We have a collection of 6 arrangements for Pink Floyd - The Great Gig in the Sky
Whose iconic wordless vocal performance became the centerpiece of this composition? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Pink Floyd: The Architects of Psychedelic Rock
"The Great Gig in the Sky" is a track by the iconic British rock band Pink Floyd from their 1973 album "The Dark Side of the Moon." Here are some interesting facts about this song:
Vocal Performance: The most distinctive feature of "The Great Gig in the Sky" is the powerful and emotional vocal performance by Clare Torry. She was a session singer who was hired by the band for this track. The song doesn't have any lyrics; instead, Torry improvised her vocalization, which became the focal point of the song.
Recording in One Take: Clare Torry's vocal performance on the song was recorded in just one take. The band gave her the freedom to express her emotions through her singing, and she delivered an incredible and haunting performance on the first try.
Inspiration: The song was inspired by the band's contemplation of death and the afterlife. It serves as a meditation on mortality, with Torry's vocals conveying a sense of longing and transcendence.
No Instruments: Unlike most of Pink Floyd's songs, "The Great Gig in the Sky" does not feature any of the band's members playing instruments. Instead, it relies solely on vocals, making it a unique and experimental piece within their discography.
Live Performances: When Pink Floyd performed this song live, various singers took on the vocal duties over the years. Clare Torry herself made occasional appearances during their concerts to perform this song.
Chart Success: While not released as a single, "The Great Gig in the Sky" received significant radio airplay and remains one of Pink Floyd's most beloved and recognized songs. It contributed to the enormous commercial success of "The Dark Side of the Moon."
Album Impact: "The Dark Side of the Moon" as a whole is considered one of the greatest and most influential albums in rock music history. "The Great Gig in the Sky" is a crucial part of the album's thematic and sonic landscape.
"The Great Gig in the Sky" is a unique and emotionally charged track that showcases Pink Floyd's willingness to experiment with sound and their ability to create music that resonates deeply with listeners.