"Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2" is one of Pink Floyd’s most iconic songs, released in 1979 on their rock opera album The Wall. Written by bassist Roger Waters, the song became a global anthem and a major chart hit, known for its distinctive blend of rock, funk, and disco elements.
Song Background and Concept
- Released: November 1979 (album), 1979 (single)
- Album: The Wall
- Length: 3:59 (single version)
- Writers: Roger Waters
- Producers: Bob Ezrin, Roger Waters, David Gilmour
- Genre: Progressive rock, art rock, disco-infused rock
Concept:
"Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2" is the centerpiece of a three-part suite chronicling the main character Pink’s psychological isolation. The song protests rigid education and abusive school systems, representing these traumas as metaphorical “bricks” in Pink’s emotional wall123.
We don’t need no education
We don’t need no thought control...
Notable Features and Production
- Children’s Choir:
A memorable feature is the children’s choir from Islington Green School, who performed the famous lines “We don’t need no education / We don’t need no thought control.” The use of real schoolchildren added authenticity and emotional impact4. - Production and Influence:
At producer Bob Ezrin’s suggestion, Pink Floyd incorporated a danceable disco beat—a rare feature for the band—to broaden its appeal as a single. Initial reluctance from the band was overcome after Ezrin demonstrated its hit potential1. - Chart Success:
The song topped charts in 14 countries, including the US and UK, and became Pink Floyd’s only No. 1 single in the US and UK123. It remains among the band’s most recognized works and was nominated for a Grammy Award.
Cultural Impact
- Protest Anthem:
The song’s anti-authoritarian message resonated worldwide. It was notably used as a protest song by students in South Africa during apartheid-era school demonstrations, leading to a government ban in 198063. - Legacy and Honors:
Musical Characteristics
- Key: D minor
- Tempo: ~96 BPM
- Notable Elements:
- Funky, rhythmic guitar and bass
- Atmospheric synths and prominent drumbeat
- Distinctive guitar solo by David Gilmour
- Elaborate use of sound effects (school bells, voices)
Credits
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Lyrics, Concept | Roger Waters |
| Guitar, Vocals | David Gilmour |
| Keyboards | Richard Wright |
| Drums | Nick Mason |
| Producer | Bob Ezrin, Roger Waters, Gilmour |
| Children’s Choir | Islington Green School students |
Quick Facts
- B-Side: "One of My Turns"
- Recorded: April–November 1979, Britannia Row Studios, London
- Lyrics Theme: Anti-authoritarian, critique of rigid schooling
"Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2" endures as a powerful cultural statement and is celebrated for its bold combination of music and social commentary. Its iconic chorus and memorable production cemented its place in rock history.1423
