I think you know Pink Floyd, and even to this waking day, Pink Floyd’s relevance is unparalleled to the majority of progressive rock. While they no longer sing, this English rock band’s music is found in restaurants, stores, and even as snippets in videos worldwide. Hence, I am now ranking five songs that you have most probably heard, from least probable to most. And even if you don’t remember… you still listened to them. I don’t have the time to argue.
#5. “Wish You Were Here”
Completely understandable if this one is not as evident in your music catalogue. I even listen to this one less, but it should not just be considered a stepping stone towards their further success. Every poignant melody adds up. The instrumentals do start it off slowly, but it should resonate nicely with people searching for emotionally compelling and timeless music.
#4. “Hey You”
If we can collectively ignore the existence of The Wall movie, this song is a banger. It is the best guitar solo I have heard in a song, and I understand I might get a shame cone for that, but this was a piece that spoke to me during my lowest times. Although the lyrics are so simple, they are spoken so passionately that no meaning will fly beyond your head. It’s about metaphorically and aimlessly trying to break through isolation, but I almost feel like I’m in a hellish club by the half-point . . . and that’s okay.
#3. “Comfortably Numb”
I’m pretty sure that I nearly levitated during the final guitar solo–might have even soared. This one is definitely catchy and influential in terms of unique musical structure, but it earns third place because the tune itself is not as memorable. Still, the voices are as comforting as ever in solitude, and the guitar retains everything it stands for.
#2. “Money”
“It’s a gas” is a line in this song. I wonder why. Despite the length of these pieces, “Money” has no trouble combining the blues, a distinctive bass riff, and the unique beat choice of cash registers. The tempo is near perfection, and I’m certain it will get anyone into a mall-trip mood, but try not to spend too much money while listening to this soundtrack.
#1. “Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2”
Another weird one with its choir of children. However, it is still my favorite song from the English band. This one does stand out among the others based around the defiant message towards education, but the clever disco-like rhythm soothes the brain. It has simple lyrics to jam along to, not to mention silly quotes near the end of the ditty that I still use as inside jokes with my father, who introduced me to Pink Floyd. I’m sure a lot of fathers introduced their kids to this band. Something about the rebellious Gen X cohort.
All in all, if you are in a particularly idle study session, give Pink Floyd a fair listen. There is a song fit for everyone. Ciao, bye.