Released on May 30, 1989, Licence to Kill was the official theme song for the 16th James Bond film of the same name. Performed by Gladys Knight, the track brought a dramatic, soul-infused edge to the Bond franchise, standing out as one of the most vocally powerful entries in the long-running series.
Big Brass, Bigger Voice
The song was written by Narada Michael Walden, Jeffrey Cohen, and Walter Afanasieff, and it doesn’t hold back on Bond-style grandeur. With sweeping orchestral arrangements, bold brass sections, and Knight’s commanding vocals front and center, it delivers the kind of cinematic punch you’d expect from a Bond theme.
The lyrics capture the emotional intensity and danger typical of a 007 storyline—blending themes of betrayal, obsession, and determination into a song that feels just as dramatic as the film itself. It even subtly references the Bond classic Goldfinger with a similar horn motif at the start.
Chart Success Around the Globe
While Licence to Kill didn’t chart on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S., it performed strongly overseas. The track peaked at number 6 on the UK Singles Chart and spent an impressive eight weeks at number 1 in Sweden. It also charted well across Europe, adding a soulful twist to the usually rock-leaning Bond music legacy.
A Bond Theme Worth Remembering
Though it’s sometimes overshadowed by other Bond hits, Licence to Kill holds up as a standout thanks to Gladys Knight’s powerhouse performance and its rich, orchestral production. More than three decades later, it’s still celebrated by Bond fans and music lovers alike for bringing something fresh—and fiercely elegant—to the franchise.