Time

Pink Floyd

From the album

Crazy Diamonds (1990)

Written by

Roger Waters, David Gilmour, Richard Wright +1

Key:F# minor
Duration:6:48

Listen to the Song

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Summary

As a centerpiece of 'The Dark Side of the Moon,' this track defines progressive rock with its experimental clock-laden intro and existential lyrics. It remains one of Pink Floyd's most enduring works, showcasing the collective songwriting of all four band members.

Progressive RockPsychedelic RockClassic RockConcept AlbumExistentialism

Musical Analysis

The harmonic structure of 'Time' is a masterclass in using contrast to mirror lyrical themes. The verse is built on a heavy, plodding i - III - VII - i progression in F# minor, creating a sense of dread and the relentless march of time. This stark atmosphere i…

Structure:Intro-Verse-Chorus-Bridge-Verse-Chorus-Outro

Chords

intro:Em
verse:Em - C - G - D
chorus:C - G - D - Em

History

The lyrics were primarily written by Roger Waters, reflecting his own anxieties about getting older and feeling unprepared for life. David Gilmour composed the music.

β€œThe opening clock sounds were assembled by Alan Parsons from a collection of clocks he had recorded for various purposes.”

πŸ“ Lyrics

melancholic Β· existential Β· urgent

Theme

Existential mortality and the passage of time

Surface

The song describes a person spending their youth idling and waiting for something significant to happen, only to suddenly realize they have grown old and missed their prime.

Deeper meaning

Roger Waters uses the lyrics to critique the human tendency toward procrastination and the assumption that life has a 'starting gun.' It explores the psychological shock of realizing that life is not a rehearsal, and that the mundane routine of daily existence is, in fact, the sum of one's life. It addresses the tragedy of wasted potential and the terrifying speed of aging as one nears the end.

Symbols

The SunClocks and AlarmsThe Starting Gun

Full Musical Analysis

The song features a relatively simple harmonic structure, primarily revolving around basic chords. The use of suspensions and inversions adds to the song's emotional depth.

The song shifts from a slow, contemplative intro to a more driving rock feel. The drum pattern is relatively straightforward but effectively propels the song forward.

The melody is relatively simple and memorable, primarily driven by David Gilmour's vocals and guitar solos. The chorus is particularly anthemic.

The lyrics were primarily written by Roger Waters, reflecting his own anxieties about getting older and feeling unprepared for life. David Gilmour composed the music.

As a centerpiece of 'The Dark Side of the Moon,' this track defines progressive rock with its experimental clock-laden intro and existential lyrics. It remains one of Pink Floyd's most enduring works, showcasing the collective songwriting of all four band members.

Song DNA

Genre

Progressive Rock

Era

70s

Mood

Existential

Tempo

Mid-tempo

Key

Minor

Texture

Layered

Sound

Guitar-driven

Feel

Groovy

Explore More

Listen & Learn

Statistics

16.7M

Plays

1.7M

Listeners

100%

Popularity

6:48

Duration

4/4

Time

Credits

Written by

Roger WatersDavid GilmourRichard WrightNick Mason

Produced by

Pink Floyd

From the album The Dark Side of the Moon

Chord Sheet

Song Structure

Verse-Chorus-Verse-Chorus-Guitar Solo-Verse-Chorus

Chords Used

Em
G
D
C

Chord Fingerings

Em

Standard

G

Standard

D

Standard

C

Standard

Sections

Intro (Clocks)Verse 1ChorusVerse 2ChorusGuitar SoloVerse 3ChorusReprise of "Breathe"