3 Things to Know About Pink Floyd’s Tribute to Syd Barrett

“Shine On You Crazy Diamond” is the direct tribute It bookends the album with a four-note synth lament and lyrics unmistakably about Syd Barrett. The title track “Wish You Were Here” is more general, but “Shine On” is the explicit eulogy.

Syd Barrett himself walked in during the recording A heavyset, bald man with shaved eyebrows entered the studio. Nobody recognized him—it was Syd. He listened, offered to play guitar, then left, never to be seen again.

Start with “Shine On” for the full tribute If you want one song that says everything, play “Shine On You Crazy Diamond.” The rest of the album fills in the feelings.