Richard Wright
1943-2008
Cat Fancy is saddened to report to you this evening that founding Pink Floyd keyboardist Richard Wright has passed away. Dying from an undisclosed form of cancer, Richard Wright passed away in his home today at the age of 65. Known for his distinctive keyboard abilities, dabbling in backing and lead vocals (such as on “Astronomy Domine” and the bridge on “Time” to name a few) and as well his contributions to songwriting on songs, “The Great Gig in the Sky” being one of his most memorable pieces.
In an age of aggressive prog rock, including bands like Yes and Emerson, Lake and Palmer, Wright took a much more laid back, serene approach to his synth parts. Wright’s role in Pink Floyd was key in adding a serene ambience and hauntingly beautiful textures to the sound that Floyd is now legendary for. An expert of melodic and occasionally jazzy passages and a very talented member of one of the best bands of the 70s, it would appear that this may hault any future Pink Floyd reunion gigs but perhaps we can expect a future tribute show perhaps, he certainly deserves it? None the less we give our sympathies to the late great Rick Wright. “We wish you were here”… Sorry for that weak attempt at a joke.