Vic Flick, the legendary guitarist celebrated for his iconic James Bond theme tune riff, has passed away at the age of 87.
According to the Independent, Vic Flick's death occurred on November 14, 2024, after a prolonged battle with Alzheimer's disease.
Born on May 14, 1937, in Surrey, UK, Flick began his early musical endeavors after World War II, participating in family music sessions and taking on various short-term jobs. His passion for music became evident at a young age.
At just 14 years old, Vic made a significant decision to purchase a Gibson Kalamazoo, dedicating countless hours to practice and perfecting his craft. This early dedication to music foreshadowed the impressive career that unfolded.
The guitarist broke through in 1962 when he composed the unforgettable riff for the James Bond theme using a 1939 Clifford Essex Paragon Deluxe guitar at the Abbey Road Studios.
Flick employed a unique guitar setup to engineer the electrifying sound that became synonymous with James Bond. "I placed the DeArmond pickup near the bridge," Vic once recounted, explaining his efforts to achieve the perfect sound.
He then explained how he modified his setup, using a crushed cigarette packet to adjust the pickup's proximity to the strings, aiming for a 'round' sound that complemented the explosive brass sections of the theme.
He achieved the extraordinary sound quality not only through his innovative setup but also through his choice of amplifiers. "Most important, sound-wise, was the Vox AC15 amplifier, which I used on tour and it never let me down," Vic added.
Vic Flick's career extended far beyond his James Bond fame. He also played on soundtracks for other Bond films and collaborated with many famous artists, including Eric Clapton and the Beatles. His work included special guitar pieces for Beatles' movies, showcasing his versatile talent across various projects.
An interesting tidbit about his association with the Beatles comes from his recollection of the band's behavior in the studio: "Mostly, the Beatles kept apart, sitting at the table in the corner," which contrasted with the more relaxed style of the session musicians.
His collaborations gave Flick a broad canvas to display his musical genius, influencing the sounds of several iconic pieces beyond the Bond franchise.
In recognition of his profound impact on music and his innovative guitar techniques, the National Guitar Museum honored Flick with a lifetime achievement award in 2013. This accolade testified to his influence and enduring legacy in the music industry.
Furthermore, the event 'The Music Of Bond: The First 50 Years,' held in California on October 5, 2012, celebrated Flick's contribution to the James Bond series, particularly the theme song. His pioneering work was highlighted as a major influence on the series' success.
Reflecting on the creation of the James Bond sound, Flick noted the collaborative spirit of the recordings, saying, "It was all go, go, go from then on," indicating the fast-paced, innovative atmosphere that characterized those sessions.
Vic Flick's personal life was marked by a longstanding marriage to Judy Reavil. Moreover, he was a devoted father to his son, Kevin, and a loving grandfather. His family played an integral role in his life, and together, they mourned his loss after his long battle with Alzheimer's.
Subsequently, his son's announcement of Vic's passing signaled the end of an era for guitar enthusiasts and fans of the James Bond series worldwide. Flick leaves behind a storied legacy that continues to echo through the world of music and film.
Ultimately, Vic Flick will be remembered not only as the man behind the guitar riff that propelled the James Bond films into cinematic history but also as a pioneering musician who reshaped the soundscapes of popular music in the 20th century.
