Syd Barrett’s 2006 death: Individual goodbyes, no band statement

When Syd Barrett died in 2006, the surviving Pink Floyd members didn’t release a joint tribute. Instead, each issued separate statements that laid bare their personal histories with him.

David Gilmour, who replaced Barrett in the band, called him “a brave, clever and beautiful man” and emphasized the joy of early Floyd. He performed “Arnold Layne” at a solo concert the night news broke, then recorded a studio version as a tribute. Roger Waters, whose relationship with Syd had frayed during the final months of Syd’s time in Floyd, said in a statement: “I am very sad to hear about Syd. I remember him as a great talent and a wonderful friend.” The phrasing was warm but noticeably less intimate than Gilmour’s. Nick Mason’s response leaned into memory: he recalled Syd’s “unique blend of innocence and eccentricity.” Rick Wright, the bandmate closest to Syd in the early days