Dick Parry, the saxophonist who played on Pink Floyd's landmark albums, left an estate valued at just over £50,000 when he died in May at the age of 83. Probate records show he did not leave a will.
Estate details
According to official documents, Parry had £53,341 in assets in the UK before debts and liabilities were deducted. After those deductions, the net value of his estate stood at £50,741. This sum is a small fraction of the fortunes of some of his more famous bandmates.
David Gilmour was estimated to be worth £115 million in the 2018 Sunday Times Rich List, while Roger Waters is reportedly worth around £160 million.
Musical legacy
Although Parry never officially joined Pink Floyd, his saxophone became a defining element of their sound after Gilmour invited him to play on the 1973 album The Dark Side of the Moon. His saxophone solo on "Money" became one of the track's most memorable moments, and he also performed on "Us and Them." He returned for the follow-up album Wish You Were Here in 1975, contributing to "Shine On You Crazy Diamond," the tribute to former member Syd Barrett.
The Dark Side of the Moon has sold more than 50 million copies worldwide and is considered one of the most influential rock albums ever.
Early friendship
Parry's connection with Gilmour dated back to their teenage years in Cambridge. Born in Kentford in 1942, Parry grew up in the Cambridge area and developed his passion for the saxophone. By the mid-1960s, he was playing with local group Soul Committee, while Gilmour was in another Cambridge band, Jokers. Their friendship continued, eventually leading to Parry's contributions to Pink Floyd's recordings.
After Parry's death, Gilmour shared a tribute on social media, posting a photograph of them performing together at a children's Saturday morning film show at a Cambridge cinema in 1963. Gilmour praised the distinctive quality of Parry's playing and its lasting impact on some of Pink Floyd's best-known songs.
Personal life and legacy
Parry is survived by three children from his marriages. He was married and divorced three times, having two children with his first wife Gwen and one with his third wife Millie. As he died without a will, his £50,741 estate will be distributed to relatives according to intestacy rules.
Although he remained outside the official Pink Floyd line-up, Parry's saxophone can be heard on some of the most recognisable recordings in rock history.
