In the realm of guitar legends, it is often challenging to reach the pinnacle. Many guitarists concur that Jimi Hendrix is the greatest electric guitarist ever, thanks to his innovative psychedelic rock techniques that influenced many with his distinct tone and complex compositions. David Gilmour is also regarded as one of the greats, but for different reasons.
In 1967, following the release of Pink Floyd’s debut album, The Piper at the Gates of Dawn, the band’s original leader and guitarist, Syd Barrett, began experiencing severe mental health issues. To manage the band’s touring and studio obligations, Pink Floyd brought in Gilmour, Barrett’s childhood friend.
The band had several choices but chose Gilmour, who had honed his skills by emulating his idols, from Lead Belly to Hank Marvin. This approach made Gilmour an exceptional guitarist capable of replicating Barrett’s unique style during the A Saucerful of Secrets sessions.
Barrett’s participation in Pink Floyd was dwindling as he became increasingly unreliable, leading to his departure in 1968. Post-Barrett, Gilmour started developing his own style, which gradually transitioned Pink Floyd’s sound from their early psychedelic phase to the expansive, anthemic music of the early 1970s.
In early 1970s albums like Meddle and The Dark Side of the Moon, Gilmour demonstrated versatility with tracks like the upbeat blues of ‘Money’ and the gentle acoustics of ‘San Tropez’. However, standout tracks like ‘Echoes’ and ‘Breathe (In The Air)’ showcased a brooding, atmospheric sound that emphasized tone and melodic complexity over speed.
The belief that speed is the ultimate measure of guitar prowess has sometimes caused Gilmour to be overshadowed by the likes of Eddie Van Halen or Jimmy Page. Gilmour has expressed frustration over his inability to match Van Halen’s speed, but he focuses on his strengths.
Mark Knopfler – 2023
(Credits: Far Out / Apple Music)
Among the renowned guitarists who recognize Gilmour’s unique talent is Dire Straits’ Mark Knopfler. Despite his ability to dazzle with fast blues, Knopfler values Gilmour’s tone and compositional genius. “I like its intonation; there is always a side ‘swamp’, bluesy, in the sound of his Stratocaster,” Knopfler told French Guitarist in 2002. “But also a crystalline quality at the same time, which corresponds more to my personal sound.”
Knopfler also admired Gilmour’s precise clarity and his approach to melody. “What I also like about Dave is the way he plays while wandering around the central melody, which he rarely approaches in a frontal way,” he said. “It is the mark of a great guitarist.”
Gilmour, in turn, has long admired Knopfler’s accuracy at speed. “Mark Knopfler has a lovely, refreshing guitar style,” Gilmour remarked. “He brought back something that seemed to have gone astray in guitar playing.” Gilmour acknowledged their mutual appreciation for a clean style influenced by their shared hero, Hank Marvin.
Reflecting on his career, Gilmour noted his early tendency to emulate his idols. “These days, I don’t listen to other people with the objective of trying to steal their licks,” he admitted. “Although I’ve got no objections to stealing them if that seems like a good idea. I’m sure that I’m still influenced by Mark Knopfler and Eddie Van Halen as well.”
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