Pitchfork

According to various reports, Pink Floyd legend Syd Barrett died in his Cambridgeshire home last Friday (July 7). Some sources say the cause was cancer, others report complications from diabetes.

His brother Alan confirmed his death today, telling The Guardian "He died peacefully at home. There will be a private family funeral in the next few days."

Born Roger Keith Barrett January 6, 1946, the singer/guitarist was present on Pink Floyd's influential The Piper at the Gates of Dawn (1967) and A Saucerful of Secrets (1968).

He left the band at the pinnacle of his career in 1968 after suffering a drug-induced breakdown. After his departure from the group, he lived in the basement of his mother Winfred's home, boarding up the windows to avoid the press and fans. He recorded two solo records, The Madcap Laughs and Barrett, as well as Opel, a compilation album made up of rare and alternate material.