About the song
Pink Floyd‘s “Comfortably Numb” is a standout track from their 1979 album, The Wall. Renowned for its haunting melody and profound lyrics, the song explores themes of isolation and numbness.
Featuring contrasting vocals by David Gilmour and Roger Waters, the song juxtaposes Gilmour’s melodic verses with Waters’ detached chorus. This contrast highlights the emotional disconnection depicted in the lyrics, often interpreted as a commentary on mental illness and the pressures of fame.
Musically, “Comfortably Numb” is celebrated for its two iconic guitar solos by Gilmour, praised for their emotional depth and technical mastery. The song’s rich arrangement, including sweeping strings and atmospheric instrumentation, creates an immersive experience.
“Comfortably Numb” remains a timeless classic, admired for its emotional impact and musical brilliance, solidifying Pink Floyd’s legacy as pioneers of rock music.
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Lyric
[Verse 1: Roger Waters]
Hello? (Hello, hello, hello)
Is there anybody in there?
Just nod if you can hear me
Is there anyone home?
Come on (Come on, come on), now
I hear you’re feeling down
Well, I can ease your pain
And get you on your feet again
Relax (Relax, relax, relax)
I’ll need some information first
Just the basic facts
Can you show me where it hurts?
[Pre-Chorus 1: David Gilmour]
There is no pain, you are receding
A distant ship, smoke on the horizon
You are only coming through in waves
Your lips move, but I can’t hear what you’re saying
When I was a child, I had a fever
My hands felt just like two balloons
Now I’ve got that feeling once again
I can’t explain, you would not understand
This is not how I am
I have become comfortably numb
[Guitar Solo 1]
[Chorus: David Gilmour]
I have become comfortably numb
[Verse 2: Roger Waters]
Okay (Okay, okay, okay)
Just a little pinprick
There’ll be no more
But you may feel a little sick
Can you stand up? (Stand up, stand up)
I do believe it’s working, good
That’ll keep you going through the show
Come on, it’s time to go
[Pre-Chorus 2: David Gilmour]
There is no pain, you are receding
A distant ship, smoke on the horizon
You are only coming through in waves
Your lips move, but I can’t hear what you’re saying
When I was a child, I caught a fleeting glimpse
Out of the corner of my eye
I turned to look, but it was gone
I cannot put my finger on it now
The child is grown, the dream is gone
I have become comfortably numb
[Guitar Solo 2]