David Gilmour is rightly regarded as one of Britain’s finest guitarists, a title he earned by adding unparalleled skill and depth to Pink Floyd’s sound. Gilmour’s approach has always been humble—he openly admits that his journey started by imitating his own heroes.
“I copied—don’t be afraid to copy—and eventually, something that I suppose I would call my own appeared,” he once shared. Yet now, his iconic licks have become the foundation for countless guitarists worldwide.
Pink Floyd’s cosmic textures and bold, solo-driven sound would not have reached the heights they did without Gilmour’s influence. Although he joined in 1968, just before Syd Barrett’s departure, Gilmour’s contributions were transformative.
His entry marked a new era for the band, one that would reshape rock music and propel Pink Floyd into legendary status. With his precision, dedication, and distinct creative vision, Gilmour helped define Pink Floyd’s identity, cementing them as pioneers of the genre.
While Roger Waters and Gilmour’s songwriting is essential to Pink Floyd’s legacy, the way Gilmour performs his guitar solos has created some of the band’s most memorable moments. He’s shared his favorite solos from his time with the band in an interview, giving fans a rare look at the work closest to his heart.
Among these, he named “both solos on ‘Comfortably Numb,’” calling them “pretty good.” He also highlighted “Dogs” from Animals, admiring the solos’ uniqueness and how they explore new territory in his playing. Reflecting on his first solo album, he said of “Raise My Rent,” “That was sort of an excuse to go on a 12-bar blues,” showing his fondness for expressive, blues-driven solos.
His mention of “Dogs” reveals a lesser-known favorite that resonates deeply upon closer listening. Inspired by George Orwell’s Animal Farm, the song critiques capitalism in nearly 18 minutes of intricate, searing guitar work that tells its own story, mirroring the intensity of its lyrics. Gilmour’s solos in “Dogs” build an emotional narrative that defines Pink Floyd’s artistry, giving fans a powerful listening experience.
Gilmour also considers “Comfortably Numb” a pinnacle of his live performances with the band, recalling one unforgettable concert moment. He described standing in darkness, waiting for his part as Roger Waters finished singing.
“The big back spots and everything go on, and the audience… their heads all lift up,” he said, remembering the thrill of the crowd’s collective gasp. “That’s quite something, let me tell you.”
David Gilmour’s guitar solos in these songs aren’t just standout moments—they’re some of the most captivating and celebrated in rock history, demonstrating his unique genius and the enduring power of Pink Floyd’s music.
