Licence to Kill – Gladys Knigh: 16th Bond Song

The title song from the 16th James Bond movie, Licence to Kill (1989), was sung by Gladys Knight. The song was composed by Narada Michael Walden, Jeffrey Cohen, and Walter Afanasieff.

About

• Title: Licence to Kill
• Film: Featured as the title song for the sixteenth James Bond film, Licence to Kill (1989)
• Performer: Gladys Knight
• Composer: Narada Michael Walden, Jeffrey Cohen, Walter Afanasieff
• Release Date: 1989
• Genre: R&B, Soul
• Theme: Licence to Kill captures the essence of danger and suspense central to the Bond franchise. Gladys Knight's soulful vocals and the song's dramatic arrangement convey a sense of urgency and intrigue, reflecting the film's themes of espionage and betrayal.
• Style: Known for its emotive delivery and powerful instrumentation, Licence to Kill is a standout Bond theme. The song features a blend of R&B and soul elements, creating a compelling and atmospheric anthem that resonates with listeners.
• Legacy: Licence to Kill is celebrated as one of the standout Bond themes, earning critical acclaim and commercial success upon its release. Gladys Knight's captivating performance and the song's poignant composition have contributed to its enduring popularity, ensuring its place as a classic in the Bond canon.
• Cultural Impact: The song's evocative refrain, "Licence to kill, more than a licence to kill," has become synonymous with the Bond franchise and is instantly recognizable to fans. Licence to Kill has been covered and referenced in various media, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.

Video

Source: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ju_by-sC79c.

Lyrics: Licence to Kill

Ooooh
Oh-hooo
I feel, I've got to hold on to your love
Oooh.

Hey baby, thought you were the one who tried to run away.
Ohh, baby, wasn't I the one who made you want to you?
Please don't bet that you'll ever escape me
Once I get my sights on you.

Got a license to kill (to kill)
And you know I'm going straight for your heart.
(Got a license to kill)
Got a license to kill (to kill)
Anyone who tries to tear us apart.
(Got a license to kill)
License to kill.

Hey baby, think you need a friend to stand here by your side?
Yes you do (your side)
Ohh, baby, now you can depend on me to make things right (things right)
Please don't bet that you'll ever escape me
Once I get my sights on you

Got a license to kill (to kill)
And you know I'm going straight for your heart.
(Got a license to kill)
Got a license to kill (to kill)
Anyone who tries to tear us apart.
(Got a license to kill)

Say that somebody tries to make a move on you
In the blink of an eye, I will be there too
And they better know why I'm gonna make them 'em pay
Till their dying day
Till their dying day
Till their dying day

Got a license to kill (to kill)
And you know I'm going straight for your heart, baby.
(Got a license to kill)
Got a license to kill
Anyone who tries to tear us apart.
(Got a license to kill)

Got a license to kill (to kill)
And you know I'm heading straight for your heart.
(Got a license to kill)
Got a license to kill
Anyone who tries to tear us apart.
(Got a license to kill)
License to kill
Gotta hold onto your loving.
License to kill
Ooohooo!

You Might Be Also Interested

• Next Bond Song #17: GoldenEye – Tina Turner (1995);
• Previous Bond Song #15: The Living Daylights – A-ha (1987);
• This Bond Movie #16: A View to a Kill (1989);
• All Bond Songs: Iconic Title Songs From Bond Films
• All Bond Films: Stories of James Bond, Agent 007
• Movies With Casino Themes and Betting.

Based on the original Czech article: Licence to Kill – Gladys Knight – titulní píseň ze 16. bondovky Povolení zabíjet.