Pink Floyd

Breathe (In the Air)

The Dark Side of the Moon (1973)

"Breathe (In the Air)" is the second track on Pink Floyd’s landmark 1973 album, The Dark Side of the Moon. Written by Roger Waters (lyrics), with music by David Gilmour and Richard Wright, the song is celebrated for its lush, atmospheric sound and philosophical lyrics that reflect on life, choice, and existential awareness12.

Composition and Style

• Musical Features:
  • Slow tempo, rich textures, and a dreamy, psychedelic feel.
  • Gilmour’s electric guitar employs a Uni-Vibe and lap steel with a volume pedal, creating a signature, floating sound.
  • The chord progression alternates between E minor(add9) and A major, with a distinctive turnaround using jazz-influenced chords.
  • Notable for its seamless transition from the album’s opening track, "Speak to Me," and for its reprise after "Time."
• Personnel:
  • David Gilmour – vocals, guitars
  • Roger Waters – bass
  • Richard Wright – Hammond organ, Rhodes piano
  • Nick Mason – drums, percussion

Lyrics and Meaning

The lyrics encourage the listener to embrace life, make conscious choices, and be aware of the fleeting nature of existence. Key lines include:

Breathe, breathe in the air
Don’t be afraid to care
Leave, but don’t leave me
Look around, choose your own ground

Long you live and high you fly
And smiles you’ll give and tears you’ll cry
And all you touch and all you see
Is all your life will ever be2.

The song’s message is often interpreted as an invitation to pause, reflect, and avoid getting trapped in the pursuit of meaningless goals12.

Album Context

• Release Date: March 1, 1973
• Album: The Dark Side of the Moon
• Produced by: Pink Floyd
• Recorded at: Abbey Road Studios, London (June 1972 – January 1973)

Legacy and Live Performances

• "Breathe (In the Air)" is a staple of Pink Floyd’s live shows, performed hundreds of times by the band and its members. Notable live versions appear on Pulse, Live at Pompeii, and The Dark Side of the Moon Live at Wembley 1974.
• The track is widely regarded as an essential piece of progressive rock history, contributing to the enduring legacy of The Dark Side of the Moon.

Notable Facts

• The song’s chord progression borrows from jazz, with Richard Wright admitting to lifting a chord from Miles Davis’ "All Blues".
• "Breathe" is often paired with "Speak to Me" and "Time" in both album and live settings.
• Roger Waters released a reimagined version for his 2023 album, The Dark Side of the Moon Redux.

Table: Key Details

"Breathe (In the Air)" stands as a timeless reflection on life’s choices and the beauty of being present, both musically and lyrically12.