Dick Parry, Iconic Pink Floyd Saxophonist, Dies at 83
Get the Culture newsletter
Daily culture — film, music, books, the trends and ideas worth your attention. Free.
- Dick Parry died at age 83, a death announced by David Gilmour on Instagram on Friday.
- David Gilmour posted an Instagram tribute recalling Parry's sax contributions to “Money”, “Shine On You Crazy Diamond”, and “Us and Them”, and noting their friendship since a 1963 performance.
- Parry delivered the iconic sax solos on Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon” (including “Money”) and “Wish You Were Here” (including “Shine On You Crazy Diamond”).
- Parry returned to Pink Floyd for the 1994 “The Division Bell” album, playing sax on “Wearing the Inside Out” and touring with the band that year.
- Parry was known for playing two saxophones simultaneously on stage, switching between baritone and tenor during his “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” solo.
- Parry once worked as a farrier shoeing horses after selling his saxophones, before resuming his music career in the early 1990s.
- Graham Nash posted a condolence on Gilmour’s Instagram, and fellow industry figure Merck Mercuriadis also thanked Parry for his music.
Why it matters: The death of Dick Parry removes a singular sax voice that defined Pink Floyd’s most celebrated tracks, ending a 60‑year partnership with David Gilmour and depriving future tours of his signature sound. Fans, fellow musicians, and the broader rock community lose a living link to a pivotal era of music.
Ask SkimNews
