David Gilmour is the guitarist and co-lead vocalist whose soaring, melodic solos defined the sound of Pink Floyd for nearly six decades. Born in Cambridge in 1946, he joined the band in 1968, just as its original frontman Syd Barrett departed. Gilmour went on to become the creative anchor of one of the best‑selling rock acts in history, while also building a respected solo career.
As of 2026, he is 79 years old, remains active in the studio and on stage, and continues to draw attention from fans curious about his net worth, family life, and touring plans. Here are the verified facts about his biography, career, personal affairs, and current activities based on official sources and public records.
Who Is David Gilmour? Biography and Early Life
Lead guitarist and vocalist of Pink Floyd; known for melodic solos and ambient style.
Approximately $180 million (2025), from music sales, tours, and real estate.
Married to author Polly Samson; four children; resides in England and Sussex.
The Luck and Strange Tour (2024‑2025) – dates in Europe, UK, and USA.
- David Gilmour joined Pink Floyd in 1967 and became the driving force behind the band’s most iconic albums, including The Dark Side of the Moon.
- His solo career (e.g., On an Island, Rattle That Lock, Luck and Strange) has been critically acclaimed and commercially successful.
- Gilmour’s net worth is estimated at $180 million, derived from Pink Floyd royalties, solo sales, and property investments.
- He remains active in touring and recording, with recent performances at the Circus Maximus and a 2025 tour extension.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David Jon Gilmour |
| Birth Date | 6 March 1946 (age 79) |
| Birthplace | Cambridge, England |
| Occupation | Musician, singer, songwriter, record producer |
| Instruments | Guitar, vocals, bass, keyboards |
| Years Active | 1963–present |
| Spouse | Polly Samson (m. 1994) |
| Children | 4 (including singer Romany Gilmour) |
| Net Worth (est.) | $180 million (2025) |
| Latest Album | Luck and Strange (2024) |
David Gilmour’s Career: Pink Floyd and Solo Work
What is David Gilmour’s role in Pink Floyd?
Gilmour served as the lead guitarist and co‑lead vocalist of Pink Floyd from 1968 onward. He assumed creative control after Roger Waters left in 1985 and led the band through albums such as A Momentary Lapse of Reason and The Division Bell. His guitar work on tracks like “Comfortably Numb” and “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” is widely regarded as some of the finest in rock.
When did David Gilmour join Pink Floyd?
He joined in early 1968, initially as a second guitarist to augment the live lineup of Syd Barrett. When Barrett’s deteriorating mental health made it impossible for him to continue, Gilmour took over lead guitar and vocal duties. The transition was seamless, and the band quickly resumed recording.
What are David Gilmour’s best songs?
Among his most celebrated contributions are the solos on “Comfortably Numb,” “Time,” “Money,” and the epic “Shine On You Crazy Diamond.” His 2015 solo single “Rattle That Lock” also received widespread acclaim. The album The Dark Side of the Moon remains the third best‑selling album of all time.
In 2015, Rolling Stone ranked David Gilmour 14th on its list of the “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time.”
What guitar does David Gilmour play?
He is synonymous with the Fender Stratocaster, particularly a black 1969 model that he used on countless Pink Floyd recordings. In June 2019, that very instrument sold at auction for $3.975 million, at the time the highest price ever paid for a guitar. The proceeds were donated to the environmental charity Client Earth.
When did David Gilmour start his solo career?
His first solo album, simply titled David Gilmour, was released in 1978. He followed with About Face (1984), On an Island (2006), Rattle That Lock (2015), and Luck and Strange (2024). Three of these reached number one on the UK Albums Chart. He also produced two albums for The Dream Academy and funded early recordings by Kate Bush, helping launch her career.
David Gilmour’s Personal Life: Wife, Children, and Net Worth
Who is David Gilmour’s wife?
Gilmour has been married to journalist and novelist Polly Samson since July 29, 1994. Samson contributed lyrics to Pink Floyd’s The Division Bell. Prior to that, he was married to Ginger Gilmour from 1975 until their divorce in 1990.
Does David Gilmour have children?
He has seven children in total. With Polly Samson he has three: Romany, Gabe, and Sara. With his first wife, Ginger, he has four: Charlie, Joe, Matthew, and Romany (the name appears twice across the two families). Romany Gilmour has also pursued a career in music.
What is David Gilmour’s net worth?
Estimates place his net worth between $150 million and $200 million. The figure is derived from decades of Pink Floyd album sales, solo tours, publishing royalties, and high‑value property holdings. In 2019 alone, he sold a guitar collection for $21.5 million, including the $3.975 million Stratocaster.
The exact figure is not publicly disclosed. All estimates come from financial analysts and public auction records; Gilmour himself has never confirmed a specific amount.
Does David Gilmour have an illness?
There is no official confirmation of any serious health condition. In 2006, at age 60, he said he “didn’t have the will to work as much any more,” but that was a statement about touring priorities rather than a health diagnosis. He remains active, having released a new album in 2024 and performed live in 2024–2025.
Is David Gilmour Touring? 2025 Tour Dates and Latest News
As of early 2026, Gilmour is on his Luck and Strange tour, which began in 2024 and has extended into 2025 with dates in Europe, the UK, and the United States. Official information is available on his official website.
Regarding Pink Floyd, Gilmour stated in 2006 that the band would “likely never tour or write material again,” and he has repeatedly said the group is “over” for him. No Pink Floyd reunion tour has been announced for 2025 or 2026.
Future tours beyond the current Luck and Strange run have not been confirmed. Rumors of a “final tour” remain unsubstantiated.
David Gilmour Timeline: Key Career Events
- – Born in Cambridge, England.
- – Joins Pink Floyd as lead guitarist and vocalist.
- – Release of The Dark Side of the Moon, breakthrough success.
- – The Wall released; Gilmour plays a leading role during live shows.
- – Roger Waters leaves Pink Floyd; Gilmour becomes de facto leader.
- – Release of The Division Bell and Pulse tour; marries Polly Samson.
- – Solo album On an Island released; widespread tour.
- – Rattle That Lock solo album and tour.
- – Release of Luck and Strange; begins new tour.
- – Continues The Luck and Strange Tour with performances in Europe and the US.
What Is Known and What Remains Unclear About David Gilmour
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| David Gilmour is alive and actively performing as of early 2025. | Net worth figures are estimates; exact amount not disclosed. |
| He is married to Polly Samson since 1994. | Health: no confirmed serious illness; some reports of back problems but no official statement. |
| He has four children (seven total including those from previous marriage). | Future tours beyond 2025 have not been announced; rumors of final tour unconfirmed. |
| He was the lead guitarist and vocalist for Pink Floyd from 1967 onward. |
David Gilmour’s Legacy in Rock Music
Gilmour is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists in rock history, known for his lyrical, bending solos and atmospheric playing. His work on Pink Floyd albums like Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here, and The Wall cemented his legacy. His solo work continues to explore similar themes of nostalgia, loss, and beauty.
While Gilmour and Roger Waters had a creative split, Gilmour’s leadership post‑1985 steered Pink Floyd toward a more melodic, less conceptual direction. Fan opinions vary, but Gilmour’s approach kept the band commercially viable.
His guitar style influenced generations of musicians, and his songs remain staples of classic rock radio. His political activism and charity work – including support for Palestine and homelessness organisations – add to his public persona.
Sources and Quotes About David Gilmour
“Since I was seventeen, I have played in bands with Dick on saxophone, including Pink Floyd. His feel and tone make his saxophone playing unmistakable.”
David Gilmour’s official website (davidgilmour.com)
“David Jon Gilmour is an English musician, singer, and songwriter best known for being the lead guitarist of the English rock band Pink Floyd.”
Wikipedia citation
Additional reliable sources include his official website, Wikipedia, Instagram, YouTube channel, and Spotify artist page.
What’s Next for David Gilmour?
Fans can check official dates for the remainder of the Luck and Strange Tour in 2025, monitor for potential new album announcements or solo projects, and look for upcoming interviews or documentaries about Pink Floyd history. For the most current updates, refer to his official website.
Frequently Asked Questions About David Gilmour
Where was David Gilmour born?
David Gilmour was born in Cambridge, England.
How old is David Gilmour?
He was born on March 6, 1946, making him 79 years old as of 2025.
What guitar does David Gilmour play?
He is famously associated with the Fender Stratocaster, especially a black 1969 model used on many recordings.
Is David Gilmour still alive?
Yes, David Gilmour is alive and actively performing as of early 2025.
Does David Gilmour have health issues?
No serious health issues have been publicly confirmed. There have been rumors of back problems, but he continues touring normally.
Olivia Hartley is Business & Economy Correspondent at DailyCity.co.uk, reporting on the city economy, property, retail, hospitality and employment.