5 Reasons Why A Yes Reunion Can't Happen Soon

[@davidperry7128]

Steve means 'people have to like working with HIM'. No one wants another Union tour, but Yes need to end, the current Yes is an abomination. Slow and dull.

[@bigfoot5347]

couldnt agree more ,steve howe needs to call it a day

[@ambientfish1369]

I've met Anderson, Wakeman, Squire, White, Rabin, Downes and Howe, all are basically human beings who have retained the ability to relate to us as fans, Downes in particular I stood in the rain outside a Glasgow hotel having a smoke and talking shit with him for 15 minutes. The exception being Steve Howe, he is probably one of the 5 greatest guitarists IMO but he comes across as introverted to the point of illness, at 2 meet and greets that he's hosted he was just there with zero participation. Just my experience and impressions.

[@RushTrader]

Thanks for the comment! Funny you mention Downes... I met him as well, interviewed him for about 45 minutes back in 2002 Just a couple of weeks ago I found that interview which I thought had been lost. So, I'll be featuring that here in the near future. Downes is very approachable while Steve can be a bit standoffish or at least come across as that.

[@figgybass]

I know this video is a few years old, but I'm looking forward to seeing Jon Anderson this spring with the Band Geeks. They're awesome!

[@RushTrader]

Yes, I got my tix for that one! I was hoping Jon would do something similar to Steve Hackett where he just goes out with top notch players and really gives the catalog the show it deserves. Band Geek will be amazing for Jon and all Yes fans, 100x better than the current "Yes", that's for sure.

[@oliviertilanus]

In the last 30 years? Magnification, Fly From Here, the Ladder, Keystudio. All stellar albums

[@sneekapart]

agreed, especially FFH, such a great album

[@hubbsllc]

@@sneekapart There is a lot of great material on FFH. I thought it was pretty crappy of Horn to release a version with his own vocal pasted over Benoît David's. David really delivered on that album and tour (which I was fortunate to see). And David's voice on "Into The Storm" was just amazing - the line "Take me away from the heart of the storm"...Horn couldn't touch that.

[@ybrix101]

@@hubbsllc Yea. Trevor Horn should have just re-joined in 2008 if he wanted to make another album with Yes.

[@davidperry7128]

Fly from Here is awful, Drama II, but worse. than the original. Third rate Asia album. The two Buggles albums were better.

[@dclark4422]

I agree completely with what you said about Neil Peart and Rush. I can’t wrap my head around it either. Peart was a perfectionist and didn’t want to let anyone down with a substandard performance. I respect Rush for knowing when to call it a day.

[@shawnmcvey7789]

Even if you aren't a Rush fan I find it hard not to respect them.

[@davemurray5706]

I gave up on Yes in 2009 after seeing David Benoit on vocals and Oliver Wakeman on keys. It just wasn't there. Hearing Steve Howe complain to the soundman a few times was something I've never seen from them before. I followed Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman thereafter, including their tour with Trevor Rabin, which is likely the last time I will ever see them.

[@kencrabtree9197]

You’ve nailed that on the head . Totally agree with you

[@MochaDaisy8645]

I think a final Yes reunion for maybe a 15-20 date farewell would be nice but doesn’t seem likely. Wouldn’t hurt to ask Geddy Lee to sit in, either

[@4absentfriends]

I agree with your assessment that a reunion can't happen without Chris Squire. It's sad to see (and hear) what Steve Howe's YES is doing under the YES banner.

[@tadgermain8101]

Life goes on it's not fair to expect so much from our cherished musicians I saw yes last year Billy Sherwood and John Davidson we're outstanding with Steve Howe they gave us great yes music

[@dclark4422]

Really enjoyed this video. I wouldn’t go to a Yes concert because Chris Squire is gone. It’s that simple. I cried at the end of the video. It was so nice to see Rick Wakeman and Squire hugging and smiling.

[@classicalbum]

I agree - I miss Chris Squire

[@ruthierochesterNY]

D Clark I agree with you. Although Anderson’s angelic voice caught me right away it was the bass line that made me stop and listen for it on each track. His playing taught me what a good bass is and what the rest is. He was unique and the melody he gave us on the bass was awesome. When he passed I said to myself, well no more Yes concerts. I miss him so.

[@RushTrader]

@Ruthie Rochester NY I was recently listening to Squire's "Hold Out Your Hand" from his solo album and "No Opportunity Necessary, No Experience Needed" from Yes' second album... that's some bass playing right there, simply amazing the style he had.

[@shawnmcvey7789]

Having so many former members and such a legacy really makes things messy.

[@davebellamy4867]

15:00 You nailed it 100% there!

[@coyotecreekband236]

I always thought that Chris Squire was the glue that kept the band together. My all time favourite bass player. He seemed to be the soft filling in between two hard cookies (Anderson and Howe). I'm glad that I got to see the real band live several times.

[@RushTrader]

One way Squire held the band together was by having the ability to talk people into doing things and bringing people together when needed. He was key on getting Wakeman into the band, Trevor Horn and Trevor Rabin. If anyone would have been able to get a proper Yes reunion going these days, it would have Squire. Without him, Howe gets to run Yes his way and he seems content with that despite not having their original iconic vocalist. Howe must really not want to go another 10 rounds with Anderson on any level, which is a shame.

[@coyotecreekband236]

@@RushTrader I believe he also brought Tony Kaye back for the "Cinema" project, before they reverted back to Yes. He just seems like a great guy that musicians respected and wanted to be around. I missed a chance to meet him in Vancouver when they were recording and my friend was a keyboard tech. I didn't want to be 'one of those fans' so I didn't go with him. Still one of my biggest regrets.

[@RushTrader]

@@coyotecreekband236 Yeah, Squire was a schmoozer and had this way of talking people into things.

[@of-qw7po]

Time for Yes to go to bed and call it a day. Go home to your families and spent you ending years with them. There is no more great music for you to write. It was nice but now it's sour.

[@chrisschrecker5497]

Agreed. I’ve seen them with Anderson, Benoit David and Jon Davidson. Every show has been one of tired diminishing returns. They sounded off musically and “Krull” Howe overacts on stage. Personally I’m OK with them retiring quietly and not ruining their legacy. Take care.

[@hubbsllc]

I feel like post-UNION, THE LADDER is the most worthy Yes release. "Homeworld" from that album was really solid and the band made great use of themselves on it.

[@RushTrader]

"Homeworld" is probably the best one on that album and "The Messenger" is good too. The reason why that album has more going for it than others around that time is because they had a real producer involved with Bruce Fairbairn. Unfortunately, he passed away before completion.

[@The_Rockin_Prof]

I still enjoy "Talk" if only for "Endless Dream," which was one of their finest long-form songs since "Awaken."

[@hubbsllc]

@@The_Rockin_Prof I hear you - all I like off of TALK is "The Calling" and "State Of Play."

[@RushTrader]

@Jeffrey Leatherwood I agree on "Endless Dream" and was hoping they would have pulled it out for ARW as it would have been interesting to hear Wakeman play on that one.

[@06hatter]

The Ladder is one of the best Yes albums full stop.

[@myshow667]

I went to see YES in 2018 or so, its was kinda sad. I saw Jon with his new band last year as well, much more fun.

[@JosephFrancisBurton]

I think this extended lock down is going to force the retirement of a lot of these classic bands that have been stuck on nostalgia tours for the last 20 years. I have no interest in seeing any of these classic bands I grew up with when there are so many young musicians making great new music. The last time I saw Yes perform was 2000, they were great, and that is how I want to remember them.

[@maxmeister5064]

Lockdowns hinder anybody, not just the old bands 😉

[@haroldfadorka3816]

I just wanted to add I appreciate the time and effort you put into your podcast. Always well planned and thought out. Excellent content for sure. Best wishes and many thanks.

[@RushTrader]

Thanks so much Harold, I really appreciate that!

[@weitzen]

One of the best , if not the best sumnation of the current status of Yes , with some interesting new (to me) quotes and points of view! The chances of any sort of reunion was knocked on the head , not by Steve necessarily , but by Jon.....he shot himself in the foot with that piece of brutal honesty! I can only imagine Steve's reaction to that!! In saying that , I like and have enjoyed the current lineup live (please no more "No Jon No Yes Crap....I know , I know!!!) Just wish (Corona notwithstanding) they could get some new material together!! Having read Steve's autobiography , he paints a pretty grim picture of what its like to be in a studio pulling together Yes music, even including those classic early albums!

[@RushTrader]

Thanks for the comment Phil, much appreciated! Like Tommy Shaw, Steve just wants to be happy. I don't think he feels like going another 9 rounds with Jon in the studio and, creatively, it sounds like they're in two different places.

[@davebellamy4867]

It's true though and it's been true for a while. Though obviously, Steve's a musical genius.

[@jimmybarr7387]

Just bought Steve Howes new book. The first chapter on the rnr hall of fame induction says it all. Fractured beyond repair. And Howe is determined to run it into the ground.

[@RushTrader]

Thanks for the comment Jimmy, I have yet to read Steve's book.

[@jeffschielka7845]

@@RushTrader Don't bother, it sucks!

[@RushTrader]

@mum I heard Steve Hackett's book was a snoozefest, know anything about that one?

[@lastdaysguitar]

This ship has sailed. The best we can hope for is Jon & Steve doing (somehow) writing again and maybe a studio album.

[@russelljones5839]

Thorough and well done as always, Ant. It saddened me to read in Rabin's interview that ARW was over. Saw those guys three times during their run and they killed it each time. I agreed with Wakeman in the Rolling Stone interview awhile back when he said the Yes band name probably should have been retired when Chris Squire died. Ah well, we fans will always have the memories, and what glorious memories they are! Anyhoo, keep up the good work, and all the best to you and yours during this shitshow of a year.

[@RushTrader]

Thanks for the kind words Russell! I think if anyone from the Yes camp was going to release anything interesting it would have been something involving Rabin. I really don't think Steve can write anything memorable at this point, judging by recent solo releases and that awful last Yes studio album.

[@jskypercussion]

@@RushTrader The Gilded Splinter song from Steve Howe Trio 2019 is an excellent jazz song. But then again it is an unfinished song of his and Brufords from the 70's. It is so sad to see my favorite band deteriorate over these years. Their last great strong tour as real yes was 2004. ARW was enough closure to make make up for Steve's weak lineup. Heaven and Earth is a bad fart. I did enjoy the Fly From Here album because it is unfinished business from Drama. Personally I absolutely love the Magnification album. That is the last great strong Yes material. Those songs are really well composed and structured and very memorable. Thanks for doing the video. You really covered everything well that is going on.

[@maxmeister5064]

I wouldn't be so sure that they are really over. Rabin says they are hindered by everybody living in different corners of the world. Which might impare your writing and recording new music, but can it be an obstacle to touring? I actually am quite positive that they'll eventually be back.

[@ARZSteveA]

Great channel Rush Trader, been on a binge of your content. You address the questions I wonder about concerning Yes, etc. Looking forward to more of your work.

[@RushTrader]

Thank you Steve!

[@mglenn7092]

Amazing that Steve Howe came up with “ownership” of the name, when he isn’t a founding member of the band. But there it is… got to have been bugging him, knowing that Yes Featuring ARW had more original members than Yes (the Steve Howe band). They should all hang it up, as far as Yes is concerned.

[@kencrabtree9197]

SUPER POSTING . Lots to digest and some great insights into the life ( or lack of it ) in one of the worlds greatest bands KEEP US INFORMED APPRECIATED

[@RushTrader]

Ken, I appreciate that, thanks so much!

[@threepistols7]

I never really got into Yes, but still a great video. I just hope that our beloved classic musicians can hang on until we can see them again live.

[@mikewest1542]

Me neither, was always a massive ELP/Genesis fan, I appreciate their music though!

[@Jeff-o-Lee]

It was actually Jon Anderson that called Rick Wakeman to rejoin Yes for "GFTO" . Rick said to Jon that he couldn't do another "Tales From Topographic Oceans" album & wasn't a big fan of "Relayer" until Jon played him the the demo of "Wonderous Stories" & one other demo. Steve Was in ASIA when "90215" came out. The first ASIA album was released in March of '82 & YES were recording "90215" in July '82.

[@RushTrader]

Thanks for the comment, Lee. I believe what you're referring to is when Rick was first asked to be part of the GFTO sessions. Initially, he was hired as a session guy and not officially part of the band. In the YesYears documentary (early 90s), Rick describes a moment, before the GFTO tour, where management, along with Chris, approached Rick about becoming a full-time member of the band again. Rick specifically singled out Chris and described how he "severely comes to the forefront when necessary", which indicates how persuasive Chris was in getting Rick back into the band full-time. Also, if you're interested, check out Part 1 of my 2000 interview with Steve where I asked him where he was when he first heard 90125 and what he thought.

[@ProgFanification]

You raise many good points...but I'm glad that YES music is still being played...same with Genesis and King Crimson... The music is timeless! Keep up the great posts...I always enjoy them. Would love to hear your thoughts on Genesis Revisited and King Crimson.

[@RushTrader]

Thanks for the comment! About a year ago I did a video on Crimson, my concert review from their last tour. I'm hoping to see Hackett early next year so I'm sure a video on that will follow. Thanks for the recommendations as I always love feedback on what topics fans are interested in.

[@starshiptrooper7670]

Steve will always stand tall in the Yes hall of fame. Right now I just fill sorry for the guy and the band.

[@tomdomer]

I, of course, listened to many YES hits on the radio. However, I was never "into" them. I LOVED this interview. Jon & Rick have created NEW fan.

[@DavidLazarus]

I just had a brilliant idea! Jon Anderson should tour with Steve Hackett's band and play Yes music from, say, 1970 to 2000 and maybe even a few new songs that Jon has written. I think Hackett would gladly do that.

[@RushTrader]

David thanks for the comment. That's a refreshing idea and something I'd be totally down for. That would be the best way to do the Yes catalog justice at this point.

[@DavidLazarus]

@@RushTrader - I think Steve Hackett would be flattered by the idea.

[@RushTrader]

@@DavidLazarus The only thing is... would he be okay with playing Howe's parts? They have different styles. Actually, Howe should join them too and they have a Genesis/Yes extravaganza.

[@DavidLazarus]

@@RushTrader - I don't think Howe would do it for the same reason he doesn't want Jon in Yes. It's a darn shame that, apparently, Howe made Chris choose between him or Jon. If I were Chris, I'd have called his bluff and chosen Jon. Anyway, yes, the two Steves have different styles, but that's OK. If I wanted to hear the songs as they sound on the original albums, I'd listen to the albums. :^)

[@josegabriellugo]

You are totally righty, let’s stick to the best memories they gave us, and stop wonder for a miracle reunion

[@shawndworkin]

I had my tickets to go see the reunion that was supposed to happen literally right when Jon got sick. That was it. I could have seen one of the main line up.I still went to go see them with the new singers. And it was good but it wasn't as great as it could have been with Jon. I still went to see Jon with the Florida Orchestra and saw him with ARW and with his new band. The latter version being the best. I fell in love with Yes from my uncle showing me a 90125 concert on laser disc when I was around 6 or 7 years of age. Been a fan ever since. They inspired me to pick up the guitar and make my own music. I'm 35 years of age now. Yes is the best!

[@RushTrader]

Thanks for the comment, Shawn! Very cool to hear how Yes inspired you to pickup the guitar!

[@shawndworkin]

@@RushTraderThank you for all the awesome videos and your genuine approach and passion for representing all of us as fans. Rock will never die. It just goes underground for awhile. And it is still doing great things under there.

[@shawndworkin]

Here is one of my songs kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJ7ah3iAh8eXlbM

[@RushTrader]

Very nice Shawn, thanks for sharing! You should have more views!

[@shawndworkin]

@@RushTrader Thank you Ant! Agreed. Been trying to get it out there more. If you could share it with anyone it would mean a lot. Also please check out my other songs on my channel. I'm mainly trying to get the songs into documentaries about helping the world. My father tried to send my orchestra piece Autumn Colors to Jon Anderson through his representative. His representative said I am very talented but no promises on it getting to Jon's ears as he is busy with other projects. I thought maybe Jon would enjoy it because it sounds like Prokofiev and Stravinsky a little bit. More like Prokofiev because he is my main favorite composer.

[@danieleggenberger9034]

You got the point, man. You say exactly what I think about the current Yes-situation. No chance for a reunion and people should start to accept that.

[@beatleswithaz6246]

It is very unfortunate that there might not be any substantial Yes reunion, especially for a young fan like me who wasn’t even old enough for the Union tour. I hope Howe and Anderson can get over their differences and make something happen while they can still play.

[@RushTrader]

I understand what you mean... if Jon, Rick and Steve could get on the same stage with a solid band again it would be 10x better than the sloppy train wreck that's out there now. Sure, it's not the Yes of old but it would at least have some resemblance to the past and I think you'd enjoy it much more.

[@lobrutto]

Only thing left is creating an opportunity for a new great band. Just a quick thought of The Orphans ... Anderson (vocals), Wakeman (keys), Lee (Bass), Lifeson (guitar), Palmer (Drums). Put it out there ?

[@wuckle]

That would be interesting.

[@nirradyen-tolobaz3727]

Carl Palmer is an absolute overrated tosser .

[@scifiartman8370]

For me, when Chris Squire passed Yes should have ended too! Yes was great - one of the greatest musical experiences of modern times, but it's been done and it's time to wrap it up. And then all these fine players can explore their impressive solo directions. Solos, duos, trios and more but drop the Yes name - you've milked that name long enough! I can't keep up with the soap opera that has become the Yes band journey, and I don't really care, except I'd like to see the survivors get along and be civil with each other. All the best guys, and thanks for some of the greatest music, ideas and experiences of my life! And I'll always be watching for whatever you might do in the future. But Yes is unfortunately dead and should be buried, with love!

[@davidking4831]

Yes we're a one off.A group of talented individuals who created some of the finest prog rock. Time has taken its toll as it will always do. Just be glad for the recordings and concert videos. That's all we have now.

[@cowetascore8476]

No Squire, no Yes. Face it. Done. Over.

[@justsayin7314]

The best chance we have to see more great Yes concerts is that Wakeman and Anderson can talk Trevor Rabin into one last hurrah because ARW was incredible and there is no Yes without Anderson whose voice is unimaginably good for a guy over 70 whose been through what he has. A lot of the magic of Yes songs was the writing duo of Anderson and Howe which unfortunately won’t happen. What could have happened but didn’t was bringing Anderson back in when David left and let Anderson,Howe and Squire write one last album. I’m sure we could have got at least a few more good Yessongs.

[@RushTrader]

I bet Squire felt confident the band could continue despite Jon not being there especially with so many other bands like Journey and Foreigner doing so with great success. The problem is, Yes aren't as commercial as those other bands and most Yes fans aren't interested.

[@WhiteWizzard]

I was front row on the union tour...that was a special one

[@jamesbrady2278]

I appreciate your replie I forgot one thing when I was talking about yes at Jones Beach September 7, 2001 I had a good friend that got me great seats ninth row dead center and that’s when they were touring with the full orchestra they opened up with close to the edge they absolutely stunned the audience we were blown away after it was finished everybody in the soled out Jones Beach theater stood up for about 6 minutes with a standing ovation funny thing with Chris Squire got caught with an open mic near him and he said I’ll go run and drain the lizard everybody heard it he came back he tried to apologize but we said we love you Cris Squire you gave me a good insight about the inner workings of yes always looking to study the past especially about my favorite music I’m sure you know this that he got the nickname fish because he stayed in the bathtub for three hours a day but I’m sure you knew that please keep up the good work and The same time i’ve read free books about ELP and I have a feeling because you’re gifted insight i’m sure you know about that too the thing about talking about these groups that everybody’s got their story and try to show up to Next guy and one last thing I’m so blessed that at the height of their zenith meaning yes and Emerson Lake and Palmer I hope you weren’t upset on my other comments what I said about Styx because I tell you they were trying but they were not on the level of yes Emerson Lake and Palmer Genesis Jethro Tull I hope you don’t think this is British bias but that’s just how I feel but for all the fans out there I did not mean to insult them take care God bless everybody out there hopefully will get through all of the troubles at this time in our country take care good luck and follow your gut

[@RushTrader]

Thanks for the memories, James. I had a similar experience the summer before at Jones Beach, which is probably my favorite Yes show of all time. It had been a cloudy, rainy day but the skies were opening up during "Gates of Delirium". When they got to the "Soon" segment, the moon appeared out of the clouds right above Jon, it was quite amazing. Lots of great performances that evening.

[@classicalbum]

What a great channel... subscribed

[@findJLF]

Good video. I think Yes has quite a bit of music from the last 30 years... Magnification is a highly under-rated album. Talk was great - The Ladder was very good. Plenty of music. Howe - really didn't respect Rabin back in the Union days.. however, in the 2010's Howe expressed quite openly that Owner of a Lonely Heart was a sensational song FOR Yes. Rick Wakeman has also commended the Yes-West era. I think it could work - they are older and Howe has got that bug out of his bonnet. I think Alan should probably have retired from touring about 8 - 10 years ago. Wakeman, Peart & Briford made the right decision - they deserve to be able to retire.

[@RushTrader]

Thanks for the comment Julian!

[@alanweissaltz6053]

My oh my what a bunch of children. I love Yes and listen to them at least once a week but I only listen to the 70s music, enough said.

[@georgewilliams4258]

As far as maternal not playing much.Most of Anderson Wakeman Bruford Howe was incredible.

[@radiomindchatter7994]

No point..its not Yes by any means. Steve Howe is not Yes and frankly should not play under that banner...

[@RushTrader]

Steve uses the Yes name because he can legally. The true substance of the band is gone and all he has now is a weak tribute to a once great band.

[@just82much51]

I saw ARW in 2016 and they were FANTASTIC!!! So glad I saw that show! Sorry that the classes YES will never perform together again, but that's life I guess.

[@myshow667]

Jon is a founding member...Steve is not

[@photoslum]

No Chris Squire = no Yes.

[@mvjonsson]

Yes RIP. I saw them live 2001 and 2004 and ABWH in 1989.

[@jeffschielka7845]

R.I.P. MR CHRIS SQUIRE🌹🌹🌹

[@jamestejada3673]

Now Mr. White.

[@jeffschielka7845]

@@jamestejada3673 😭💔🥁⚘🙏😎

[@AstralTraveler227]

Jon Anderson should do exactly what Steve Hackett does, make his own music and tour YES revisited with top notch players like Roine Stolt, Mike Portnoy and other premier Prog musicians!

[@RushTrader]

Thanks for the comment, Ron! Yeah, I think that would be the best option considering Howe doesn't want to work with him. It would have to be something much better and different than what he did with his more recent solo band. Steve Hackett's done a fine job carrying the torch for that era of Genesis and Jon could do it too with the right players.

[@jlynker]

A Yes fan since CTTE, I hope Steve Howe, when he retires, replaces himself so that Yes can continue, not as a classic cover band but also create new material, true to the genre. I wish they had brought up understudies like Sherwood & Igor.. there are plenty of great musicians and this genre has just broken the surface.

[@davebellamy4867]

8:41 👍👍 8:55 😂😅🤣

[@fernandogarajalde4066]

Excellent analysis! I’d rather everyone just stay retired and work on enhanced resolutions of their old catalog. Nothing sadder to me than paying to see a bunch of angry old men arguing onstage with the audience. We have our memories of a happier time, let the old men relax and enjoy a life well lived while there’s still time.

[@schthaxe]

I think you should consider the times in the late 90th then Anderson was still singing with the band, the Ladder is very good, with Anderson-Squire-Howe-White classic line-up and feeling. For now, I think the best new Yes album is Wobbler - Rites At Dawn (in a way). If you haven't heard it, give it a try - incredible Yes-feeling (I believe they use original Hammond!!).

[@RushTrader]

@schthaxe Thanks for the Wobbler recommendation as I hadn't heard it before. I've listened to the first 5 minutes and can already tell it's the best thing Yes never did in the past 3 decades. I think The Ladder benefited from having a producer like Bruce Fairbairn on the scene and has its moments. Would I consider it a "great" Yes album? Not even close. However, thanks for the comment and I'll check out the rest of "Rites".

[@schthaxe]

@@RushTrader oct, 23 Wobbler will release their 5th album. Sounds promising. They KZbind their recording sessions, btw.

[@RushTrader]

@@schthaxe thanks for the info, will check it out.

[@nicholassands9903]

Great commentary... all extremely well said!

[@andrewvince1896]

It’s over for Yes the way it was, let bygones be bygones, life happens as we move forward in this life. Be thankful Yes music is still played live today in it present form, thanks to adaptive perpetual change.

[@RadagastBrown420]

I would rather see ARW than Yes or even Anderson, Howe, Wakeman.

[@sizzlemann]

Saw both bands a few years ago. Steve's version SUCKED!!! We left before the show was over. Saw ARW a few weeks later and they slayed it! A gazillion times better. I'd pay to see ARW again but you couldn't pay me to sit through another "official" Yes show.

[@hubbsllc]

In the KZbin videos I've seen of ARW, Wakeman and Rabin especially looked like they were having a ball together.

[@sizzlemann]

@@hubbsllc they all had a good time together. I saw them twice and both shows were full of energy and incredible music.

[@BarrySanchez]

I saw both of the lineup’s twice in the last few years and I couldn’t agree more Steve’s Yes while he is a better guitarist but the rest of the band doesn’t come close to Jon’s YES.

[@steve--smith]

Rick has sold most of his keyboards. Another indication.

[@dugganclhallrentals2089]

Albeit through their differences, Jon and Chris were the heart of YES. Plain and simple. Steve got on board well after they had started the band; gave them the nudge that Trevor then gave in the 80’s. That’s fine. The politics of this band has been their greatest musical asset and ultimately their demise. This current iteration of YES is not YES. If you disagree, you probably never saw them at their peak and n the 70s…. Peace out.

[@arnebroxleirnes418]

I feel that Yes grew and grew up to, and including, "Going For the One". But with the release of "Tormato" the output lost that shimmering quality. It's just the way it goes with just about every band. Sooner or later they just lose momentum - or interest - or each other... What are you gonna do? The truth is that the closest thing to a new great Yes album is Jon Anderson's "1000 Hands". Anderson (and Squire) started the band - anybody interested should listen to him when he says he has eight new suitable Yes songs!

[@RushTrader]

Yeah, I'm surprised by how many love Tormato. To me it just sounds so uninspired, especially compared to GFTO.

[@arnebroxleirnes418]

@@RushTrader True - and don't get me started on "Drama"! Has a couple of good pieces on it, but why in the world would they brand it "Yes"? Releasing it under any other name would only have helped the reception.

[@RushTrader]

I too think "Drama" should have been the name of the band as they were totally different than Yes with Jon. You change the expectations that way. They became a different band with Trevor and Geoff added. I thought the album had some strong material, particularly "Machine Messiah" and "Does It Really Happen" but when it came to Horn singing Anderson live, it tanked and Horn decided it was better to produce bands, not front them (which has served him very well, by the way.)

[@arnebroxleirnes418]

@@RushTrader - Indeed - Trevor Horn is a fantastic producer and did wonders for Frankie Goes To Hollywood and others. "Relax" and "Two Tribes" are very impressive, for example. I still listen to those tracks just for the production! But to substitute Mr Horn for Jon Anderson in Yes - forget it... And to take it on the road - what were they thinking..?

[@RushTrader]

Yep, I actually did a video about Horn the producer... did you ever see the 2004 Trevor Horn tribute concert? Some nice performances there.

[@ChromeDestiny]

I think the last chance to have done something really worthwhile would have been the late 2000's or early 2010's. At that time you could have had a lineup with four out of five of the Yes Album lineup augmented by either Alan or a different drummer and maybe a second keyboard player to help Tony. With Chris gone now there's no point.

[@tainonative4941]

You have been very fair - good commentary - bittersweet ending

[@jamesbrady2278]

Yes I love this band saw about 15 times I’m 66 years old I saw a rush about six times both of these bands are in the rock ‘n’ roll Hall of Fame and members of rush say they were heavily influenced by yes and Emerson Lake and Palmer and yet they’re not in the rock ‘n’ roll Hall of Fame think about that for a minute

[@RushTrader]

True, then again, I think the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has become so watered down it's like who cares who gets in at this point. When Biggie Smalls, Madonna and Tupac get into a rock and roll institution before ELP and so many deserving others, it makes it much less important in my view.

[@lewisfalwell9101]

I agree, not likely for a reunion. Chris is gone. Most everyone wants one last good Yes album. Do not think survivors can write it. Egos ...

[@anthonydblackmore]

Yes should have called it quits after the Magnification album.

[@RushTrader]

That album had some nice moments and hard to believe it's been nearly 20 years since the last Yes studio album with Jon Anderson.

[@anthonydblackmore]

@@RushTrader The last truly original Yes album. Whilst I did enjoy "Fly From Here" it is really a reworked Buggles album with a few token Yes-like tracks. Please don't mention that later album....trying to forget that it ever existed.

[@RushTrader]

I'm one of those who thought "Drama" should have been the name of a new band rather than a Yes album without Jon, perhaps without those expectations it would have been better received. That being said, I thought FFH sounded more like a side-project than a bona-fide Yes album.

[@davidperry7128]

They did, just no-one told SH

[@glevumowl1122]

Excellent summation of the current state of the band(s). Sadly, I have to agree with all the points made. Best to accept that the best is in the past and simply get on and enjoy the old stuff.

[@davidbodemann7994]

Here’s the thing. I saw yes in 2002. We had all our favorites playing except for bill Bruford, Steve Howe technically can’t play like he did back then however, the vibe in that place was very cold. I saw them a second time last November in Westbury, Long Island, Steve how was the only common denominator. Technically, Steve Howe does not play like he used to. Technically, Jeff Downs does not play like Rick Wakeman or like Patrick Moraz, or like Igor koroshev. but I will tell you I enjoyed the recent concert much more than I did the one in 2002. There was a great camaraderie there and

[@davidbodemann7994]

They sounded like yes. The audience reaction was great.

[@mrbrianmccarthy]

Here's the line up I would love to see----Anderson, Wakeman, Howe, Geddy lee on Bass and a new drummer(Bruford would be the optimum, but he's retired) That would be a Yes band I would pay to see.

[@alanweissaltz6053]

I would definitely go with magnification over the ladder

[@silentwings7830]

I'm quite happy with the way Yes is now. Lots of variety in the setlist, lots of energy from the new guys. Plus Jon Anderson is doing quite well on his own. 1000 Hands album and tour was excellent. He would not be able to do that if he were in Yes, and most likely would not be able to stand the rigors of a long tour. The last ARW tour was only 10 dates.

[@connielara4165]

I will be brief in my comment. Trevor Rabin breathed new life into YES and that was never intended to be that way. 90125 was not anything close to YES music of the past or "Prog" rock in my opinion. It was fresh, exciting, electrified rock with a definate edge that would make you want to stay on your feet throughout the entire show. And at home or in your car, you could play the entire album from the first song to the last. To this day, I don't think that Trevor has ever been given the credit that he deserves. I understand that Trevor is in the process of making a new solo album and I can't wait until it is done and released. He is more sucessful than any of the members of YES could ever hope to be. I'm sure he gave up a lot of projects to go out on the road with Jon and Rick to play in ARW, but he says it was something that he really wanted to do before they were all too old. Trevor is 66 years old now, but he still plays like there's nothing to it and it's such a thrill to watch him and listen to him. He still sings great as well. I am now and I always have been a big "Rabin" fan. Thanks for this video. I'll look forward to more.

[@RushTrader]

Hi Connie, nice to hear from you again! Very well said. I thought 90125 sounded like what Yes should have "progressed" to by the early 80s. You can't keep playing the same old prog rock forever. Even Genesis gradually morphed into what sounded like an entirely different band by the 80s. As weird as Gabriel was in the early 70s, look what happened to him by the 80s, completely different, alternative, edgy, etc. And true, Rabin has had the most interesting, rewarding, successful and creative careers outside of Yes so not surprising he'd want a return to it after a couple years of ARW. I do think it's a shame he couldn't create one last Yes-related studio project with Jon and Rick as I think it could have sounded really interesting. Looking forward to his next solo album as well.

[@maxmeister5064]

I don't think one can say he never got the credit. He was US #1 with OoaLH and grammy winner with Cinema (best instrumental). That's quite some credit. Following that, however, fans of old began to voice their disapproval because things then went from a bit less heavy, read serious, but still okay to, well, shallow and not deserving the Yes name (I'm talking about Big Generator). That was when this whole Rabin against Howe thing only really started. Now there are those who attribute shallowness to the current SH led Yes, but I say ARW has shown us one thing: TRs renditions of SH material are as veering from doubtful to awful in our days as they were 35 years ago. So I'd say credit where it's due (he gave Yes a #1) as well as non-credit where that's due (he never understood nor made an effort to what kind of group with what kind of legacy he stepped into).

[@callenclarke371]

Wow, Ant. I gotta say...brutally honest. A lot of guys that report on Yes and the other great bands are careful not to offend, and hold back from taking a stand on some of these issues. I always say to myself: yeah, if it were me, I'd just go ahead and say what I really think. But even with that, I was surprised at how frank your commentary was. I've no doubt you've offended some people, including (possibly) some band members. Having said that, I can't honestly say that you're wrong. I'd have to say I pretty much agree, both with your opinions and your conclusions, although I do think there were great albums after 90125. To me, the last great Yes album was Talk. Great songs on the Ladder, Magnification, and Fly from Here, but not solid all the way through. At any rate, thanks for your honesty.

[@RadagastBrown420]

To say they have not made anything good since UNION is outrageous.

[@RushTrader]

Well, I didn't really put it like that... I said they haven't made any great albums since 90125. Of course, that's only my opinion but, for me, after 90125 I never enjoyed another album of theirs in it's entirety.

[@DashRiprock1]

The Ladder is an excellent album worth mentioning from the last thirty years.

[@RadagastBrown420]

Official YES, is the Steve Howe Band, or YESASIA, which is Yes and Asia combined.

[@SeekTruthinLight]

They do need to realize what time it is, time to do what they do great while they can. If they play- they will come. If they get into the studio- great music will flow the tide of sales. Steve is right, in part, there is enough space to each do what they want to do- together though, and fans will always be there to listen, but I think his bitter spirit of error has effected them in error to think in error but for Anderson lately who humbly has the right attitude to make it happen. And I get the logistics part, with them all having responsibilities, living in different parts of the world, having made other plans sololy; but surely they can block out a couple months to do as they have before; work together in the spirit of Yes music, even in the spirit of Chris Squire, the spiritual glue that held them together, making an album of honoring the members and the fans who went along for the ride- and all who made it possible, even to tie loose ends, in the creative process. But we do see those members comments in the media, from time to time, some, perhaps, to feel out the mindset of the other members, but the feed back is usually grim, that of cynical error in spirit unrest they are holding onto from the past, while we always have hope, as fans, to see them get together again, to do what they do, as great musicians. In any event we don't hold retiring against them- we still have the great music of that day and more.. ---And In closing, I'm reminded of the words of Bill and Ted: "Be excellent to one another"- and JAM on dudes!

[@RushTrader]

Thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@MochaDaisy8645]

@RushTrader Was Jeff Beck’s walk-on appearance and brief reunion with Rod Stewart at the end of Rod’s Hollywood Bowl show (almost exactly one year ago) on your radar or do you even care?

[@RushTrader]

I love Jeff Beck and Rod's earlier years so I'll have to revisit that, thanks for the reminder!

[@ShaNaNa242]

RIP Chris Squire, Peter Banks, and Alan White

[@kevinmorrison1553]

Sad to see Alan has declined so; I had no idea. He is the drummer I saw in concert as a youngster(Tormato) that made me want to play drums for real. Love Yes, but their drama had always been sucky.

[@MrPYouell]

Great points. I feel the same way on 99 percent of your presentation. Only small disagreement is regarding STYX. I think they are still terrific. I really dug The Mission and I have seen many others rate it higher than some of the albums with DeYoung. Yes - enjoy this great music while we can!

[@RushTrader]

Peter, thanks for the comment! One thing I've noticed is there's quite a few who really dug "The Mission". I tried listening to it a few times but never got anything out of it. That being said, I do think it's the strongest material they've released in decades and can understand why it's highly regarded.

[@oddioventurediscourse]

The thing that's a little perplexing to me is John Anderson was in the band before Steve.Howe how does that work? Was it John a founding member along with Chris Squire?

[@RushTrader]

Jon left Yes in the late 70s and that likely ended his stake in the name. After Jon left, Squire took full control of the name and now that he's gone, it's Howe's baby.

[@jeffrichards4399]

Yes has been reduced to a tribute band that should change its name to "The Steve Howe All-Stars". I saw them in London for the 50 Years event, and that was the last Yes gig for me.

[@ruthierochesterNY]

I agree with you re:Yes. As much as I would love to see Anderson, Wakeman and Howe I don’t see it happening. I enjoy the new stuff from Wakeman but I also understand his situation personally. Jon Anderson will always bring me music that touches my heart and more. As much as I think Steve Howe is an ass I do think he can play well. I just finished Steve Howe’s autobiography. Interesting and not very surprising after following YES and the individual musicians since the day Fragile came out.

[@RushTrader]

Ruthie, thanks so much for the comment! I don't see Anderson/Howe doing anything and that's a shame.

[@ProgRockDan1]

Featured on ProgRock facebook.com/groups/ProgRockDan

[@RushTrader]

Dan, thanks for the post!

[@DarioDNA1]

Great video, sad news!

[@jongpw50]

Am curious of what you think of the new Yes album. I'm pleasantly surprised how good it is, though still don't see Davision as an appropriate stand in for Anderson.

[@Face-bz6il]

It's sad really because Yes proper is not Steve Howe's Yes Revisited. Jon Anderson might as well do the eight tracks he has for ARW or Yes Revisited and put it under a solo album titled: This is Yes!!! You have a good point about Chris being the go between in the band. To be honest with you when Chris passed away I was afraid this Yes thing was going to happen and to me it shows that certain band members are trying to squeeze everything out of Yes (product). Sort of like all those best of and live albums.

[@philholding6905]

My musical wish would be for Yes ( Jon Anderson, Rick, Steve and Bill Bruford, with a bass player to cover for Chris ( rest his soul), to make one last album at equals the old stuff. you all know what I'm talking about ( Tales, Fragile , The Yes album, Going for the One, Relayer, etc etc, and best of all, Close to the Edge). I must have spent a 10th of my life listening to Yes, time well spent, and I want to listen to another new epic before I meet my maker.

[@davidcarlin3850]

Thanks Tony. Agree one of the main mechanisms of YES was Chris Squire making things happen behind the scenes. Also wondering if we can have some sort of discussion on who the actual owners of the YES name are. It seems White and Howe are in the drivers seat now but Anderson owns a different entity and still part owner of a separate one. I think it’s all about Money. Would like your take on Steve Howe’s biography. Steve discusses Jon asking for a load of money upon his return from his respiratory illness and Steve mentioned they didn’t want to go that route. Interesting

[@RushTrader]

Thanks for the comment David. Yeah, I was wondering that myself recently, who owns what with regards to the Yes brand, etc.? You should check out what kind of deal Steve Perry got from his Journey exit, wow did he make out or what? I'll probably be discussing this at some point. Also, I need to read Steve's book. I've heard some say it's awful but may be worth the read to get his take on certain things. I'll check into it.

[@MrDcseltzer]

@@RushTrader The Steve Perry deal would be another great video especially after they fired Smith and Valory. According to what I read, Their former manager Herbie Herbert and Perry gave their blessing on Smith's and Valory's attempt to secure more funds after they would retire. I think Cain and Schon may have totally overblown the issue according to Valory who has countersued. This would be an interesting discussion indeed. Looking forward to your take on all of this. :)

[@RushTrader]

@MrDcseltzer Thanks for the input. Funny you mention this because I'm working on a Journey video now which will include this topic and something else I thought would be fun to do.

[@MrDcseltzer]

@@RushTrader Looking forward to it :)

[@YesTalk69]

I always thought that Trevor was the issue. I saw the Union Tour Live in MSG, it was incredible! I got the box set later, I heard And you and I and thought it was do much more soulful than the"Maestro". My favorite moment on the concert dvd is when Steve looks up and looks freaked out when Trevor hits the ching, ching on Yours is no discgace!

[@YesTalk69]

ABWH with Toni Levin was tremendous!

[@YesTalk69]

RIP Chris and Alan.😢

[@YesTalk69]

I also saw the Talk tour in Reno Tony Kaye was tremendous!

[@YesTalk69]

I also saw the Ladder tour with Igor Koreshev. He was tremendous, and very faithful to Rick Wakeman's solo's.

[@YesTalk69]

Yes live at the House of Blues is a great concert'

[@rachelbrooks1550]

Now you don’t have Alan at all, RIP Peter, Chris & Alan.

[@mirkorussomanno4981]

can you do a deeper thing about Alan White's sad position in that conert.....or tour? what's the reason why they took another drummer on stage?

[@RushTrader]

Alan had back surgery a few years ago. He expects to be back playing full shows, we'll see.

[@colinmacinnes7978]

Has anyone ever told you you resemble a beefer looking Christian Bale? It's extraordinary really. And great channel by the way...

[@septoberenergy6542]

Thanks for your incisive and honest commentary on Yes. I agree 100% with your assessment of the situation. It's very sad that these guys couldn't get past their own egos and greed and get along for one more really good tour and/or album, but now that Squire is gone and White is really in no shape to play, I really do think that ship has sailed. I did see The Steve Howe Band in 2019, and the setlist was epic, but Jon was right. They really weren't that good. Howe performed well, and Billy Sherwood did a very admirable job of handling Squire's parts, but overall the performance was sloppy, especially in the keyboard department. I am glad I saw them one last time, but I'm not sure I'd pay today's ticket prices to do it again. :-(

[@RushTrader]

Thanks so much for watching and for your comments, much appreciated!

[@nicktardifbass7]

#6: COVID KILLED TOURING! LOL. I agree with all your points. And you know what? It's OK! Everyone is getting old and it would be lackluster at best. I won't give Jon Anderson too much praise because many musicians know of his issues with not co-crediting songwriters he's worked with in side projects (which is a freaking shame!), but his voice is what would make any reunion special. Steve Howe plays so much of the material under tempo these days, and his tone doesn't have the warmth or edge it used to (even in the 90's). You covered every other player's issues, which a lot of it is out of their control due to their age. I'm 40 and was lucky enough to see them a bunch in the 90's and early 2000's. I am glad I had that opportunity and their catalog form the 70's will live on and on. Yessongs and Yeshows are great live documents of a band on FIRE, a band passionate about this vibrant music. That's all but gone now, and no amount of wishing will make any of return. I'll go blast Relayer now.

[@RushTrader]

Great points and you're right, I have a feeling it would be lackluster at best. However, the Rock Hall performance had some fire to it, a shame something like that couldn't continue, but then again, Alan isn't what he was just a couple of years ago so, as you said, best to blast the classics. And yes, both Yesshows and Yessongs are great live documents for the band in their prime. I wish they'd remaster and re-release Yesshows, maybe even expand it too. That one hasn't gotten much attention over the years but always a favorite.

[@Daniel-415-Ponce]

@@RushTrader I agree that an expanded reissue of YesShows with some previously-unreleased performances added to the set would be fantastic. But FYI, the Atlantic Records CD release of the album in the late 1990's was a remaster, and, if I recall correctly, it included some additional between-songs banter by Jon Anderson including an acknowledgement of the road crew for whatever that is worth to the listener. Also, about a decade ago there was a UK import release on the Friday Music label that included bonus live performances of "I've Seen All Good People" and "Roundabout" (these were the same two renditions that had previously been made available as bonus tracks on the 1981 anthology album Classic Yes).

[@stevelamonica2297]

The fact that Steve Howe continued with Yes after Chris Squire died is sacrilege. It's obviously just about money now, and that's sad. The current incarnation of Yes now is a fucking joke. Trotting a semi-conscious Alan White on stage was sad and cruel. These guys should have hung it up 5 years ago. Pathetic.

[@georgeford3687]

90125 was their last good album? Talk was better than that. Add Keys and The Ladder were much better than that pop tripe minus Hearts. Nevertheless, I've been a die hard Yes fan from the 70s. I tended to blame Rick because of all the times he left but after Chris died and that bitter speech Steve gave at the HOF I think he is turning out to be the real jerk here.