About the song
Bob Dylan’s “License to Kill” is a unique and intriguing entry in the James Bond franchise. Released in 1983 as the theme song for the film of the same name, the song marked a departure from the traditional, high-octane anthems that had become synonymous with the series.
Rather than a bombastic and action-packed track, “License to Kill” is a subdued and introspective ballad. Dylan’s vocals are delivered in a low, gravelly tone, contrasting sharply with the energetic performances of previous Bond theme singers like Tom Jones and Shirley Bassey.
The lyrics of the song are equally unconventional. Instead of focusing on the thrilling action of the film, Dylan delves into themes of mortality, regret, and the passage of time. The lines “I’ve got a license to kill, but I’m afraid to die” capture the song’s underlying sense of melancholy and introspection.
Despite its departure from the traditional Bond theme formula, “License to Kill” was well-received by critics and fans alike. Many praised Dylan’s unique interpretation of the material, and the song’s unconventional approach helped to set it apart from its predecessors.
In addition to its appearance in the film, “License to Kill” was also released as a single and included on Dylan’s album Infidels. The song has since become a fan favorite, and remains a testament to Dylan’s versatility as an artist.
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Lyrics
Man thinks ’cause he rules the earth he can do with it as he please
And if things don’t change soon, he will
Oh, man has invented his doom
First step was touching the moon.Now there’s a woman on my block
She just sit there as the night grows still
She say who gonna take away his license to kill ?Now, they take him and they teach him and they groom him for life
And they set him on a path where he’s bound to get ill
Then they bury him with stars
Sell his body like they do used cars.Now, there’s a woman on my block
She just sit there facing the hill
She say who gonna take away his license to kill ?Now, he’s hell-bent for destruction, he’s afraid and confused
And his brain has been mismanaged with great skill
All he believe are his eyes
And his eyes, they just tell him lies.But there’s a woman on my block
Sitting there in a cold chill
She say who gonna take away his license to kill ?Ya may be a noisemaker, spirit maker
Heartbreaker, backbreaker
Leave no stone unturned
May be an actor in a plot
That might be all that you got
‘Til your error you clearly learn.Now he worships at an altar of a stagnant pool
And when he sees his reflection, he’s fulfilled
Oh, man is opposed to fair play
He wants it all and he wants it his way.Now, there’s a woman on my blocks
She just sit there as the night grows still
She say who gonna take away his license to kill ?