The Boomer REport - Music Fun Facts

Yes - 10 Fun Facts

1. They were originally a psychedelic pop band – Formed in London in 1968, Yes started off performing Beatles and Byrds covers with experimental twists before fully embracing progressive rock.
2. Their logo is a work of art – The iconic “bubble” Yes logo was designed by artist Roger Dean, who also created most of the band’s otherworldly album covers.
3. They changed members constantly – Over 20 musicians have been in Yes, with many versions touring at once (at one point, there were two bands called Yes at the same time).
4. “Roundabout” was written in the back of a van – The band was inspired by literal roundabouts while driving through Scotland. The song became their first big hit in the U.S.
5. They pioneered complex time signatures in rock – Songs like Close to the Edge and Heart of the Sunrise use multiple meters, with changes mid-phrase and mid-riff.
6. Jon Anderson believed in UFOs and space spirits – The band's lyrics were often based on Anderson’s mystical interests and dreams, leading to ethereal themes in Tales from Topographic Oceans.
7. Rick Wakeman wore a cape and brought beer to gigs – The classically trained keyboardist often performed in a sequined cape and had a mini-fridge hidden behind his synth rig.
8. They were one of the first bands to use a Moog synthesizer live – Yes helped introduce the Minimoog and Mellotron to rock audiences in the early ’70s.
9. They performed with an orchestra in 1970 before it was trendy – Yes played the Royal Festival Hall backed by a full orchestra, influencing bands like Genesis and ELP to follow suit.
10. They recorded one album with no guitar at all – Talk (1994) was almost entirely digital, with Trevor Rabin playing guitar through synthesized patches.