50th Anniversary Post: Celebrating Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon

A lot happened in 1973. We started singing “It’s 9 O’clock on a Saturday” and “Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting” when Billy Joel’s Piano Man and Elton John’s Goodbye Yellow Brick Road hit the shelves. Aerosmith and Bruce Springsteen both released their debut albums. What else happened in 1973? Pink Floyd’s absolutely iconic album, The Dark Side of the Moon, first hit record stores.

Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon’s Success 

Pink Floyd is legendary. The band already had massive success, especially in the UK, in the years before The Dark Side of the Moon. Pink Floyd is known for an innovative approach to music and lyrics: crossing genre lines, pioneering visual aspects of live shows, and defining psychedelic rock. The Dark Side of the Moon is generally thought of as a concept album, exploring themes including the passage of time, conflict, and the overall human experience. 

When we say The Dark Side of the Moon was a commercial success, we mean it. The album peaked in the top three on weekly charts in eleven different countries. The Dark Side of the Moon holds the record for the most weeks on the Billboard charts - over 900 weeks in total. Over 45 million copies have been sold worldwide. It’s not a surprise Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon is often regarded as one of the greatest and most influential rock albums in the history of music. There’s a reason the album is certified platinum in 13 different countries. There’s a reason Pink Floyd t-shirts and merch are still selling years after the band’s initial success. It’s Pink Floyd! That’s the reason. 

Pink Floyd blended rock, progressive rock, and psychedelic elements in the album. Many tracks include extended instrumental passages, complex arrangements, and a wide range of instruments and effects. The sound was new, and different, and rightfully earned its place in music history. 

The tracklist for Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon consists of ten tracks that flow seamlessly into one another, creating a continuous musical experience. While passively listening, it can be hard to pick up when one track ends and the next begins. Notable tracks include "Speak to Me," "Breathe," and "Money."

Pink Floyd has performed the album in its entirety during concerts. Their live shows often feature elaborate light shows and visuals, adding to the live performances. The band’s last tour was in 1994, and their last performance was in 2005.

Legacy of The Dark Side of the Moon 

If you were asked for a single image to associate with Pink Floyd you’d probably describe the prism that is featured on the album cover for Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon. The Pink Floyd prism is easily recognized by fans. The Pink Floyd Prism, with its spectrum of light, is one of the most recognizable album covers of all time. The design is featured on Pink Floyd clothing and Pink Floyd t-shirts, posters, and nearly every type of merchandise you can think of. 

Not only is their artwork iconic but the album's enduring popularity and cultural significance have made it a cornerstone of popular music. It’s a landmark in music, and specifically rock music history. Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon has left a sizable imprint on pop culture that other artists strive for. 

Secure your part in the legacy of Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon with Pink Floyd clothing that will make you feel like you’re right in the 1970s. Daydreamer’s vintage style tees are created with perfectly chosen fabric, cut to order, and vintage washed in Los Angeles. Our designs are hand-drawn and meticulously crafted, so you can live up to the legacy of your favorites. Want to showcase the iconic Pink Floyd prism? We have a plethora of tees and knits with different cuts and tones to fit right in your style.