What is the meaning behind Solsbury Hill by Peter Gabriel?

Answer 1

Solsbury Hill is about Peter Gabriel's split from Genesis. As you may or may not know, Peter Gabriel left Genesis to pursue a solo career because of personal disputes with some band members. Some believe that Solsbury Hill was written to show some of these problems, and was included on his first solo act. This is totally false. they actually got along good.Pete was the first to have kids,and the grueling tour hours kept him away from his family.

It is now accepted that it was Gabriel's inner turmoil at deciding to go solo...that he had decided and was filled with both joy and fear at the prospect. But having made the decision, he kept it to himself until the time was right.

The line about empty siloquettes, and eyes that are closed may be a reference to the unseen audience at concerts. You can't see faces when you're in the spotlight.

It's also been reported that Gabriel either had a spiritual experience on Solsbury Hill or came to his decision while on Solsbury Hill.

Written in 7/4 time signature, it's an unusually compelling song right up to the final shift to 4/4 time for the last two measures.