The James Bond franchise has a long-standing tradition of pairing each film with a memorable theme song. From Paul McCartney's "Live and Let Die" to Billie Eilish's "No Time to Die," these tracks have become as iconic as the films themselves. The last three Bond themes even took home the Oscar for Best Original Song, setting a high bar for whoever lands the next gig.
As the search for Daniel Craig's replacement continues, the question of who will sing the next Bond theme is already buzzing. The current music scene is rich with diverse talent, from pop and rap to country and beyond. Here are five artists who would be perfect to deliver the next Bond anthem.
RAYE
RAYE has been making waves with her unique blend of jazz, pop, and soul. Her global hit "Where is My Husband!" showcased her songwriting and vocal prowess, and her collaborations with artists like Beyoncé and Charli XCX have solidified her status. During her 2026 tour with Bruno Mars, RAYE embraced a vintage Hollywood aesthetic, complete with a live brass band, which perfectly aligns with the classic Bond vibe. She even performed "Skyfall" during the James Bond medley at the 2025 Academy Awards, proving she can handle the pressure of a Bond theme. With her theatrical flair and musical versatility, RAYE is a top contender.
Lana del Rey
Lana del Rey's dreamy, cinematic sound has long been associated with Bond. She submitted a song for Spectre but lost out to Sam Smith. However, she collaborated with Bond composer David Arnold on the theme for the video game 007 First Light, which was surprisingly lush and orchestral. Her music has been described as a modern-day Nancy Sinatra, who sang "You Only Live Twice." With her moody, mysterious style, del Rey would bring a classic yet contemporary feel to the franchise.
Rosalía
Rosalía would bring a fresh, international flavor to Bond. The Spanish artist is known for blending flamenco, reggaeton, and pop, and she sings in multiple languages, including English and Spanish. Her latest album Lux even features lyrics in eleven languages, showcasing her global appeal. Rosalía's dramatic stage presence and visual creativity would make for a stunning credit sequence. She could easily adapt to the tone of the next Bond film, whether it's gritty or glamorous.
Jurnee Smollett
Jurnee Smollett is primarily known as an actress, but her singing talent is undeniable. She showcased her vocal chops in Lovecraft Country and as Black Canary in Birds of Prey, where she delivered a powerful rendition of "It's a Man's Man's Man's World." Her performance was emotionally charged, moving from vulnerability to fierce determination. Smollett's ability to convey deep emotion through song makes her a compelling choice for a Bond theme, which often requires a balance of vulnerability and strength.
Harry Styles
Harry Styles has evolved from boy band heartthrob to a respected solo artist with a flair for the dramatic. His music often features lush arrangements and introspective lyrics, reminiscent of classic Bond themes. Styles has a massive global following and a fashion sense that fits the Bond aesthetic. He's also shown interest in acting, appearing in films like Dunkirk and Don't Worry Darling. A Bond theme from Styles would likely be a chart-topping hit and bring a modern pop sensibility to the franchise.
While the next Bond film is still in early development, the choice of theme song artist will be crucial. These five artists each bring something unique to the table, and any of them could deliver a theme that lives up to the legacy of "Skyfall" and "Goldfinger." As the franchise looks to the future, it's exciting to imagine what musical direction it will take.
