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THANK YOU for finally getting to Jon Anderson Elizabeth!! You should do one of his live versions of "State of Independence" (he does one with the kids Orchestra in Cleveland which is quite good). Please please please dive deeper into Yes/Jon Anderson - you won't regret it! (some suggestions since you prefer live performances would include their Yessongs tour as well as their tour with orchestra in the early 2000s as part of their Magnification tour but their studio albums The Yes Album, Fragile, Close to the Edge, Relayer and Going for the One are impeccable)
Finally, I've been waiting so long for you to listen to the very best in progressive rock. Once you listen to Jon Anderson and the creativity of his voice and the music of Yes, you must go on to listen to the extensive and voluminous decades of truly great music.
How about some Lynnrd Skynrd? I'd suggest Freebird live but that song is like 20 minutes without the breaks for analysis. Not sure how many of us have 2days to listen to your react. ;)
It's almost criminal it took until after Chris Squire passed before Yes were finally inducted into the RRHOF. Geddy Lee is probably the only person who could fill those shoes on stage that night.
Similarly, when South Park had their 25th Anniversary concert, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson showed up and Matt Stone got to play drums for Rush. They surprised him. That had to be amazing for him.
One of the saddest parts about Chris Squire having passed away was that he was a great singer, too. The harmonies he sang with Anderson and Steve Howe were truly one of the hallmarks of the Classic Yes sound.
Yes, absolutely! After Chris Squire passed, the sound of the vocals was missing a very crucial part in the harmonies, which most people often overlooked until it was gone.
@@lindazee and unfortunately, when Chris passed, Jon had been out of the band for quite a while. I don't have anything against Benoit David or Jon Davison, except they are not Jon Anderson. I was really quite happy when Trevor Horn remixed Fly From Here and put his vocals in. I felt like we finally got a proper follow up to Drama, even if it was 35 years later.
The Anderson, Squire, and Howe harmonies were fantastic as long as Howe's mic was turned away, way down. Great guitarist/songwriter, but his singing was "just a touch" on the weak side.
@@THumanQTip completely agree. Howe's voice is rather weak and breathy. It isn't something you want to hear by itself, or even too high in a mix. But there is something really amazing that he is able to add when singing with Anderson and Squire. Times like I Get Up, I Get Down from Close to the Edge and Disillusion from Starship Trooper just would be the same with whatever it is that he adds to the stronger voices.
As good as Jon's voice is today, it's truly amazing when you consider he nearly died of respiratory failure fifteen years ago. Still going at 78. Remarkable!
As good as he was here, you can tell that his voice is not quite as good as it used to be. To compare she should find either an earlier live version or the studio. I say that with all due respect. I loved Yes and their music.
@@garyr8739 true but, compared similar aged contemporaries, his voice is in remarkably good shape. I would urge the charismatic voice to check out jon anderson with todmobile performing "Awaken "
Bwahahaha - I just commented above and said nearly the identical thing, then decided to see if anyone else acknowledged that while good, this performance is - as you said - a shadow of the original studio recording on Fragile! :)
I actually think he sounds better here than on the studio recording, it's more detailed, in the studio they double his voice, and I don't like the effect. He also has a much smoother tone in this video. Also the added raspiness of his voice adds a nice dynamic to when he pushes to get a clear tone. He might of lost a tiny bit of range and agility, but his added depth of vocal phrasing in my opinion more than makes up for that.
Not to minimize the quality of a voice with almost 60 years of performance, but you are right. This is almost a different, and hollow interpretation of the studio cut (and before any digital manipulation of vocals). I am a little surprised that RICK WAKEMAN is not a name she is very familiar with! He was a keyboard GOD in the 60/70s.
Wonderful that you're finally getting to Yes. There's a whole universe full of musical wonder and stunning vocals in 1970s progressive rock. This is the tip of the iceberg with Yes, you'll be blown away by their work on Close To The Edge
Close to the Edge (the song, but then again also the entire album) is one of the most amazing things I've ever heard. I second this and can't recommend both the title track and "And You And I" strongly enough!! 🤗
Yes, it's amazing how well Jon Anderson's voice has lasted through the decades. Fortunately, there are lots of UA-cam videos of Yes live performances. This link ua-cam.com/video/kmZoQFYYx8U/v-deo.html is to a performance of Roundabout in London in 1972.. Three albums from this time period which are "must listens" are The Yes Album, Fragile, and Close to the Edge.
Agreed! Reviewing a band like this when they're in their late 60's and 70's doesn't do them or their music any favors. Granted, I was spoiled by being there back in the day but if you're going to 'introduce" yourself and many, many others to Yes or others, pick something that let's them put their best foot forward! Please Elizabeth!
OMG, you MUST experience the album version of this song. I promise the difference between the studio version and the live version is far greater than the difference between “lightning” and “lightning bug”.
Yes is really one of those bands that was so much better in their prime and probably also better in the studio than live. The earlier albums are where its at for sure.
I love how delighted Geddy Lee looks to be there. He is fan boying out the entire time. You can tell he loves this song, knows it by heart is so happy to be there!
I remember watching this performance and it struck me that Geddy is ONLY playing the bas. He's not playing the bass and singing or playing the keyboards and singing and he's not playing the bass and pumping up the crowd. That's practically a night off for what he has been used to on stage for his career.
Rick Wakemen is and always will be the original keyboard wizard - classically trained concert pianist he has ALL the keyboards and Jon Anderson is in his 70s now I believe just phenomenal... plus, gotta love Geddy on bass - one of the very few that could fill the great Chris Squire's shoes. Fabulous version this.Also brilliant to see Steve Howe and Trevor Rabin on stage together... and the great Alan White on drums? Say no more.
How can you say that Wakeman is the original keyboard wizard when Keith Emerson proceeded him, first with the Nice in starting in 1967 and then in 1971 with Emerson Lake & Palmer?
Honestly, this is the best visual in the HoF performance. It is gratifying to see other iconic musicians be fanboys for each other, although it is not all that rare. Greatness knows greatness!
Speaking of pioneers, Rick Wakeman was one of the first to incorporate the Moog synthesizer into rock music. He is an amazing musician and a true visionary. "Wizard" is a perfect denotation for him.
Oh he's 100% wizard. Watching his fingers effortlessly glide over the keys is amazing in and of itself. He added so much flavor to the band with his talent.
Totally agreed, also take a closer listening to Jon's vocal technic in the song "To Be Over" and the Album Private Collection, which he recorded along with Vangelis.
Absolutely. This is probably not the best way to start with this band although roundabout itself is not a bad first choice. Also listen to gates of delirium, starship trooper, I've seen all good people, wonderous stories, awaken, owner of a lonely heart, heart of the sunrise, time and a word, Close to the edge and and you and I.
I always recommend anyone listening to YES the first time to hear the studio versions first, they're so perfect. I didn't particularly like this performance. It was okay but not the genius of the studio version.🤩@@mikereiss4216
4th this. The album version is ridiculous. The vocals are much better (they were much younger and in their prime). Every musician in this band is amazing in his own right. The bassist is nuts! Gotta hear Long Distance Runaround. Such an amazing group!
There's nothing, to describe the album version of "Close To The Edge", other than Prog Perfection. It's difficult to believe, that they were so young, and so sophisticated, other than Magical alignments.
Yep. According to Edward Macan, in his excellent book _Rocking the Classics,_ "Close to the Edge" follows pretty closely the structure of the sonata form (with clever twists). That's the structure used in most of the first movements of classical symphonies, for example. I don't buy for a second that this is just a coincidence; these guys knew what they were doing. At least Wakeman had full classical training; I don't know about the others, but with a level of musicianship this high, I'm quite confident that they knew enough music theory to do it intentionally.
I remember my eight or nine year old self sitting in my back yard, with an only technically "portable" CD player (10x AA batteries.. haha) listening to that album all the way through. I have adored it ever since. Everything about it is perfection. I love the dynamics between the tranquil "I get up / I get down" moments before the simple genius of the thundering church organ solos; the gorgeous multitracked 12-string acoustic guitar in And You and I; and the frantic chaos of Siberian Khatru.
Jon Anderson was 72 when this was performed. He’s now 78 and still sounds incredible. He’s still touring. Been fortunate enough to see his solo tours. Amazing vocalist
FAR from incredible, NOTHING like his younger days. And before anyone starts with the" Well he's SO MUCH older" stuff, I realize that, obviously. He still sounds good, even really good on occasion, but I'd have to argue with "incredible".
The union of Geddy Lee and Yes- a collection of my all time favorite artists is absolutely magical. Geddy was so humble during this performance, and I get it. But Geddy is such a legend in his own right. So glad he got the chance to do this. Such a fitting tribute to Chris Squire.
When she mentions in the beginning, the bass line is funky and she thinks it is slap, but that is Geddy's style. And due to Fender J's bottom end he uses, this version of Roundabout sound more full in bass that the masters version. I liked this one as well very much. Such a shame that Yes was not inducted before Chris Squire's passing.
Heart Of The Sunrise is a beautiful song by Yes, Jon Anderson is Superb singing that song, and I’ve always listened to Yes even saw them in Concert with Kansas and Jon Anderson’s voice has always sounded like that and I think he even talks in a high voice so I think it’s so natural for him to be able to sing those high notes effortlessly, his low voice is even already high such a talent
"Heart of the Sunrise" and "Close to the Edge" arguably the pinnacles of Jon Anderson vocal performances. And there's some really tremendous live versions available (both are on Yessongs for example) if you were interested in listening to Jon when he was much younger.
I’ve been a Yes fan since I was a teen and have had the pleasure of seeing them in concert no less than 4 times. Just want to add CLOSE TO THE EDGE! Do it. Do it.
Geddy Lee is really the only one who could've filled the giant space left by Chris Squire having departed this mortal coil, and some really cool air keyboard playing by Geddy also! RIP Chris Squire. RIP Neil Peart.
@@hughrisdon7717 Agreed. He certainly showed those elitist "fingers only" purists a thing or two with that snap and growl he tore out of his trusty Ricky.
Yes was a huge influence on Geddy and Alex from Rush when they were in high school. It was a huge honour for Geddy and Alex to be picked to induct Yes into the rock and roll Hall of Fame.And for Geddy to get to play with them
yeah, oh man his tone, he must've felt so honoured, and sort of duty-bound, like this was his destiny. it was spiritually beautiful to behold. sure plenty of bass whizzes could've played it, heck I could've, but he was the single most right man for the job.
@@MobiusBandwidth The tone he played with made it sound and feel like Chris was making his presence known through him. The only thing missing was Chris' voice in the backing vocals.
After you've listened to a few more Yes songs, you simply must do a full-album listen to "Close to the Edge". It is a musical masterpiece! It is a concept album, and needs to be heard in its entirety. It will blow you away. It is in my Top 3 rock albums of all-time.
I saw Yes a number of times in the 70''s. Front row once and 10th row as well as higher up seats. One thing I noticed is that he looked like he just opened his mouth and out came this wonderful sound. It seemed effortless. I would recommend the song 'And You and I'. A beautiful song that really highlights his voice. Great reaction, enjoy your channel...
And You And I is a great choice and one of my personal faves. It does show off Jon's vocals, with some ethereal passages. Geddy Lee is a fitting stand-in, but I do miss Chris Squire.
I third that! I was just listening to 'And You and I' on a drive yesterday; singing along, but an octave lower. Even after 50 years, I can still discover new things in the soundscape. I thank Elizabeth for helping me learn how to really listen and appreciate.
You can't go wrong with "Long Distance Runaround" or my personal favorite "I've Seen All Good People", two early excellent Yes songs! They were one of the progenitors of progressive rock along with King Crimson and Emerson, Lake and Palmer. All of them were huge influences on the men of Rush.
There are concerts performances of Yes back in the 70's. They had a concert movie and album called Yessongs which is on youtube. I would suggest "Heart of the Sunrise", "Close to the Edge" and "And You and I." Great review and reaction as always Elizabeth!
As great as that was it bought tears to my eyes that Squire wasn't there. Wonderful reaction. I've Seen All Good People and South Side Of The Sky are brilliant examples of their harmonies. Anderson, Howe and Squire are self taught. Enjoy your Yes journey. 🙏🍁
@KeithCollyer Squire stopped choir at 14, got asked to leave then had a bass shoved in his hand so he taught himself and after a yr of self isolation, caused by a bad LSD trip, and practice emerged a bassist.
@@lesblatnyak5947 Apologies for coming across rather pedantically. By 14 he had had several years of choir training, which included music theory and practice. In terms of playing bass, yes, he was self-taught, but he had a very solid musical background.
Jon Anderson is still a good singer now at 75 I think. Another great voice who still has it is the 5 octave Annie Haslam of Renaissance. Their album Novella is my 7th favorite album in all music history. Just ahead of Incantations and behind Magnification, side 1 of Novella is the finest album side Renaissance ever recorded. If you are curious about Annie Haslam and Renaissance, I think you should start with those two songs, Can You Hear Me and The Sisters. There's no break between the two tracks, so just let the side play out like it's all one track.
This is the song that motivated me to play bass. 40+ years later I still use it as my warm up. Also, I once heard Geddy Lee talk about how Chris Squire was one of his primary influences so it's really cool to see/hear Geddy standing in for him.
Geddy also once said Chris is the reason he chose to play a Rickenbacker in Rush. Chris and Geddy are the reason I too chose a Rickenbacker 4003 as my favorite bass in 1981 (still own it and it still sounds fantastic!) I just wish Geddy had chosen to play this with a Ric as well. But I imagine, since Chris played with a pick, it was easier to get the pick-like sound on a Fender.
Very good choice, no doubt. Bass often gets lost in rock songs behind everything else, but it's really the prominent driving force of this classic, and steals the show whenever it's slapping
Maybe. Rush and Yes started around the same time so they are contemporaries. Saying the Geddy is "fan-boying" is a bit strong as I saw in another comment. I'm guessing they are just as big of fans of Geddy's playing as he is of theirs, which is why he is there.
Steve is, and was was highly celebrated. Top of the reader polls in Guitar Player magazine 5 years in a row. Stop it with your misunderstanding of the word "underrated".
The “Yes” rabbit hole has now been opened! There are so many wonderful sounds to explore either live or from the studio. Jon Anderson’s voice will never disappoint, neither will Steve Howe’s guitar work, Rick Wakeman’s keyboard skills and compositions and finally you will get the chance to acquaint yourself with the late great Chris Squire and his bass work. One must not forget the huge contributions that both Bill Bruford and Alan White made on drums/percussion. These performers make the golden era of YES, but there were regular changes throughout their time too.
I think you'd love "And You And I" - it's my favorite by them, and it's just gorgeous! :) I've always been partial to the album and the Symphonic Live versions -- such a great display of Jon's voice and the band's musicality! Symphonic Live: ua-cam.com/video/AYmeJlm7Gcg/v-deo.html
I want to change my response! I mentioned "Heart of the Sunrise" and "Close to the Edge", but "And You and I" is easily as good or better for showcasing Jon's incredible voice!
Agree, And You and I is one of the most amazing songs - I saw them on their 35th Anniversary Tour at Madison Square Garden and they got a ten minute standing ovation after the last solo section.. There wasn't a dry eye in the house!
As a lifelong Rush fan, my first impression of this performance was really hard to digest - I’ve spent my entire life watching Geddy front a band. Seeing him lay back and respect his role in this performance is just an example of what an excellent human and respectful musician he is. I love that you’ve gotten around to Yes - so much to unpack with them ✌🏻
On a walk in Suffolk I encountered Rick with my partner and rescue dog George - he adores dogs and we had a long chat - such a funny unpretentious guy!
Each member of Yes is a Maestro. They are one of the most accomplished ensemble of talent to ever bless our ears period. I hope she listens to more. Close to the edge, Yours is no disgrace, You and I, Seen all good people/Your move, heart of the sunrise and Wonderous Stories should be on he short list of songs to hear. There's so many. Jon Anderson wrote great lyrics.
If you like Jon Andersons voice, you must have "Fragile" by Yes, so you can hear him harmonise with Chris Squire. That album is in my top ten of all time!
If you're gonna have anyone stand in for the late Chris Squire, Geddy is definitely the man. He is obviously having a ball, and he honors Squire's original lines 100%.
The moment at 8:32 when Geddy can't resist doing a bit of air keyboard while waiting for his bass part to come back. In addition to being a world class bassist, Geddy is a pretty awesome keyboard player himself.
This song has so much going on the studio version is a must-listen-to also. That is the only way you can hear everything. They were still amazing in concert.
“This feels like the beginning of something incredible.” That’s what so many of us Prog Rock fans felt back in the day. It’s amazing to see you experience it!
Jon Anderson sings amazingly for his age, he almost died about 10 years before this and he had to rebuild his voice after severe respiratory problems. Jon sings with such joy and control.
OK, here's thew sixty-four thousand dollar question. How does one know he's not singing live, with autotune applied to the voice signal going into the microphone before it is sent to the speakers?
@@Orange-Jumpsuit-Time ... because [VERY CLOSE TO THIS] is how he has always sounded ... before autotune was invented. They didnt need to use it then and they wont have started using it now. Oh and ... USUALLY it is the person MAKING THE CLAIM that has to prove it. So if you want to make that claim it is YOUR JOB to prove it!
As you may see by the plethora of comments, Yes has quite the catalog of music, and the fans all have different favorites. And even though it's not my favorite Yes song, "Awaken" is Jon's favorite. From the 1977 album "Going For The One", it is one of their best written songs and very complex in its arrangement. (My absolute favorite Yes track is "The Gates of Delirium" from 1974's "Relayer". Do this track only if you want to analyze a 22 minute song.) Thank you for listening to Yes. I've been listening to them for a VERY long time.
The Keyboardist, Rick Wakeman was classically trained. The pieces on his album "The Six Wives of Henry VIII" has a very strong classical presence. Yes, in general, took rock to a new place, along with the band Emerson, Lake, and Palmer and the band Moody Blues. Great commentary again. Thanks.
Jon was 73 when this was performed. To say his voice has aged well is a dramatic understatement. If you listen to earlier Yes he sounds pretty much the same. This song was their only real radio hit (in the early years). Most of their catalogue from the old progressive days wasn’t for mass consumption. I’ve seen them live a number of times going back to the late 70s. Unbelievable experience. Having Geddy Lee fill in for Chris Squire was just the cherry on the sundae. Thanks for being this back.
Jon Anderson is a fascinating person. I had the fortune to watch yes compose songs together and rehearse together for a summer, and Jon composes songs purely with his voice, thinking and knowing all the parts and singing them to everyone in the group, compound time signatures and key signatures fully understood.... he's quite the genius, literally. Amazing to watch. He was clearly leading the rehearsals of all of these world class musicians in the band, at least in the parts I chose to watch. Incredible, amazing, musicians, all of them.
Rick Wakeman (along with ELP's Keith Emerson) is a keyboard god. His solo projects "Journey to the Center of the Earth" and "The Myths and Legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table" are phenomenal. They could almost be called operatic.
Since she's FINALLY getting around to the roots of prog rock, I can't wait for her to go down the ELP rabbit hole. I've been wanting to hear her react to Greg Lake doing Cest la Vie forever, then take off down the rabbit hole. Start with ELP live at California Jam Elizabeth.... not as clean a sound because it's decades old, but it gives the overview of how epic their live shows were with full orchestra backing. I want to see her cringe at Emerson's Bach improv treatment of the organ for sure. 🤣🤣🤣
The Yes "rabbit hole" is deep and wide! There is so much great music to discover with this band. RIP Chris Squire....I'm sure Geddy Lee is honored to step into his shoes. He's more than capable.
Rest in Peace Chris Squire, these guys should have been inducted many moons ago with Chris present. Great work Geddy.. Been to both bands concerts over the years.
Please consider doing the studio version of Close to the Edge. Multiple vocal parts, unusual arrangements, masterful performances, after all these years completely unique.
Absolute MUST! And yes - the studio version. This was fun, to see this gang at this time of their lives. But for my taste, NO live version ever pushes the same buttons as the original that I fell in love with.
I was indeed so very lucky to see Yes with the Squire , Anderson , Howe , White and Wakeman lineup in the mid 2000s . Opening for them were dream theater.
Saw them a couple of times during the Yes (3rd) album and they hooked me right in. I've heard a lot of great prog bands (and really love quite a few), but none of them really can maatch the compositional and technical and joyful output of this band.
Great analysis!I am 70 and Roundabout still sounds as epic and musically intriguing as it did when it came out...and I certainly never thought Anderson's vocal chords would last over time and yet they did,thank goodness 😊.
I love this song and your analysis! Jon Anderson does a monthly zoom Q&A for his Patreon patrons. He is as enthusiastic and joyful as he comes across onstage. You could go onto one of those Q&As and ask him about his vocal upkeep, or even use attending as a springboard to get an interview with him for the channel! Just a though 😊
If you want to deep dive into Jon's vocals binge listen to the live album recording "YesSongs". This release displays Yes at their youthful best. The fact this recording filled 6 album sides and an accompanying feature length movie is just a bonus.
Absolutely agree! For me Yessongs is the ultimate Yes. I love the energy! Also, that album cover! I still have the triple-gateway-foldout, in my opinion the greatest album cover ever produced.
@@Parrain0606 - talking over and stopping is done for analysis ant copyright reasons. She always posts a link to the original video. Watch that if you don’t want commentary. I, for one, appreciate learning at the feet of someone who knows what she’s talking about.
If you want to know how Jon Anderson sounded 50 years ago, just listen to some of their old albums. This song, Roundabout, comes off their album "Fragile", which came out in 1971. It's just amazing how he sounds so much like he did back then. Thanks so much for sharing this.
If you like Rush and Yes, than you will really enjoy Triumph!! Rick Emmett has the high range in his vocals with the overwhelming talent on lead guitar! Pick anything from them, live or studio and you'll be thoroughly impressed
I would hear, "The Blinding Light Show", a lot, on the radio. They'd play the full version, too. Guitar harmonies. That's what I remember, about Triumph.
Gil Moore the drummer also sang lead on several of their songs. One of my favorite bands. "Fight the good fight", "Lay it on the line", and I always liked "Magic Power", and "Ordinary Man".
Man...I SOOOO much dig this chick's vocal and musical insights! As a musician I REALLY appreciate the nuances she points out that I either forgot about or just never noticed before! Rock On Madam Zharoff! 🤘😃 P.S. I appreciate the vocal lesson on your technique on high and low pitches!
He is no doubt the best singer who adjusted their voice to range loss with age. Listen to the album version or live video from back then. His voice will blow you away. He is high pitched. 😊
OK, here's thew sixty-four thousand dollar question. How does one know he's not singing live, with autotune applied to the voice signal going into the microphone before it is sent to the speakers?
@@Orange-Jumpsuit-Time How does one know? When one has heard him singing for years and years, long before autotune existed. He can't reach some of the high notes that he used to be able to, so has made some good alternate choices. Also, his speaking voice is so high that it sounds like a child's; he's basically singing in his normal vocal range.
To enjoy Rick Wakeman more you need to wade into his 1974 album "Journey to the center of the earth". It is very good. It is amazing how good they all still sound. I discovered them in the early 70s. I think I have all of their vinyl. Thanks for reacting to them. They have some excellent sounds.
Have listened and loved Yes since their music would fill the house as a kid in the 70's. My late mother had such a fantastic, eclectic musical preference. Forever grateful for the gift of musical appreciation I was exposed to. 57 now, and my children have heard much of it as they heard my tastes in music as eclectic as my mother's. The catalogue of yes is so vast, you can't go wrong. Starship trooper is at the top of my list. Funny how I can still see and feel the album jacket in my hands from 50 years ago. Thanks Mom for gifting me with my love of music.
Now that you've had your curiosity satisfied re: what many members of YES looked like when they were quite older, give yourself a treat by listening to the studio version of *Roundabout.* It will completely blow your mind. YES' studio recordings during their Uber Peak Period (includes Roundabout) were absolutely masterful. You see, YES were Masters of Complexity. They packed so much into their masterpieces that repeated listenings are a MUST if you want a full appreciation of the magic they created. Yes, full of complexity, but they spent hours on perfecting the mix to where you could hear all the key moments of that complexity in their turn, without it all sounding like a muddle. You'll be amazed all over again...
I was 18 in 72 when I first saw Yes in Akron Ohio. They were the headliners with the Mahavishnu Orchestra and a new group called the Eagles started the night off. They did a selection of songs from the Yes Album, Fragile, and Close to the Edge. The crowd’s reaction at that show is still a vivid memory.
The collection of talent on that stage was phenomenal. Criminally underrated band. "Close to the Edge" "Starship Trooper" "Heart of the Sunrise" and "And You and I" are all amazing songs.
@@dcbchannel1619 Close to the Edge is a super cool album. You can really hear their collaborative songwriting evolve in really interesting ways. Steve Howe does some really neat stuff on that album. Well, on every album, but still
Not only is this band in a class of its own, each of Yes' members are in a class of their own. They were so far ahead of their time in every way that I think we are still catching up. Love this band!
Jon Anderson is a phenomenon. It IS effortless for him to sing that high. And if you see him younger... Well, his voice hasn't changed much and, if anything, it improved, I think!
I remember my wife telling me about being in a high school art class when she was younger. . . and the teacher didn't like rock music. Students could pick a song to play while they were working on their art projects. She slyly selected Roundabout knowing it would fool the teach into thinking it was classical music with the acoustic guitar intro. The song began, the classical lines emerging quietly and tastefully and the teacher smiling while the class knew the sonic landscapes were about the launch into the stratosphere. Haha. I had a chance to see YES live in 1975 and play Round About in their heyday. This song is a wild ride that my brain still can hardly comprehend the amazing movements to. Steve Howe is a musical genius on guitar, Rick Wakeman, keyboard wizard extraordinaire, Chris Squire, most creative bass player and visionary, Alan White- perfect drumming and Jon Anderson, the vocals and poet who wrote most of the lyrics to all of the songs. Roundabout is a celebration of their music at its best and is THE song that launched them into stardom and history! amazing! The founding members do not consider the band to be YES, unless Jon Anderson is singing- he is the signature voice of the YES sound. There is no other.
There are so many great songs by this band. Two that I think would be good examples of Jon's vocal performance are I've Seen All Good People and Starship Trooper.
I am SO happy you have finally delved into Yes. As many have pointed out, even for your own edification you should also check out their studio work, especially Close to the Edge, which is not only a masterpiece of composition, but a masterpiece of transition as well. And the sheer beauty of And You and I, or the power of so many other works will illuminate how limiting the label of progressive rock is to the actuality.
Jon Anderson has, over six decades, looked after his voice better than just about any else in rock ever has. It has changed, but he still has the magic. He's also one of the sweetest, loveliest human beings you can ever hope to talk to - you absolutely should try to have him on and chat.
Yes! I'm sure he would love to talk to Elizabeth! Knowing Jon for a long time, I have to agree he is a wonderful guy, who makes everyone he meets feel special!
Elizabeth, my heart aches for your youth. You are just now hearing for the first time songs I have probably been listening to since before you were born.
Oh, Elizabeth, I am so glad that you have started on your Yes journey. It was such a delight to watch you react to this song. I was five years old when this song was released and it received a fair amount of airplay in the fledgling FM radio market. Yes became a favorite band in our house and has remained so after all these years. Personal favorites include: And You And I, Perpetual Change, I've Seen All Good People, and so many others it's impossible to list them. The song they played after Roundabout at the Hall of Fame was their biggest hit, Owner of a Lonely Heart, and it is also a stellar performance. Enjoy discovering this band. I can't wait to share it with you.
' Elizabeth REALLY should listen to "The Yes Album", "Going For The One" & "90125" to get a broad spread. Like you, I've ALWAYS adored "Perpetual Change" & that iconic bass-line that Chris plays (mid-bridge) As a young teenager, I was astounded as to "how" the three song/parts (finale) merged into one-another "Awaken" is a masterpiece that I really DO hope/wish/pray that Elizabeth would dissect at some later date I'd even LOVE to hear her take on "Our Song" from "90125" as it's SO bright & effervescent
@@hawnyfox3411 all fabulous suggestions. I tend to forget about Going For The One when thinking about Yes albums until I see it in my library and I always just have to listen to it. Fell in love with Awaken the first time I heard it and Turn Of The Century. Our Song is a real gem and I've always liked Shoot High, Aim Low from Big Generator. Ugh. Could talk about this for hours.
@@toddthompson7478 = Todd, please DO feel free to chat about those 'masterpiece tracks' of our youth Funny you should mention "Turn Of The Century", it WAS my favourite track for many, many years. Very very emotive & I played it an awful lot during my courtship to my pretty & good-looking wife. We used to cuddle up (as teens, clothed) & listen to my vast vinyl album collection. Whilst I sadly broke-up from her (after 29 years together & kids), I was surprised when someone pointed out her "once a month" Top Ten albums of all time.... (she's a pianist & singer, like Liz & just as pretty) In amongst Carole King & The Eagles, I was surprised she included "Going For The One" I doubt she'll remember "Parallels" which meant a lot to me, as a HUGE Chris Squire fan. "Awaken" is simply a 'Tour de Force' & is arguably a crowning achievement of YES "Turn of the Century" both is & was a VERY emotive track, Jon's vocals & Steve's acoustic guitar Production values were 'off the charts' as they seem to use just the right amount of reverb.... Yet, even those seem to pale when put next to '90125' - "Our Song" is just SO snappy & vibrant !! Never was keen on 'Shoot High/Aim Low', but just adored "Love Will Find A Way" Am & always was a HUGE fan of the mighty Trevor Rabin, even a fan long before he joined YES If you haven't already, then PLEASE DO check out Trevor's brilliant 1981 album "WOLF" ua-cam.com/video/cwqI7nKC-nY/v-deo.html en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolf_(Trevor_Rabin_album) The whole album is just superb - Have a few listens to the title track "Heard You Cry Wolf" So many damn fine tracks on THAT album - catchy riffs/hooks, a powerful album Obvious as to just how much Trevor administered CPR (& nitrous) to an ailing band (YES) Having said that, I enjoyed 1980's "Drama", esp' the mighty track "Tempus Fugit" BTW, I cut my teeth with "The Yes Album" & "Fragile" back in the 1970's, early albums for me. Whilst I did LOVE "Close To The Edge" it sounds very dated today, unlike the others. P.S ; Todd, do feel free to keep chatting....
@@hawnyfox3411 When Alan White died, I read that Turn Of The Century was his favorite Yes song and it surprised me given the lack of drums or percussion on the song. It's an odd duck, really, with Jon's unconventional lyric phrasing feeling like there were too many lyrics for the song. I doubt any other band could have pulled it off but you could say that about so many Yes songs. I'm sorry to hear that you and your wife split. 29 years is a long time (plus kids). It's cool that she still likes Going For The One, and puts it among Carole King and The Eagles -- that's pretty good company. The first time I heard that album, that steel guitar in the intro just grabbed me and wouldn't let go until the album was over. Tormato is a good album, too, but I never think about listening to it. Go figure. I agree on Awaken, it's epic. I saw a TV broadcast of a Anderson, Rabin, Wakeman show from 2016(?) and they did a fabulous job with it (not that you would expect anything less). 90125 is the first Yes album that I actually bought for myself and it still holds up today. Our Song is one of my favorites, too. I like Shoot High, Aim Low because Rabin has that blistering solo and the vocal tradeoff between he and Jon is great. Another good one is Holy Lamb. Speaking of Rabin, yeah I got Wolf and some of his other albums years ago, including the 90125 demos in their original form. Really good stuff. I only heard Drama and Relayer one time when a friend played them for me. I liked the sound of Drama but never picked it up. I'm just now getting back in to music as I had been a 24-7 caregiver to my mother for the last 7 years and I didn't have much time for music. She passed away a bit over a year ago and, odd as it may sound, Elizabeth helped me rediscover music when I discovered her videos. She's wonderful. It'll be interesting to see what her next Yes song will be.
@@toddthompson7478 = Hi Todd. Good to hear from you again mate. "Turn of the Century" to my mind, is by far & away YES' most emotional song (pre-1980) Really tugs at the heartstrings, the whole ambience of it, I guess that's why Melanie liked it ? Bizarre, as I was also bought-up on Heavy-Rock & Prog'-Rock, my two fave genres. Aside from Steve Hackett & T.R, my fave guitarists were Micheal Schenker & Paul Chapman (U.F.O) You can also add to that cadre of gunslingers, Andrew (Andy) Latimer of Camel = SENSATIONAL !!!! Prior to "Going For The One", my fave (softer) YES track was probably "And You & I" from "Close To...." I'm guessing that I'm fractionally older than yourself, not by much, but probably (laughs !) I first got into YES when "YesSongs" (triple live album) & "Topographic.." were their current L.P's In other words, I was already a hardcore YES fan before even "Relayer" was released. First TWO YES albums I bought were "The Yes Album" & "Fragile" (maaan, what a launch !!!!!) BTW ; Many thanks for your kind-hearted words about my break-up & 29-years etc Even now, 15 yrs down the line, I find it SO damn hard to deal & cope with (1978-2007) It basically took me from being a 16 y/o kid, to a 46 y/o adult (late 16 and 46th B.D) Knocked the stuffing out of me & I'm a VERY confident guy - No lightweight here. Kids involved ALWAYS makes it difficult - They didn't ask for any grief, but it happened. "Tormato" is a really dud album for me, no redeeming features - I played it once only (laughs) I laughed HARD when Rick Wakeman slagged it off, esp' the wretched album cover Really overjoyed that YOU got hold of "Wolf" back in the day, so many GOOD tracks on there !!! I listened to "Heard You Cry Wolf" TWICE last night, first time in 25+ years or more (amazed) Still sounds GREAT, majestic & very powerful & Trevor's searing Stratocaster is luscious Takes me right back to 1981 as I bought it soon after release & reminds me of GREAT times Tracks like "She's Easy" & the magnificent uplifting "Long Island" need far more airplay. Lastly mate, may I (please) urge you & encourage you to purchase 1980's album "DRAMA" ??? If ever a reason were needed..... ua-cam.com/video/vzxZzIiO84Y/v-deo.html Greatest track on the album, as good as anything YES ever did, such a powerful track too !! I've got 14 guitars & three of them are BASS - (Two Fender Jazz & one P-Bass special) "Tempus Fugit" track above, was THE first bass-run (lick) that I ever learned (I play guitar tho') Am overjoyed that YES (in their 1980 incarnation) bothered to catch THAT masterpiece on video Over to you mate......
You will find no better keyboard artist than Ric wakeman. Each member of this group is a master. When they make songs they make masterpieces. They make yes songs
I've never been a huge "Yes" fan, but, as a bass player, I've always loved the sound out of Chris Squire's Ric. It has such a thick, heavy sound. Geddy Lee played a Ric in the early days of "Rush" before switching to a Fender Jazz. He heard Squire play the Ric and said, "That's the way the bass is supposed to sound like." Funny thing is, Geddy gets the same sound out of the Ric and the Fender Jazz! I am convinced Geddy could play a shovel strung with 4 bass strings and get the same sound out of it.
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I'd love to see you analyze, etta James, Katie kadan, Liam st john
THANK YOU for finally getting to Jon Anderson Elizabeth!! You should do one of his live versions of "State of Independence" (he does one with the kids Orchestra in Cleveland which is quite good). Please please please dive deeper into Yes/Jon Anderson - you won't regret it! (some suggestions since you prefer live performances would include their Yessongs tour as well as their tour with orchestra in the early 2000s as part of their Magnification tour but their studio albums The Yes Album, Fragile, Close to the Edge, Relayer and Going for the One are impeccable)
Finally, I've been waiting so long for you to listen to the very best in progressive rock. Once you listen to Jon Anderson and the creativity of his voice and the music of Yes, you must go on to listen to the extensive and voluminous decades of truly great music.
How about some Lynnrd Skynrd? I'd suggest Freebird live but that song is like 20 minutes without the breaks for analysis. Not sure how many of us have 2days to listen to your react. ;)
Wish you could have been around in the late 60's and early 70's.... What a time to be alive.
It's almost criminal it took until after Chris Squire passed before Yes were finally inducted into the RRHOF. Geddy Lee is probably the only person who could fill those shoes on stage that night.
One of the very, very few.
Claypool is probably the only other
@@SugarcatPlays Now I want to hear an album of Claypool playing Yes, like we have one of him playing Pink Floyd.
@@petrovvd how did I not know he did floyd! What!
Flea, Leland Sklar, maybe 6-8 other guys could do the bass part, too.... but to contribute to the vocals, too -- had to be Geddy.
I love the fact , Geddy is having his personal dream come true as he plays this piece
Similarly, when South Park had their 25th Anniversary concert, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson showed up and Matt Stone got to play drums for Rush. They surprised him. That had to be amazing for him.
@@NonEuclideanTacoCannon No pressure. "Just filling in for Neil Peart..."
Chris Squire is the man. The list of guys he inspired may start with Geddy Lee, but it hasn't ended yet
Yes! When Geddy plays the air keyboards!
Yah, that moment of air keyboards at 8:32 says it all. Jon too, a moment later.
You must listen to the two studio albums "Fragile" and "Close to the Edge" to hear Yes in their absolute prime. Both albums are masterpieces... ❤
ROUNDABOUT for solo piano ua-cam.com/video/LGsFZezzCBA/v-deo.html
Agree strongly
i am a huge fan of the Yes Album as well
AGREED!
Close to the Edge, the Yes Album are my favourites.all great up to and including Going for the One.
A wizard neither has too many nor too few keyboards, he has precisely the amount he needs to.
Well said...could also substitute the word "drums" for the professor Neil
well said that man!
I think I see a Moog up there and feel happy.
And don't forget the original bass wizard Lee Sklar!
@@HappyBeezerStudios yes, & uncle tony levin, too!
Love seeing the Moog, but I wish he brought a real electric organ along for this. Keith Emerson would’ve. He also would’ve stabbed and wrestled it.
When Jon was younger, his voice was clear as a bell - the huskiness came in as he got into his 60's. One of the most unique voices in music.
Clear as a summer sky of purest azure.
He has been in much better voice of late.
Not true, Listen to Somethings Coming from the earliest days of YES - Jon could always sing sweet and husky. Absolutely unique voice!
He's sounded like an angel with a husky voice forever. I don't know what you're talking about.
Great band, but if I made a list of the top/my top 100 singers in rock and roll, Jon doesn’t make the cut.
One of the saddest parts about Chris Squire having passed away was that he was a great singer, too. The harmonies he sang with Anderson and Steve Howe were truly one of the hallmarks of the Classic Yes sound.
Yes, absolutely! After Chris Squire passed, the sound of the vocals was missing a very crucial part in the harmonies, which most people often overlooked until it was gone.
@@lindazee and unfortunately, when Chris passed, Jon had been out of the band for quite a while. I don't have anything against Benoit David or Jon Davison, except they are not Jon Anderson. I was really quite happy when Trevor Horn remixed Fly From Here and put his vocals in. I felt like we finally got a proper follow up to Drama, even if it was 35 years later.
The Anderson, Squire, and Howe harmonies were fantastic as long as Howe's mic was turned away, way down.
Great guitarist/songwriter, but his singing was "just a touch" on the weak side.
@@THumanQTip completely agree. Howe's voice is rather weak and breathy. It isn't something you want to hear by itself, or even too high in a mix. But there is something really amazing that he is able to add when singing with Anderson and Squire. Times like I Get Up, I Get Down from Close to the Edge and Disillusion from Starship Trooper just would be the same with whatever it is that he adds to the stronger voices.
@@THumanQTip I'll go with 'off'. Dude can't sing, especially in this clip. His "yeah, yeah" at 15:19 is cringe-ahoy.
As good as Jon's voice is today, it's truly amazing when you consider he nearly died of respiratory failure fifteen years ago. Still going at 78. Remarkable!
As good as he was here, you can tell that his voice is not quite as good as it used to be. To compare she should find either an earlier live version or the studio. I say that with all due respect. I loved Yes and their music.
@@garyr8739 true but, compared similar aged contemporaries, his voice is in remarkably good shape. I would urge the charismatic voice to check out jon anderson with todmobile performing "Awaken "
@@garyr8739 I agree. It’s not what it was.
I can’t believe it took so long for them to be admitted to the hall of fame.
I think he sounds better when he pushes it now. Amazing.
Jon always sounded like an angel. He just sounds like an angel about to earn his wings sooner rather than later. Enjoy him while we got him ...
Geddy Lee from Rush standing in for Chris Squire was a perfect inclusion. The bass run is an amazing drive.
Look for the bass cover of this song. TJH3113
Oh, my dear, you NEED to listen to this on the studio recording. His voice is a shadow of what it was!
Yes. It's a bucket list voice to hear in his prime.
Bwahahaha - I just commented above and said nearly the identical thing, then decided to see if anyone else acknowledged that while good, this performance is - as you said - a shadow of the original studio recording on Fragile! :)
Definitely
I actually think he sounds better here than on the studio recording, it's more detailed, in the studio they double his voice, and I don't like the effect. He also has a much smoother tone in this video. Also the added raspiness of his voice adds a nice dynamic to when he pushes to get a clear tone. He might of lost a tiny bit of range and agility, but his added depth of vocal phrasing in my opinion more than makes up for that.
Not to minimize the quality of a voice with almost 60 years of performance, but you are right. This is almost a different, and hollow interpretation of the studio cut (and before any digital manipulation of vocals). I am a little surprised that RICK WAKEMAN is not a name she is very familiar with! He was a keyboard GOD in the 60/70s.
Wonderful that you're finally getting to Yes. There's a whole universe full of musical wonder and stunning vocals in 1970s progressive rock. This is the tip of the iceberg with Yes, you'll be blown away by their work on Close To The Edge
Close to the Edge (the song, but then again also the entire album) is one of the most amazing things I've ever heard. I second this and can't recommend both the title track and "And You And I" strongly enough!! 🤗
Close to the Edge is great. I love Big Generator.
Maybe Heart of the Sunrise, or Starship Trooper. A little more introduction before hitting her with Close to the Edge! 🙂
@@TheScottSlater Don't forget 'Siberian Khatru' either... The whole album is a masterpiece... 👌👌
@@oceanfrog Heart of the Sunrise is such a beautiful song.
Yes, it's amazing how well Jon Anderson's voice has lasted through the decades. Fortunately, there are lots of UA-cam videos of Yes live performances. This link ua-cam.com/video/kmZoQFYYx8U/v-deo.html is to a performance of Roundabout in London in 1972.. Three albums from this time period which are "must listens" are The Yes Album, Fragile, and Close to the Edge.
And with Chris Squire. great call.
This should have been the version reviewed.
@@CJRamos-jv3pb Agreed, having dipped the toe in the water, the next step would be checking out earlier performances, when they were in their prime
Heart of the Sunrise really displays Jon Andersons early vocal style and ability. I think you can find it from that time period "live" as well.
Agreed! Reviewing a band like this when they're in their late 60's and 70's doesn't do them or their music any favors. Granted, I was spoiled by being there back in the day but if you're going to 'introduce" yourself and many, many others to Yes or others, pick something that let's them put their best foot forward! Please Elizabeth!
OMG, you MUST experience the album version of this song. I promise the difference between the studio version and the live version is far greater than the difference between “lightning” and “lightning bug”.
yes, try the studio version; there you can clearly hear every inch of sounds that may blow your mind.
Yes is really one of those bands that was so much better in their prime and probably also better in the studio than live. The earlier albums are where its at for sure.
I HATE Geddy Lee. Please go back to the 70’s!
the YesSongs version is MUCH better than the album version. Yes is a band that is better live!
"... lightning and a lightning bug"
Extremely well put !!
I love how delighted Geddy Lee looks to be there. He is fan boying out the entire time. You can tell he loves this song, knows it by heart is so happy to be there!
True enough but as he was an influence I am sure Ged would rather have Chris there
His favorite band
Especially when he's air keyboarding
Yeah, but this has to be the ultimate example of bittersweet.
He's only performing because Chris isn't.
Ged shoulda busted out his Rick for this.
I remember watching this performance and it struck me that Geddy is ONLY playing the bas. He's not playing the bass and singing or playing the keyboards and singing and he's not playing the bass and pumping up the crowd. That's practically a night off for what he has been used to on stage for his career.
Rick Wakemen is and always will be the original keyboard wizard - classically trained concert pianist he has ALL the keyboards and Jon Anderson is in his 70s now I believe just phenomenal... plus, gotta love Geddy on bass - one of the very few that could fill the great Chris Squire's shoes. Fabulous version this.Also brilliant to see Steve Howe and Trevor Rabin on stage together... and the great Alan White on drums? Say no more.
How can you say that Wakeman is the original keyboard wizard when Keith Emerson proceeded him, first with the Nice in starting in 1967 and then in 1971 with Emerson Lake & Palmer?
@@davidjones5547 because he didn't dress like a Wizard and have the hat. Great as he was.
@@infamousT You can't be serious? Jordan Rudess sometimes wears a wizards hat, Are you putting him in the same league with Wakeman? I am.
@@davidjones5547 oh God man... try and grow a sense of humour will you? I refuse to argue.
Still a big Bill Buford fan
Geddy's inner keyboardist doing air keyboards to Rick Wakeman made my day.
I've watched the original video more time than I can count, and I've never noticed it! Thanks for making me notice this awesome detail
Honestly, this is the best visual in the HoF performance. It is gratifying to see other iconic musicians be fanboys for each other, although it is not all that rare. Greatness knows greatness!
Speaking of pioneers, Rick Wakeman was one of the first to incorporate the Moog synthesizer into rock music. He is an amazing musician and a true visionary. "Wizard" is a perfect denotation for him.
First concert I ever saw was Three Dog Night with special guest The Wizard. What a fantastic surprise.
Oh he's 100% wizard. Watching his fingers effortlessly glide over the keys is amazing in and of itself. He added so much flavor to the band with his talent.
Rick might have been 2nd. George incorporated the Moog into Abby Rd: “Because”.
You really need to hear the studio version of this song.🤩
Totally agreed, also take a closer listening to Jon's vocal technic in the song "To Be Over" and the Album Private Collection, which he recorded along with Vangelis.
Absolutly! ua-cam.com/video/cPCLFtxpadE/v-deo.html
Absolutely. This is probably not the best way to start with this band although roundabout itself is not a bad first choice. Also listen to gates of delirium, starship trooper, I've seen all good people, wonderous stories, awaken, owner of a lonely heart, heart of the sunrise, time and a word, Close to the edge and and you and I.
I always recommend anyone listening to YES the first time to hear the studio versions first, they're so perfect. I didn't particularly like this performance. It was okay but not the genius of the studio version.🤩@@mikereiss4216
4th this. The album version is ridiculous. The vocals are much better (they were much younger and in their prime). Every musician in this band is amazing in his own right. The bassist is nuts! Gotta hear Long Distance Runaround. Such an amazing group!
There's nothing, to describe the album version of "Close To The Edge", other than Prog Perfection.
It's difficult to believe, that they were so young, and so sophisticated, other than Magical alignments.
Greatest prog album of all time!!
More of a Fragile guy myself but Close To The Edge is pretty good too 😉
Yep. According to Edward Macan, in his excellent book _Rocking the Classics,_ "Close to the Edge" follows pretty closely the structure of the sonata form (with clever twists). That's the structure used in most of the first movements of classical symphonies, for example. I don't buy for a second that this is just a coincidence; these guys knew what they were doing. At least Wakeman had full classical training; I don't know about the others, but with a level of musicianship this high, I'm quite confident that they knew enough music theory to do it intentionally.
I remember my eight or nine year old self sitting in my back yard, with an only technically "portable" CD player (10x AA batteries.. haha) listening to that album all the way through. I have adored it ever since. Everything about it is perfection. I love the dynamics between the tranquil "I get up / I get down" moments before the simple genius of the thundering church organ solos; the gorgeous multitracked 12-string acoustic guitar in And You and I; and the frantic chaos of Siberian Khatru.
Yes no visuals just listen - it's ethereal.
Jon Anderson was 72 when this was performed. He’s now 78 and still sounds incredible. He’s still touring. Been fortunate enough to see his solo tours. Amazing vocalist
and Now there are TWO Yes...!! pffff
Saw him sing in the tiny town hall in Woodstock VT. He can still shatter a glass. His stories were fun, too.
FAR from incredible, NOTHING like his younger days. And before anyone starts with the" Well he's SO MUCH older" stuff, I realize that, obviously. He still sounds good, even really good on occasion, but I'd have to argue with "incredible".
He's going currently working on the sequel to Olias of Sunhillow. Close to 8 hours of music. I'm waiting for that tour!
You need to hear Gates of Delirium live. The end of the song, SOON, is beautiful. Or Turn of the Century live
The union of Geddy Lee and Yes- a collection of my all time favorite artists is absolutely magical. Geddy was so humble during this performance, and I get it. But Geddy is such a legend in his own right. So glad he got the chance to do this. Such a fitting tribute to Chris Squire.
When she mentions in the beginning, the bass line is funky and she thinks it is slap, but that is Geddy's style. And due to Fender J's bottom end he uses, this version of Roundabout sound more full in bass that the masters version. I liked this one as well very much. Such a shame that Yes was not inducted before Chris Squire's passing.
Lee was once quoted saying that he never would have picked up bass if it weren’t for Chris Squire.
Heart Of The Sunrise is a beautiful song by Yes, Jon Anderson is Superb singing that song, and I’ve always listened to Yes even saw them in Concert with Kansas and Jon Anderson’s voice has always sounded like that and I think he even talks in a high voice so I think it’s so natural for him to be able to sing those high notes effortlessly, his low voice is even already high such a talent
The Masterworks tour? I saw them on that tour and it was a dream come true with all the long tracks they played.
"Heart of the Sunrise" and "Close to the Edge" arguably the pinnacles of Jon Anderson vocal performances. And there's some really tremendous live versions available (both are on Yessongs for example) if you were interested in listening to Jon when he was much younger.
The last time Jon sings " I feel lost in the city" is one of the most beautiful moments ever recorded.
Heart of the Sunrise really shows his vocal range. I could never hit those really high notes, even as a 6th grader with some vocal training.
Absolutely seconding these two songs as the pinnacle of Yes and Jon's vocals in their early years.
I’ve been a Yes fan since I was a teen and have had the pleasure of seeing them in concert no less than 4 times. Just want to add CLOSE TO THE EDGE! Do it. Do it.
Anything off CTTE album, or Tales from Topographic Oceans perhaps even Turn of the Century from Going for the One
At 19 years of age in 1977, I saw Yes in concert.
I love Close to the Edge!
I too discovered them in 1977 at the age of 15. Got 16 shows under my belt, plus 2 of Jon's solo gigs.
Geddy Lee is really the only one who could've filled the giant space left by Chris Squire having departed this mortal coil, and some really cool air keyboard playing by Geddy also! RIP Chris Squire. RIP Neil Peart.
AMEN
Geddy did an adequate job. He is a good bassist, but no one can replace Squire.
Les could kill it but agree geddy was the man for the job
You need to review a live version with Chris Squire, one of the greatest rock bass player ever.
@@hughrisdon7717 Agreed. He certainly showed those elitist "fingers only" purists a thing or two with that snap and growl he tore out of his trusty Ricky.
Yes was a huge influence on Geddy and Alex from Rush when they were in high school. It was a huge honour for Geddy and Alex to be picked to induct Yes into the rock and roll Hall of Fame.And for Geddy to get to play with them
yeah, oh man his tone, he must've felt so honoured, and sort of duty-bound, like this was his destiny. it was spiritually beautiful to behold. sure plenty of bass whizzes could've played it, heck I could've, but he was the single most right man for the job.
@@MobiusBandwidth The tone he played with made it sound and feel like Chris was making his presence known through him. The only thing missing was Chris' voice in the backing vocals.
After you've listened to a few more Yes songs, you simply must do a full-album listen to "Close to the Edge". It is a musical masterpiece! It is a concept album, and needs to be heard in its entirety. It will blow you away. It is in my Top 3 rock albums of all-time.
Absolutely! Good call. Or 2nd, vocally, GFTO.
Agree about that..
I'll agree with this vocally, but personally I've always enjoyed Fragile more ... early raw Rickenbacker!
Agree!
ROUNDABOUT for solo piano ua-cam.com/video/LGsFZezzCBA/v-deo.html
I saw Yes a number of times in the 70''s. Front row once and 10th row as well as higher up seats. One thing I noticed is that he looked like he just opened his mouth and out came this wonderful sound. It seemed effortless. I would recommend the song 'And You and I'. A beautiful song that really highlights his voice. Great reaction, enjoy your channel...
Great recommendation. Another beautiful Yes song that highlights Jon's voice is "Turn of the Century".
And You And I is a great choice and one of my personal faves. It does show off Jon's vocals, with some ethereal passages. Geddy Lee is a fitting stand-in, but I do miss Chris Squire.
I will second that "And You and I" suggestion! One of many favorites of mine from this phenomenal band, it doesn't get any better than these guys!
I third that! I was just listening to 'And You and I' on a drive yesterday; singing along, but an octave lower. Even after 50 years, I can still discover new things in the soundscape. I thank Elizabeth for helping me learn how to really listen and appreciate.
"And you and I" is a great choice. The Yes symphonic performance is the sweet spot.
1971 - just another song on my AM radio. Who knew we were eyewitnesses to musical genius and history?
You can't go wrong with "Long Distance Runaround" or my personal favorite "I've Seen All Good People", two early excellent Yes songs! They were one of the progenitors of progressive rock along with King Crimson and Emerson, Lake and Palmer. All of them were huge influences on the men of Rush.
I'm impartial to yours is no disgrace
My favorite is "yours is no disgrace" from 04 estival in Switzerland. That was a Steve Howe concert.
Going for the One
There are concerts performances of Yes back in the 70's. They had a concert movie and album called Yessongs which is on youtube. I would suggest "Heart of the Sunrise", "Close to the Edge" and "And You and I." Great review and reaction as always Elizabeth!
I would try Anderson Bruford Wakeman Howe (ABWH) Live. Better sound quality and they have perfected their stage act by this point.
As great as that was it bought tears to my eyes that Squire wasn't there. Wonderful reaction. I've Seen All Good People and South Side Of The Sky are brilliant examples of their harmonies. Anderson, Howe and Squire are self taught. Enjoy your Yes journey. 🙏🍁
Squire was a choral scholar, so hardly self-taught musically
@KeithCollyer Squire stopped choir at 14, got asked to leave then had a bass shoved in his hand so he taught himself and after a yr of self isolation, caused by a bad LSD trip, and practice emerged a bassist.
@@lesblatnyak5947 Apologies for coming across rather pedantically. By 14 he had had several years of choir training, which included music theory and practice. In terms of playing bass, yes, he was self-taught, but he had a very solid musical background.
Jon Anderson is in his 70's. What a voice.
Jon Anderson is still a good singer now at 75 I think. Another great voice who still has it is the 5 octave Annie Haslam of Renaissance.
Their album Novella is my 7th favorite album in all music history.
Just ahead of Incantations and behind Magnification, side 1 of Novella is the finest album side Renaissance ever recorded. If you are curious about Annie Haslam and Renaissance, I think you should start with those two songs, Can You Hear Me and The Sisters. There's no break between the two tracks, so just let the side play out like it's all one track.
This is the song that motivated me to play bass. 40+ years later I still use it as my warm up. Also, I once heard Geddy Lee talk about how Chris Squire was one of his primary influences so it's really cool to see/hear Geddy standing in for him.
Geddy also once said Chris is the reason he chose to play a Rickenbacker in Rush. Chris and Geddy are the reason I too chose a Rickenbacker 4003 as my favorite bass in 1981 (still own it and it still sounds fantastic!) I just wish Geddy had chosen to play this with a Ric as well. But I imagine, since Chris played with a pick, it was easier to get the pick-like sound on a Fender.
@@seminolefantodd4736 Yes I've heard him say that too. Same here with the Ric but mine is a 4001 I bought used in 82.
Very good choice, no doubt. Bass often gets lost in rock songs behind everything else, but it's really the prominent driving force of this classic, and steals the show whenever it's slapping
Notice how Geddy chose a green Fender, as green was Chris's favourite colour. Remember the custom bass he used on OOaLH?
Geddy said that "Close to the Edge" and "Relayer" are two of the greatest albums ever recorded.
Geddy Lee and Rush were huge fans of Yes since they first hit the scene. This was probably a dream come true for Geddy!
Maybe. Rush and Yes started around the same time so they are contemporaries. Saying the Geddy is "fan-boying" is a bit strong as I saw in another comment. I'm guessing they are just as big of fans of Geddy's playing as he is of theirs, which is why he is there.
Steve Howe is a criminally underrated guitarist, certainly one of the greatest guitarists in music history
His playing on the 'Yessongs' live album (1973) is insanely great.
Have you seen him playing with Les Paul? Steve can play just about anything.
Steve is, and was was highly celebrated. Top of the reader polls in Guitar Player magazine 5 years in a row. Stop it with your misunderstanding of the word "underrated".
Underrated by whom? Howe is consistently recognized as one of the greatest guitarists in rock history.
@@zddoodah But has ruined Yes because he is seemingly afraid to go his own way like Jon and Rick have done.
YES is one of THE bands. Mandatory band! So creative and dynamic, I saw them live 6 times! Powerful live band. The songwriting is other worldly.
The “Yes” rabbit hole has now been opened! There are so many wonderful sounds to explore either live or from the studio. Jon Anderson’s voice will never disappoint, neither will Steve Howe’s guitar work, Rick Wakeman’s keyboard skills and compositions and finally you will get the chance to acquaint yourself with the late great Chris Squire and his bass work. One must not forget the huge contributions that both Bill Bruford and Alan White made on drums/percussion. These performers make the golden era of YES, but there were regular changes throughout their time too.
I think you'd love "And You And I" - it's my favorite by them, and it's just gorgeous! :)
I've always been partial to the album and the Symphonic Live versions -- such a great display of Jon's voice and the band's musicality!
Symphonic Live: ua-cam.com/video/AYmeJlm7Gcg/v-deo.html
I want to change my response! I mentioned "Heart of the Sunrise" and "Close to the Edge", but "And You and I" is easily as good or better for showcasing Jon's incredible voice!
"and you and i" is so brilliant! i would LOVE to see a reaction to that one!
Glad you mentioned And You and I! That's some gorgeous singing that I forgot about. I need to listen to that!
"And you and I" is a great choice. The Yes symphonic performance is the sweet spot.
Agree, And You and I is one of the most amazing songs - I saw them on their 35th Anniversary Tour at Madison Square Garden and they got a ten minute standing ovation after the last solo section.. There wasn't a dry eye in the house!
As a lifelong Rush fan, my first impression of this performance was really hard to digest - I’ve spent my entire life watching Geddy front a band. Seeing him lay back and respect his role in this performance is just an example of what an excellent human and respectful musician he is. I love that you’ve gotten around to Yes - so much to unpack with them ✌🏻
The keyboardist is Rick Wakeman. He always had a ton of boards around him. One of the pioneer's of synths. Great player.
Prodigy. He is incredible.
Rick Wakeman is not only a sound wizard, he is also funny as hell. Extremely talented, all round.
His acceptance speech at this event had me in stitches. The prostate examination especially so.
Thought it was him.
He was a big deal in my household in the 70s.
God of the keyboards.
On a walk in Suffolk I encountered Rick with my partner and rescue dog George - he adores dogs and we had a long chat - such a funny unpretentious guy!
@@grahamhowes6904 I met Rick back in the early 1980s, he is a very nice guy.
@@frankmorris2603 the triumvirate of Emerson, Wakeman, and Lord 😊
Each member of Yes is a Maestro. They are one of the most accomplished ensemble of talent to ever bless our ears period. I hope she listens to more. Close to the edge, Yours is no disgrace, You and I, Seen all good people/Your move, heart of the sunrise and Wonderous Stories should be on he short list of songs to hear. There's so many. Jon Anderson wrote great lyrics.
Heart of the Sunrise or Wonderous Stories show Jons' ability. Some of the finest vocals.
If you like Jon Andersons voice, you must have "Fragile" by Yes, so you can hear him harmonise with Chris Squire. That album is in my top ten of all time!
Mine, too! I love that album!
The incredible Geddy Lee from Rush really kills that bass line. Fantastic choice to fill in that sound. They just slayed the performance live.
If you're gonna have anyone stand in for the late Chris Squire, Geddy is definitely the man. He is obviously having a ball, and he honors Squire's original lines 100%.
The moment at 8:32 when Geddy can't resist doing a bit of air keyboard while waiting for his bass part to come back. In addition to being a world class bassist, Geddy is a pretty awesome keyboard player himself.
This song has so much going on the studio version is a must-listen-to also. That is the only way you can hear everything.
They were still amazing in concert.
Agreed - I think she'd have been better off listening to the original studio version - there's just so much going on in the song.
Love the underrated Tormato album, with nuggets such as Don’t kill the whale an Release, release and Circus of heaven.
“This feels like the beginning of something incredible.” That’s what so many of us Prog Rock fans felt back in the day. It’s amazing to see you experience it!
Jon Anderson sings amazingly for his age, he almost died about 10 years before this and he had to rebuild his voice after severe respiratory problems. Jon sings with such joy and control.
I'm glad someone mentioned this. As a fellow asthmatic it just continues to floor me how well he sings even now.
She needs to listen to him when he was still singing with Vangellis. (If you’re reading this, I recommend “Short Stories”.)
OK, here's thew sixty-four thousand dollar question. How does one know he's not singing live, with autotune applied to the voice signal going into the microphone before it is sent to the speakers?
@@Orange-Jumpsuit-Time ... because [VERY CLOSE TO THIS] is how he has always sounded ... before autotune was invented. They didnt need to use it then and they wont have started using it now.
Oh and ... USUALLY it is the person MAKING THE CLAIM that has to prove it. So if you want to make that claim it is YOUR JOB to prove it!
Because he is JoJo
As you may see by the plethora of comments, Yes has quite the catalog of music, and the fans all have different favorites. And even though it's not my favorite Yes song, "Awaken" is Jon's favorite. From the 1977 album "Going For The One", it is one of their best written songs and very complex in its arrangement. (My absolute favorite Yes track is "The Gates of Delirium" from 1974's "Relayer". Do this track only if you want to analyze a 22 minute song.) Thank you for listening to Yes. I've been listening to them for a VERY long time.
I'd like to second Awaken. If you like keys, vocals, and story, it's a star of a song
@@RockBassist2112 Hear, hear! I love the Going for the One album. Let's be real - I love Yes, tbh.
Now that's funny because I requested that she listen to Awaken, and I also suggested "Soon" from Relayer. Great YES minds think alike.
I believe "The Revealing Science Of God" is their longest track ... 😝🤣
Tales from Topographic Oceans is essentially 1 song in 4 movements at 80+ min. In wonderful
Geddy Lee miming the keys portion is awesome!
Only because you haven't seen me mimic the keyboards. 😁
And at the end, he's singing along, even though he doesn't have a mic. Looked like he was living the dream.
The Keyboardist, Rick Wakeman was classically trained. The pieces on his album "The Six Wives of Henry VIII" has a very strong classical presence. Yes, in general, took rock to a new place, along with the band Emerson, Lake, and Palmer and the band Moody Blues. Great commentary again. Thanks.
Jon was 73 when this was performed. To say his voice has aged well is a dramatic understatement. If you listen to earlier Yes he sounds pretty much the same. This song was their only real radio hit (in the early years). Most of their catalogue from the old progressive days wasn’t for mass consumption. I’ve seen them live a number of times going back to the late 70s. Unbelievable experience. Having Geddy Lee fill in for Chris Squire was just the cherry on the sundae. Thanks for being this back.
Jon Anderson is a fascinating person. I had the fortune to watch yes compose songs together and rehearse together for a summer, and Jon composes songs purely with his voice, thinking and knowing all the parts and singing them to everyone in the group, compound time signatures and key signatures fully understood.... he's quite the genius, literally. Amazing to watch. He was clearly leading the rehearsals of all of these world class musicians in the band, at least in the parts I chose to watch. Incredible, amazing, musicians, all of them.
9 minutes in she says….”ok, let’s talk about Jon Anderson’s vocals” 🤣🤣🤣
@@SirManfly yea lol i took her literally 😀
The studio album on which this was released, FRAGILE, is well worth a listen. It showcases the talents of all the band not just Jon.
Don’t forget Starship Troopers.
Fragile is my favorite Yes album for sure
GET THE STEVEN WILSON REMIXES! He brought out incredible detail and clarity into some already powerful records.
Geddy does a great job here and Chris Squire was a major influence on his sound as well as his technique and style.
Rick Wakeman (along with ELP's Keith Emerson) is a keyboard god. His solo projects "Journey to the Center of the Earth" and "The Myths and Legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table" are phenomenal. They could almost be called operatic.
Rick was finally able to complete and fully realize Journey and King Arthur in 2012 and 2016 respectively.
Since she's FINALLY getting around to the roots of prog rock, I can't wait for her to go down the ELP rabbit hole. I've been wanting to hear her react to Greg Lake doing Cest la Vie forever, then take off down the rabbit hole. Start with ELP live at California Jam Elizabeth.... not as clean a sound because it's decades old, but it gives the overview of how epic their live shows were with full orchestra backing. I want to see her cringe at Emerson's Bach improv treatment of the organ for sure. 🤣🤣🤣
The new journey to the center of the earth is great too. Rick Wakeman is one of those super prolific musicians
My fav was Six Wives of Henry The Eighth.
Wow there. Don't forget Tony Banks. "Firth of Fifth" is a true masterpiece!
The Yes "rabbit hole" is deep and wide! There is so much great music to discover with this band. RIP Chris Squire....I'm sure Geddy Lee is honored to step into his shoes. He's more than capable.
Rest in Peace Chris Squire, these guys should have been inducted many moons ago with Chris present. Great work Geddy.. Been to both bands concerts over the years.
Also rest in peace Alan White 😌
Please consider doing the studio version of Close to the Edge. Multiple vocal parts, unusual arrangements, masterful performances, after all these years completely unique.
Absolute MUST! And yes - the studio version. This was fun, to see this gang at this time of their lives. But for my taste, NO live version ever pushes the same buttons as the original that I fell in love with.
I think she likes seeing the singers perform live so she can comment on what they do, physically.
Geddy is taking the role of the late very, very great Chris Squire….. RIP you legend.
I was indeed so very lucky to see Yes with the Squire , Anderson , Howe , White and Wakeman lineup in the mid 2000s . Opening for them were dream theater.
Sadly I only saw Chris Squire and Yes 36 times.
That had to be a dream come true for DT. I would have loved to have been there. #jealous
Yes me too. I saw the same lineup in 2003
I had the good fortune to see YES live in 1978. They were AMAZING
Saw them a couple of times during the Yes (3rd) album and they hooked me right in. I've heard a lot of great prog bands (and really love quite a few), but none of them really can maatch the compositional and technical and joyful output of this band.
Was 1978 the “In the Round” stage? I saw them live in Portland and the stage was in the center of the Memorial Coliseum. Awesome show
@@HardEdge53 Saw that same tour just a bit north of you, in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
Great analysis!I am 70 and Roundabout still sounds as epic and musically intriguing as it did when it came out...and I certainly never thought Anderson's vocal chords would last over time and yet they did,thank goodness 😊.
Yes is one of my all-time favorite bands! Jon Anderson and Steve Howe are amazing together!
I love this song and your analysis! Jon Anderson does a monthly zoom Q&A for his Patreon patrons. He is as enthusiastic and joyful as he comes across onstage. You could go onto one of those Q&As and ask him about his vocal upkeep, or even use attending as a springboard to get an interview with him for the channel! Just a though 😊
If you want to deep dive into Jon's vocals binge listen to the live album recording "YesSongs". This release displays Yes at their youthful best. The fact this recording filled 6 album sides and an accompanying feature length movie is just a bonus.
Absolutely agree! For me Yessongs is the ultimate Yes. I love the energy! Also, that album cover! I still have the triple-gateway-foldout, in my opinion the greatest album cover ever produced.
Yes! (No pun intended)
@@ericpeterson7512 Triple fold-out was good for cleaning weed!
And try not to talk over or stop the song…. That’s worse than interrupting someone when they are talking. Take a Xanax!!!!
@@Parrain0606 - talking over and stopping is done for analysis ant copyright reasons. She always posts a link to the original video. Watch that if you don’t want commentary. I, for one, appreciate learning at the feet of someone who knows what she’s talking about.
Always so cool to watch someone realise the brilliance of YES.
Chris Squire one of the greatest bass players ever RIP
If you want to know how Jon Anderson sounded 50 years ago, just listen to some of their old albums. This song, Roundabout, comes off their album "Fragile", which came out in 1971. It's just amazing how he sounds so much like he did back then. Thanks so much for sharing this.
Fragile is such a great album. Each member of Yes was so stellar.
If you like Rush and Yes, than you will really enjoy Triumph!! Rick Emmett has the high range in his vocals with the overwhelming talent on lead guitar! Pick anything from them, live or studio and you'll be thoroughly impressed
Fight The Good Fight would be an excellent song for her to evaluate.
I would hear, "The Blinding Light Show", a lot, on the radio. They'd play the full version, too.
Guitar harmonies.
That's what I remember, about Triumph.
For a real vocal tour-de-force, maybe Never Surrender? Great stuff in there.
You can't forget about Lay it on the Line.
Gil Moore the drummer also sang lead on several of their songs. One of my favorite bands. "Fight the good fight", "Lay it on the line", and I always liked "Magic Power", and "Ordinary Man".
Thanks!
YES- Simply fabulous
PLEASE!!! Heart of the sunrise in the fragile album
YOU WILL FALL IN LOVE WITH THIS SONG!
Man, Geddy is SO solid it’s amazing.
Heart of the Sunrise if you want to hear Jon Anderson's vocals really soar. Beautiful and rocking song.
Man...I SOOOO much dig this chick's vocal and musical insights! As a musician I REALLY appreciate the nuances she points out that I either forgot about or just never noticed before! Rock On Madam Zharoff! 🤘😃 P.S. I appreciate the vocal lesson on your technique on high and low pitches!
I just got to see Jon Anderson live about 4 days ago... He still sounds AWESOME! It doesn't sound like his voice is falling off at all
Yea, I agree with you. I think he still sounds great in this video. If his voice has fallen off at all, it's miniscule.
He is no doubt the best singer who adjusted their voice to range loss with age. Listen to the album version or live video from back then. His voice will blow you away. He is high pitched. 😊
OK, here's thew sixty-four thousand dollar question. How does one know he's not singing live, with autotune applied to the voice signal going into the microphone before it is sent to the speakers?
@@Orange-Jumpsuit-Time I’m sure you say that about Tom Jones as well?
@@Ranadkins Who? I looked in the NY phone book, there's literally thousands of people with the last name "Jones", hundreds with the first name "Tom"?
@@Orange-Jumpsuit-Time😂😂 of course.
@@Orange-Jumpsuit-Time How does one know? When one has heard him singing for years and years, long before autotune existed. He can't reach some of the high notes that he used to be able to, so has made some good alternate choices. Also, his speaking voice is so high that it sounds like a child's; he's basically singing in his normal vocal range.
To enjoy Rick Wakeman more you need to wade into his 1974 album "Journey to the center of the earth". It is very good. It is amazing how good they all still sound. I discovered them in the early 70s. I think I have all of their vinyl. Thanks for reacting to them. They have some excellent sounds.
Or The Six Wives of Henry VIII
@@andrewmacmillen1086 My Favorite!
Love Rick Wakeman's "Journey". It is definitely worth a listen if you want to find out more about the wizard and his keyboards.
Have listened and loved Yes since their music would fill the house as a kid in the 70's. My late mother had such a fantastic, eclectic musical preference. Forever grateful for the gift of musical appreciation I was exposed to. 57 now, and my children have heard much of it as they heard my tastes in music as eclectic as my mother's. The catalogue of yes is so vast, you can't go wrong. Starship trooper is at the top of my list. Funny how I can still see and feel the album jacket in my hands from 50 years ago. Thanks Mom for gifting me with my love of music.
I genuinely love your laugh! No matter how I feel, it brings me joy inside! It's simply adorable!
Now that you've had your curiosity satisfied re: what many members of YES looked like when they were quite older, give yourself a treat by listening to the studio version of *Roundabout.* It will completely blow your mind. YES' studio recordings during their Uber Peak Period (includes Roundabout) were absolutely masterful. You see, YES were Masters of Complexity. They packed so much into their masterpieces that repeated listenings are a MUST if you want a full appreciation of the magic they created. Yes, full of complexity, but they spent hours on perfecting the mix to where you could hear all the key moments of that complexity in their turn, without it all sounding like a muddle.
You'll be amazed all over again...
This 👆
Yes is GOAT! Favorite band of all time and Geddy on bass....muah! R.I.P Chris Squire. ❤ Note to Elizabeth, dive deeper into their older discography!
Not only was Yes an iconic band but let's not forget the iconic artist that did just about all their album covers Roger Dean!!
Once you start listening to Yes, you can't stop! Everything they ever did was a classic!
Thanks!
I was 18 in 72 when I first saw Yes in Akron Ohio.
They were the headliners with the Mahavishnu Orchestra and a new group called the Eagles started the night off.
They did a selection of songs from the Yes Album, Fragile, and Close to the Edge.
The crowd’s reaction at that show is still a vivid memory.
The collection of talent on that stage was phenomenal. Criminally underrated band.
"Close to the Edge" "Starship Trooper" "Heart of the Sunrise" and "And You and I" are all amazing songs.
Agree! And You and I is a transcendent song
Great lineup of songs right here. Even if they're never reviewed on channel, don't miss the chance to treat yourself to these gems.
Personally I think The Yes Album is one of the best rock n' roll albums of all time. If there's one thing to describe this band, it's TALENT
First time I saw them was close to the edge tour, and I’ve seen them many times since.
Respect your opinion. I’m a sucker for Fragile & Close to the Edge. Sometimes I need to spin 90125. Such a great catalog.
@@dcbchannel1619 Close to the Edge is a super cool album. You can really hear their collaborative songwriting evolve in really interesting ways. Steve Howe does some really neat stuff on that album. Well, on every album, but still
Steve Howe's three solos in this song are spectacular. He's playing them exactly like he did 50 years ago.
Love his work in "Starship Trooper," as well as the band "Asia," too!
Jon Anderson's voice is better than the 70s . Perfection .
Not only is this band in a class of its own, each of Yes' members are in a class of their own. They were so far ahead of their time in every way that I think we are still catching up. Love this band!
Agreed.
From "Survival" to "Awaken" to "Hearts" to "In The Presence of" all of Jon Anderson's work is impeccable.
Indeed! He's such a great performer, from his early days in The Warriors in 1963 till today.
Jon Anderson is a phenomenon. It IS effortless for him to sing that high. And if you see him younger... Well, his voice hasn't changed much and, if anything, it improved, I think!
I recall reading some time back that Jon took up smoking in an effort to make his voice deeper. I'm glad that didn't pan out!
I remember my wife telling me about being in a high school art class when she was younger. . . and the teacher didn't like rock music. Students could pick a song to play while they were working on their art projects. She slyly selected Roundabout knowing it would fool the teach into thinking it was classical music with the acoustic guitar intro. The song began, the classical lines emerging quietly and tastefully and the teacher smiling while the class knew the sonic landscapes were about the launch into the stratosphere. Haha.
I had a chance to see YES live in 1975 and play Round About in their heyday. This song is a wild ride that my brain still can hardly comprehend the amazing movements to. Steve Howe is a musical genius on guitar, Rick Wakeman, keyboard wizard extraordinaire, Chris Squire, most creative bass player and visionary, Alan White- perfect drumming and Jon Anderson, the vocals and poet who wrote most of the lyrics to all of the songs. Roundabout is a celebration of their music at its best and is THE song that launched them into stardom and history! amazing! The founding members do not consider the band to be YES, unless Jon Anderson is singing- he is the signature voice of the YES sound. There is no other.
There are so many great songs by this band. Two that I think would be good examples of Jon's vocal performance are I've Seen All Good People and Starship Trooper.
I am SO happy you have finally delved into Yes. As many have pointed out, even for your own edification you should also check out their studio work, especially Close to the Edge, which is not only a masterpiece of composition, but a masterpiece of transition as well. And the sheer beauty of And You and I, or the power of so many other works will illuminate how limiting the label of progressive rock is to the actuality.
Jon Anderson has, over six decades, looked after his voice better than just about any else in rock ever has. It has changed, but he still has the magic. He's also one of the sweetest, loveliest human beings you can ever hope to talk to - you absolutely should try to have him on and chat.
Yes! I'm sure he would love to talk to Elizabeth! Knowing Jon for a long time, I have to agree he is a wonderful guy, who makes everyone he meets feel special!
Elizabeth, my heart aches for your youth. You are just now hearing for the first time songs I have probably been listening to since before you were born.
Oh, Elizabeth, I am so glad that you have started on your Yes journey. It was such a delight to watch you react to this song. I was five years old when this song was released and it received a fair amount of airplay in the fledgling FM radio market. Yes became a favorite band in our house and has remained so after all these years.
Personal favorites include: And You And I, Perpetual Change, I've Seen All Good People, and so many others it's impossible to list them.
The song they played after Roundabout at the Hall of Fame was their biggest hit, Owner of a Lonely Heart, and it is also a stellar performance.
Enjoy discovering this band. I can't wait to share it with you.
'
Elizabeth REALLY should listen to "The Yes Album", "Going For The One" & "90125" to get a broad spread.
Like you, I've ALWAYS adored "Perpetual Change" & that iconic bass-line that Chris plays (mid-bridge)
As a young teenager, I was astounded as to "how" the three song/parts (finale) merged into one-another
"Awaken" is a masterpiece that I really DO hope/wish/pray that Elizabeth would dissect at some later date
I'd even LOVE to hear her take on "Our Song" from "90125" as it's SO bright & effervescent
@@hawnyfox3411 all fabulous suggestions. I tend to forget about Going For The One when thinking about Yes albums until I see it in my library and I always just have to listen to it. Fell in love with Awaken the first time I heard it and Turn Of The Century.
Our Song is a real gem and I've always liked Shoot High, Aim Low from Big Generator.
Ugh. Could talk about this for hours.
@@toddthompson7478 = Todd, please DO feel free to chat about those 'masterpiece tracks' of our youth
Funny you should mention "Turn Of The Century", it WAS my favourite track for many, many years.
Very very emotive & I played it an awful lot during my courtship to my pretty & good-looking wife.
We used to cuddle up (as teens, clothed) & listen to my vast vinyl album collection.
Whilst I sadly broke-up from her (after 29 years together & kids), I was surprised when someone pointed out her "once a month" Top Ten albums of all time.... (she's a pianist & singer, like Liz & just as pretty)
In amongst Carole King & The Eagles, I was surprised she included "Going For The One"
I doubt she'll remember "Parallels" which meant a lot to me, as a HUGE Chris Squire fan.
"Awaken" is simply a 'Tour de Force' & is arguably a crowning achievement of YES
"Turn of the Century" both is & was a VERY emotive track, Jon's vocals & Steve's acoustic guitar
Production values were 'off the charts' as they seem to use just the right amount of reverb....
Yet, even those seem to pale when put next to '90125' - "Our Song" is just SO snappy & vibrant !!
Never was keen on 'Shoot High/Aim Low', but just adored "Love Will Find A Way"
Am & always was a HUGE fan of the mighty Trevor Rabin, even a fan long before he joined YES
If you haven't already, then PLEASE DO check out Trevor's brilliant 1981 album "WOLF"
ua-cam.com/video/cwqI7nKC-nY/v-deo.html
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolf_(Trevor_Rabin_album)
The whole album is just superb - Have a few listens to the title track "Heard You Cry Wolf"
So many damn fine tracks on THAT album - catchy riffs/hooks, a powerful album
Obvious as to just how much Trevor administered CPR (& nitrous) to an ailing band (YES)
Having said that, I enjoyed 1980's "Drama", esp' the mighty track "Tempus Fugit"
BTW, I cut my teeth with "The Yes Album" & "Fragile" back in the 1970's, early albums for me.
Whilst I did LOVE "Close To The Edge" it sounds very dated today, unlike the others.
P.S ; Todd, do feel free to keep chatting....
@@hawnyfox3411 When Alan White died, I read that Turn Of The Century was his favorite Yes song and it surprised me given the lack of drums or percussion on the song. It's an odd duck, really, with Jon's unconventional lyric phrasing feeling like there were too many lyrics for the song. I doubt any other band could have pulled it off but you could say that about so many Yes songs.
I'm sorry to hear that you and your wife split. 29 years is a long time (plus kids). It's cool that she still likes Going For The One, and puts it among Carole King and The Eagles -- that's pretty good company. The first time I heard that album, that steel guitar in the intro just grabbed me and wouldn't let go until the album was over. Tormato is a good album, too, but I never think about listening to it. Go figure.
I agree on Awaken, it's epic. I saw a TV broadcast of a Anderson, Rabin, Wakeman show from 2016(?) and they did a fabulous job with it (not that you would expect anything less).
90125 is the first Yes album that I actually bought for myself and it still holds up today. Our Song is one of my favorites, too. I like Shoot High, Aim Low because Rabin has that blistering solo and the vocal tradeoff between he and Jon is great. Another good one is Holy Lamb.
Speaking of Rabin, yeah I got Wolf and some of his other albums years ago, including the 90125 demos in their original form. Really good stuff. I only heard Drama and Relayer one time when a friend played them for me. I liked the sound of Drama but never picked it up.
I'm just now getting back in to music as I had been a 24-7 caregiver to my mother for the last 7 years and I didn't have much time for music. She passed away a bit over a year ago and, odd as it may sound, Elizabeth helped me rediscover music when I discovered her videos. She's wonderful.
It'll be interesting to see what her next Yes song will be.
@@toddthompson7478 = Hi Todd. Good to hear from you again mate.
"Turn of the Century" to my mind, is by far & away YES' most emotional song (pre-1980)
Really tugs at the heartstrings, the whole ambience of it, I guess that's why Melanie liked it ?
Bizarre, as I was also bought-up on Heavy-Rock & Prog'-Rock, my two fave genres.
Aside from Steve Hackett & T.R, my fave guitarists were Micheal Schenker & Paul Chapman (U.F.O)
You can also add to that cadre of gunslingers, Andrew (Andy) Latimer of Camel = SENSATIONAL !!!!
Prior to "Going For The One", my fave (softer) YES track was probably "And You & I" from "Close To...."
I'm guessing that I'm fractionally older than yourself, not by much, but probably (laughs !)
I first got into YES when "YesSongs" (triple live album) & "Topographic.." were their current L.P's
In other words, I was already a hardcore YES fan before even "Relayer" was released.
First TWO YES albums I bought were "The Yes Album" & "Fragile" (maaan, what a launch !!!!!)
BTW ; Many thanks for your kind-hearted words about my break-up & 29-years etc
Even now, 15 yrs down the line, I find it SO damn hard to deal & cope with (1978-2007)
It basically took me from being a 16 y/o kid, to a 46 y/o adult (late 16 and 46th B.D)
Knocked the stuffing out of me & I'm a VERY confident guy - No lightweight here.
Kids involved ALWAYS makes it difficult - They didn't ask for any grief, but it happened.
"Tormato" is a really dud album for me, no redeeming features - I played it once only (laughs)
I laughed HARD when Rick Wakeman slagged it off, esp' the wretched album cover
Really overjoyed that YOU got hold of "Wolf" back in the day, so many GOOD tracks on there !!!
I listened to "Heard You Cry Wolf" TWICE last night, first time in 25+ years or more (amazed)
Still sounds GREAT, majestic & very powerful & Trevor's searing Stratocaster is luscious
Takes me right back to 1981 as I bought it soon after release & reminds me of GREAT times
Tracks like "She's Easy" & the magnificent uplifting "Long Island" need far more airplay.
Lastly mate, may I (please) urge you & encourage you to purchase 1980's album "DRAMA" ???
If ever a reason were needed..... ua-cam.com/video/vzxZzIiO84Y/v-deo.html
Greatest track on the album, as good as anything YES ever did, such a powerful track too !!
I've got 14 guitars & three of them are BASS - (Two Fender Jazz & one P-Bass special)
"Tempus Fugit" track above, was THE first bass-run (lick) that I ever learned (I play guitar tho')
Am overjoyed that YES (in their 1980 incarnation) bothered to catch THAT masterpiece on video
Over to you mate......
You will find no better keyboard artist than Ric wakeman. Each member of this group is a master. When they make songs they make masterpieces. They make yes songs
I've never been a huge "Yes" fan, but, as a bass player, I've always loved the sound out of Chris Squire's Ric. It has such a thick, heavy sound. Geddy Lee played a Ric in the early days of "Rush" before switching to a Fender Jazz. He heard Squire play the Ric and said, "That's the way the bass is supposed to sound like." Funny thing is, Geddy gets the same sound out of the Ric and the Fender Jazz! I am convinced Geddy could play a shovel strung with 4 bass strings and get the same sound out of it.