Vic Flick, Guitarist Behind Iconic James Bond Theme, Dies

Vic Flick, the musician recognized for performing the iconic guitar riff in the James Bond theme tune, has passed away. As the lead guitarist on the renowned track, he reportedly received £6 for his work in rearranging and recording Monty Norman’s theme for Dr No, the inaugural James Bond film. His son, Kevin Flick, confirmed his father’s death at 87 years old via social media, noting a prior diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Born in Surrey in 1937, Flick’s career included collaborations with notable artists such as The Beatles, Tom Jones, the Bee Gees, Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, and Cliff Richard. The celebrated theme song was recorded in 1962. Flick performed the riff using a 1939 English Clifford Essex Paragon Deluxe guitar, connected to a Fender Vibrolux amplifier. This specific guitar was later exhibited at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Ohio, United States. Composer Monty Norman, who passed away in 2022 at 94, stated that he recognized the theme tune’s success in embodying the spirit of 007 after transitioning the primary riff from a sitar to an electric guitar. “His sexiness, his mystery, his ruthlessness – it’s all there in a few notes,” he said. In 2013, Flick was honored with a lifetime achievement award from the National Guitar Museum, which described him as “one of the world’s great guitarists.” A spokesperson for the museum added, “We have been proud of our association with him. He will be missed.” Additionally, Flick contributed to several other 007 soundtracks, notably Shirley Bassey’s theme for the 1964 film Goldfinger. He is survived by his wife, Judith; his son, Kevin; and one grandchild.