Syd Barrett: Crazy Diamond: The Dawn of Pink Floyd

by Mike Watkinson and Pete Anderson

Book Overview

This is the first biography of Syd Barrett, the legendary founder of Pink Floyd, who left the band in mysterious circumstances after the first album. Amid stories of his acid-induced madness he made two solo albums and then retired from music in 1970. This book aims to clear up the mystery.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0711988358
• ISBN13: 9780711988354
• Release Date: October 2001
• Publisher: Omnibus Press
• Length: 168 Pages
• Weight: 0.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.1" x 7.9"

Customer Reviews

yahh

worth the read, especially if you're a pink floyd/ Syd Barrett fan and you want to know the truth instead of w/e crap is spread around online

Shine on

Even though I am just starting to listen to the music of Pink Floyd, that does not mean I am not interested in reading about their work and its creators. Before Roger Waters and David Gilmore became celebrated members of Pink Floyd, there was Syd Barrett--the creative genius who was one of the band's founders. This short, yet concise biography paints a picture of Syd during both his early years and part of his reclusive era. Syd Barrett (born Roger Keith Barrett) was a painter, songwriter, and musician. He was admired by many for his creative genius and good looks. In 1968, Syd left Pink Floyd and embarked upon his solo projects. Many would say that he became burnt out from all the fame and pressure from his musical career. In the early 70's Syd became a recluse and started to express himself more through his paintings. His appearance changed over the next few years as many of his fans (and former bandmates) did not recognize him. It did not take long for a lot of people to notice that Syd had completely changed; he seemed to want to hide from the rest of the world. The book also includes quoted interviews from those who worked with Syd and knew him on a personal basis; interviews are always a bonus! "Syd Barrett: Crazy Diamond" gives an inside view of the life and times of one of Pink Floyd's most gifted musicians.

newer edition on the way

To reflect the recent passing of "Syd" the book will be re-released (other details available through Omnibus Press).

Great book !!!

Sadly enough I finished this book only 2 weeks before Syd died and found it to be very informative and easy to read. Syd's story is by most standards a sad one, but for all we know he lived his life in the way he wanted it lived. R.I.P Syd.

Syd Barrett, RIP (this is a great book)

Syd Barrett will be greatly missed. His whimsical songwriting style was unique and greatly influenced many famous musicians like David Bowie. This book is an essential purchase for those wishing to know about a genuis.