Yes is arguably the premier ‘Prog Rock’ band with their bombastic pseudo classical compositions. They were a progressive rock band from the UK that formed in the late 1960’s and is known for their complex compositions and musicianship. With hits like "Roundabout” "Owner of a Lonely Heart” and "I've Seen All Good People” they blend rock with classical and jazz influences. They were most popular in the 1970s and 1980s, and despite numerous lineup changes, they continue to tour and produce music, maintaining a loyal fan base.
Yes Career Highlights
1968:
Formation - Yes was formed in London by Jon Anderson (vocals), Chris Squire (bass), Peter Banks (guitar), Tony Kaye (keyboards), and Bill Bruford (drums).
1971:
Breakthrough Album - Released "The Yes Album” featuring hits like "Yours Is No Disgrace" and "Starship Trooper."
Lineup Change - Steve Howe replaced Peter Banks on guitar.
1972:
Classic Album - Released "Fragile” including "Roundabout" and "Long Distance Runaround."
Rick Wakeman - Joined the band, replacing Tony Kaye on keyboards.
1973:
Epic Work - Released "Close to the Edge” often regarded as one of the greatest progressive rock albums.
1974:
Lineup Change - Alan White replaced Bill Bruford on drums.
1983:
Commercial Success - Released "90125” featuring the hit single "Owner of a Lonely Heart."
1991:
Union - Released "Union” featuring members from both the '70s and '80s lineups.
2003:
35th Anniversary - Celebrated with a world tour and the release of the "Ultimate Yes - 35th Anniversary Collection."
2017:
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame - Yes was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Yes band Members
- Jon Anderson: Vocals (1968–2008, 2010)
- Chris Squire: Bass (1968–2015)
- Peter Banks: Guitar (1968–1970)
- Tony Kaye: Keyboards (1968–1971, 1983–1994)
- Bill Bruford: Drums (1968–1972, 1991–1992)
- Steve Howe: Guitar (1970–1981, 1990–present)
- Rick Wakeman: Keyboards (1971–1974, multiple rejoinings)
- Alan White: Drums (1972–present)
- Trevor Rabin: Guitar (1982–1994, 2016–present)
- Geoff Downes: Keyboards (1980–1981, 2011–present)
- Others: Various members have come and gone, including Benoît David, Jon Davison, and Billy Sherwood.
Yes band Grammy Awards
Total Nominations - 5 Grammy nominations
Wins - 1 Grammy Award
1985 - Best Rock Instrumental Performance for "Cinema" from the album "90125."
3 Most Famous Songs by the band Yes
1. "Roundabout" (1972)
- From the album "Fragile” this song is one of the band's most enduring hits, known for its intricate musicianship and memorable bass line.
2. "Owner of a Lonely Heart" (1983)
- From the album "90125” this song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and brought Yes significant commercial success.
3. "I've Seen All Good People" (1971)
- From "The Yes Album” this track remains a staple in their live performances and classic rock radio.
Quotes by band members of Yes
Jon Anderson
We've always been about pushing boundaries and exploring new musical landscapes.
Chris Squire
Yes music is an ocean of sound, with vast landscapes and infinite possibilities.
Yes band Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
Frequent Lineup Changes: Yes has experienced numerous lineup changes over the years, leading to multiple reunions and versions of the band.
Rick Wakeman's Exits: Rick Wakeman has left and rejoined the band several times, often citing creative differences.
Progressive Rock Debates: Yes has been both lauded and criticized for their complex and ambitious musical compositions, sparking debates among fans and critics about the nature of progressive rock.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction: In 2017, Yes was finally inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing their significant impact on the music industry.
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