Sad news for classic rock fans today: Syd Barrett has passed away.
Syd Barrett, the troubled Pink Floyd co-founder who spent his last years in reclusive anonymity, has died, the band said Tuesday. He was 60.
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A spokeswoman for the band said Barrett died several days ago, but she did not disclose the cause of death. Barrett had suffered from diabetes for years.
Syd was a tortured, complicated individual who suffered from mental illness that was likely compounded by his heavy use of LSD. In his final years he became a virtual recluse. In spite of (or perhaps because of) his personal demons, Barrett helped to co-found one of the most unique and influential rock acts of the twentieth century. Pink Floyd has always been one of my favorite bands in rock history; their music holds a special place in my life. In the past, John and I have held “Pink Floyd parties” where we listen to the band’s entire repertoire from the mid-Sixties psychedelic era to the “A Momentary Lapse of Reason” era of beautiful moody ballads and beyond to “The Division Bell.”
Barrett’s efforts and his legacy will continue to be loved and appreciated by millions.
Posted on 07/12/2006 at 03:03 AM 
Shine on you crazy diamond…