10 Fascinating Facts About David Gilmour
David Gilmour is a name that resonates with music lovers across generations. The legendary Pink Floyd guitarist shaped the sound of rock music like no other. With his soulful guitar solos and atmospheric compositions, he has left an everlasting mark on the music world.
But beyond the iconic soundscapes and cheering crowds, there is a man with fascinating stories that few except his closest ones know! In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the most interesting publicly known tidbits about David Gilmour.
1. He speaks fluent French and is conversational in Italian
David Gilmour isn’t just a guitar legend – he’s also a bit of a polyglot! He speaks fluent French and can hold conversations in Italian.
Gilmour learned French at College where he studied modern languages at A-level, but also frequently travelled to France where he honed his language skills.
Watch young David give an interview in French before the band’s show at Forum Musiques:
2. He helped Kate Bush to launch her career
Before Kate Bush became a household name, she had a major helping hand from Gilmour who discovered her talent when she was just a teenager after hearing her demo.
Gilmour helped finance her early recording sessions and introduced her to record labels, which eventually landed the popstar a deal with EMI Records. Her debut album ‘The Kick Inside’ and its leading single ‘Wuthering Heights’ made Kate Bush an international star.
3. He has released five solo studio albums
Although most know him for his work with Pink Floyd, David is also a successful solo artist with five solo studio albums to his name.
He released his self-titled debut album in 1978 and his most recent release is ‘Luck and Strange’ (2024). His last three albums ‘On an Island’, ‘Rattle That Lock’, and ‘Luck and Strange’ have all reached No.1 in several countries, including the UK charts.
4. Gilmour was friends with Syd Barrett before joining the band
David Gilmour and Syd Barrett’s connection predates Pink Floyd. The two were childhood friends who often not only jammed together but were busking in the streets, long before Gilmour joined the band.
When Syd‘s mental health deteriorated, it was David who stepped in as the band’s new lead guitarist, replacing his childhood friend.
5. David worked as a driver and assistant for a fashion designer
Before rock stardom, Gilmour had a brief but interesting stint in the fashion world. Namely, he worked as a driver and assistant for the fashion designer Ossie Clark.
The humble gig likely added new perspectives and layers to his world view, which is evident from his activism and fight for social justice, but more on this later!
6. Has has been married twice and has eight children
Gilmour has a big family! He married his first wife, Ginger, in 1975, and they had four children before divorcing. In 1994, he married journalist and novelist Polly Samson, with whom he has four more children. His family life is just as full as his musical career.
His youngest daughter, Romany Gilmour, provided vocals and played harp on his latest studio album. She is also touring the world with her father!
7. David has a pilot’s license and used to own a collection of historical aircraft
Aviation is hobby he shares with his Pink Floyd bandmate Nick Mason. In a bizarre turn of events, the rockstars became licensed pilots to overcome their fear of flying.
After becoming a licensed pilot, flying become one of Gilmour‘s greatest passions. He also owned a collection of historic aircraft before eventually selling them.
The song “Learning to Fly” is inspired by their feat of learning to fly airplanes.
8. Gilmour describes himself as a socialist and supports Labour
Much like his former bandmate Roger Waters, Gilmour hasn’t shied away from sharing his political beliefs.
He identifies as a socialist and has been a longtime supporter of the UK’s Labour Party. Over the years, he has donated millions to charity and often touches on topics of social justice and equality.
9. He made £50 as a male model at the Santa Pod Raceway
Before becoming a rock legend, he dabbled in modeling, earning £50 for a gig as a male model at the Santa Pod Raceway, a famous drag racing venue in England.
According to Gilmour, one modelling gig earned him more money than playing clubs 3 to 5 times a week! Luckily, he found a way to make his music career more profitable and blessed us with his guitar solos.
10. He is the Godfather of actress Naomi Watts
David Gilmour has an unexpected Hollywood connection – he’s the godfather of actress Naomi Watts. Her father, Peter Watts, was Pink Floyd’s former road manager, and Gilmour remained close to the family.
Final Thoughts
David Gilmour’s career is a testament to not only his creativity, but also resilience and passion. From busking in the streets with Syd Barrett, to his groundbreaking work with Pink Floyd, his philanthropy, and solo projects, he shows us that hard work and determination are the keys to not only success, but also to a healthy mind.
His legacy has inspired millions of fans and musicians around the world, and will continue to inspire millions more in the future.