About the song
“Nobody Does It Better” by Carly Simon is one of those songs that immediately transports you to a specific time and place, blending the allure of cinema with the sophistication of a well-crafted pop ballad. Released in 1977, this song served as the theme for the James Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me, becoming one of the most memorable and successful Bond themes ever.
Written by the legendary songwriting duo Marvin Hamlisch and Carole Bayer Sager, “Nobody Does It Better” was the first Bond theme to be titled differently from the film, though the phrase “the spy who loved me” is cleverly woven into the lyrics. The song showcases Carly Simon’s smooth, emotive vocals, which perfectly capture the glamorous yet introspective mood of the film. It’s a song that speaks of admiration and love, with a touch of vulnerability—a perfect fit for the suave yet complex character of James Bond.
“Nobody Does It Better” was featured on the soundtrack album for The Spy Who Loved Me and also appeared on Carly Simon’s 1977 album Greatest Hits. Upon its release, the song quickly became a commercial success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and staying on the chart for an impressive 23 weeks. It also enjoyed significant popularity in the UK, where it reached number 7 on the Singles Chart.
Critically, the song was a triumph. It earned Carly Simon a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female, and was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song, solidifying its status as one of the most iconic pieces of music associated with the Bond franchise. Over the years, “Nobody Does It Better” has been covered by numerous artists, but Carly Simon’s original version remains the definitive interpretation.
The song’s success is a testament to its timeless appeal, combining elegant orchestration with relatable, heartfelt lyrics. For many, “Nobody Does It Better” is more than just a Bond theme—it’s a classic love song that continues to resonate with listeners, decades after its release. Simon’s delivery, paired with Hamlisch’s melodic composition and Sager’s poignant lyrics, creates a piece of music that, much like the Bond character, is both enduring and unforgettable.