"Writing's on the Wall" is a song by English singer Sam Smith, which served as the theme song for the James Bond film "Spectre" released in 2015. Here are some interesting facts about the song and Sam Smith's involvement with it:
Bond Theme Breakthrough: "Writing's on the Wall" marked the first time a James Bond theme song had reached the number one spot on the UK Singles Chart. It also won the Academy Award for Best Original Song, making Sam Smith the first openly gay person to win an Oscar in a major category.
Collaboration: The song was co-written by Sam Smith and Jimmy Napes, who had previously collaborated on Smith's debut album "In the Lonely Hour." The duo wrote the song in under half an hour.
Emotional Content: Sam Smith has often been praised for their emotive and soulful voice. "Writing's on the Wall" is no exception, as the song features Smith's signature powerful vocals that effectively convey the emotional depth of the song's lyrics.
Inspiration: The song's lyrics touch upon themes of vulnerability, heartache, and longing, which are common themes in Sam Smith's music. The lyrics also tie into the narrative of the James Bond film, "Spectre," which explores Bond's own vulnerabilities and relationships.
Recording Experience: Sam Smith recorded "Writing's on the Wall" at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London. The studio's rich musical history added to the prestige of the song's creation.
Bond Legacy: The song's release and its subsequent success solidified Sam Smith's place in the legacy of James Bond theme songs, joining the ranks of iconic artists like Shirley Bassey, Paul McCartney, and Adele, who have also contributed theme songs to the Bond film franchise.
Critical Reception: While the song was commercially successful and won several awards, including the aforementioned Academy Award, its critical reception was somewhat mixed. Some praised Smith's vocal performance and the song's emotional resonance, while others felt it didn't match the intensity of past Bond themes.
Live Performances: Sam Smith performed "Writing's on the Wall" live at various events, including the 88th Academy Awards ceremony where they won the Oscar for Best Original Song. The song's live performances showcased Smith's vocal prowess and ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
Impact on LGBTQ+ Representation: Sam Smith's involvement in the song marked a significant moment for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media. Smith's openness about their sexual orientation and their success with "Writing's on the Wall" contributed to greater visibility and acceptance for LGBTQ+ artists.
Legacy: Despite mixed critical opinions, "Writing's on the Wall" remains a memorable entry in both Sam Smith's discography and the James Bond franchise. It encapsulates Smith's emotive singing style and their ability to craft songs that resonate with audiences on a deep emotional level.
"Writing's on the Wall" not only became a notable part of the James Bond film series but also added to Sam Smith's own musical legacy and impact as an artist.