Dick Parry, Who Played Saxophone on Pink Floyd Classics, Dies at 83

**Tributes Pour in for Saxophonist Dick Parry, Who Passed Away Aged 83**

Dick Parry, renowned for his saxophone contributions to Pink Floyd, has passed away at the age of 83. His death was confirmed by David Gilmour, the band’s esteemed guitarist, in a heartfelt announcement shared on the social media platform X. Gilmour described Parry as a “dear friend” and acknowledged the profound impact of his musicianship.

In a poignant message on Friday, 22 May, Gilmour wrote, “My dear friend Dick Parry died this morning.” He reminisced about their musical journey together, stating, “Since I was seventeen, I have played in bands with Dick on saxophone, including Pink Floyd.” The depth of their friendship was evident, as Gilmour continued to highlight Parry’s distinctive saxophone tone, which he described as an “unmistakable” sound that graced iconic tracks such as “Shine On You Crazy Diamond,” “Wish You Were Here,” and “Money.”

Parry’s saxophone solos were not just performances but integral elements that shaped the essence of Pink Floyd’s music. His work is immortalised in legendary albums including the groundbreaking *The Dark Side of the Moon* and the critically acclaimed *Wish You Were Here*. During his time with Pink Floyd from 1973 to 1977, Parry established himself as a cornerstone of their sound, contributing to songs that have remained timeless classics.

Interestingly, Parry’s connection with Pink Floyd was reignited in the 1990s. After a prolonged absence from the music scene, he received a Christmas card from Gilmour, sparking a rekindling of their professional relationship. Gilmour recounted how Parry had given up the saxophone for some time and was living a quiet life near Cambridge, seemingly retired from music. Nevertheless, Gilmour invited him for an audition, stating that Parry insisted he was actually playing better than ever before.

The reunion proved fruitful, and Parry’s exceptional talent was immediately apparent. Gilmour shared a fond memory from their audition when he and producer Bob Ezrin quickly dismissed any need for further evaluation. “He played about three phrases and we said, ‘Fine, he’s still got it,’” Gilmour recalled. Consequently, Parry joined Gilmour’s band for the recording of *The Division Bell* in 1994 as well as the subsequent tour, re-establishing his legacy within the Pink Floyd family.

In addition to his works with Pink Floyd, Parry enjoyed a diverse music career, collaborating with notable bands and artists including The Who, Rory Gallagher, and J.J. Jackson. His versatility as a musician was evident in his ability to seamlessly adapt to various musical styles, enriching different genres with his signature saxophone sound.

While the cause of his death has yet to be disclosed, news of Parry’s passing has garnered tributes from fans and fellow musicians alike. His contributions to the music industry have left an indelible mark, with many expressing their sorrow and remembering the influence that his saxophone playing had on the soundscapes of popular music.

Gilmour shared several photographs of himself and Parry, many capturing moments from live performances, including a nostalgic shot from a concert at the Victoria Cinema in Cambridge in 1963. These images not only highlight Parry’s talent but also the deep bond shared between the two musicians throughout their journey.

As the music world mourns the loss of Dick Parry, his legacy will continue to resonate through the enduring music of Pink Floyd and the countless artists he influenced throughout his storied career. His evocative saxophone melodies remain etched in the hearts of fans around the globe, forever reminiscent of the collaborative spirit that fostered musical innovation during his lifetime.