The 7 Iconic Pink Floyd Basslines
via Pink Floyd/YouTube
Pink Floyd’s discography is a treasure trove of musical brilliance, with basslines that resonate across generations. Let’s dive into the sonic journey of 7 iconic Pink Floyd basslines that have left an indelible mark on the realm of music. Each of these basslines is not just a musical note; it’s a chapter in the sonic odyssey that is Pink Floyd, etching their legendary status in rock history.
1. Have A Cigar
In the vein of Dark Side of the Moon, “Have A Cigar” exudes echoes of “Echoes” from the Meddle album. Waters’ sarcastic take on the music business adds a critical edge to this iconic track.
2. Atom Heart Mother
The eponymous song from the Atom Heart Mother album may fly under the radar for many, but its subtle brilliance and the entire album’s often-overlooked charm make it a hidden gem in Pink Floyd’s repertoire.
3. Another Brick in the Wall
This composition, seamlessly distributed in the opera’s first part, combines a children’s choir, a funk-inspired bassline, and a chorus that etches itself into the collective memory. A protest anthem against the overbearing control on children’s minds, it carries intellectual depth with universal appeal.
4. Pigs (Three Different Ones)
Inspired by George Orwell’s “Rebellion On The Farm,” “Pigs (Three Different Ones)” reflects a marked change in style, mirroring the band’s internal discrepancies and concern about the political landscape in the UK.
5. Echoes
Clocking in at over 23 minutes, “Echoes” stands as one of Pink Floyd’s longest songs, featuring a meticulously crafted bassline. This musical journey is a centerpiece of the Meddle album (1971).
6. Astronomy Domine
Taking a lysergic voyage, “Astronomy Domine” is a gem from Pink Floyd’s debut LP, The Piper At The Gates of Dawn, perfectly encapsulating Syd Barrett’s distinctive style.
7. Money
In a stroke of genius, Pink Floyd incorporated the sound of cash registers throughout “Money,” a hallmark move that sets this track apart. Roger Waters’ stellar bassline is another defining element, making it a standout in the band’s repertoire.