Syd Barrett, co-founder of the legendary rock band Pink Floyd, died this week. After he founded the band with Nick Mason, Roger Waters and Richard Wright in 1965, he left the group in 1968. He was involved in the writing and playing on both The Piper at the Gates of Dawn and A Saucerful of Secrets. He also is the person credited with naming the band, borrowing names from the bluesmen Pink Anderson and Floyd Council. Barrett became heavily involved with psychedelic drugs, and it's believed that mental illness, aggravated by heavy LSD use, was the main reason for his leaving the band. Barrett was replaced by David Gilmour. He went on to produce two solo albums The Madcap Laughs and Barrett (both released in 1970) before withdrawing completely from public life. Opel, released in 1988, was his final music release. It consisted of previously unreleased material.

It is believed that Pink Floyd songs "Brain Damage" and "Shine on You Crazy Diamond," as well as the album Wish You Were Here, were Pink Floyd tributes to their fallen band mate. David Bowie recorded a cover of "See Emily Play.". Bowie named Barrett as a major influence in his song writing.

Barrett reverted to his given name of Roger Barrett and lived a quiet life in his hometown of Cambridge, England, for a little over 30 years. While no cause of death has been given, it is believed that he succumbed to complications relating to diabetes. A spokewoman for Pink Floyd said a small, private funeral would be held.