Rhythm and Revolution: Remembering 60s Icon Viv Prince
Viv Prince, Iconic 60s Rockstar and Wild Child, Dies Aged 84
The music world is in mourning as news breaks that Viv Prince, the rebellious drummer from The Pretty Things, has passed away at the age of 84. The legendary musician was known for his outrageous stage antics and untamed spirit, leaving behind a legacy of wild tales and unforgettable performances.
As a founding member of The Pretty Things, Viv played a crucial role in shaping the band's unique sound and image. With hits like "Don't Bring Me Down" and "Honey I Need," they became one of the UK's top 20 acts of the 1960s. But it was Viv's offbeat personality that truly made him stand out from the crowd.
In a tribute posted on social media, White Stripes star Jack White reflected on his own encounter with Viv, who he met while working on his farm in Portugal. "He was an inspired and eccentric rock and roller," Jack wrote. "I was lucky enough to meet Viv some years ago... He was one of the real ones." Jack even hinted at collaborating on a documentary about Viv's life, sparking interest among fans.
Fans took to social media to share their own memories and tributes to the late musician. "So sad to hear," one fan wrote. "Viv was pretty much the only musician from my formative era that I had any personal connections with." Another fan praised his drumming skills: "Such an amazing drummer."
But behind the glitz and glamour, Viv's story is also one of rebellion and excess. In a 2018 interview with Classic Rock, former Pretty Things guitarist Dick Taylor revealed that Viv left the band in 1965 after refusing to play at The Twisted Wheel in Manchester because he couldn't get served a drink across the road from the venue. "What he hadn’t twigged was that it was attached to the hotel he’d been in the night before, causing mayhem with The Kinks," Dick recalled.
After his stint with Pretty Things, Viv continued to play with various acts, including The Honeycombs and Hawkwind. His later years were spent working on his farm in Portugal, where Jack White had a chance encounter with him.
The cause of Viv's death has not been confirmed, but one thing is certain: he will be remembered as a true original, whose wild spirit and untamed energy left an indelible mark on the music world. As fans mourn the loss of this rock 'n' roll legend, they can take comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will live on through the countless memories and stories shared among them.
About Viv Prince
Born in Loughborough in 1941, Viv Prince began his musical journey in the 1960s, joining The Pretty Things in 1964. With his unique drumming style and outrageous stage antics, he quickly made a name for himself as one of the most exciting new talents on the scene.
A Legacy of Wild Tales
Viv's time with The Pretty Things was marked by controversy and chaos, from the infamous Twisted Wheel incident to his constant clashes with other musicians. But despite (or because of) this tumultuous period, the band produced some of their best work during Viv's tenure, including the iconic "Get the Picture?" album.
As news of Viv's passing spreads, fans are taking a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about his incredible performances and unforgettable personality. As Jack White so aptly put it, "He was an inspired and eccentric rock and roller." Rest in peace, Viv Prince – your wild spirit will be deeply missed.
Sources:
- thescholarlynote.com (original article)
- Classic Rock (interview with Dick Taylor)
