Pink Floyd started in London in 1965 as a rock band known for their unique sound and deep lyrics. Members Syd Barrett, Roger Waters, Richard Wright, Nick Mason, and David Gilmour created music that stood out. Their sound shaped what rock music would become in later years.
Their album The Dark Side of the Moon became one of music’s top sellers worldwide. The Wall told a story about feeling alone and cut off from others. The band won many awards, including spots in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and multiple Grammys.
About the Song
“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd talks about missing people, with their old bandmate Syd Barrett in mind.
The words speak about feeling alone and the ups and downs of human bonds. The song’s soft tune and clear words have made it last through time as a song about missing loved ones.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Album | Discovery |
| Release Date | September 12, 1975 |
| Writers | Roger Waters, David Gilmour |
| Producers | Pink Floyd |
Wish You Were Here Lyrics by Pink Floyd
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”
[Instrumental Break]
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?
[Instrumental Break]
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
Live Performances of Wish You Were Here
1. Live from Earls Court, London, UK (20 October 1994)
2. Wish You Were Here Live At Pompeii (7 & 8 July 2016)
3. Wish You Were Here Recorded at Live 8 (2018 animals remix)
4. Wish You Were Here Live At Knebworth 1990
Similar Songs Like Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd
Here are some songs by Pink Floyd that share similar themes, musical elements, and emotional tones with “Wish You Were Here“:
- “Comfortably Numb” A thoughtful song that moves between soft guitar parts and strong solos, similar to “Wish You Were Here.”
- “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” (Parts I–IX) A long musical piece for Syd Barrett, sharing the same warm memories as “Wish You Were Here.”
- “Time” Though it has more complex beats, this song looks at loss and missing others, with melodies that match the feeling of “Wish You Were Here.”
- “Echoes” A long, quiet piece that grows into bigger sounds, showing the same deep thinking as “Wish You Were Here.”
- “Hey You” A soft but sad song about being alone and wanting connection, with quiet guitar work and deep feelings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Story Behind “Wish You Were Here”?
“Wish You Were Here” shows Pink Floyd’s feelings of loss, especially about former member Syd Barrett’s health struggles and drug use.
What is The Meaning of ‘Two Lost Souls Swimming In A Fishbowl’?
This phrase shows people feeling stuck in their situations, living the same days without real connections or moving forward.
Why did David Gilmour Create “Wish You Were Here”?
David Gilmour helped write “Wish You Were Here” as a musical note to Syd Barrett, showing how much the band missed their old friend’s input.
Is “Wish You Were Here” a Sad Song?
Yes, “Wish You Were Here” is a sad song, talks about old times, missing people, and the pain of being far from those who matter.
