The Untold Story of John Anderson's Departure from Yes

The Untold Story of John Anderson's Departure from Yes

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Almost Getting Back Into the Band
3. The Impact of Illness and the Decision to Go Solo
4. The Joy of Performing Solo
5. Thoughts on Bill Bruford
6. The Lost Tapes and Close to the Edge
7. The Chaotic Studio Session
8. Getty Lee's Love for Yes
9. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Experience

Introduction

In this article, we will continue our conversation with John Anderson, the former lead singer of the band Yes. We will explore his experiences of almost reuniting with the band, the reasons behind his departure, and his journey as a solo artist. We will also delve into some interesting anecdotes, including the lost tapes of their album "Close to the Edge" and Getty Lee's admiration for Yes.

🎸 Almost Getting Back Into the Band

Since his departure from the band, John Anderson was never given the opportunity to rejoin Yes. Despite once suggesting an acoustic album and a break from touring, the band made the decision to find a new singer. Anderson contemplates this and reflects on his illness, which played a part in the band's trajectory.

🎤 The Impact of Illness and the Decision to Go Solo

John Anderson recalls a time when he fell seriously ill, attributing it to the oil-based smoke used for lighting during their performances. The severe illness led Anderson to ask for a break from touring, suggesting a different approach with an acoustic album. However, the band decided to move forward without him, which led Anderson to start considering his own solo career.

🎵 The Joy of Performing Solo

With the band moving on without him, John Anderson decided to focus on his long-time dream of pursuing a solo career. Armed with his guitar, he diligently practiced and put together a solo show. Performing on the road with his wife, Anderson found immense joy and fulfillment in being solely responsible for creating his music.

🥁 Thoughts on Bill Bruford

Although John Anderson admires Bill Bruford, the drummer who left the band, he admits that his departure was heartbreaking. Anderson fondly recalls meeting Bruford and his wife during his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, highlighting the affection he holds for his former bandmate.

📼 The Lost Tapes and Close to the Edge

One of the most fascinating tales from Anderson's career involves the making of the album "Close to the Edge." The band worked meticulously with Eddie Offer, their engineer, to record the album in sections and then assemble them. However, during one recording session, an unforeseen incident involving cleaning up the studio almost resulted in the loss of crucial tapes.

💿 The Chaotic Studio Session

John Anderson vividly describes a chaotic moment when the tapes for the album "Close to the Edge" went missing and ended up in a dustbin. Panic ensued as Anderson and Offer frantically searched for the missing tapes amidst the rain. Eventually, they found the missing section and were able to complete the album.

💖 Getty Lee's Love for Yes

During the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Getty Lee of Rush expressed his admiration for Yes. It was revealed that Lee stood in line to see Yes perform, further emphasizing the band's status and influence within the music industry.

🏆 The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Experience

John Anderson shares his experience at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony. From the euphoria of the event to the nerves he experienced before going on stage, Anderson recalls the energy and support he received from his bandmates and the lovely interactions with fellow musicians, including Getty Lee.

🎸 Conclusion

In conclusion, John Anderson's journey as a musician took a different path after his departure from Yes. Despite the initial setbacks of illness and the band's decision to find a new singer, Anderson found solace in pursuing a solo career. The anecdotes of lost tapes and the admiration from fellow musicians highlight the enduring impact of Anderson's work with Yes.

Highlights:

1. John Anderson's departure from Yes and his longing to rejoin the band.
2. The influence of illness on Anderson's decision to go solo.
3. The joy and fulfillment Anderson finds in performing as a solo artist.
4. Anderson's thoughts on Bill Bruford and the impact of his departure.
5. The chaotic studio session and the story of the lost tapes of "Close to the Edge."
6. Getty Lee's admiration for Yes and the band's significance in the industry.
7. Anderson's experience at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony.