John Barry is a famous film score composer, noted for his work on the James Bond movie series. He developed the signature musical sound of the series, a combination of orchestral strings and brash horns, along with the famous electric guitar of the James Bond theme. (Monty Norman was given formal credit for composing the theme although the issue is disputed.)

Barry composed the scores for the majority of the blockbusters that turned James Bond into the most successful Hollywood movie franchise. His credits include the music for Dr. No, From Russia With Love, Goldfinger and several other Bond films.

He went on to compose music for dozens of movies and television productions. His influential style earned him four Grammy Awards and five Oscars. He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1998.