David Gilmour - Happy 68th Birthday!

Looking across the Music Industry Ocean, I see many guitarists slated as pioneers, game-changers, shredders and inventors. However, none will ever compare to the tranquil, bewitching sounds of Legendary, Pink Floyd guitarist and solo extraordinaire, David Gilmour. And after reading his biography, I have gained an even greater respect for his talent as a musician and as a writer. Mr. Gilmour was born on March 6, 1946 in Cambridge, England, and studied at the Cambridgeshire College of Arts and technology. He joined Pink Floyd with his college comrade, Syd Barret, in 1967. Not only providing the band's distinct guitar sound but also alluring fans with his smooth, lulling vocal style. In addition to Pink Floyd, Mr. Gilmour kept himself busy pursuing other musical projects. For example, he charted in both Britain and the US with the release of his début solo album, "David Gilmour" in 1978. He released another solo album in 1984, charting on the UK's top 20. Consequently, throughout the 70s he wrote and recorded on many Pink Floyd albums including, "Dark Side of the Moon," third greatest-selling album of all time, The Wall, Momentary Lapse of Reason, and Animals among others. Then in 2004, Guitarist Magazine ran a poll for "Best Fender Guitar Player Ever." And, It's no surprise, that fans bestowed this magnificent honor to Gilmour. With his fluid, rapturous playing style and Gaiman-like voice, there is no one more deserving. By 2006, Gilmour's 60th birthday, he released his third solo album, "On An Island," which entered at number 1 on the UK charts. (If you haven't heard this album, pick up a copy. I guarantee it is entrancing.) Then in 1996, Pink Floyd got inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and inducted in the UK Hall of Fame in 2005. And in May of 2008, Mr. Gilmour received an 'Ivor' (an award honoring British song and music writers) award for his lifetime's achievements. For you, David Gilmour, I wish you the happiest of birthdays, and please continue making your guitar softly sing.