David Gilmour replaced Syd Barrett in Pink Floyd. Helping him make a solo record was an ordeal: “It was hell”

David Gilmour said helping Syd Barrett record his early solo music was “hell”, despite believing Barrett had a talent worth capturing. The account highlights the strain of working with Barrett after Gilmour had replaced him in Pink Floyd, as well as the music that made the effort worthwhile.

Gilmour played lead guitar on several tracks for Barrett’s solo records, including songs such as ‘Octopus’ and ‘Dark Globe’. He said Barrett’s performances were difficult to record and that the lack of feedback made it hard to know whether he approved of the results. Barrett later withdrew from music, while Pink Floyd continued to honour his work, including with a tribute on Wish You Were Here.