syd barrett

Syd Barrett was the original singer, songwriter, and guitarist for the group. Yep, I think everyone else pretty much hit the nail on the head, except for a few points. Many artists have acknowledged Barrett's influence on their work. Paul McCartney and Pete Townshend were early fans; Jimmy Page, David Bowie, Brian Eno, and The Damned all expressed interest in working with him at some point during the 1970s. In fact, Bowie recorded a cover of "See Emily Play" on his 1973 album Pin Ups. On a VH1 program, honoring rock bands and artists, Pete Townshend gave a speech honoring Syd Barrett, and telling a story where he told Eric Clapton that he had to come see this guy play, who was Barrett. Townshend called Barrett legendary. Barrett as a guitarist was remarkable for his free-form style in playing chords (and also for the use of echo, tapes and other effects): his rhythm guitar, as well as his often minimalist and dissonant solos, are seen even today as a major influence on punk, post-punk, and similar scenes. Syd died on July 7th, 2006 due to "complications arising from his diabetes." It has been said that the family specifically did not want the remaining members of Pink Floyd to attend the funeral, as they blamed them for Syd's downward cycle.