Home > Syd Barrett, 60, dies

Syd Barrett, 60, dies

11th July 2006

Infamous founder of and guitarist for Pink Floyd, Roger "Syd" Barrett has died at the age of 60. Many will no doubt be surprised to learn he lived this long. I'm a fan of Floyd's early work with Syd, but I never followed his solo career, which was a bit too nutty even for me.

Many will have heard about Syd's penchant for psychedelic drugs, much of which fueled his music and stage shows. One report had him mixing in hallucinogenics with his hair gel so that as the stuff melted on stage, Syd would get all tripped out.

Sadly, the potent combination of success, drugs and youth proved ruinous in Barretts's case. After being removed from Floyd, Syd lived the rest of his days under supervision and reclusion.

Many rockers since than have aped much of Barretts insane style of fashion. His tempestous hair and dark, haunted eyes are a mainstay of brooding rock to this day.

So long, Syd. Thanks for music.

Tags: music, Pink Floyd