Top 5 Progressive Rock: Yes – Signature and Popular Songs
Among the progressive rock bands that Britain proudly boasts, Yes stands out as one of the so-called “Big Four” or “Top Five” of prog, having achieved global success with their powerful yet symphonic ensemble underpinned by advanced technique, artwork that exudes aesthetic sensibility, mystical lyrics, and beautiful melodies.
Over their long career, the band has undergone many lineup changes and even explored more pop-oriented directions at times, so it may take some persistence for newcomers to trace their illustrious history.
In this article, we introduce a number of Yes’s wonderful and representative classic songs.
We hope this serves as a gateway for you to discover their music!
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[The Big 5 of Prog] Yes – Signature and Popular Songs (21–30)
Don’t Kill The WhaleYES
It’s a bright-sounding track with a restrained technical vibe for Yes.
Still, when you hear the brilliantly constructed solo section, you realize it’s a piece only Yes could create.
It’s included on the 1978 album Tormato.
Open Your EyesYES
This is the title track from the 1997 album Open Your Eyes.
On this song, Steve Porcaro of TOTO appears as a guest, stepping in for departing keyboardist Rick Wakeman.
As a huge Yes fan, Steve delivers a performance brimming with his love for the band, making it a track you can truly enjoy.
[Big 5 of Prog] Yes - Signature and Popular Songs (31–40)
The Fish（Schindleria Praematurus）YES
This is a track from the 1971 album Fragile.
It’s a Yes song that somehow evokes a sense of storytelling.
Like many of their pieces, this one feels like a self-contained tale.
The tense opening makes you hold your breath, and the way it gradually shifts into a driving, exhilarating sound is nothing short of masterful.
You’re sure to be captivated as well.
MagnificationYES
Between 2005 and 2008, Yes went on hiatus.
Before that break, they created an album called Magnification with a lineup that, remarkably, omitted keyboards and featured a full orchestra.
Its title track is a masterpiece where the grandeur of orchestral sound merges with progressive rock.
Saving My HeartYES
A track from the 1991 release “Kesshō” (Crystal).
Many people probably love its pleasant, laid-back medium tempo.
Their beautiful harmonies are quintessentially the “Yes” sound.
It’s a number that just feels great to listen to.
Be sure to pay close attention to the chorus, too!
Beyond and BeforeYES
Yes is a British rock band formed in 1968.
Although none of the original members remain, the band is still active and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.
“Beyond and Before” is included on their debut album, Yes, released in 1969.
Leave ItYES
A song released as a single in 1984 by the British rock band Yes.
It is the follow-up to their hit song “Owner of a Lonely Heart.” The music video, directed by Godley and Creme, was produced in 18 different versions.