In Memoriam | Yes Bassist Chris Squire

Founding bassist for the seminal progressive rock band Yes, Chris Squire has died at the age 67. It was recently revealed that Squire was battling Acute Erythroid Leukemia (AEL) cancer, a rare form of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Squire had been forced to pull out of the band’s upcoming Summer Tour to undergo treatment.

Born March 4, 1948 in London, England, Squire became known for a signature sound that came from his Rickenbacker bass. With guitarist Jon Anderson, he formed Yes 1968 and went on to become a major influence on the burgeoning progressive rock scene. By 1972 the band was a worldwide success, with hits such as “Roundabout” and “Owner Of A Lonely Heart,” the latter of which Squire helped write.

Known by the nickname “Fish,” Squire was also an accomplished solo artist, issuing his first solo LP, Fish Out Of Water in 1975. The lone remaining original member in Yes, Squire’s death means the band will play their first show without the founding bassist in their 47 year career when they take the stage August 7 at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut.