David Gilmour Reveals Secrets Behind Pink Floyd’s Biggest Hits and Epic 50-Year Journey
Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmour is making a triumphant return with a new solo album and a six-night residency at London’s Royal Albert Hall. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen this talented musician take the stage. Back in 2016, he released Rattle That Lock and performed a series of shows at the same venue at the end of his tour. To get a glimpse into Gilmour’s life, we boarded his houseboat, The Astoria, on the River Thames, where he shared insight into his 50-year journey with Pink Floyd.
Tucked away in Hampton, The Astoria is a historic houseboat known for its luxurious interior. Originally owned by Charlie Chaplin in the 1920s, it was later acquired by David Gilmour, who transformed it into a recording studio. Gilmour exudes elegance and sophistication, dressed in all black, with a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for the finer things in life.
In November of last year, Pink Floyd released their highly anticipated album, The Endless River. Composed of soundscapes from out-takes of their 1994 album, The Division Bell, this album was hailed as the final chapter for the iconic band. Gilmour has since completed his fourth solo album, Rattle That Lock, offering a diverse range of musical styles and showcasing his unmistakable voice and guitar playing.
The album features a variety of genres, from Pink Floyd’s signature sound to waltz, funk, and jazz tracks. When asked about the creative process behind the music, Gilmour emphasizes the importance of following the flow of inspiration and letting the music speak for itself. Collaborating with his wife, Polly Samson, on songwriting, Gilmour acknowledges the unique bond between the music and the lyrics.
One standout track from the album, “The Girl In The Yellow Dress,” features jazzy elements and a captivating performance by Robert Wyatt on the cornet. Another poignant song, “Faces Of Stone,” reflects on the passage of time and personal experiences, drawing inspiration from Gilmour’s mother and the complexities of their relationship.
One of the album’s highlights is the title track, “Rattle That Lock,” which incorporates a French travel-announcement jingle, infusing the song with a sense of rhythm and melody. Gilmour explains that the album is designed to flow like a day, starting at dawn and ending with a crackling campfire, creating a cohesive listening experience.
An emotional tribute to Pink Floyd bandmate, Rick Wright, can be found in the track “A Boat Lies Waiting,” reflecting on their musical telepathy and shared memories. Gilmour reminisces about their time together and the joy Wright found during the On An Island tour, prior to his passing.
When discussing the possibility of a Pink Floyd reunion, Gilmour is resolute in his decision to move forward with his solo career. He acknowledges the significance of their past collaborations but expresses a desire to explore new creative avenues without revisiting the past.
Reflecting on his legendary career, Gilmour recalls pivotal moments with artists like Elvis, The Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix that shaped his musical journey. Despite his immense success, Gilmour remains humble and focused on creating music that speaks to him and his audience.
As he prepares for his upcoming tour dates in Europe and London, Gilmour is eager to share his latest album with fans and continue his musical exploration. With a career spanning over five decades, David Gilmour remains a true icon in the world of rock music, leaving behind a legacy of timeless classics and unforgettable performances.
