The Aftermath of Pink Floyd’s Split: Where Are They Now?

Following the split of this legendary band, Pink Floyd and Roger Waters embarked on unique journeys, each pursuing their individual creative paths. Despite their separation, both entities continued to perform live, albeit in different ways. This article explores what happened to Pink Floyd after their split and why we might not see Roger Waters perform live anymore, unpinning the common misconceptions and shedding light on their current activities.

Pink Floyd After Roger Waters’ Departure

Contrary to popular belief, Pink Floyd did not stop performing live immediately after Roger Waters left. The band embarked on substantial world tours for both their albums 'A Momentary Lapse of Reason' and 'The Division Bell,' expanding their repertoire and exploring new territories. These tours were marked by Gilmour, Mason, and Wright, who continued to carry the torch of Pink Floyd's legacy.

Gradually, Pink Floyd decided to stop touring as a full band, primarily due to the death of Rick Wright. During this period, David Gilmour, having grown as a solo artist, continued to tour under his own name. Frankly, the band’s tour success might have provided a sense of stability and comfort, allowing them to take a long-needed break. However, after Waters left, every former member embarked on their individual journeys, each pursuing their artistic and personal goals.

Roger Waters: From Solo Tours to Retirement

Roger Waters, on the other hand, embarked on a series of solo tours which garnered significant attention. After the Live 8 concert in 2005, he continued to perform, often selling out venues night after night. These tours were notably different from Pink Floyd's as Waters insisted on performing his solo material, which was quite distinct from the band's post-1970s style. In 2006, he even faced challenges, as acknowledged by his statement: “I’m competing with myself and losing.” This quote reflects the intense rivalry he experienced, recognizing that his bandmates were performing his music to sold-out stadiums.

Yet, Roger Waters resumed touring with success. He continued to give live performances, often selling out night after night. As he neared his 80s, both David Gilmour and Roger Waters collaborated on some tours, bringing back the camaraderie of old. Despite the age factor, Waters announced that his current tour would likely be his last. His health and stamina, as well as the physical demands of touring, have reached a point that a future tour may not be feasible.

Waters' passion for performing hasn't waned. As of the writing of this article, he was preparing for a tour in April 23, 2023. It's clear that Waters still loves performing. The concerts have been particularly enjoyable, and there have even been instances where former Pink Floyd members like Mason and Gilmour joined Waters on stage for select performances, adding a nostalgic touch to the shows.

Conclusion

The separation of Pink Floyd and Roger Waters has led to diverse artistic pursuits. While Pink Floyd continued to perform live, Roger Waters embraced a solo career, showcasing his individual artistic vision and legacy. Both paths have been marked by their unique challenges and creative triumphs, making their contributions to the music world even more remarkable.

So, why can't we see Roger Waters perform live anymore? It's more a matter of time and age rather than any desire to retire. He is actively pursuing his last tours, and the passion and dedication are evident in each performance. Whether it's with a solo show or with his iconic former bandmates, Waters remains a captivating and influential musician, ensuring his legacies continue to resonate with audiences around the world.