Like a supernova, Roger “Syd” Barrett burned briefly and brightly, leaving an indelible mark upon psychedelic and progressive rock as the founder and original singer, songwriter, and lead guitarist of Pink Floyd.
Barrett was responsible for most of their brilliant first album, 1967’s The Piper at the Gates of Dawn.
He left the band after one record, too erratic from drugs or mental illness to keep up with its growing fame, the Floyd lost the bright wit of his songwriting and started its slide to light-show-dominated arena-rock.
Barrett cut a couple albums as a solo artist before giving up music and retreating from the world.
2004. He lives in Cambridge, UK.
Update July 11/2006: A spokesperson for Pink Floyd reports that Syd Barrett has died from unspecified causes.
