How “Learning To Fly” Became The First Pink Floyd Song Without Roger Waters

March 20, 2025

In the late 1980s, the world of rock music was buzzing with change. Pink Floyd, one of the most iconic bands in history, was at the heart of it all. Yet, internally, the group was struggling. Roger Waters, the band’s principal songwriter and creative force, had left the band in 1985, which sent shockwaves through the music community. Many wondered if Pink Floyd could survive without him. It was a tough time for the remaining members, especially David Gilmour, who was trying to put together a new album while grappling with the emotional fallout of losing a key bandmate.

Despite the turmoil, Gilmour’s passion for music remained unwavering. He found himself in a reflective mood, wandering through memories of their past hits. But instead of wallowing in sadness, he picked up his guitar and began experimenting with new sounds and ideas. One day, as he strummed away, a melody emerged that felt both fresh and familiar, capturing the free spirit of Pink Floyd. This sound would become the backbone of the song “Learning to Fly.” It encapsulated the essence of moving forward, soaring above challenges, and embracing new beginnings.

The lyrics began to take shape, inspired by Gilmour’s own life experiences and his desire for freedom. He wrote about the struggles everyone faces, but his words were laced with hope and resilience. It was a personal journey that resonated not just with him but with countless people who felt trapped by their circumstances. The more he worked on the song, the more he realized it was not just a new chapter for Pink Floyd; it was a statement of rebirth. It was about learning to fly, despite the weight of the world pushing you down.

When “Learning to Fly” was finally released in 1987, it was met with open arms by fans around the globe. The song climbed the charts, becoming a symbol of resilience and hope in the face of adversity. For Gilmour and the band, it was a monumental moment. They had embraced the challenge of moving on without Waters, and instead of crumbling under the pressure, they had found their own voice. The song showcased Gilmour’s incredible guitar work and heartfelt vocals, proving that Pink Floyd still had much to offer.

The success of “Learning to Fly” breathed new life into the band. It allowed them to explore new creative avenues and to tour again, reconnecting with their dedicated fan base. Gilmour, who had once doubted if he could lead the band through such a transformative period, now stood proud, knowing he had not only composed a hit song but had also reignited the flame of creativity within Pink Floyd. It was a testament to the power of resilience, highlighting that even when faced with uncertainty, passion and determination could lead to beautiful new beginnings.

As the years went on, “Learning to Fly” became a classic, reminding fans that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. It illustrated that sometimes, the most profound growth happens after hardship, and that music could serve as a bridge from the past to a hopeful future. David Gilmour had transformed a difficult moment into an anthem of empowerment, inspiring countless individuals to rise above their challenges and take flight. In that melody, they found not just a song, but a message: no matter how heavy the weight, we can always learn to fly.