We have a collection of 3 arrangements for Pink Floyd - Wish You Were Here
How does "Wish You Were Here" reflect Pink Floyd's reflections on the absence of Syd Barrett? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Pink Floyd: The Architects of Psychedelic Rock
"Shine On You Crazy Diamond" is one of Pink Floyd's most iconic songs, and it holds a special place in the band's history. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Tribute to Syd Barrett: The song serves as a tribute to the band's former member, Syd Barrett, who was one of the founding members of Pink Floyd but had to leave the band in 1968 due to mental health issues. The lyrics reflect on Barrett's decline and departure from the band.
Lengthy Composition: "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" is exceptionally long, with a total duration of over 26 minutes when combined as parts 1-9 on the album "Wish You Were Here." It's split into two halves on the album, with the first half (parts 1-5) opening the album and the second half (parts 6-9) closing it.
Studio Atmosphere: The recording of the song was a laborious process, taking many weeks to complete. It is often cited as an example of Pink Floyd's meticulous attention to detail in the studio. The band was known for its innovative studio techniques, and this song is a prime example.
Saxophone Solo: One of the standout features of the song is the haunting saxophone solo, played by Dick Parry. The solo adds an ethereal quality to the song and has become one of the most recognizable saxophone solos in rock music history.
Hidden Lyrics: If you listen closely to the song's early moments, you can hear a faint, whispered voice. These are actually hidden lyrics sung by Roger Waters, which can be deciphered with careful listening. They include lines like "Come on, you raver, you seer of visions" and "Come on, you painter, you piper, you prisoner, and shine!"
Extended Live Performances: When performed live, "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" often featured extended versions, sometimes lasting well over 20 minutes. These live renditions allowed the band to improvise and experiment with the song's structure.
Split Personality: The song's split into two parts on the album mirrors the two sides of Syd Barrett's personality. The first half is more serene and melancholic, while the second half is more energetic and rhythmic, symbolizing Barrett's decline and the memory of his former self.
Album Dedication: The entire "Wish You Were Here" album, which features "Shine On You Crazy Diamond," is dedicated to Syd Barrett. The album cover even features a pair of mechanical hands shaking, symbolizing the absence of Barrett and the longing for his return.
"Shine On You Crazy Diamond" remains a classic in Pink Floyd's discography and continues to be celebrated for its musical innovation, emotional depth, and connection to the band's history.