What Makes This Song Great? "Comfortably Numb" Pink Floyd

Summary by Krater

Rick Beato analyzes the musical composition and production of Pink Floyd's 'Comfortably Numb', examining the interplay between Roger Waters and David Gilmour, the chord progressions, and Michael Kamen's orchestral arrangements.

From the video

Answers: What makes Pink Floyd's Comfortably Numb a great song?

• Comfortably Numb
• Pink Floyd
• David Gilmour guitar solos
• Roger Waters basslines
• Michael Kamen orchestration
• Chord progressions in B minor
• High-string acoustic guitar

What it concludes

• Comfortably Numb features a unique blend of Roger Waters' dark verses in B minor and David Gilmour's anthemic chorus in D major.
• The song's distinct demo was originally an unfinished chord progression played by David Gilmour on a high-string guitar.
• Michael Kamen's orchestration, added without the band present, elevates the song's emotional impact.
• The rhythm section avoids upbeat kicks on the bassline to maintain a smooth, un-clunky feel.