Pink Floyd is a name that resonates with music lovers around the world. Since their formation in 1965, the English rock band has been known for their progressive and psychedelic sound, which has left an indelible mark on the music industry. With over 250 million records sold worldwide, Pink Floyd is one of the most successful and influential bands of all time.
The band’s discography spans over four decades, with 15 studio albums, multiple live albums, and compilations. From their early days playing in small clubs in London, to headlining sold-out stadium tours, Pink Floyd has continued to captivate audiences with their intricate instrumentation, thought-provoking lyrics, and visual artistry.
In this article, we will delve into the best songs of Pink Floyd, showcasing their unparalleled musicianship and creativity. From the iconic “Another Brick in the Wall” to the ethereal “Shine on You Crazy Diamond,” Pink Floyd’s music has a timeless quality that continues to inspire new generations of fans. We will explore the history behind each song, the meanings behind the lyrics, and the impact they have had on the music industry.
Join us on a journey through Pink Floyd’s musical legacy, as we celebrate the songs that have made them one of the greatest bands of all time.
1. “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” by Pink Floyd
“Shine On You Crazy Diamond” is a nine-part, 26-minute epic from Pink Floyd’s 1975 album, “Wish You Were Here.” The song was written as a tribute to the band’s former member, Syd Barrett, who had left the band due to mental health issues. The haunting opening guitar riff, played by David Gilmour, immediately draws the listener in and sets the tone for the rest of the song.
The lyrics speak of a “crazy diamond” who was once brilliant, but has since faded away. The song’s melancholic melody and poignant lyrics convey a sense of loss and longing, as the band reflects on the past and mourns the loss of their friend and former bandmate.
The song’s structure is unconventional, with several distinct sections that seamlessly flow into one another. The use of electronic sounds and effects, such as the synthesizer solo by Richard Wright, adds to the song’s otherworldly atmosphere.
Despite its length, “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” remains one of Pink Floyd’s most beloved and iconic songs, and continues to be a staple of classic rock radio. Its powerful emotional impact and intricate musical composition are a testament to the band’s unparalleled musicianship and creativity.
2. “Echoes” by Pink Floyd
“Echoes” is a 23-minute masterpiece from Pink Floyd’s 1971 album, “Meddle.” The song is divided into four parts, each with its own distinct mood and style, but all flowing seamlessly into one another to create a cohesive whole.
The opening section features a haunting and atmospheric soundscape, with gentle guitar and keyboard melodies gradually building in intensity. The lyrics speak of the ebb and flow of life, and the cyclical nature of existence.
The second section features a hypnotic and repetitive bassline, with layers of vocals and instrumentation building upon it to create a mesmerizing effect. The lyrics are abstract and poetic, with themes of isolation and disconnection.
The third section is a cosmic journey through space and time, with swirling keyboards and effects creating a sense of weightlessness and exploration. The lyrics speak of the mysteries of the universe and the infinite possibilities of existence.
The final section brings the song full circle, returning to the haunting and atmospheric soundscape of the opening, but with a sense of resolution and peace. The lyrics speak of acceptance and letting go, as the cycle of life and death continues.
“Echoes” is a masterful example of Pink Floyd’s progressive and experimental approach to music. Its intricate musical composition and thought-provoking lyrics make it one of the band’s most beloved and enduring songs, and a testament to their unparalleled creativity and musicianship.
3. “Time” by Pink Floyd
“Time” is a classic track from Pink Floyd’s 1973 album, “The Dark Side of the Moon.” The song opens with a steady beat and a series of clock sounds, setting the theme of time passing and the relentless march of life.
The lyrics speak of the fleeting nature of time and the inevitability of aging, with themes of regret and missed opportunities. The memorable chorus, “Ticking away the moments that make up a dull day, fritter and waste the hours in an off-hand way,” is a poignant reminder of how easily we can let time slip away.
The song’s instrumental breaks showcase the band’s exceptional musicianship, with David Gilmour’s guitar solo being particularly memorable. The use of clocks and other sound effects throughout the song adds to the sense of urgency and the passage of time.
“Time” remains one of Pink Floyd’s most recognizable and beloved songs, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its universal message and memorable melody have made it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.
4. “Comfortably Numb” by Pink Floyd
“Comfortably Numb” is one of Pink Floyd’s most iconic and enduring songs, featured on their 1979 album “The Wall.” The song features a haunting melody and David Gilmour’s unforgettable guitar solo, which is widely regarded as one of the greatest solos in rock history.
The lyrics tell the story of a rock star who has become emotionally disconnected from the world, relying on drugs to numb his pain and allow him to perform. The chorus, “I have become comfortably numb,” captures the sense of detachment and resignation that the character feels.
The song’s structure is unconventional, with a slow and atmospheric opening that gradually builds in intensity, before giving way to the soaring guitar solo. The contrast between the two sections creates a powerful emotional impact, and the song’s memorable melody and lyrics have made it a fan favorite for decades.
“Comfortably Numb” is a testament to Pink Floyd’s ability to blend intricate musicianship with thought-provoking lyrics, creating a timeless classic that continues to inspire new generations of fans. Its themes of disconnection, addiction, and emotional turmoil are as relevant today as they were when the song was first released, making it a true masterpiece of rock music.
5. “Us and Them” by Pink Floyd
“Us and Them” is a poignant track from Pink Floyd’s 1973 album “The Dark Side of the Moon.” The song features a gentle melody, soothing vocals, and a haunting saxophone solo by Dick Parry.
The lyrics speak of the divisions that exist between people, whether they be social, political, or cultural. The chorus, “Us and them, and after all, we’re only ordinary men,” highlights the universal human experience and the fact that we are all connected in some way.
The song’s instrumental breaks showcase the band’s exceptional musicianship, with Richard Wright’s keyboard and Dick Parry’s saxophone creating a dreamy and otherworldly atmosphere. The use of sound effects, such as the distant explosions and the ticking clock, add to the song’s powerful emotional impact.
“Us and Them” is a masterful example of Pink Floyd’s ability to blend intricate musical composition with thought-provoking lyrics. Its message of unity and the recognition of our shared humanity is as relevant today as it was when the song was first released, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
6. “Mother” by Pink Floyd
“Mother” is a powerful track from Pink Floyd’s 1979 album “The Wall.” The song features a haunting acoustic guitar melody and Roger Waters’ emotional vocals, which capture the sense of longing and abandonment at the heart of the song.
The lyrics tell the story of a young man who has grown up without a father, and who feels oppressed by his overbearing mother. The chorus, “Mother, do you think they’ll drop the bomb?” highlights the character’s sense of fear and uncertainty, as he struggles to make sense of the world around him.
The song’s instrumental breaks showcase the band’s exceptional musicianship, with David Gilmour’s electric guitar adding a sense of urgency and intensity to the song. The use of sound effects, such as the ringing telephone and the distant airplane, add to the song’s atmospheric and cinematic quality.
“Mother” is a masterful example of Pink Floyd’s ability to blend intricate musical composition with powerful and thought-provoking lyrics. Its themes of parental abandonment, fear, and the search for meaning are as relevant today as they were when the song was first released, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
7. “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd
“Wish You Were Here” is a classic track from Pink Floyd’s 1975 album of the same name. The song features a memorable acoustic guitar riff and haunting vocals by David Gilmour, which capture the sense of longing and loss at the heart of the song.
The lyrics speak of the absence of a dear friend, and the pain of being separated from someone we love. The chorus, “Wish you were here,” is a simple yet powerful expression of the character’s desire to be reunited with their friend.
The song’s instrumental breaks showcase the band’s exceptional musicianship, with David Gilmour’s guitar solo being particularly memorable. The use of sound effects, such as the radio tuning and the wind blowing, add to the song’s atmospheric and introspective quality.
“Wish You Were Here” remains one of Pink Floyd’s most beloved songs, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its universal message of love, loss, and the human experience has made it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans of all ages.
8. “Money” by Pink Floyd
“Money” is one of Pink Floyd’s most recognizable and popular tracks, featured on their 1973 album “The Dark Side of the Moon.” The song features a distinctive bassline, jazzy saxophone riff, and memorable lyrics that speak of the power and corruption associated with money.
The lyrics critique the capitalist system and the obsession with money that often leads to greed and materialism. The chorus, “Money, it’s a gas,” captures the seductive allure of wealth, while the closing lines, “Money, get back / I’m all right Jack / Keep your hands off my stack,” highlight the selfishness and individualism that can be associated with wealth.
The song’s instrumental breaks showcase the band’s exceptional musicianship, with David Gilmour’s guitar solo being particularly memorable. The use of sound effects, such as the cash register and the coins jingling, add to the song’s playful and irreverent quality.
“Money” remains a classic of Pink Floyd’s catalog and a staple of classic rock radio. Its themes of greed, corruption, and the pursuit of wealth are as relevant today as they were when the song was first released, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
9. “The Happiest Days of Our Lives / Another Brick in the Wall (Part II)” by Pink Floyd
“The Happiest Days of Our Lives / Another Brick in the Wall (Part II)” is a powerful medley from Pink Floyd’s 1979 album “The Wall.” The song features a thunderous drumbeat and a driving guitar riff that combine to create a sense of urgency and rebellion.
The lyrics tell the story of a strict and oppressive school system, and the rebellion of a young boy who refuses to conform. The chorus, “We don’t need no education / We don’t need no thought control,” has become one of the most recognizable lines in rock music history, and highlights the character’s rejection of the system that seeks to mold him into a compliant member of society.
The song’s instrumental breaks showcase the band’s exceptional musicianship, with David Gilmour’s guitar solo being particularly memorable. The use of sound effects, such as the teacher’s harsh and condescending voice, add to the song’s sense of rebellion and defiance.
“The Happiest Days of Our Lives / Another Brick in the Wall (Part II)” is a classic of Pink Floyd’s catalog, and has become an anthem for those who reject conformity and seek to challenge the status quo. Its themes of rebellion, individualism, and the struggle for freedom are as relevant today as they were when the song was first released, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
10. “Dogs” by Pink Floyd
“Dogs” is an epic track from Pink Floyd’s 1977 album “Animals.” The song features a complex and dynamic musical structure, with multiple instrumental sections and intricate guitar solos by David Gilmour.
The lyrics tell the story of ruthless and ambitious individuals, often compared to dogs, who are driven by greed and the desire for power. The chorus, “Who was born in a house full of pain / Who was trained not to spit in the fan / Who was told what to do by the man / Who was broken by trained personnel,” captures the sense of frustration and oppression felt by those who are subject to the will of those in power.
The song’s instrumental breaks showcase the band’s exceptional musicianship, with each member contributing to the overall sound and atmosphere. The use of sound effects, such as the barking dog and the eerie synth sounds, add to the song’s dark and ominous quality.
“Dogs” is a classic of Pink Floyd’s catalog, and is often cited as one of their most ambitious and impressive works. Its themes of power, corruption, and the struggle for freedom are as relevant today as they were when the song was first released, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans of all ages.
11. “Speak to Me / Breathe” by Pink Floyd
“Speak to Me / Breathe” is the opening track of Pink Floyd’s iconic 1973 album “The Dark Side of the Moon.” The song serves as an introduction to the album, featuring sound effects and snippets of dialogue that set the tone for the psychedelic journey that is to come.
The opening track begins with the sound of a heartbeat, which leads into the ethereal soundscape of “Breathe.” The lyrics speak of the desire for escape and freedom, and the need to break free from the constraints of everyday life. The chorus, “Run, rabbit, run / Dig that hole, forget the sun,” captures the sense of urgency and the desire to escape that is present throughout the album.
The song’s instrumental breaks showcase the band’s exceptional musicianship, with David Gilmour’s soaring guitar solos being particularly memorable. The use of sound effects, such as the cash register and the airplane flying overhead, add to the song’s dreamlike quality.
“Speak to Me / Breathe” is a classic of Pink Floyd’s catalog, and is often cited as one of the greatest opening tracks in rock history. Its themes of escape, freedom, and the desire for something more are as relevant today as they were when the song was first released, making it a timeless classic that continues to inspire fans around the world.
12. “Sheep” by Pink Floyd
“Sheep” is a powerful track from Pink Floyd’s 1977 album “Animals.” The song features a dynamic and intense musical structure, with multiple instrumental sections and a driving bassline that carries the song forward.
The lyrics tell the story of individuals who are compared to sheep, blindly following those in power without question. The chorus, “Bleating and babbling we fell on his neck with a scream / Wave upon wave of demented avengers / March cheerfully out of obscurity into the dream,” captures the sense of confusion and chaos that is present throughout the song.
The song’s instrumental breaks showcase the band’s exceptional musicianship, with each member contributing to the overall sound and atmosphere. The use of sound effects, such as the bleating of sheep and the eerie synth sounds, add to the song’s dark and ominous quality.
“Sheep” is a classic of Pink Floyd’s catalog, and is often cited as one of their most intense and memorable works. Its themes of power, conformity, and the struggle for freedom are as relevant today as they were when the song was first released, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
13. “Brain Damage / Eclipse” by Pink Floyd
“Brain Damage / Eclipse” is the closing track of Pink Floyd’s iconic 1973 album “The Dark Side of the Moon.” The song serves as a powerful conclusion to the album, with its lyrics speaking of the struggles of mental illness and the search for meaning and connection in life.
“Brain Damage” features haunting lyrics that speak of the damage that can be caused by mental illness and the struggles that those who suffer from it face. The chorus, “The lunatic is in my head / The lunatic is in my head / You raise the blade, you make the change / You re-arrange me ’til I’m sane,” captures the sense of confusion and desperation that is present throughout the song.
“Eclipse,” the second half of the track, features uplifting and optimistic lyrics that speak of the interconnectedness of all things and the power of love to bring people together. The chorus, “All that you touch and all that you see / Is all your life will ever be,” captures the sense of hope and possibility that is present throughout the song.
“Brain Damage / Eclipse” is a classic of Pink Floyd’s catalog, and is often cited as one of the greatest closing tracks in rock history. Its themes of mental illness, the search for meaning, and the power of love and connection are as relevant today as they were when the song was first released, making it a timeless classic that continues to inspire fans around the world.
14. “Atom Heart Mother Suite” by Pink Floyd
“Atom Heart Mother Suite” is the title track of Pink Floyd’s 1970 album “Atom Heart Mother.” The song is a lengthy and complex suite that features a wide range of musical styles and instrumentation.
The track opens with a lush and orchestral introduction, featuring horns, strings, and choir vocals. This section gives way to a bluesy guitar riff, before transitioning to a jazzy instrumental break. The song then builds to a grand and dramatic climax, featuring a full choir and brass section.
The lyrics of “Atom Heart Mother Suite” are sparse, with the title being the only phrase that is repeated throughout the track. This allows the music to take center stage, with the different instrumental sections and musical styles blending together seamlessly to create a powerful and immersive listening experience.
“Atom Heart Mother Suite” is a classic of Pink Floyd’s catalog, and is often cited as one of their most ambitious and experimental works. Its complex and multi-layered structure, as well as its use of orchestral and choral elements, set it apart from the band’s more traditional rock works. The song remains a favorite among fans of progressive rock and is a testament to Pink Floyd’s innovative and visionary approach to music.
15. “Careful With That Axe, Eugene” by Pink Floyd
“Careful With That Axe, Eugene” is a psychedelic track from Pink Floyd’s 1968 album “A Saucerful of Secrets.” The song features a dark and brooding atmosphere, with haunting vocals and a driving rhythm that builds to a powerful climax.
The lyrics of “Careful With That Axe, Eugene” are sparse, with the title phrase being repeated throughout the track. The song’s title is a reference to an incident in which a fan had shouted out “Careful with that axe, Eugene” during one of the band’s live performances, mistaking the song for “Axe, Eugene” which the band never wrote or played. This incident inspired the band to write the song.
The track’s instrumentation is minimal, with a steady drum beat and simple guitar riff serving as the backbone of the song. The vocals, which feature David Gilmour and Roger Waters screaming and wailing, add to the sense of intensity and unease that is present throughout the track.
“Careful With That Axe, Eugene” is a classic of Pink Floyd’s early catalog, and is often cited as one of their most powerful and influential works. Its dark and brooding atmosphere, as well as its use of experimental vocal techniques, set it apart from the band’s more traditional rock works. The song remains a favorite among fans of psychedelic and experimental music and is a testament to Pink Floyd’s innovative and visionary approach to music.
16. “One of These Days” by Pink Floyd
“One of These Days” is an instrumental track from Pink Floyd’s 1971 album “Meddle.” The song features a driving bass line and a heavy use of effects and experimentation, creating a powerful and immersive listening experience.
The track opens with a distorted and rhythmic bass line, before transitioning to a section featuring a variety of sound effects and vocal samples. The song then builds to a dramatic climax, with the bass line and drums becoming more intense and frenzied.
Despite being an instrumental track, “One of These Days” features some of Pink Floyd’s most memorable moments. The use of sound effects and vocal samples, such as the famous line “One of these days, I’m going to cut you into little pieces,” adds to the sense of tension and unease that is present throughout the song.
“One of These Days” is a classic of Pink Floyd’s catalog, and is often cited as one of their most experimental and influential works. Its heavy use of effects and experimentation, as well as its driving rhythm and memorable vocal samples, set it apart from the band’s more traditional rock works. The song remains a favorite among fans of psychedelic and experimental music and is a testament to Pink Floyd’s innovative and visionary approach to music.
17. “Have a Cigar” by Pink Floyd
“Have a Cigar” is a track from Pink Floyd’s 1975 album “Wish You Were Here.” The song features a catchy guitar riff and biting lyrics that criticize the music industry and the ways in which artists are exploited for their talents.
The track opens with a memorable guitar riff, before transitioning to a section featuring lead vocals by guest singer Roy Harper. Harper’s vocals are layered with a variety of effects, creating a distinctive and memorable sound.
The lyrics of “Have a Cigar” are notable for their biting criticism of the music industry, with lines like “You’re gonna go far, fly high, you’re never gonna die / You’re gonna make it if you try, they’re gonna love you.” The song skewers the music industry’s tendency to exploit artists for their talents, and the ways in which musicians are often forced to compromise their artistic integrity in order to achieve success.
“Have a Cigar” is a classic of Pink Floyd’s catalog, and is often cited as one of their most memorable and influential works. Its catchy guitar riff and biting lyrics have made it a fan favorite, and the song’s commentary on the music industry remains relevant to this day. The track is a testament to Pink Floyd’s ability to blend memorable hooks with incisive social commentary, and remains a cornerstone of the band’s legacy.
18. “Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun” by Pink Floyd
“Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun” is a track from Pink Floyd’s 1968 album “A Saucerful of Secrets.” The song features a hypnotic and repetitive rhythm, with lyrics that evoke images of space and the cosmos.
The track opens with a distinctive drumbeat, before transitioning to a section featuring haunting vocals and a hypnotic bass line. The song’s lyrics, which include lines like “Overhead the albatross hangs motionless upon the air / And deep beneath the rolling waves in labyrinths of coral caves,” evoke a sense of otherworldliness and a journey into the unknown.
“Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun” is notable for its use of repetition and its hypnotic rhythm, which create a trance-like listening experience. The song’s instrumentation, which includes bongos and gongs, adds to the sense of otherworldliness that pervades the track.
Despite not being a commercial success upon its release, “Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun” has since become a cult classic among Pink Floyd fans. The song’s evocative lyrics and hypnotic rhythm have made it a favorite among fans of psychedelic and experimental music, and it remains a testament to Pink Floyd’s ability to create immersive and otherworldly listening experiences.
19. “Goodbye Blue Sky” by Pink Floyd
“Goodbye Blue Sky” is a track from Pink Floyd’s 1979 album “The Wall.” The song features a simple and haunting melody, with lyrics that paint a picture of a world torn apart by war and conflict.
The track opens with a gentle acoustic guitar and vocals, before transitioning to a section featuring a haunting choir and a driving drumbeat. The song’s lyrics, which include lines like “The flames are all long gone, but the pain lingers on,” evoke a sense of loss and sorrow, and paint a vivid picture of the aftermath of a war.
“Goodbye Blue Sky” is notable for its simplicity and its powerful emotional impact. The song’s melody is simple but effective, and the choir adds an extra layer of haunting beauty to the track. The lyrics are among Pink Floyd’s most poignant, and the song’s message of hope in the face of destruction and loss is a testament to the band’s ability to use music to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.
“Goodbye Blue Sky” remains a fan favorite among Pink Floyd fans, and its message of hope and resilience in the face of tragedy continues to resonate with listeners today. The track is a testament to Pink Floyd’s ability to use music to evoke powerful emotions and connect with listeners on a deep and personal level.
20. “When the Tigers Broke Free” by Pink Floyd
“When the Tigers Broke Free” is a single released by Pink Floyd in 1982, but it was later included in the 2004 reissue of “The Final Cut.” The song tells the story of Pink Floyd’s lead vocalist and bassist Roger Waters’ father, who died during World War II.
The song features a simple but powerful melody, with haunting piano and guitar riffs, and a driving drumbeat. The lyrics tell the story of the death of Waters’ father, who was killed during the Allied invasion of Sicily in 1943. The lyrics evoke a sense of loss and sorrow, as well as a deep sense of anger and frustration with the senseless violence of war.
“When the Tigers Broke Free” is notable for its deeply personal lyrics, which paint a vivid picture of the impact of war on individuals and families. The song’s emotional impact is heightened by the simple but effective instrumentation, which creates a somber and reflective mood.
The track has become a fan favorite among Pink Floyd fans, and it remains a powerful testament to the impact of war on individuals and families. The song’s message of peace and hope in the face of tragedy is a testament to Pink Floyd’s ability to use music to connect with listeners on a deep and emotional level.
April Johnson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
