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English composer renowned for his iconic film scores, particularly for the James Bond franchise.John Barry was a five-time Academy Award-winning composer who created music for over 100 films. He transformed the James Bond series' sound with his sophisticated arrangements and composed legendary themes for 'Goldfinger' and 'You Only Live Twice'. His career spanned five decades, earning Oscars for scores including 'Born Free', 'The Lion in Winter', 'Out of Africa', and 'Dances with Wolves'.

• Barry's famous James Bond theme arrangement (originally composed by Monty Norman) established the spy genre's musical blueprint with its electric guitar riff and brassy swagger.
• He survived a near-fatal throat infection in 1988 after choking on food, which required extensive rehabilitation to regain his speech and swallowing abilities.
• Barry was married four times; his third wife was famed singer Lulu, though their marriage lasted just three years (1969-1972).
• He controversially turned down scoring 'The Godfather' due to scheduling conflicts, later expressing regret over missing the opportunity.
• Barry died of a heart attack at age 77 in his Oyster Bay, New York home.