David Gilmour, Pink Floyd's long-term guitarist, nearly missed out on reuniting the legendary band, as their call from Los Angeles was to his regular bassist from the past four decades.
Guy Pratt's Unlikely Journey with David Gilmour
Guy Pratt's career with Pink Floyd's lead guitarist, David Gilmour, began on an awkward note, almost not happening at all. A chance encounter in Birmingham, filled with silence and tension, almost cost Pratt the opportunity to work with one of the most iconic bands in rock history.
The initial meeting between the two musicians was unproductive, with both standing in silence until one had to leave. Despite this inauspicious start, Gilmour remained determined to recruit Pratt as his bassist. It wasn't until Gilmour contacted Pratt while he was on holiday in Thailand, inviting him to work on a Pink Floyd album, that the ball began to roll.
However, Pratt initially missed the opportunity due to being replaced by someone else. This missed chance, which Pratt refers to as "my one shot," almost made Gilmour give up on him. But Gilmour's persistence paid off, and when Pink Floyd regrouped for a new album and tour, Gilmour personally called Pratt to confirm his availability. This marked the start of their long collaboration.
Their relationship developed a playful dynamic, with Gilmour often teasing Pratt. Pratt's solid musicianship and good rapport with Gilmour helped cement his place in the band’s evolving lineup after Roger Waters' departure. Pratt's role began with Gilmour's post-Roger Waters era in Pink Floyd, particularly starting with A Momentary Lapse of Reason in 1987.
In Gilmour's music, the length of the notes rather than the number of notes played is often more important. Rehearsing with Gilmour, Pratt finds it interesting what Gilmour remembers from bass parts. This attention to detail and shared musical understanding has been a hallmark of their connection over nearly four decades.
Over the years, Pratt has worked with a variety of notable artists, including Roxy Music, Bryan Ferry, Gary Moore, Michael Jackson, Debbie Harry, and David Gilmour. More recently, Pratt discussed working on hits such as Madonna's Like a Prayer and Michael Jackson's Earth Song with Bass Player magazine.
Pratt's career spanning over four decades as a bassist is a testament to his talent and resilience. Despite the awkward first meeting, he and Gilmour have forged a lasting professional relationship that has shaped some of the most iconic music of our time.
[1] Guy Pratt on David Gilmour: "He's a bit of a nutter"
[2] Guy Pratt: David Gilmour is a 'genius'
[3] Guy Pratt on David Gilmour: "He's a bit of a nutter"
[4] Guy Pratt on Pink Floyd, David Gilmour, and Roger Waters
[5] Guy Pratt on Pink Floyd's 'The Division Bell'
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