Yes Chris Squire: From The Beginning To Now

Yes Chris Squire stands as one of rock music’s most innovative and influential bassists. From his thunderous Rickenbacker tone that defined progressive rock to his soaring harmonies that elevated Yes to legendary status, Chris Squire’s journey represents the pinnacle of musical virtuosity. Even after his passing in 2015, this English bass pioneer continues to inspire millions with his signature melodic approach and unwavering commitment to musical excellence.

With a career spanning nearly five decades as Yes’s only constant member, Squire’s influence on rock bass and progressive music remains unmatched. His work on albums like Close to the Edge, Fragile, and The Yes Album revolutionized what a bass guitar could achieve, transforming it from a rhythm instrument into a lead voice.

This comprehensive biography explores Chris Squire’s remarkable journey from choir boy to progressive rock legend, his groundbreaking musical innovations, his enduring partnership with Yes, and his lasting legacy in rock music.

Photo: Chris Squire performing with his iconic Rickenbacker 4001 bass. Credit: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0

🎸 Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Christopher Russell Edward Squire was born on March 4, 1948, in Kingsbury, North London, England. Chris Squire’s path to musical greatness began in an unexpected place – the church choir. Growing up in a working-class family, young Chris discovered his voice at St. Andrew’s Church in Kingsbury, where he sang as a choirboy from age 12. This early exposure to complex harmonies and vocal arrangements would profoundly influence his approach to both singing and bass playing.

Squire’s first instrument wasn’t the bass guitar that would make him famous. At age 16, he picked up his father’s acoustic guitar and taught himself to play. His early musical influences ranged from church music and classical compositions to the emerging sounds of 1960s rock and roll. He particularly admired the bass work of John Entwistle of The Who and Paul McCartney of The Beatles, though he would soon develop a style that transcended both influences.

The transition from guitarist to bassist came when Squire joined his first serious band, The Selfs, in 1964. The group needed a bass player, and Chris volunteered to switch instruments. He purchased his first bass guitar, a Futurama, for £40 – a decision that would change progressive rock history. By 1965, he had upgraded to the instrument that would become synonymous with his name: a Rickenbacker 4001 bass guitar.

In 1965, Chris Squire joined The Syn, a psychedelic rock band that enjoyed moderate success in London’s underground music scene. The Syn released several singles and performed regularly at the Marquee Club, where Squire began developing his aggressive, lead-oriented bass style. His time with The Syn connected him to other emerging musicians in London’s vibrant music scene, setting the stage for the formation of one of progressive rock’s most enduring bands.

🎵 Yes Formation and Early Years (1968-1970)

In May 1968, Chris Squire met singer Jon Anderson at a bar in Soho called La Chasse. The two musicians immediately connected over their shared vision of creating music that transcended conventional rock boundaries. Anderson was impressed by Squire’s powerful bass tone and soaring harmonies, while Chris admired Jon’s ethereal vocal style and spiritual approach to songwriting. This meeting would prove to be one of the most significant partnerships in progressive rock history.

Together with guitarist Peter Banks, keyboardist Tony Kaye, and drummer Bill Bruford, Squire and Anderson formed Yes in the summer of 1968. The band’s name, suggested by Banks, was deliberately simple and affirmative – a stark contrast to the complex music they would create. Yes Chris Squire quickly established himself as the band’s musical anchor, providing not only the bottom end but also melodic counterpoint and powerful vocal harmonies that became a Yes trademark.

Yes released their self-titled debut album in July 1969. While the album showcased the band’s potential with covers of songs by The Beatles and The Byrds alongside original compositions, it was Squire’s distinctive bass sound that caught the attention of critics and musicians alike. His aggressive, trebly tone – achieved through his Rickenbacker bass, Rotosound roundwound strings, and Marshall amplification – cut through the mix like a lead instrument rather than sitting in the traditional bass register.

The band’s second album, Time and a Word (1970), saw Yes expanding their sound with orchestral arrangements. Yes Chris Squire’s bass became even more prominent, weaving melodic lines that often rivaled the guitar and keyboards for prominence. Songs like “No Opportunity Necessary, No Experience Needed” showcased his ability to drive a song forward while simultaneously providing harmonic complexity. Despite lineup changes – Peter Banks was replaced by Steve Howe in 1970 – Squire remained Yes’s constant, his bass serving as the foundation upon which progressive rock epics would be built.

🚀 The Yes Album and Breakthrough (1971)

The arrival of guitarist Steve Howe transformed Yes into the progressive powerhouse that would dominate the 1970s. “The Yes Album,” released in February 1971, represented the band’s true breakthrough and established Chris Squire as one of rock’s premier bassists. The album peaked at #4 in the UK and #40 in the US, achieving gold certification and introducing Yes to a massive international audience.

Squire’s bass work on “Starship Trooper” remains one of progressive rock’s defining moments. His melodic, almost vocal-like bass lines in the “Disillusion” section demonstrated that bass guitar could be beautiful and intricate without sacrificing power. On “Yours Is No Disgrace,”Chris Squire’s thunderous opening bass line announced a new era in progressive rock – one where the bass guitar commanded as much attention as any other instrument.

The album featured another Squire showcase, “I’ve Seen All Good People”, where his bass and harmony vocals intertwined to create Yes’s signature sound. His voice, trained in church choirs, blended perfectly with Anderson’s higher register and Howe’s mid-range harmonies. This three-part harmony approach became a Yes trademark, with Squire’s bass often providing a fourth harmonic voice beneath the vocals.

“The Yes Album” tour established Chris Squire as a magnetic stage presence. Standing over six feet tall with long blonde hair, he commanded the left side of the stage with his gleaming Rickenbacker bass. His stage attire – often featuring elaborate capes and glittering costumes – matched the grandiose nature of Yes’s music. More importantly, his bass tone, achieved through multiple Marshall amplifiers and careful equalization, filled concert halls with a presence that few bass players could match.

💿 Golden Era: Fragile to Close to the Edge (1971-1973)

The addition of keyboardist Rick Wakeman in 1971 completed Yes’s classic lineup and ushered in their golden era. “Fragile,” released in November 1971, became Yes’s commercial breakthrough, reaching #4 in the US and eventually achieving 2x Platinum certification. Yes Chris Squire’s bass work reached new heights of sophistication and power, particularly on the hit single “Roundabout.”

“Roundabout” showcased Chris Squire’s ability to create memorable, melodic bass lines that could stand alone as compositions. His bass line throughout the song’s verses provided both rhythmic drive and harmonic complexity, weaving around Howe’s guitar and Wakeman’s keyboards without ever getting lost in the mix. The song’s success – reaching #13 on the Billboard Hot 100 – proved that progressive rock could achieve mainstream success without compromising artistic integrity.

“Fragile” also featured Squire’s solo composition “The Fish (Schindleria Praematurus),” a tour de force of bass virtuosity. The three-minute instrumental showcased every aspect of his technique: aggressive pick playing, melodic thumb work, harmonic sophistication, and tonal variety. “The Fish” became a concert staple, with Squire often extending it to 10 minutes or more during live performances, adding improvisational sections that left audiences stunned.

In September 1972, Yes released “Close to the Edge,” widely considered one of progressive rock’s greatest achievements. Yes Chris Squire’s bass work on the 18-minute title track represented the pinnacle of his artistry. Throughout the song’s various sections, his bass provided melodic counterpoint, rhythmic drive, and harmonic foundation, often playing lead lines that were more technically demanding than many guitar solos.

The album also featured “And You and I,” where Squire’s gentle, melodic bass work provided perfect support for the song’s pastoral beauty. On “Siberian Khatru,” his aggressive, driving bass line propelled one of Yes’s most energetic compositions. “Close to the Edge” reached #3 in the UK and #4 in the US, cementing Yes’s status as progressive rock’s premier band and establishing Yes Chris Squire as the genre’s most influential bassist.

On “Siberian Khatru”, his aggressive, driving bass line propelled one of Yes’s most energetic compositions. “Close to the Edge” reached #3 in the UK and #4 in the US, cementing Yes’s status as progressive rock’s premier band and establishing Yes Chris Squire as the genre’s most influential bassist.

🎤 Fish Out of Water and Solo Success (1975)

During a break in Yes’s touring schedule in 1975, Chris Squire embarked on his first and only solo album project, Fish Out of Water. Released in November 1975, the album showcased Squire’s talents beyond his role as Yes’s bassist, revealing him as a sophisticated composer, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist. The album featured elaborate orchestrations by Andrew Pryce Jackman and contributions from former Yes drummer Bill Bruford and guitarist Patrick Moraz.

“Fish Out of Water” demonstrated that Chris Squire’s musical vision extended far beyond bass guitar. The album’s five tracks ranged from the gentle, acoustic-driven “Silently Falling” to the epic 11-minute “Safe (Canon Song),” which featured Squire’s bass prominently alongside full orchestral arrangements. His vocals, which had always been crucial to Yes’s harmony blend, took center stage throughout the album, proving his capabilities as a lead singer.

The album peaked at #25 in the UK and #69 in the US, receiving critical acclaim for its ambitious scope and impeccable production. “Lucky Seven” became a fan favorite, featuring Squire’s signature Rickenbacker bass sound driving an upbeat, jazz-influenced composition. “Fish Out of Water” remains highly regarded among progressive rock enthusiasts and demonstrated that Yes Chris Squire could create compelling music entirely on his own terms.

Despite the album’s success, Squire chose not to pursue an extensive solo career, instead remaining committed to Yes. His decision to prioritize the band over solo stardom spoke to his dedication and belief in the collaborative nature of progressive rock. “Fish Out of Water” stands as a testament to his comprehensive musicianship while remaining a unique entry in his discography.

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⚡ 90125 and Commercial Revival (1983)

By the early 1980s, progressive rock had fallen out of commercial favor, and Yes had disbanded following the Drama album. Yes Chris Squire refused to let the band die, however. Together with Alan White, he began working on what would become Cinema, recruiting South African guitarist Trevor Rabin and eventually bringing back Jon Anderson. This reformed lineup created 90125, an album that would give Yes their biggest commercial success.

Released in November 1983, “90125” represented a dramatic departure from Yes’s progressive rock roots, embracing contemporary production techniques and more concise song structures. “Owner of a Lonely Heart” became Yes’s first and only #1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Yes Chris Squire’s bass work on the track demonstrated his ability to adapt his signature sound to modern production, maintaining his melodic approach while fitting into Trevor Horn’s slick production.

The album achieved 3x Platinum certification in the US and reached #5 on the Billboard 200. Chris Squire’s role extended beyond bass playing; he co-produced the album and helped navigate the band through their most successful commercial period. Songs like “Changes” and “Leave It” showcased his continuing evolution as a musician, proving he could thrive in any musical context without compromising his artistic identity.

The success of “90125” introduced Yes to a new generation through MTV and rock radio. Yes Chris Squire appeared in the iconic “Owner of a Lonely Heart” video, his presence helping connect the band’s progressive past with their pop-rock present. The subsequent world tour was Yes’s most commercially successful, playing to sold-out arenas and proving that the band could evolve with changing musical tastes.

🏆 Later Career and Final Years (1990s-2015)

Following the success of “90125” and its follow-up Big Generator (1987), Yes’s Chris Squire continued as the band’s anchor through numerous lineup changes and musical directions. The 1991 “Union” album attempted to reconcile two competing versions of Yes, bringing together eight members for a complex reunion that produced mixed results. Through it all, Squire remained the constant, his bass providing continuity across decades of musical evolution.

The 1990s saw Yes’s Chris Squire embracing both the band’s progressive roots and contemporary sounds. Albums like Talk (1994) worked with producer Trevor Horn again, while “Keys to Ascension” (1996) reunited the classic 1970s lineup for new recordings and live performances. Squire’s bass work remained consistently excellent, whether playing 20-minute epics or radio-friendly rock songs. His technical abilities never diminished, and his tone remained immediately recognizable.

In the 2000s, Chris Squire continued touring extensively, bringing Yes’s music to new audiences worldwide. The band released Magnification (2001) featuring a full orchestra, Fly from Here (2011), and finally “Heaven & Earth” (2014). Squire also performed with his side project Conspiracy, featuring Billy Sherwood, releasing two albums that explored more contemporary progressive rock sounds while maintaining his signature bass approach.

On June 27, 2015, Yes Chris Squire passed away at age 67 from acute erythroid leukemia. His death shocked the music world and left Yes without its only constant member across 47 years. Squire had been diagnosed just a month earlier and deteriorated rapidly. His final public statement expressed optimism about returning to the stage, demonstrating the fighting spirit that had characterized his entire career. Yes continued after his death with Billy Sherwood on bass, honoring Squire’s wish that the band carry on.

🎸 Musical Innovations and Signature Sound

Yes Chris Squire revolutionized rock bass playing through his distinctive approach to the instrument. His signature sound combined multiple elements: a Rickenbacker 4001 bass (specifically his 1964 model RM1999), Rotosound Swing Bass RS66 roundwound strings, and Marshall amplification with treble-heavy equalization. This combination produced a bright, grinding tone that cut through dense progressive rock arrangements while maintaining bass frequencies.

Squire’s technique was equally distinctive. He used a pick for aggressive attack but also employed his thumb for mellower passages, creating dynamic contrast within single compositions. His approach treated bass as a lead instrument, often playing melodic counterpoint to guitars and keyboards rather than simply supporting them. Yes Chris Squire frequently occupied the same register as rhythm guitars, creating a thick, powerful mid-range presence that became a Yes trademark.

Harmonically, Chris Squire was sophisticated beyond most rock bassists. His church choir training influenced his approach to harmony, both in his bass lines and his vocal contributions. He understood how to create harmonic movement and tension, often implying chord changes through his bass lines before the keyboards or guitars made them explicit. This harmonic sophistication elevated Yes’s music beyond typical rock structures.

Squire’s influence extended across generations of bassists. Geddy Lee of Rush, Billy Sheehan, John Myung of Dream Theater, and countless others cite Yes Chris Squire as a primary influence. His demonstration that bass could be melodic, aggressive, and harmonically sophisticated without losing its foundational role changed how rock bass was played. Modern progressive metal, progressive rock, and even some pop music bears Squire’s fingerprints in its approach to bass guitar.

⭐ Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2017)

On April 7, 2017, Yes was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing their immense influence on progressive rock and rock music generally. Tragically, Yes Chris Squire was not alive to witness this honor, having passed away less than two years earlier. His widow, Scotland Squire, accepted the award on his behalf, delivering an emotional speech that highlighted his dedication to Yes and his revolutionary approach to bass guitar.

The induction ceremony featured performances from surviving members and tributes from fellow musicians. Geddy Lee of Rush, himself one of rock’s greatest bassists, inducted the band and spoke extensively about Yes Chris Squire’s influence on his own playing and on rock bass generally. Lee described Squire’s tone as “a voice” rather than simply a bass sound, emphasizing how Squire had transformed the instrument’s role in rock music.

The Rock Hall induction recognized Yes’s sales of over 50 million albums worldwide, their influence on progressive rock’s development, and their continued relevance across five decades. For Yes Chris Squire specifically, it acknowledged his status as the band’s only constant member and his role in creating progressive rock’s signature bass sound. The honor came decades after Yes became eligible, reflecting the Hall’s sometimes complicated relationship with progressive rock.

Beyond the Rock Hall, Yes Chris Squire received numerous accolades throughout his career. Bass Player magazine readers voted him best rock bass player five consecutive years. His Rickenbacker 4001, nicknamed “The Fish,” became one of rock’s most iconic instruments. In 2013, he was honored with the Progressive Music Awards’ Virtuoso award, recognizing his technical mastery and influence on the genre he helped create.

💿 Essential Albums

While Chris Squire released 21 studio albums with Yes and numerous live recordings, these eight represent the essential listening experience that captures his evolution as an artist and his profound influence on rock bass playing.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Yes Chris Squire

Here are answers to the most common questions fans ask about Yes Chris Squire.

🎸 Bottom Line

Yes Chris Squire’s career represents one of rock music’s most revolutionary stories of innovation and dedication. From his church choir beginnings to creating progressive rock’s definitive bass sound, from “The Yes Album” breakthrough to “90125” commercial triumph, from pioneering melodic bass techniques to maintaining Yes through countless lineup changes, Squire achieved what few musicians accomplish: he fundamentally changed how an instrument is played.

His signature Rickenbacker tone remains instantly recognizable decades later, influencing generations of bassists across progressive rock, metal, and beyond. Despite his passing in June 2015, Yes Chris Squire continues inspiring musicians worldwide. His 2017 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction finally recognized his immense contributions to rock music, though he tragically did not live to witness this honor.

At 67 years old when he died, Yes Chris Squire exemplified musical integrity and artistic commitment. His 47-year tenure as Yes’s only constant member demonstrated unparalleled dedication to collaborative music-making. He proved that bass guitar could be melodic, aggressive, and harmonically sophisticated without losing its foundational role, transforming rock bass playing forever.

Though Yes continues without him, performing his music with Billy Sherwood on bass, Yes Chris Squire’s legacy continues growing. His music has influenced millions, his techniques have become standard practice for progressive bassists, and his unwavering artistic vision serves as inspiration far beyond the music world. The revolutionary bassist who treated his instrument as a voice shows no signs of being forgotten, his influence echoing through every bassist who prioritizes melody and sophistication.

📚 Sources

• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – Yes Inductee Profile
• Wikipedia – Chris Squire Biography
• YesWorld – Official Yes Website
• Rolling Stone – Chris Squire Obituary
• Billboard – Yes Bassist Chris Squire Dies
• AllMusic – Chris Squire Artist Biography