Legendary Music Composer John Barry Dies

John Barry, known for writing musical scores and music themes for the James Bond 007 movie series, passed away today at the age of 77.

Simon Le Bon, member of Duran Duran, paid tribute to Barry on the group's official webpage. “I would say he had a very, very full life. I mean, when we met him, he was really enjoying himself. The music is an important part of any film, and when you’ve got something as recognizable as the Bond themes, but also the kind of music which was in them, it was so important in making the film work”, said Le Bon.

Barry was the recipient of 5 Academy Awards: two for "Born Free", and one each for "The Lion In Winter", "Out of Africa", and "Dances With Wolves". He also received a Grammy in 1969 for writing the musical score of "Midnight Cowboy".

He married four times. One of his former wives is singer/actor Jane Birkin. Barry died of a sudden heart attack.

H.A.P.P.Y. Radio sends condolences to the Barry family and friends for such great loss.