Born on May 15, 1944, in Salisbury, England, Ian Frederick Stephen Amey, affectionately known by his stage name Tich, carved a remarkable path in the world of pop rock. His journey began in the vibrant 1950s, where he first strummed his guitar with Eddy and the Strollers. Little did he know, his passion for music would lead him to become an iconic figure in the British music scene.
In the early 1960s, Amey was drawn into the orbit of Trevor Ward-Davies, known as Dozy, who persuaded him to join The Beatnicks. Their camaraderie soon expanded as Amey convinced John Dymond, or Beaky, to join their ranks. The trio’s relentless pursuit of musical expression led them to meet David Harman, a.k.a. Dave Dee, and eventually formed the band that would make history: Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Tich.
Their whimsical name, a concoction of their nicknames, perfectly encapsulated the band’s spirit. With a flair for the theatrical and an eye for vibrant fashion, they captured the hearts of audiences with hits like “Hold Tight!”, “Bend It!”, and the chart-topping “The Legend of Xanadu.” Amey’s talent shone through not only as a guitarist but also as a multi-instrumentalist, famously playing the mandolin on “Bend It!” and flamenco guitar on “The Legend of Xanadu.”
The 1960s marked the pinnacle of their success, a decade filled with electric performances and unforgettable moments. Each concert was a celebration, with Amey’s infectious energy lighting up the stage. The band’s unique sound, a blend of freakbeat, mod, and pop, resonated with fans, leading to two singles that sold over a million copies each. They were a defining force of the era, even if their American breakthrough remained elusive.
As the years rolled on, the band faced changes. In 1969, Dave Dee ventured into a solo career, prompting the remaining members to rebrand as Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Tich. Their journey continued with various collaborations, including a stint with The Troggs and the formation of Amey Gair Mason. The music never stopped, and neither did Amey’s passion for performing.
After decades of touring and creating music, Amey announced his retirement in 2014, marking the end of an era that began in 1964. His departure left a void in the band, yet his legacy continued to resonate. He passed away on February 14, 2024, leaving behind a rich tapestry of memories and music. He is survived by his beloved wife, Suzanne, and their two children, who carry forward the spirit of a man who dedicated his life to the joy of music.
In remembrance, fans and fellow musicians alike reflect on the profound impact Ian Amey had on their lives. As Pat Lloyd, a fellow musician, poignantly stated, “The beauty of life is not in its permanence, but in the memories we create.”
Thank you, Tich, for the melodies, the memories, and the moments that will forever echo in our hearts.
