Member-only story

Going For The One: The Definitive Rock Biography of Yes

Bob Cooper

·4.8k Followers· Follow

Published in GOING FOR THE ONE: The Quest For Spiritual Freedom

4 min read

231 View Claps

17 Respond

Save

Listen

Yes is one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time. With their complex compositions, virtuoso musicianship, and thought-provoking lyrics, Yes has captivated audiences for over 50 years.

GOING FOR THE ONE: The Quest for Spiritual Freedom

by Leia Stone

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3018 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	93 pages

Going For The One is the definitive rock biography of Yes. This 3000-word article explores the band's history, music, and legacy. From their humble beginnings in the late 1960s to their commercial peak in the 1970s and beyond, Going For The One tells the complete story of Yes.

The Early Years

Yes was formed in London in 1968 by vocalist Jon Anderson, guitarist Peter Banks, bassist Chris Squire, and drummer Bill Bruford. The band's early sound was heavily influenced by progressive rock pioneers such as King Crimson and Pink Floyd. Yes's debut album, Yes (1969),was a critical and commercial success, and the band quickly gained a following among fans of progressive rock.

In 1970, Banks was replaced by Steve Howe on guitar. Howe's addition to the band brought a new level of virtuosity and complexity to Yes's music. The band's third album, The Yes Album (1971),was a major breakthrough, and it helped to establish Yes as one of the leading progressive rock bands of the era.

The Classic Years

The early 1970s was Yes's classic period. The band released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including Fragile (1971),Close to the Edge (1972),and Tales from Topographic Oceans (1973). These albums showcased Yes's unique blend of complex compositions, virtuoso musicianship, and thought-provoking lyrics.

Yes's classic lineup consisted of Anderson, Howe, Squire, Bruford, and keyboardist Rick Wakeman. Wakeman joined the band in 1971, and his addition brought a new level of keyboard virtuosity to Yes's music. The band's live performances were legendary, and they were known for their extended improvisations and complex stage shows.

The Later Years

Yes's classic lineup began to fracture in the mid-1970s. Bruford left the band in 1974, and Wakeman left in 1977. The band continued to release albums and tour throughout the 1980s and 1990s, but they never quite recaptured the magic of their classic period.

In recent years, Yes has reunited with several of its classic members, including Anderson, Howe, Squire, and Wakeman. The band has released several new albums and toured extensively. Yes remains one of the most popular and influential rock bands of all time.

Legacy

Yes has left a lasting legacy on the world of rock music. The band's complex compositions, virtuoso musicianship, and thought-provoking lyrics have inspired generations of musicians. Yes is a true pioneer of progressive rock, and their music continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.