Dan Hicks

1941 - 2016

Dan Hicks

1941 - 2016

BORN

1941

DIED

2016

Dan Hicks Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Feb. 6, 2016.
Dan Hicks, a musician and founding member of San Francisco’s 1960s psychedelic folk movement, died Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016, The Associated Press and CBS News reported. He was 74.

According to his wife, CT Hicks, who first reported the singer's death on his website, Hicks died of throat and liver cancer. He had been diagnosed with cancer two years ago.

Born Dec. 9, 1941, in Little Rock, Arkansas, Hicks and his family moved just outside of San Francisco early in his youth. Hicks started out as a percussionist, playing drums in grade school and his school marching band. Though he picked up the guitar during his teenage years, becoming a local coffeehouse folk darling, he made his first significant musical mark in 1965 as a drummer for the Charlatans, a band that, along with the Grateful Dead and Jefferson Airplane, formed the foundation for San Francisco's emerging folk rock scene.

In 1967, Hicks ventured out on his own and formed Dan Hicks and His Hot Licks. The band was quickly celebrated for its unique style, termed by Hicks as "folk jazz," a unique blend of country, blues, jazz, swing and quirky lyrics.

After a string of critically successful albums throughout the early '70s, such as "Where's the Money" and "Striking It Rich," the group earned considerable commercial acclaim in 1973 with "Last Train to Hicksville," the album that landed Hicks on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine.

Though he disbanded the Hot Licks in 1974, citing burnout from the stresses of serving as a bandleader, Hicks went on to record more than a dozen albums. He revived the Hot Licks in 2000's "Beatin' the Heat," which featured cameos from high-profile admirers such as Elvis Costello, Tom Waits, Rickie Lee Jones and Brian Setzer.

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89 Entries

joost

January 19, 2023

Heard Dan's music for the first time in 1975 when staying in Rockford. Ill. Went back to The Netherlands and have carried Dan's music with me to Europe. Too bad he never made it over here! Joost from Amsterdam

Roger Kalman

March 24, 2022

Dan Hicks truly enriched my life. His cheerful, moody, and maybe quirky, music brought joy to me and those in my circle throughout my college years. Some time later I got to thank him personally as I walked up to him where he was sitting at the bar after a performance at the Palamino in Los Angeles. He was so welcoming and affirming. He put his big ol´ hand in mine and said, "No sweat, man!" In 2016 my daughter and I were both shocked and saddened by his passing as we were planning on seeing him perform in Eugene, Oregon. Many blessings, Dan. "My hat is off to you". You are very much loved and missed.

March 3, 2020

I would like to offer my sincerest condolences to the family and friends of mr. Dan hicks he was a wonderful musician may the God of tender mercies grant him peace

Hypatia Neeley

May 1, 2018

Dan and I were friends back in the Sausalito houseboat era of the early 70s. I'm so incredibly sad to learn of his passing. He was a gifted, talented and unique musician/songwriter/character. I'm glad our paths crossed again a few years ago, Fare thee well my Prince. Be at peace. You are missed.

Charles C

January 22, 2018

I just came across this obituary, two years after the fact and having tried to learn if Dan might be touring. I am sorry I was not aware he had passed.

His music lives on, of course, and the very unique talent he brought to it. Like Frank Zappa and Graham Parsons, he is in a legendary class all his own. And he is sorely missed.

RIP, Dan Hicks.

February 16, 2017

when I first heard dan hicks about 5 years I was listening to a radio station in the shop when hey bartender lend me your keys I was dancing to the beat all over the shop new kind of music I loved it ive seen dan hicks three times in California it was rockin .I sat in the front row about five feet from him he was really nice and funny as hellhe asked me wat song id like to hear smoke smoke that cigg.it was great got rest his soul'

The Carte Family

May 10, 2016

It appears that Dan's musical journey found great success. He and his music are very much valued by fans everywhere. The death of a loved one is never easy for family, friends, and fans left behind. Find some comfort in knowing that he is sleeping peacefully free of all pain and sickness. Our deepest sympathy for your loss!

Gary Castaldo

April 17, 2016

I was shocked to hear that Dan passed, I have been a fan of his for years. I went to his website to check out if he was going to be playing in my area this year and saw the sad news. I will miss him and his great shows and music, Dan you were one of a kind, I send my condolences to his wife and family & friends, RIP Dan, you will be missed.

Greg Albert

March 25, 2016

I remember going to the "Heavy" Concert at the Avalon Ballroom in San Francisco. On the bill was Country Joe and The Fish, The Charlatans, and Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks ! Excellent Entertainment; like sitting together in a giant living room with loving folk for an Experience ! Lightshow, Live Music, Colorful Clothing expressing freedom of individuality. A woman would come down from the balcony dressed in white robe, with frangipanni incense to enhance the atmosphere. Up stairs, an aireal view of the event, tent of indian prints, Boutique, then tucked in the corner, a florescent marrionette show. A free poster for those on the mailing list. ..all for $2.50 ! Dan played with the Charlatans and the followed with The Hot Licks. They all dressed up including Country Joe and The Fish ! This is what I grew up with in Magical San Francisco. Love you Dan..Thank you for your great fun music.

March 14, 2016

First heard Dan at a bar in Fayetteville, NC where I was working part time when I was in the service at Ft Bragg
. A waitress named 'Rusty' played his album 'Striking it Rich' every night while she was setting up. Still is one of my favorites.

Jim Irion

March 12, 2016

One of my favorite songwriters! "Hey Bartender, (Can I Borrow Your Car?)". Who else writes stuff like that? My favorite song? "The Jukies' Ball", which he mysteriously never played in recent years. Rest in peace, Dan.

jill

March 3, 2016

Loved Dan Hicks such a fantastic talent. Saw him in the 70s and 10years ago in Sarasota. He seemed so dedicated to his art.

C Higgins

February 29, 2016

I just learned of Dan's passing and I am heartbroken. My thoughts are for his family, for all the music that we will never hear again, for the laughter he gave us and the wonderful sounds he created.
I sort of met him when I was eight years old - he was my brother's roomie in college, living in an old beat up two story - maybe a Victorian. Our meeting wasn't the best since my mother and brother were fighting tooth and toe nail. Dan just kinda stood on the sidewalk and so did I. We just kinda looked at each other while the other two fought and screamed and yelled. A pretty typical event during the early '60s.
I'll never forget thinking how pale he looked, shirtless and blue jeans. Oddly enough, throughout my life I've always been attracted to tall skinny men in blue jeans - along with Maynard G. Krebs.
Bless you, Dan, and my broken bits of heart go to your family and loved ones.

Dave Hicks

February 28, 2016

A great musician that will be missed . R.I.P. Dan God Bless

Douglas Treado

February 23, 2016

Several weeks have passed since my old friend Dan Hicks passed on February 6th...I learned of his death the following day...and since that time have thought of him and some of our adventures together since the early 1970's in California...and after 1986 when I saw him perform in NY and elsewhere. Dan was an incredible talent and one with an incredible sense of humor in the hipster vein. I have thought a lot about him during the past weeks, and will miss him. We're both the same age, and beyond the few times in which I worked with him planning some gigs in Santa Cruz in the mid-'70's and early '80's, we were also good friends. He brought a lot of laughs and joy to thousands of fans. A great loss for all of us.

Phil E.

February 18, 2016

From the first time I saw Dan and His Hot Licks on the Tonight show, it took me all of about 30 seconds -- ok, 45 seconds tops -- to realize something was happening there I didn't know what it was ... but whatever, I liked it; I REALLY liked it! Over the next 42-43+ years(?), I caught Dan performing in a number of places & with a variety of talented musicians & bands/configurations. Wherever and whenever, Dan was always the hippest, brightest cat in the room, and oh yeah, the funniest too!!

Did I mention that voice? Instantly recognizable, unique, expressive, so DAN. A legit and specially trained instrument all its own that conveyed all the nuance, innuendo, implication(s) inherent in every song the man wrote, & man, what songs they were too! Each a fully realized slice of life masterpiece, some a little more than others, & each with their own special Dan Hicks feel to them. Offbeat, unique, imo, classic. Each reeled down in their own special way. Unfolded & chilled with what Dan had to say. So many of them just flat out classics.

Gonna miss Mr. Dan more than words can say. He's been in my own rather small but special to me pantheon of heroes for sometime now, and there he will always remain. Still can't think of him now without tears coming to my eyes quickly followed with laughter biting at its heels. Thanks for sharing him with us, Clare; he was the real deal w/all the fixings. My deepest thanks to you both, and my most heartfelt of condolences. If I may, I conclude with a hope/wish by paraphrasing/slightly altering a line Jackie Gleason's character, Master Sgt. Maxwell Slaughter, utters frequently to Steve McQueen's character, Sgt. Eustis Clay, in the 1963 film Soldier In The Rain: "Until that time, Dan; until that time."

M Rosencrans

February 16, 2016

Deepest gratitude for Dan's years of musical entertainment. He enriched our lives beyond measure.

Diana Gay-Catania

February 16, 2016

I remember him in recent years as good and generous Mill Valley neighbor who happened to be a legendary musician. He would sit in with younger bands playing locally, and at fundraising events. One early evening, he stopped to sing with a group playing in the plaza, and temporarily left his bag of groceries from the Mill Valley Market behind.

Julia Sohanchak Pwtees

February 15, 2016

Sad to see that Dan passed. Loved his music, his concerts and his "cool" way. Many hours of great tunes and great memories attached.
From Julia, a fan

Ben Prescott

February 15, 2016

Deepest condolences to the Hick's family. My Dad was a big fan of Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks. I remember him singing tunes at a young age. My Dad passed in 08. Id say around 2011-12, Dan came close to home in CT. My brother and I went to see a show my Dad would have loved. It was a great night. The show was incredible. Dan was certainly a character. I will always have fond memories of Mr. Hicks and always enjoy his music. RIP Sir.

February 14, 2016

Sorry for the Hicks family loss. May all have comfort from the God of all comfort during such a distressing time.

Brian Makosky

February 13, 2016

My Condolences to your family, and my humble thanks for your music Dan. I was a lifelong fan, and loved your live performances, fortunate to see you a good number of times. Sweet songwriting, and what a sound...the home of happy feet indeed. Thank you more than I can express.

February 13, 2016

It is comforting to at least still have Dan in his recordings. I have been a fan of his almost from the beginning. It truly is sad that he is no longer among us. I hope that his family finds comfort in the fact that he lived a life doing what he enjoyed and making others happy while doing it. Goodbye Dan Hicks and thanks.


wb

Roger Strong

February 11, 2016

Your music was the best been a fan since the 70s got all

Deborah Ruis

February 11, 2016

You live on in our hearts and through your music..
Your here .... <3

Bruce

February 10, 2016

Your music will always bring great memories.
God bless you and keep you close to our hearts.

Jack

February 9, 2016

Thanks for the wonderful music that you created, Dan. Your music always made people smile, and feel better. That's your lasting legacy. (Jack, Massachusetts)

GiGi

February 9, 2016

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR MUSIC. YOU WILL BE MISSED

Wack

February 9, 2016

I was at a party in the early 70's. We had only one album: "Where's the Money." I could not get the music out of my head. I have attended over 20 concerts, brainwashed my family and friends. Happy trails, Dan. My life was better because of you.

February 9, 2016

So sad to lose Dan
So happy we still have his wonderful legacy
Loved the timeless music for 40 years.
Thanks Dan

Sam, England

Chuck Neukom

February 9, 2016

RIP Dan, you are my walking one and only, didn't know that when I saw you in '72 it would be this long of a ride, Happy Trails and May God Bless.

EB

February 9, 2016

Condolences to the family. Thank you for sharing Dan and his wonderful music through the years. What a talent ....

February 9, 2016

I guess we can miss you now that you've gone away. Happy trails, Dan. Thanks for the music.

February 9, 2016

His voice was enjoyable to listen to, and his talent was phenomenal. My sincere condolences to his wife CT Hicks and family for their loss. Our Heavenly Father understands your suffering and grants you the strengths to endure.

Daniel

February 9, 2016

When I first met my wife 20 yrs ago and saw 2 Dan Hicks & the Hot Licks CDs in her limited collection, I knew she was the gal for me. I will miss his performances greatly however his music will always brighten up my days. Farewell Dan.

Randi Fredricks

February 8, 2016

Prayers to Dan and his family. Thank you, Dan, for all the joy.

February 8, 2016

One of the music world's coolest cats.

Chris Singeltary

February 8, 2016

Condolences to the Hicks Family. I was first turned on to Dan Hicks and the Hot licks in the 90's and was an instant fan.
2000's Beatin the Heat is a masterpiece and further cemented me as a true fan of there music.
R.I.P. Dan Hicks

February 8, 2016

Loved the music and also the man . R.I.P.

Gail G

February 8, 2016

What a loss of a talented, unique musician. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

February 8, 2016

Dan was the most entertaining musician I've ever heard perform live. And many, many times his CDs have given me a lift when I really needed it. I feel very fortunate to have met him while he was on one of his visits to Chicago, where I live and perform as a singer-songwriter who considers Dan to be one of my top influences. I was pleased to be able to thank him in person for his inspiration. I think he was by far the most talented popular musician to come out of the Bay Area. My heartfelt condolences to his family during this trying time. All of his fans, I'm sure, know that he brought and will continue to bring humor and the best of what music can offer to the world. Terry Breen, Chicago

KT

February 8, 2016

To the Hicks family,
You have our heartfelt condolences on Dan's passing, he truly was a icon and talented musician of his generation that spanned the following generations to follow. What he accomplished in his life time will live endlessly and be appreciated by future generations of young and old. May you find the peace in your heart at this difficult time.
Sincerely,

KT @ Tammy

PLP

February 8, 2016

May you increase my greatness and surround and comfort me. (Ps 71:21) May these words of wisdom from the Bible that can help us all to see that we need God. May your good thoughts of Dan and his great music bring back wonderful memories of good times. My sincere condolence!

Scott Chamberland

February 8, 2016

Rest in Peace

Doug Pineo

February 8, 2016

Dug the Hot Licks albums in the early-mid 70s in Elmira, NY, and got to see him with the resurrected Hot Licks at a small venue here in Spokane. We shoulda' gone to Marin area for anniversary show a few years ago. Thanks, Dan, for such great music. Rest in peace, brother.

David Peterson

February 8, 2016

Have been a fan for years. RIP Dan. You will be missed.

Brenda (A Boomer)

February 8, 2016

It goes without saying that Dan was a talented musician who experienced many extraordinary feats. As you remember him with fondness, find comfort in God's promise at Jeremiah 29:11 to give us "thoughts of peace," a "better future." and an "assured hope." Heartfelt condolences!

February 8, 2016

Last saw Dan at the High Noon Saloon in Madison WI in 2007. Have been a fan for many many years. Sad news indeed.

Dave

Victor Grgas

February 8, 2016

Since first "discovering" Dan and his band after finding one of his CD's in a "discount bin" of a local record shop back in the early 70's, I was immediately "hooked." Saw him as many times I could thereafter, including at the historic(but now gone)Golden Bear Club in Huntington Beach, wear he wore a cast on his broken hand and could only play a single maraca to the accompaniment of his lead guitarist, and in other venues like the famous McCabe's Guitar shop in Santa Monica, the Vine Street Bar & Grill in Hollywood (where I met and talked to Dan while he was sitting at a table with Jack Nicholson who had just finished shooting the Batman film), and at the Greek Theater in Hollywood (where he "opened" for Brian Setzer's orchestra and where I was asked by a obvious Setzer fan, "how many times I had seen Brian?" My response was "never before, but I had seen Dan probably a dozen times by then and that was why I there."

Thanks for all of the great music Dan. You're "one of a kind" and your legacy will continue on for a long time to come.

In sympathy,

Michael Worley

February 8, 2016

Oh how I miss you now that you have gone away...RIP Dan!

February 8, 2016

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

R W

February 8, 2016

My condolences to the family of Dan Hicks I know he truly be missed may you have beautiful memories during this difficult time and remember Gods wonderful Promise of life without end Paradise [MATT5;5]

Joan Skaff

February 8, 2016

Your music has provided me with countless hours of listening pleasure.

Thank you Dan
May you rest in peace

Mrs. Hosey

February 8, 2016

Hicks family I am sorry for your loss. May the God of Peace comfort you at this most difficult time. Daniel 2:44

February 8, 2016

I am sorry to hear of the passing of Dan Hicks, such a talented musician. May the God of comfort,comfort the family and give you strength to endure the days ahead.

February 8, 2016

My condolences to your family. may his music live on.

February 8, 2016

Sorry for the loss of your dear loved one. May you find peace and comfort during this most difficult time in your lives.

February 8, 2016

My prayers are with you and your family.

February 8, 2016

My heartfelt sympathys go out to the family and friends during this difficult time. I hope the words in 1 Thessalonians 4 : 14 can bring you some of the comfort. Knowing that there is a future for the ones we have lost in death can be so reassuring.

Barry Jeffers

February 8, 2016

We fade away.

Gail Griffith

February 7, 2016

So sorry for your loss. Have been a big fan of Dan and the Hot Licks. Was listening to some of their CD's today unaware of his passing. Holding you close in thought and prayer.

Pauly B

February 7, 2016

Simply, as simple as it is, I want you to know Dan Hicks, we're never going to forget you-

Sue

February 7, 2016

I will miss you, Dan.
Loved your style since 1972!

Tammy Davis

February 7, 2016

So sorry for your loss. Prayers are with the Hicks family and friends.

Deborah

February 7, 2016

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

February 7, 2016

May the peace of God comfort you as you mourn.

February 7, 2016

Dan Hicks' music means so much to me. Really sad news. I'm very sorry for your loss, CT.
Megaera

Steve Vitek

February 7, 2016

Dan, your talent and fantastic music were responsible for MANY cool adventures . . . all stoked by the harmony of you and the Licketts in the background. Adios, my friend.

February 7, 2016

we will all miss you you brought us many good times god bless r,i,p,

February 7, 2016

We all look forward ro thr day at John 5:25 and 28 , will come true for all the one we love and lost

Joe Bloser

February 7, 2016

I always enjoyed listening to you and the "Lickettes". God speed Dan. You will always live in your wonderful music

ed oreilly

February 7, 2016

one of my favorite entertainers of all time. saw him a couple years ago in grass valley,ca. used to see him all the time in sf.
ed oreilly

Runupsail

February 7, 2016

Rest in Peace my friend. Loved your talented band.

Judith Cain

February 7, 2016

I was fortunate enough to have seen Dan and his band several times over the last few years, from Redwood City to Chicago to San Francisco. I was also lucky enough to have been present for his 70th birthday bash at Davies Hall. Thanks for the great memories, Dan. You were truly one of a kind.

Joe Drouse

February 7, 2016

Thanks to YouTube I'm able to enjoy many of his performances. He had tremendous style, wit, humor and talent. I'm deeply saddened at his passing. My sympathies to his family and friends.

ODUS HAYES

February 7, 2016

HELLO, DAN WILL BE MISSED, HE WAS A REAL FIGHTER, BUT CANCER WON OUT. WE HAD GREAT TIMES WITH HIM AT SWEETWATER, WE HAD THE SAME CANCER. I WAS LUCKY AND GOT RID OF IT. BUT HE DID NOT. REST IN PEACE DAN. ODUS HAYES.

thom carr

February 7, 2016

Thanks Dan.You are one of my favorites always.I will miss you

February 7, 2016

How can I miss you if you won't go away!?
My favorite Dan Hicks song. Rest in peace Dan!

Gordon C. Blocker
San Antonio, Texas

Jane Dowling

February 7, 2016

God bless you and your loved ones ~ Rest in peace.

Michael sturgeon

February 7, 2016

RIP

Melanie Little

February 7, 2016

Music lost a great one... you will be missed.

Adrian Barnette

February 7, 2016

We'll miss you !

Olen Brewer

February 7, 2016

I discovered the Hot Licks back in the '70s and use to have one of their albums...can't remember which one. I always loved the two gals that sang in the band. It was a funky-country-jazz genre that quite frankly was 'infectious'. :) Sad to hear that Dan is no longer in this world. He's laying down licks in another reality/dimension.
R.I.P.

Wayne B.

February 7, 2016

Always enjoyed his quirky folk jazz music! His album "Last Train to HIcksville" is a great piece of work! RIP Dan Hicks...you will be missed!

Dwayne Bickham,Sr.

February 7, 2016

In God's care, rest in peace.

Allyson Frederick

February 6, 2016

You knew how to make music fun during an era when everyone else's music was entirely too serious. Peace, my brother.

Bill Simmons

February 6, 2016

Yippee yo yo kayee,
Yippe yo yo kayee
(May he ride the range in his Ford V8!)

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January 19, 2023

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