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Pink Floyd Tour dates, covering 1968-1994 and up to 2024, are covered on this page. I also cover information about different aspects of the tours including how they evolved, set lists, touring history, the changing faces of personnel across the tours, iconic shows and stage and lighting designs. This is a full list of the major Pink Floyd tours with links to further information.
Will Pink Floyd Tour Again in 2024?
No. It is very unlikely that Pink Floyd will ever tour again. The reasons are firstly, David Gilmour and Roger Waters do not get along together. Secondly, Rick Wright passing away makes it even less likely. In the relatively recent past, Pink Floyd played at Live 8 in 2005, and did the Hoping’s Got Talent fundraiser in 2010. Both Roger Waters and David Gilmour are now solo artists and do their own tours.
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List of Major Pink Floyd Tours
- 1965-1967 Pink Floyd Live Concerts
- 1968 Pink Floyd World Tour
- 1969 The Man and The Journey Tour
- 1970-71 Atom Heart Mother World Tour
- 1971 Meddle Tour
- 1972-73 Dark Side of the Moon Tour
- 1974 French Summer Tour
- 1974 British Winter Tour
- 1975 Wish You Were Here Tour
- 1977 In the Flesh Tour
- 1980-81 The Wall Tour
- 1987-89 A Momentary Lapse of Reason Tour
- 1994 The Division Bell Tour
Analysis of Pink Floyd Tour History
The below are a set of essays, or blogs, about different aspects of Pink Floyd’s tours between 1968 and 1994.
The Evolution of Pink Floyd Tours
Tracing the Psychedelic Path: A Journey Through Pink Floyd’s Touring History
Introduction: From their early days as pioneers of psychedelic rock to their status as stadium-filling legends, Pink Floyd’s tours have been a spectacle of sound and vision. This blog post embarks on a journey through Pink Floyd’s touring history, highlighting key tours and milestones that defined their evolution as a live act.
The Beginning: Piper at the Gates of Dawn Tour (1967-1968)
- Era of Psychedelia: The tour supporting their debut album, “The Piper at the Gates of Dawn,” was a psychedelic display, characterized by experimental light shows and avant-garde performances.
- Syd Barrett’s Influence: This era was heavily influenced by Syd Barrett’s creative direction, with the band’s performances steeped in the experimental and whimsical nature of psychedelic rock.
The Pinnacle: Dark Side of the Moon Tour (1972-1973)
- A Conceptual Masterpiece: The “Dark Side of the Moon Tour” was in support of their groundbreaking album. The tour was famous for its advanced stage design, revolutionary sound engineering, and use of a large circular screen, which later became synonymous with the band.
- Global Acclaim: This tour catapulted Pink Floyd to international acclaim, showcasing their ability to blend ambitious musical concepts with spectacular live performances.
The Theatrical Extravaganza: The Wall Tour (1980-1981)
- An Unprecedented Show: To support “The Wall,” Pink Floyd staged one of the most elaborate rock concerts ever, complete with a massive wall built across the stage.
- Limited Performances: Due to the complexity and cost, the tour was limited to a few cities, but it left an indelible mark on the history of rock performances.
A New Era: A Momentary Lapse of Reason Tour (1987-1989)
- Post-Waters Era: This was Pink Floyd’s first major tour without Roger Waters. Promoting “A Momentary Lapse of Reason,” the tour was a testament to the band’s resilience and continued appeal.
- Innovative Stage Shows: Known for its impressive stage design and visual effects, this tour reaffirmed Pink Floyd’s reputation as masters of live performance.
Conclusion: Pink Floyd’s tours were more than just concerts; they were immersive experiences that transcended traditional rock performances. From the psychedelic explorations of the 1960s to the grandiose spectacles of the 1980s, each tour marked a new chapter in their ever-evolving story as a live act. Their tours not only showcased their musical evolution but also their pioneering spirit in stage production and visual storytelling.
In our upcoming posts, we will delve deeper into specific aspects of Pink Floyd’s tours, exploring set lists, album focuses, personnel changes, key performances, and their innovative approach to stage and lighting design. Stay tuned for a closer look at the elements that made Pink Floyd’s tours a cornerstone of rock history.
The Art of Pink Floyd’s Set Lists
Symphony of Echoes: Crafting the Perfect Set Lists on Pink Floyd Tours
Introduction: A set list is more than just a sequence of songs; it’s a narrative, an emotional journey crafted for the audience. Pink Floyd, known for their conceptual and immersive concerts, mastered this art with each tour. In this blog, we delve into the evolution and intricacies of Pink Floyd’s set lists, revealing how they varied by tour and included both timeless classics and new material.
Early Years: A Psychedelic Mosaic
- Experimental Beginnings: During the “Piper at the Gates of Dawn Tour,” set lists were characterized by psychedelic tunes like “Interstellar Overdrive,” paired with Syd Barrett’s whimsical compositions.
- Spontaneity and Improvisation: The band often improvised, creating a unique experience for each show, with set lists featuring extended jam sessions.
The Epic Tale: Dark Side of the Moon Tour
- A Complete Narrative: For the “Dark Side of the Moon Tour,” Pink Floyd often performed the entire album in sequence, treating the audience to a complete narrative experience from start to finish.
- Balancing Old and New: The band balanced the new material with earlier works, ensuring a diverse yet cohesive set list.
The Theatrical Saga: The Wall Tour
- The Album Live: The “The Wall Tour” was unique as it featured the performance of the entire “The Wall” album, reflecting Roger Waters’ vision of a theatrical rock opera.
- Limited Variation: The set list for this tour was relatively fixed due to the theatrical and narrative nature of the show.
A New Chapter: A Momentary Lapse of Reason Tour
- Embracing the New Era: Post-Waters, the “A Momentary Lapse of Reason Tour” saw a shift with set lists that heavily featured tracks from the new album, while still retaining crowd favorites like “Wish You Were Here” and “Comfortably Numb.”
- Fan Favorites: Despite the changes, the band ensured that classic tracks remained a staple in their performances, catering to long-time fans.
Conclusion: Pink Floyd’s set lists were a reflection of their musical journey and evolution. From the early days of psychedelic experimentation to the meticulously crafted rock operas, their set lists offered audiences more than just songs; they offered an immersive story. Each concert was a journey through the band’s psyche, a blend of their past, present, and future.
Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we will explore the albums that were the focal points of Pink Floyd tours, examining how each album influenced the style and substance of their legendary live performances.
Albums in the Spotlight – Pink Floyd’s Touring History
Epic Narratives and Sonic Landscapes: How Albums Shaped Pink Floyd’s Tours
Introduction: For a band like Pink Floyd, known for their conceptually rich albums, each tour was not just a series of concerts but a portrayal of their latest musical narrative. In this exploration of Pink Floyd’s touring history, we focus on how specific albums shaped their tours, both those centered around a single album and those featuring a blend of multiple works.
The Album-Centric Tours: A Deep Dive into Themes
- Dark Side of the Moon Tour (1972-1973): This tour was intrinsically linked to the “Dark Side of the Moon” album, often featuring the album in its entirety. The themes of time, greed, and madness were translated into a mesmerizing audio-visual experience.
- The Wall Tour (1980-1981): One of the most theatrically ambitious tours, it was based around “The Wall” album. The shows included a full-scale wall being built on stage, symbolizing isolation and alienation, central themes of the album.
Blending the Old and New: Tours with Multiple Albums
- A Momentary Lapse of Reason Tour (1987-1989): This tour blended the fresh material from “A Momentary Lapse of Reason” with classic Pink Floyd songs. It showcased the band’s ability to evolve while respecting their rich history.
- The Division Bell Tour (1994): Featuring songs from “The Division Bell” alongside previous hits, this tour exemplified Pink Floyd’s vast musical panorama, drawing from various phases of their career.
The Power of Music: Conveying Complex Themes
- Visuals and Atmosphere: Each tour utilized stage design, visual effects, and sound engineering to complement the themes of the spotlighted albums, creating an immersive experience that went beyond the music.
- Audience Engagement: These album-focused tours allowed fans to experience the band’s conceptual narratives in a live setting, deepening their connection to the music and its themes.
Conclusion: Pink Floyd’s approach to touring, whether focusing on a single album or integrating multiple works, showcased their mastery in translating complex themes into captivating live performances. Each tour was a journey through the band’s ever-evolving musical landscape, offering fans a deeper understanding and appreciation of their iconic albums.
Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we will delve into the personnel of Pink Floyd tours, examining the line-up changes and key members who contributed to the band’s legendary live performances.
The Changing Faces – Personnel of Pink Floyd Tours
Behind the Music: Exploring the Evolving Lineup of Pink Floyd on Tour
Introduction: The personnel of a band is the heart of its live performances, and for a group like Pink Floyd, known for its evolving lineup and distinct individual contributions, this aspect was crucial. This blog post explores the changes in Pink Floyd’s touring lineup over the years, highlighting key members and their influence on the band’s live presence.
The Syd Barrett Era: The Dawn of Psychedelia
- Early Days: In the beginning, with Syd Barrett as the primary songwriter and frontman, Pink Floyd’s performances were heavily influenced by his unique vision, characterized by psychedelic improvisations and avant-garde style.
- Barrett’s Departure: Barrett’s departure in 1968 marked a significant shift in the band’s direction, both musically and in terms of stage presence.
The Waters-Gilmour Era: A Dynamic Duo
- Rise of Waters and Gilmour: Post-Barrett, Roger Waters and David Gilmour became the prominent figures in Pink Floyd. Waters’ conceptual genius and Gilmour’s guitar skills and vocals shaped the band’s identity in subsequent tours.
- Wright and Mason: Richard Wright and Nick Mason, though less in the spotlight, were integral to Pink Floyd’s sound, contributing significantly to the band’s live performances with their musicianship.
The Post-Waters Era: A New Chapter
- Gilmour Leading: After Waters left the band in 1985, Gilmour took the helm, leading Pink Floyd into a new era. Tours like “A Momentary Lapse of Reason” and “The Division Bell” saw Gilmour’s influence in full swing, both in terms of musical direction and stage production.
- New and Returning Members: This era saw the return of Richard Wright and the introduction of several touring musicians who added fresh dynamics to Pink Floyd’s live performances.
Key Performances and Contributions:
- Memorable Live Moments: Throughout the different phases, each member brought their unique style to the stage, contributing to some of the most memorable performances in rock history.
- The Legacy of Collaboration: The changing lineup over the years showcased the band’s ability to adapt and evolve, with each member leaving their mark on Pink Floyd’s touring legacy.
Conclusion: The personnel of Pink Floyd were as dynamic as their music, with each lineup change bringing a new dimension to their live shows. From the psychedelic explorations of the Barrett era to the expansive soundscapes of the Gilmour-led years, the band’s evolving roster played a key role in shaping their legendary status in the world of live rock music.
Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we will shine a spotlight on the key performances and historical venues that have defined Pink Floyd’s touring history.
Iconic Shows and Historical Venues in Pink Floyd Tours
Echoes of the Past: Reliving Pink Floyd’s Memorable Tour Moments
Introduction: Pink Floyd’s tours are etched in rock history not just for their music, but also for the iconic shows and venues that hosted them. From psychedelic clubs to vast stadiums, each venue and performance tells a story. This blog post takes a journey through some of the key performances and historical venues that have defined Pink Floyd’s touring history.
The Early Days: Underground Psychedelia
- UFO Club, London (1966-1967): Pink Floyd became synonymous with London’s psychedelic scene, with regular performances at the UFO Club. These shows, often spontaneous and experimental, helped solidify their reputation as pioneers of psychedelic rock.
Theatrical Extravaganzas: ‘The Wall’ Live
- Nassau Coliseum, New York (1980): One of the most ambitious shows in rock history, ‘The Wall’ live at Nassau Coliseum, was more than a concert – it was a full-scale theatrical production, complete with a massive wall built on stage.
A Musical Odyssey: ‘The Dark Side of the Moon’ Tour
- Empire Pool, Wembley (1974): The performances at the Empire Pool were a highlight of the ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ tour, showcasing the band’s innovative approach to live music, both in audio and visual spectacle.
Stadium Spectacles: The Later Years
- Live 8, London (2005): Although not part of a tour, Pink Floyd’s reunion at Live 8 was a historic moment. The band’s performance at Hyde Park brought together Waters, Gilmour, Mason, and Wright for the first time in over two decades.
- Pulse Tour, Various Venues (1994): The ‘Pulse’ tour, supporting ‘The Division Bell,’ featured state-of-the-art stage designs and was one of the first to use large LED screens, setting new standards for live performances.
The Venues: More than Just a Backdrop
- Historical Significance: Each venue played a role in shaping the band’s live performances. From the intimate settings of London’s psychedelic clubs to the grandeur of world-famous stadiums, these venues witnessed the evolution of Pink Floyd as a live act.
- Fan Experiences: For fans, these venues became pilgrimage sites, places where they experienced the magic of Pink Floyd’s music live, creating memories that lasted a lifetime.
Conclusion: Pink Floyd’s tours were marked by iconic performances in some of the world’s most renowned venues. Each concert was a showcase of the band’s evolving style, innovative stagecraft, and musical mastery. These shows were not just concerts but cultural events that left an indelible mark on the history of rock music.
Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we will delve into the groundbreaking stage and lighting designs that became a hallmark of Pink Floyd’s live performances, adding a visual depth to their already profound musical experiences.
The Spectacle of Light and Sound – Pink Floyd’s Stage and Lighting Design
Illuminating the Music: The Visual Artistry of Pink Floyd’s Live Shows
Introduction: Pink Floyd’s live performances are renowned not only for their sonic depth but also for their groundbreaking stage and lighting designs. These visual elements were integral to the band’s identity, transforming concerts into immersive experiences. In this blog, we explore the evolution and impact of Pink Floyd’s stage and lighting design throughout their tours.
The Beginnings: Pioneering Psychedelic Visuals
- Early Experimentation: In their formative years, during shows at venues like the UFO Club, Pink Floyd began experimenting with liquid light shows, projecting swirling colors and psychedelic patterns that became synonymous with the 60s psychedelic scene.
- Enhancing the Mood: These early light shows were more than just visual effects; they were extensions of the music, enhancing the atmospheric and otherworldly quality of Pink Floyd’s sound.
The 70s: Pushing Technological Boundaries
- The Dark Side of the Moon Tour: This era saw a significant leap in their visual presentation. The tour featured sophisticated lighting rigs and the iconic circular screen, which displayed innovative visuals synchronized with the music.
- The Wall Tour: Perhaps their most ambitious staging, “The Wall” featured a massive wall built on stage, complete with elaborate projections and theatrical elements. It was a landmark in rock stage design.
The 80s and Beyond: State-of-the-Art Shows
- A Momentary Lapse of Reason Tour: This tour saw the use of advanced lighting systems and stage designs, including large inflatables and elaborate set pieces that added a dramatic flair to the performances.
- The Division Bell Tour: Featuring one of the most sophisticated stage setups of its time, this tour included large metallic sculptures and a light show that was cutting-edge, enhancing the immersive experience of the concert.
Legacy in Live Performance
- Innovative and Immersive: Pink Floyd’s stage and lighting designs were not just about spectacle; they were integral to the storytelling of their music, creating immersive environments that captivated audiences.
- Influencing Future Generations: The band’s approach to live performance influenced countless artists and set a new standard for concert visuals, blending artistry and technology in unprecedented ways.
Conclusion: Pink Floyd’s live shows were a fusion of sound and vision, where stage and lighting design played a critical role in the overall experience. From their psychedelic beginnings to their technologically advanced later tours, they consistently pushed the boundaries of what a rock concert could be, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of live music performance.
Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we conclude our series by exploring the artwork and visual representation of Pink Floyd’s albums, an aspect that has always been integral to the band’s artistic expression.
Links
View the Full List of Upcoming Concerts
Visit Official Websites of Pink Floyd, David Gilmour, The Saucerful of Secrets and Roger Waters