Artist History
Richard Lamonte Williams ( Flick ) The amazing seed of music was planted in his spirit when as a child he watched his great uncle, Richard Davenport play his guitar. When in his youth his father made him a set of bongos from coffee cans. When his mother encouraged him to explore his gifts. From that point on he was hooked on that thing called music. Flick was born and raised in Buffalo, New York at a time when the music seen was vibrant. The sounds of bands playing and musicians practicing could be heard in every corner of the city, and he knew that he had to be a part of that sound. In grade school he took violin, and clarinet lessons. In Jr. High he moved on to the saxophone, flute, and was a member of the Choir. Flick went on to Buffalo's East High School, which at that time was a musician's candy store. People like Grover Washington, Rick James, Kenny Hawkins, the Shaw brothers, Jerry Livingston, and most of the hottest musicians on the local scene passed through those doors. He was in the school band, the choir, participated in talent shows, and though he was under age, Flick was playing in clubs with some of the hottest bands in town. It was at this time that he began to write and arrange music in various styles. He practiced and grew musically with the help of his brothers who are also musicians, Steven Williams ( Trombone ), and Barry Williams ( Trumpet ). Though not musicians his brother Raymond, and sister Sandra supplied him with the focus, and spiritual center needed to stay grounded and at the same time reach outside one's self. Flick had the talent but lacked the discipline needed to excel. Wile at East High, Donald Hilliard, his high school music teacher talked to him about the importance of a college education in attaining his goals and arranged an audition at Hampton University ( Hampton Institute at the time. ) He was accepted and received a music scholarship. That chapter of his life was a blessing that he could have never imagined. He was not only amazed by the tradition of excellence at Hampton, but was also blessed to study under people like Dr. Sheila Maye, Dr. Doughtry, Dr. Usti, Consuella Lee Morehead, Roland Carter, and many other outstanding musicians and educators. During his stay at Hampton, Flick served as President of his freshman class, worked on the school newspaper, was a member of the Concert and Gospel Choir's, The Hampton Players Drama Club, Quaza, and was active in all aspects of college life. After Hampton he was blessed to work professionally with artist such as Bill Lee, Ron Carter, Olivia Newton John, and Steve Wonder. Flick recorded, and toured with many groups and artist including Rick James. Flick not only flourished as a performer but also blossomed as a writer. It was during this period that he wrote and produced two video productions for cable 10 in Buffalo. " Buffalo More Than a City ", and " The Wish ". Flick has also performed as an actor in many productions: "Tremonisha" , "Porgy and Bess", "The Duplex", Don't Bother Me I Can't Cope", Two Trains Running", and "The Depot". Flick has served as a teacher in the Buffalo Public School System, worked as a music teacher at the State University of New York at Buffalo's summer youth program, Musical Director of Ujima Theatre, and was an Artist in Residence at the Buffalo Academy of Visual and Performing Arts. Throughout his career as a writer, arranger, and performer he has never confined himself to one style of music. The one thing that remains constant in his musical journey is writing, exploring, and painting musical pictures in various styles. From Jazz to Classical, R & B to Reggae, the music is whats important not the label. And a message from Richard Lamonte Williams ( Flick ). I have been blessed to express the feelings of the soul through music, and what I've received through these blessings far exceed what I could ever give. Through the love of my family and friends, and those close to my heart. Through the strength of my ancestors, and through the grace of God, I leave you with this: Plant a seed of Love, In the soil of Hope. Nurture it with the Nectar of Wisdom Smile and watch it Grow. Flick
Flick Blog
"One love" reviewed by Charles N. for RadioIndy
| POSTED BY: samid1471 | POSTED ON: 22 May 2007 02:35 AM | ||
 "One love" by Flick is a full fleshed Reggae CD with a powerful, noticeable presence of Jazz and Blues. The lyrics are well written and the vocals beautiful. The general musical compositions and arrangements are thoughtful; and the quality of recording well refined. All of which attest to the artist's musicianship. The Saxophone work on the CD is distinctively attractive, catchy and sensational. "One" is a well composed, deep rooted reggae number, with appealing lyrical and vocal formations. It's a perfect piece of musical instrumentation. "Destiny" is an impressive track with a strong blues influence. "Take my heart" is an exquisite blend, rich in blues, that holds a real latino lyrical identity. The level of artistic creativity in this track is striking. If you enjoy real urban reggae with rich influence of Jazz and Blues, you'll enjoy this CD. Pick up a copy today. -Charles N. and RadioIndyCheck out Flick's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites |
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