Dick Parry, the saxophonist whose unmistakable tone shaped Pink Floyd classics including “Money” and “Shine On You Crazy Diamond,” has died at 83.
A longtime friend of David Gilmour, Parry performed on “Shine On You Crazy Diamond,” “Wish You Were Here,” (Album) “Us and Them,” and “Money,” and frequently joined Pink Floyd on tour. His death was announced by Gilmour on social media; no cause was given.
“My dear friend Dick Parry died this morning. Since I was seventeen, I have played in bands with Dick on saxophone, including Pink Floyd,” Gilmour wrote. “His feel and tone make his saxophone playing unmistakable… a signature of enormous beauty known to millions.”
Parry was a fixture of Pink Floyd’s mid‑Seventies concerts and later reunited with the Gilmour‑led lineup for 1994’s The Division Bell, contributing to “Wearing the Inside Out.” He also joined the band on the accompanying tour, captured on the live album Pulse. Gilmour noted that Parry also played with him and Rick Wright on the On an Island tour and appeared with Pink Floyd at Live 8.
Beyond Pink Floyd, Parry recorded with artists including John Entwistle, Rory Gallagher, and Lightnin’ Slim, leaving a wide musical legacy.
Our thoughts go out to his family & friends.