Carly Simon – Nobody Does It Better

 Now that’s a song that evokes a very specific time and place, doesn’t it? Released in 1977, it became synonymous with the tenth James Bond film, The Spy Who Loved Me. But “Nobody Does It Better” transcends its cinematic origins to stand as a classic of the genre we might call the sophisticated pop ballad.

Let’s rewind a bit. Carly Simon was already a household name by the late 70s. Her husky vocals and introspective lyrics had captured the hearts of listeners with hits like “You’re So Vain” and “Anticipation.” However, “Nobody Does It Better” presented a different side of Simon. Here, she was the embodiment of sultry sophistication, her voice a smooth caress over a lush orchestral arrangement.

The credit for the song’s composition goes to the songwriting team of Marvin Hamlisch and Carole Bayer Sager. Hamlisch, of course, was a maestro of film scores, having already won an Oscar for his work on The Sting. He brings his signature touch to “Nobody Does It Better,” crafting a melody that’s both elegantly melancholic and undeniably catchy. Sager’s lyrics, meanwhile, are a masterclass in double entendre. On the surface, they celebrate the allure and expertise of a lover. But within the context of the film, they take on a whole new layer of meaning, hinting at the deadly seduction employed by the world’s most famous secret agent, James Bond.

The song’s opening is pure seduction. A lone shimmering flute sets the stage, followed by a bed of lush strings. Then, Simon enters, her voice a smoky whisper: “Nobody does it better.” It’s a declaration, an invitation, and a promise all rolled into one. The verses unfold like a slow dance, each line punctuated by those unforgettable strings. The chorus, however, explodes with a surge of emotion. Simon’s voice rises, tinged with a hint of desperation: “Under the microscope, I can’t be sure, nobody does it better than you.”

“Nobody Does It Better” isn’t just a great song; it’s a cultural touchstone. It perfectly captured the glamorous yet dangerous world of James Bond. It also showcased Carly Simon’s versatility as a vocalist, proving she could be both vulnerable singer-songwriter and sultry chanteuse. So, the next time you hear those opening notes, take a moment to appreciate the artistry behind this timeless classic. It’s a song that continues to enthrall listeners, a testament to the enduring power of great songwriting and captivating vocals.

Video

Lyrics

“Nobody Does It Better”
(from “The Spy Who Loved Me” soundtrack)