Yes Bass Legend Chris Squire Dies at 67
There's sad news to report as Chris Squire, the innovative bassist and co-founder of Yes, has passed away at the age of 67.
Squire's bandmate Geoff Downes was the first to share the news in a Twitter post. It read, "Utterly devastated beyond words to have to report the sad news of the passing of my dear friend, bandmate and inspiration Chris Squire." The musician reportedly passed on June 27.
The bassist was diagnosed with acute erythroid leukemia and had announced he was taking a hiatus from the group back in May. Not long after Downes' post, Yes officially revealed the news to their fans in a post of their own. It reads as follows:
It’s with the heaviest of hearts and unbearable sadness that we must inform you of the passing of our dear friend and Yes co-founder, Chris Squire. Chris peacefully passed away last night in Phoenix Arizona, in the arms of his loving wife Scotty.
For the entirety of Yes’ existence, Chris was the band’s linchpin and, in so many ways, the glue that held it together over all these years. Because of his phenomenal bass-playing prowess, Chris influenced countless bassists around the world, including many of today’s well-known artists. Chris was also a fantastic songwriter, having written and co-written much of Yes’ most endearing music, as well as his solo album, Fish Out of Water.
Outside of Yes, Chris was a loving husband to Scotty and father to Carmen, Chandrika, Camille, Cameron, and Xilan. With his gentle, easy-going nature, Chris was a great friend of many … including each of us. But he wasn’t merely our friend: he was also part of our family and we shall forever love and miss him.
Squire was the only member of Yes to appear on all of their studio album, beginning back in 1969 with the band's self-titled debut. The band will play their first show without Squire when they hit the stage with Toto on Aug. 7.
In addition to Yes, Squire recorded with a number of other acts, including Conspiracy, Squackett and The Syn. He also released a solo album, recorded a Christmas single called "Run With the Fox" with fellow Yes member Alan White and made many a guest appearance on albums for Rick Wakeman, Steve Hackett and Billy Sherwood.
Our condolences go out to Yes and Squire's family.
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