Legendary progressive rock band Yes are to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for the Class of 2017. This follows two previous nominations so many would declare the award overdue, however it should also be noted it falls 12 months before the band’s 50th anniversary.
Founded in 1968 by bass player Chris Squire, vocalist Jon Anderson, guitarist Peter Banks, keyboard player Tony Kaye and drummer Bill Bruford, the lineup of Yes would frustratingly change over the years, with several members leaving then returning, in between becoming one of the foremost bands of the seventies and influencing other bands and artists to this day, releasing the US hit single ‘Roundabout’ and worldwide hit ‘Owner Of A Lonely Heart’ among ground breaking albums such as Close To The Edge, Going For the One and 90125, with multi-platinum albums and over 50 million records sold over five decades.
“What an honour this is for us and all involved with the history of this band,” commented guitarist Steve Howe who first joined the band for The Yes Album, replacing original guitarist Peter Banks in 1971. “We thank all the Yes fans who have been so passionate over the decades, and helped us to keep the flag flying. It is the fans who have constantly demanded our inclusion. They have been heard.”
“We look forward to accepting this esteemed award next spring in honour of our fallen brother, Chris Squire, who would have been delighted to see his musical vision finally receive such recognition,” added Alan White who has been behind the drum kit since 1972 for lives dates prior to Tales From Topographic Oceans (a permanent fixture only sitting out a recent US tour due to recovery from surgery when his place was taken by Jay Schellen).
The members of Yes who will officially be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is the extended lineup featuring members from various decades those who played on the Union tour: the late Chris Squire, vocalist Jon Anderson, drummers Bruford and White, keyboard players Kaye and Rick Wakeman, and guitarists Howe and Trevor Rabin.
“Yes was like my first girlfriend, to whom I was hopelessly committed,” says Bruford who first left to join King Crimson. “Despite a couple of wrinkles, I’m glad to hear the old girl is in fine shape.” While Kaye who went onto play with Badger, Detective and others said, “I am honoured to be included in Yes’ induction. I am delighted for my friends in the band, and I salute Chris, without whom it would never have happened. Chris would have been so very proud.”
“We thank everyone who voted for Yes. We’ll see you soon, Cleveland!” concluded White.
