We have a collection of 6 arrangements for Richard Wright, Clare Torry - The Great Gig in the Sky
What makes "The Great Gig in the Sky" one of the most emotionally powerful instrumental vocals in rock history? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Pink Floyd: The Architects of Psychedelic Rock
"The Great Gig in the Sky" is a track from Pink Floyd's iconic album, "The Dark Side of the Moon," released in 1973. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Vocal Performance: The vocals for "The Great Gig in the Sky" were performed by Clare Torry, a British singer. The band initially gave her the freedom to improvise, and her powerful and emotional vocals became a key element of the song.
Improvisational Nature: Clare Torry's contribution to the song was largely improvised. She was given some general direction by the band but had the creative freedom to express herself. The result was a soulful and emotive performance that perfectly complemented the theme of the album.
Recording Session: Torry's vocals were recorded in a single take. The story goes that she was paid a flat fee for her session and was unaware of the song's context within the album until after its release.
No Lyrics: "The Great Gig in the Sky" is one of the few tracks on "The Dark Side of the Moon" without traditional lyrics. Instead, Torry's vocals serve as an instrument conveying the emotional depth and intensity of the piece.
Title Inspiration: The title of the song is derived from a comment made by keyboardist Richard Wright during a band meeting. When discussing potential titles for the album, he mentioned the phrase "the great gig in the sky," referring to the unpredictable nature of the music business.
Live Performances: Over the years, "The Great Gig in the Sky" became a staple of Pink Floyd's live performances. Various vocalists, including Clare Torry herself on occasion, have performed the song during live shows.
Cultural Impact: The song has been widely praised for its emotional impact and has been used in various films, TV shows, and commercials. Its timeless and universal theme of mortality and the unknown has resonated with audiences across generations.
"The Great Gig in the Sky" remains a standout and emotionally powerful piece in Pink Floyd's discography, contributing to the enduring legacy of "The Dark Side of the Moon" as one of the greatest albums in rock history.