Learn to Play “Money” by Pink Floyd

“Money” by Pink Floyd is a legendary track taken from their groundbreaking 1973 album The Dark Side of the Moon. Known for its unconventional 7/4 time signature, iconic bassline, and one of David Gilmour’s most expressive guitar solos, this song is a goldmine for guitarists looking to refine their lead and rhythm skills. In our note-for-note Money guitar lesson at LickLibrary.com, you’ll delve into every nuance of Gilmour’s playing, exploring the phrasing, tone, and techniques that made him one of the most respected guitarists in rock history.

This lesson breaks down all of the lead and rhythm guitar parts in meticulous detail. Whether you’re working to develop expressive soloing, improve your articulation, or understand how to navigate complex time signatures with confidence, our tutorial provides the perfect roadmap. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

David Gilmour – The Guitar Voice of Pink Floyd

David Gilmour is renowned for his melodic sensibility, slow-burn phrasing, and emotive playing. In Money, Gilmour combines blues influences with progressive rock stylings to create one of his most celebrated solos. His use of space, tone control, and expressive bends showcase not only technical ability but also deep musicality. For players looking to enhance their expressive capabilities, studying Gilmour is essential. His influence stretches far beyond Pink Floyd, inspiring guitarists in blues, rock, and even ambient genres.

Song Overview and Lesson Breakdown

“Money” begins with an unmistakable 7/4 riff that immediately sets it apart from most rock songs. Learning how to play this riff teaches players how to internalise irregular time signatures, strengthening rhythmic awareness and timing.

Once into the verses, the song transitions into a groove-based rhythm that swings with bluesy overtones. This section is ideal for developing solid rhythm guitar skills and learning how to sit tightly in a pocket.

The real jewel of the song, however, is the solo section. David Gilmour’s phrasing is expressive and full of texture. Our lesson walks you through every lick, highlighting the techniques that bring this solo to life.

Techniques Explored in This Lesson

String Bending

Gilmour’s use of string bending in Money is masterful. You’ll learn how to execute both full and micro bends to create vocal-like phrasing. This technique helps guitarists enhance their expressive control and pitch accuracy, which is key to sounding more musical.

Vibrato

A signature aspect of Gilmour’s tone is his expressive vibrato. You’ll study how he sustains and manipulates notes to make them sing. Learning proper vibrato builds sustain, emotional expression, and individuality in your playing.

Slides

Slides connect notes in a fluid, expressive way, and are used frequently in this song to enhance phrasing. Mastering slides gives your lead playing a more lyrical and connected feel.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

These classic legato techniques—hammer-ons and pull-offs—are integral to Gilmour’s melodic runs. They add fluidity and speed without sacrificing tone, making your solos smoother and more musical.

Double Stops

In Money, Gilmour makes tasteful use of double stops to add harmonic depth. Learning to use them effectively can expand your melodic vocabulary and add rich textures to your solos.

Bluesy Bends

A cornerstone of Gilmour’s style, bluesy bends inject soul and character into each phrase. This technique develops your emotional phrasing and fine motor control.

Unison Bends

The solo also features unison bends, a powerful way to add tension and drama to your lead playing. Practicing this helps you develop bending accuracy and coordination.

Why Learn “Money”?

• Improve Your Expression: Gilmour’s use of dynamics, space, and phrasing will teach you how to say more with fewer notes.
• Master Timing in Odd Meters: Playing in 7/4 builds rhythmic versatility and timing confidence.
• Build Soloing Vocabulary: From bends to double stops, you’ll gain tools that can be applied across styles.
• Refine Your Tone Control: Emulating Gilmour’s articulation helps you develop touch sensitivity and tonal awareness.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Slides
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Double Stops
• Bluesy Bends
• Unison Bends

This Money guitar lesson from LickLibrary is your ultimate guide to one of Pink Floyd’s most iconic songs. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock or simply want to elevate your phrasing and tone, this tutorial is a must-watch for any serious guitarist.