DAVID GILMOUR

Biography

David Jon Gilmour is undeniably one of rock music's greatest guitarists. His melodic playing style, soaring solos, and distinctive tone have become synonymous with Pink Floyd's sound. Beyond his technical prowess, Gilmour has also proven himself as a talented vocalist, songwriter, and producer.

There's much to admire about Gilmour—from his charitable work (donating £3.6 million from the sale of his London home to the charity Crisis) to earning his CBE. Through his official website, he has spoken out on important issues like eBay concert ticket profiteering and homelessness, showing a social conscience that extends beyond music.

1946-1968 Early Years & Joker's Wild

David Jon Gilmour was born on 6 March 1946 in Cambridge, England. While attending the Cambridgeshire College of Arts and Technology, he met Syd Barrett, though they didn't initially play music together.

In 1963, Gilmour joined the band Joker's Wild. Some members later formed Bullitt in 1966, which disbanded in 1968. These early bands gave Gilmour valuable experience, though they achieved little commercial success. The extremely rare Joker's Wild recordings are now among the most sought-after Pink Floyd-related collectibles.

1968-1985 Pink Floyd's Golden Era

When Syd Barrett's deteriorating mental health made it impossible for him to continue with Pink Floyd in 1968, David Gilmour was brought in as his replacement. Initially, the plan was for Gilmour to cover for Barrett's increasingly erratic performances, but by April 1968, Barrett had left the band entirely.

Gilmour became an essential part of Pink Floyd's sound, co-writing with Roger Waters and sharing vocal duties with Waters and Richard Wright. His guitar work was integral to the band's success, contributing memorable solos and textures to albums like The Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here, Animals, and The Wall.

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However, as Waters increasingly took creative control of the band, tensions grew. Waters' vision dominated the albums of the late 1970s and early 1980s, and by 1983, Wright was dismissed from the band. The Final Cut (1983) was essentially a Roger Waters solo album in all but name.

In 1985, Waters announced that Pink Floyd was over. Gilmour disputed this, claiming the right to continue using the band name. A bitter legal battle ensued, with Gilmour ultimately winning the right to both the name and most of the catalog. Waters retained The Wall and certain visual elements.

1985-Present Pink Floyd & Solo Career

With Waters' departure, Pink Floyd essentially became the David Gilmour band. While there's nothing inherently wrong with that, many fans and critics felt that the two subsequent studio albums—A Momentary Lapse of Reason (1987) and The Division Bell (1994)—lacked the lyrical depth and conceptual ambition of the Waters era.

The 2005 Live 8 reunion brought Pink Floyd together for one night, performing a four-song, 23-minute set that was the highlight of the event. Despite hopes for a full-scale reunion, Gilmour made it clear this was a one-time occurrence.

Following Live 8, Gilmour generously donated the profits from the temporary surge in Pink Floyd album sales to charities aligned with Live 8's objectives, demonstrating once again his commitment to social causes.

Solo Work & Other Projects

Gilmour has released several solo albums: the self-titled David Gilmour (1978), About Face (1984), and after a 22-year gap, On An Island (2006). These albums showcase his melodic sensibilities and guitar virtuosity outside the Pink Floyd context.

As a session musician and producer, Gilmour has worked with diverse artists including Propaganda and Elton John. Perhaps his most significant contribution to another artist's career was discovering and championing Kate Bush, playing a crucial role in launching her remarkable career.

Personal Life

Gilmour was first married to Ginger, with whom he has four children. His second wife is novelist Polly Samson, and they also have four children together.

Gilmour and his family live on a 300-acre estate in Sussex. He is an experienced pilot with a particular interest in historical aircraft, reflecting his passion for aviation alongside music.

David Gilmour's legacy as one of rock's premier guitarists is secure. His expressive, lyrical playing style has influenced countless musicians, and his contributions to Pink Floyd helped create some of the most enduring music of the rock era.

Gallery

All images © David Gilmour / Pink Floyd

Mailing Addresses

David Gilmour
c/o Joanna Nelson
David Gilmour Music Limited
P O Box 62
Heathfield
East Sussex TN21 8ZE
United Kingdom

David Gilmour
David Gilmour Music Ltd.
Fairfax House, Fulwood Pl.
London WC1V 6UB
United Kingdom

Please note: Gilmour rarely signs autographs these days. He has stated various reasons for this policy, including that he prefers to focus on making music and that he often sees his signature appearing on auction sites. If you write, be sure to include a SAE or IRC, though responses may be limited to a standard letter.

Price Guide

You can expect the prices for the items listed below if you are selling privately. If you sell to a dealer or shop expect less than half of the prices listed below.

All prices are on the basis that the item is in mint condition.

All items 7" unless stated. All items UK releases unless stated.

Prices are in UK sterling and US dollars.

David Gilmour

Joker's Wild

Source: Rare Record Price Guide 2006

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