Syd Barrett (1946-2006)

Syd Barrett, the larger than life founder of Pink Floyd, who left the avante guard rock bank in 1968 and lived as a recluse, has died at age 60.

Barrett, a guitarist and singer, wrote many of Pink Floyd's early hits, including most of the 1967 album, "The Piper at the Gates of Dawn" and the band's first hit single, "See Emily Play."

Barrett was replaced by David Gilmour in 1968 -- five years before "Dark Side of the Moon,'' Pink Floyd's most popular album -- after suffering a psychedelic drug-induced breakdown. He has lived in anonymity in his mother's suburban home near Cambridge, the English university town, and continued to receive royalties from his work with the band.

Pink Floyd's 1975 album, "Wish You Were Here," was said to be a salute to Barrett, and the song ''Shine On You Crazy Diamond'' included the lyrics:

Remember when you were young, you shone like the sun.

Family friends said Barrett died last Friday from cancer.