynistic ways. And what would a Bond movie be without Miss Moneypenny, the lovestricken and kind secretary? Whether you love James Bond or hate him, we couldn’t do Issue 007 without dedicating a playlist to all the badass women who’ve been a part of 007, especially the astounding musicians who have made the themes for each Eon Productions Hollywood hit. In fact, out of the 24 movies that have been released, 15 of those songs have featured women! Here are our 007 favorite themes:

7. Carly Simon— “Nobody Does it Better” for The Spy Who Loved Me (1977)– This isn’t the most typical theme but Carly Simon is just great and this is a beautiful song.

6. Adele— “Skyfall” (2012)– Adele nails the gracefulness of a cinematic Bond theme, perhaps the most traditional Bond theme in recent years.

5. Nancy Sinatra— “You Only Live Twice” (1967)– This is just beautifully romantic and dreamy.

4. Garbage— “The World is Not Enough” (1999)– Garbage creates a perfectly sexy and very clubby 90’s Bond theme.

3. Tina Turner— “GoldenEye” (1995)– Tina Turner is just the coolest. This sultry theme highlights her voice to the fullest.

2. Alicia Keys & Jack White– “Another Way to Die” for Quantum of Solace (2008)– Perhaps more rockin’ than the typical Bond theme but how can you not love this smokin’ hot collab between Jack White and Alicia Keys.

1. Shirley Bassey– “Goldfinger” (1964)– Okay, this is just the number one Bond classic. Is there a more iconic theme song? It’s swinging and bluesy and just outright cool. She is also the queen on Bond themes with three Bond themes to her name.