11 Underrated Pink Floyd Songs: Songs You’ve Missed Out On

Hey music enthusiasts and fellow DJs! TBone here from Level Tunes. 🎶 As an unapologetic Pink Floyd fan and the beats master behind the decks, I’ve jammed to every note from this legendary band.

Over the years, I’ve noticed that while tracks like “Comfortably Numb” and “Another Brick in the Wall” always get the spotlight, there are so many gems that fly under the radar. I felt it’s high time these underrated masterpieces get the recognition they deserve.

So, for all my music lovers and fellow DJs out there, I’ve compiled a list of 11 Pink Floyd tracks that deserve way more love. Dive in and let’s explore the deep cuts!

Here are the underrated Pink Floyd songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Pink Floyd Songs

Underrated Pink Floyd songs in a list format:

1. “Astronomy Domine”

Album: The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (1967) Record Label: EMI/Columbia Author: Syd Barrett

This psychedelic marvel, penned by Syd Barrett, is the opening track of Pink Floyd’s debut album. With its spacey vibes, celestial lyrics, and otherworldly instrumentation, it sets the stage for the band’s future sonic adventures. While Pink Floyd’s later work may have overshadowed it, “Astronomy Domine” showcases the raw, experimental genius of their early days. It’s a testament to Barrett’s unique songwriting capabilities.

2. “Fearless”

Album: Meddle (1971) Record Label: Harvest Author: Roger Waters & David Gilmour

This track is a beautiful fusion of Gilmour’s melodic prowess and Waters’ lyrical depth. Nestled within ‘Meddle’, “Fearless” takes you on a gentle, acoustic journey. The ascending guitar pattern and the hauntingly beautiful fade-out with the “You’ll Never Walk Alone” chant make it an unforgettable experience. It’s a song of courage, persistence, and facing adversity head-on.

3. “Wot’s… Uh the Deal?”

Album: Obscured by Clouds (1972) Record Label: Harvest Author: Roger Waters & David Gilmour

An often overlooked gem, this track is a melancholic reflection of past memories and missed opportunities. With soft acoustic layers and Gilmour’s comforting vocals, it’s an introspective journey into nostalgia. The lyrics are haunting, yet the music has a touch of sweetness, making it a bittersweet experience.

4. “Pigs (Three Different Ones)”

Album: Animals (1977) Record Label: Harvest Author: Roger Waters

From the politically charged ‘Animals’ album, this track takes a searing look at societal figures with biting commentary. While not as popular as other tracks, its brilliance lies in the intricate instrumentals and sharp lyrics. Richard Wright’s use of the synthesizer gives it a unique touch.

5. “Stay”

Album: Obscured by Clouds (1972) Record Label: Harvest Author: Richard Wright & Roger Waters

A soft rock ballad with a twist. Richard Wright’s piano work coupled with Waters’ poignant lyrics captures a moment of fleeting romance. It’s a beautiful interlude on the album, showcasing Wright’s often overlooked songwriting prowess.

6. “San Tropez”

Album: Meddle (1971) Record Label: Harvest Author: Roger Waters

This jaunty, jazzy tune is a departure from typical Pink Floyd soundscapes. It’s light, airy, and whimsical – capturing a daydream of a lazy afternoon in the French Riviera. It’s like a breath of fresh air amidst Pink Floyd’s more intense pieces.

7. “The Nile Song”

Album: More (1969) Record Label: EMI/Columbia Author: Roger Waters

One of the heavier tracks by Pink Floyd, it has a raw, grungy feel. If you love rock with a punch, this song, driven by Gilmour’s powerful vocals and hard guitar riffs, is a must-listen. A departure from their usual style, yet utterly compelling.

8. “Cymbaline”

Album: More (1969) Record Label: EMI/Columbia Author: Roger Waters

A moody, atmospheric track that oozes with Waters’ storytelling. The dreamy sequence in the middle, the footstep sounds, and the eerie backdrop make it an immersive experience. It’s a journey into the subconscious, filled with mystery and intrigue.

9. “Fat Old Sun”

Album: Atom Heart Mother (1970) Record Label: Harvest Author: David Gilmour

A gentle, pastoral song that resonates with the warmth of a summer’s day. Gilmour’s vocals are comforting, and his guitar solo towards the end is pure magic. It’s a song that evokes feelings of nostalgia and longing.

10. “Childhood’s End”

Album: Obscured by Clouds (1972) Record Label: Harvest Author: David Gilmour

Drawing inspiration from Arthur C. Clarke’s novel, this track dives deep into themes of lost innocence and the passage of time. Gilmour’s haunting vocals coupled with the instrumentals create a somber mood, making it a reflective piece.

11. “Biding My Time”

Album: Relics (1971) Record Label: EMI/Columbia Author: Roger Waters

Originally from the unreleased “Picnic” suite, this bluesy number showcases a jazzier side of Pink Floyd. With its trombone solos and laid-back vibe, it’s a track that allows each band member to shine, especially Mason with his drumming.

Fun Facts: Underrated Pink Floyd Songs

1. “Astronomy Domine”

• The live performances of this song featured a light show to simulate the feeling of being in space. Think of it as an early version of today’s concert visual effects!
• When Pink Floyd appeared on the BBC’s “Look of the Week” in 1967, Syd Barrett played “Astronomy Domine” live, and it was one of the band’s earliest TV appearances.

2. “Fearless”

• The song ends with the sound of a crowd singing “You’ll Never Walk Alone”, which is a hit song from the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical “Carousel” but is also famously associated with the Liverpool Football Club.

3. “Wot’s… Uh the Deal?”

• The song was featured in the documentary film “La Vallée”, which was also the original title for the “Obscured by Clouds” album.
• It was played live for the first time in 2011 during David Gilmour’s solo tour, decades after its original release.

4. “Pigs (Three Different Ones)”

• Roger Waters has often remarked that the song was an attack on people he felt were “in power” at the time.
• The floating pig became an iconic visual for Pink Floyd. In 1976, during a photoshoot for the “Animals” album, an inflatable pig broke free and caused a bit of chaos when it landed in a farm in Kent!

5. “Stay”

• It’s one of the few Pink Floyd songs that features Richard Wright as the primary vocalist. His soft and soulful voice adds a unique character to this melancholic ballad.
• The song’s tone contrasts with the majority of the album, offering a moment of poignant introspection amidst the cinematic landscape.

6. “San Tropez”

• It’s named after the famous seaside town on the French Riviera. The song captures the laid-back, leisurely vibe of the Mediterranean coast.
• This is one of the very few Pink Floyd songs to have a somewhat “traditional” pop structure, making it unique in their catalog.

8. “Cymbaline”

• The “frightened you’ll slip away and fall” part, particularly in live performances, often included a sound effect sequence to give the feeling of someone walking, then running, and eventually slamming a door.
• It’s one of the songs that Pink Floyd performed for the “More” film soundtrack but has gained a following outside of its cinematic context.

9. “Fat Old Sun”

• David Gilmour once mentioned in an interview that “Fat Old Sun” was his favorite track from the “Atom Heart Mother” album.
• Gilmour performed an extended, revamped version during his solo tours, showcasing his ability to breathe new life into older songs.

11. “Biding My Time”

• It’s one of the rare instances where Pink Floyd showcased a traditional jazz style, complete with a trombone solo. Quite a departure from their usual psychedelic and progressive sound!
• The song was part of an unreleased suite titled “The Man and The Journey”, performed during their 1969 concerts.

And there you have it, fellow music lovers! Delving into Pink Floyd’s lesser-known tracks is like unearthing hidden treasures. Remember, there’s a world of wonder beyond the hits. Dive in, explore, and let the music take you on a journey. Till next time, rock on!

Thanks for reading.

TBone