The world of music mourns the loss of a true legend. Vic Flick, the British session guitarist whose instantly recognizable twang defined the iconic James Bond theme song, passed away peacefully on November 14th at the age of 87, following a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. His son, Kevin Flick, confirmed the sad news.
Born Victor Harold Flick on May 14th, 1937, in Surrey, England, Flick’s musical journey was nothing short of extraordinary. His collaboration with composer John Barry in the late 1950s and early 1960s catapulted him into the spotlight. This collaboration led to his pivotal role in the creation of the soundtrack for *Dr. No*, the inaugural film in the legendary James Bond franchise. His contributions extended beyond *Dr. No*; he also worked on the soundtracks for *From Russia with Love* and *Thunderball*, solidifying his place in cinematic history.
The now-legendary guitar riff, a cornerstone of Bond’s enduring appeal, earned Flick a mere £6 at the time – a stark contrast to its lasting cultural impact. Yet, this seemingly meager payment did little to diminish the magnitude of his achievement. The riff, a masterpiece of concise and powerful guitar work, transcended the film itself, becoming synonymous with the suave sophistication and thrilling danger associated with the Bond persona. It remains one of the most recognizable and instantly identifiable musical motifs in cinema history.
But Flick’s influence extended far beyond the Bond franchise. His prowess as a session musician led him to collaborate with an unparalleled roster of musical giants. His guitar graced recordings by The Beatles, Dusty Springfield, Jimmy Page, Herman’s Hermits, and Eric Clapton, among others. He even contributed his talents to Tom Jones’s hit ‘It’s Not Unusual’ and Petula Clark’s ‘Downtown’. This breadth of collaboration showcases his versatility and exceptional skill, solidifying his reputation as a highly sought-after and respected musician.
In a 2021 interview, Flick shared the secrets behind his iconic Bond theme sound. He attributed the distinctive tone to a combination of factors: “the plectrum I used and the guitar’s strings. I placed the DeArmond pickup near the bridge. I put a crushed cigarette packet underneath it to get it nearer the strings. That helped to get that round sound.” He also highlighted the crucial role of his Vox AC15 amplifier, even detailing its unfortunate demise after an eight-foot fall into an orchestra pit. The microphone placement during recording, he explained, contributed to the mysterious, powerful sound that characterized the riff. This insightful account sheds light on the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating one of cinema’s most iconic sounds.
In 2013, Flick’s exceptional career was recognized with a lifetime achievement award from the National Guitar Museum – a testament to his enduring influence on the music industry. He is survived by his wife, Judith; his son, Kevin; and his grandchild, Tyler. His legacy, however, will live on through the music he created, inspiring generations of musicians and enriching the cultural landscape for years to come. His iconic riff will continue to resonate, a timeless testament to his genius and enduring impact on music history.
