David Gilmour celebrates 79 today
In 1967, David Gilmour joined Pink Floyd, initially to support Syd Barrett, but took on a more prominent role as the band’s guitarist and co-lead vocalist and his smooth yet emotive guitar work became a defining element of Pink Floyd’s sound
David Gilmour celebrates 79 today
The English musician, singer, and songwriter David Gilmour, best known as the guitarist and co-lead vocalist of the legendary rock band Pink Floyd, was born David Jon Gilmour on March 6, 1946, in Cambridge, England. He grew up in a scholarly household — his father was a lecturer at Cambridge University, and his mother worked as a teacher. Gilmour developed an interest in music as a teenager, inspired by blues legends like B.B. King and Muddy Waters.
While attending The Perse School in Cambridge, Gilmour befriended future Pink Floyd members Syd Barrett and Roger Waters. During his youth, he played in several local bands, including Jokers Wild, gaining valuable experience as a guitarist and vocalist.
In 1967, David Gilmour joined Pink Floyd, initially to support Syd Barrett, whose mental health was deteriorating. When Barrett left the band in early 1968, Gilmour took on a more prominent role as the band’s guitarist and co-lead vocalist.
Gilmour’s smooth yet emotive guitar work became a defining element of Pink Floyd’s sound. Albums like The Dark Side of the Moon (1973), Wish You Were Here (1975), and The Wall (1979) showcased his iconic solos and powerful voice. Tracks such as “Comfortably Numb”, “Time”, and “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” remain celebrated for Gilmour’s distinctive melodic style.
In addition to his work with Pink Floyd, Gilmour has enjoyed a successful solo career. His debut solo album, David Gilmour (1978), demonstrated his blues-influenced guitar skills and introspective songwriting. Later albums like About Face (1984), On an Island (2006), and Rattle That Lock (2015) further highlighted his artistic evolution.
Gilmour has also collaborated with numerous artists over the years and has worked as a producer, contributing his signature guitar sound to various projects.
David Gilmour married model and writer Ginger Gilmour in 1975, and the couple had four children before divorcing in the early 1990s. In 1994, he married Polly Samson, a writer and lyricist who collaborated with him on Pink Floyd’s later works. Together, they have three children.
Known for his philanthropic efforts, Gilmour has donated significant portions of his wealth to charities, including proceeds from the sale of his guitars in 2019, which raised over $21 million for climate change initiatives.
David Gilmour’s ability to combine technical precision with emotional depth has earned him recognition as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Watch Pink Floyd performing live their epic “Shine on You Crazy Diamond” Live at Earls Court, London, 1994
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