Pink Floyd was a pioneering British rock band formed in 1965, known for their creative sound and concept-driven albums.
The band’s music often explored themes of isolation, societal issues, and personal reflection.
With their experimental approach to studio recording and live performances, they became one of the most influential and successful groups in rock history.
About the Song
Wish You Were Here is a poignant song by Pink Floyd, showcasing feelings of loss, longing, and nostalgia.
It’s often seen as a tribute to the band’s former member, Syd Barrett, whose mental health struggles led to his departure from the group.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | September 12, 1975 |
| Album | Discovery |
| Writers | Roger Waters, David Gilmour |
| Producer | Pink Floyd |
Wish You Were Here Lyrics
Intro
“And disciplinary remains mercifully”
“Yes and um, I’m with you, Derek, this star nonsense”
“Yes, yes”
“Now which is it?”
“I am sure of it”
Verse 1
So, so you think you can tell
Heaven from Hell? Blue skies from pain?
Can you tell a green field from a cold steel rail?
A smile from a veil? Do you think you can tell?
Verse 2
Did they get you to trade your heroes for ghosts?
Hot ashes for trees? Hot air for a cool breeze?
Cold comfort for change? Did you exchange
A walk-on part in the war for a lead role in a cage?
Chorus
How I wish, how I wish you were here
We’re just two lost souls swimming in a fishbowl, year after year
Running over the same old ground, what have we found?
The same old fears, wish you were here
Similar Songs Like Wish You Were Here
Few songs by Roger Waters that have a similar reflective and emotional tone to Wish You Were Here:
- Shine On You Crazy Diamond: It is a tribute to Syd Barrett, much like Wish You Were Here, reflecting on loss and mental struggle.
- Mother: Mother is a deep, self-reflective song about emotional conflict, fear, and longing for connection.
- The Gunners Dream: A powerful and emotional song dealing with loss and the futility of war.
- Comfortably Numb: Comfortably Numb is a song that delves into isolation and emotional numbness, with a haunting atmosphere similar to Wish You Were Here.
Similar Bands Like Pink Floyd
Few bands that share a similar progressive rock style or thematic intensity with Pink Floyd:
- Genesis
Genre: Progressive Rock, Symphonic Rock
Top Albums: Selling England by the Pound & Nursery Cryme - King Crimson
Genre: Progressive Rock, Experimental Rock
Top Albums: In the Court of the Crimson King & Red - Yes
Genre: Progressive Rock
Top Albums: Fragile & Close to the Edge - The Moody Blues
Genre: Progressive Rock, Symphonic Rock
Top Albums: Days of Future Passed & In Search of the Lost Chord
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Meaning Behind Wish You Were Here?
The song expresses longing, nostalgia, and feelings of disconnection. It reflects both personal loss, particularly with the absence of Syd Barrett, and the band’s experience with the music industry.
How did Wish You Were Here Impact Music?
The song became one of Pink Floyd’s most beloved tracks, praised for its emotional depth and musical complexity. It has influenced countless artists and is often regarded as a high point of 1970s rock music.
Is there a Music Video for Wish You Were Here?
No, Pink Floyd did not release an official music video for Wish You Were Here. The band generally avoided making music videos for their songs during this period, focusing more on live performances and album art.
