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Chris Squire
1948 - 2015
Chris Squire
1948 - 2015
Obituary
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BORN
1948
DIED
2015
Chris Squire Obituary
The band posted a statement on its Facebook page saying Squire "peacefully passed away" Saturday in Phoenix, where he lived. No further details about the death were provided.
Squire announced last month that he had acute erythroid leukemia, a rare form of acute myeloid leukemia. He was receiving treatment before he died.
"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," said the statement from Alan White, Steve Howe, Jon Davison and Geoff Downes.
"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," the band's statement continued. "Because of his phenomenal bass-playing prowess, Chris influenced countless bassists around the world, including many of today's well-known artists."
Squire was born on March 4, 1948, in London. He was the only member to play on all of Yes' albums, and he co-founded the band with its former lead singer, Jon Anderson. The group released its self-titled debut album in 1969.
In a statement posted Sunday on his website, Anderson said he and Squire were "musical brothers."
"I feel blessed to have created some wonderful, adventurous, music with him. Chris had such a great sense of humor ... he always said he was Darth Vader to my Obiwan. I always thought of him as Christopher Robin to my Winnie the Pooh," he wrote.
Anderson added that he was thankful he recently connected with Squire: "I saw him in my meditation last night, and he was radiant."
Squire, a talented and dominant bass guitarist, was one of the leaders of progressive rock in the 1970s. His website says he was a choirboy in his youth, which set the foundation for his musical talents.
He released his solo debut, "Fish Out of Water," in 1975, and also played in the short-lived supergroup XYZ (eX-Yes-Zeppelin), which included Jimmy Page.
Yes released the album "Heaven & Earth" last year. The Grammy-winning band's hits include "Roundabout" and "Owner of a Lonely Heart," which became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard pop charts in the 1980s. The group will launch a U.S. tour with Toto in August, when Billy Sherwood will fill in for Squire.
Squire is survived by his wife, Scotland, and several children.
___
MESFIN FEKADU, Associated Press
Copyright © 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
365 Entries
John M. Kukawka
March 4, 2021
Whenever I think of YES and Phenomenal Bass player, your name Chris Squire instantly comes to mind Immediately. It's hard to believe that it's been Six years since Your Passing... May You Continue to Rest in Peace, Chris... "Changes" YES...
craig edder
December 18, 2020
There will never be a sadder in music history than 6/27/2015. That day A bright and wonderful light went out. There will never be another like Chirs. WE love you and Will miss your light in this world.
Robert Bove
August 9, 2019
Miss you mr. Squire one of the greatest bass players That Ever Walked the planet
Harry Simpson
June 29, 2018
Godspeed Chris, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
How you can show support
June 27, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
March 7, 2018
Always thinking of you Chris. Im sure there is some amazing music going on in Heaven. Happy Birthday. Thank you for the music. Onward...love Betsy
January 30, 2018
Your music colored my dreams....
You are "The dreamer easy in the chair that really fits you"
RR
Richard Blacker
December 24, 2017
Chris , thank you for the majaick!
Forever missed !
Never forgotten!
Fly into that goodnight .
Kirk Conrad
July 9, 2017
Chris will miss your work you are the one constant in the band
Dean Baggett
July 1, 2017
He singlehandedly changed the role of the bass guitar in rock music. I shall sorely miss him. RIP
Helen Dolman
March 4, 2017
Happy Birthday Chris. Never forgotten. Still miss you. Sleep Well. xxx
julie
November 29, 2016
Fish Out of Water will always be my favorite
GARY ALVIN
October 26, 2016
I HAVE SEEN HIM PERFORM MANY TIMES,,,I ALWAYS LEAVE SHAKING MY HEAD,,,HOW AWESOME...GOD BLESS
Ed G
August 28, 2016
Experienced Yes performing TFTO yesterday and truly felt your presence in Billy's playing. All of your loyal fans miss you.
Evelyn Stroem
August 19, 2016
REST IN PEACE MY HERO BASSIST.YOUR PLAYING IN HEAVEN NOW FOR ETERNITY. I SHALL SEE YOU THERE WHEN THE LORD CALLS UPON ME. LOVE AND PEACE SURROUNDS YOU
John Kukawka
July 29, 2016
RIP. Hard to believe it has been over a year since your passing. Heaven has a great bassist... Forever Missed...
Juliann Dosen
June 26, 2016
With Love, rememberimg your passing. Thank you for the beuty (music) you brought to my life.
Les Rickman
March 14, 2016
It was a extreme blow the news of your passing. Have seen you play many times, you will be terribly missed. My deepest sympathies go to your family. RIP Chris.
Helen Dolman
March 4, 2016
Happy Birthday.Chris. Never will be forgotten. A star in Rock and Roll Heaven. Will always remember your kindness. God Bless.
Sheldon Powell
February 16, 2016
We will miss you beyond belief. I can never forget this massive yet soft, gentle paw as you gripped my hand in a shake backstage after you had just rocked our world. My wife, Beth was once again completely in awe of your performance and rightly declared "Chris is YES." Much could be said here but I'll just say, I love you man.
Lillie Cipolla
January 21, 2016
Chris, as the bassist for Yes, one of my all time favorites bands, thank you for all you have done for me and my generation, which were the younger brothers and sisters of your own generation. Thank you for getting us thru Jr High and High School. Your talent, along with the uniqueness of Yes with mystic story telling was by far one of the most unique rock bands ever. May God rest your soul, and courage and strength to your family.
Paul Rosman
December 27, 2015
I know it's a bit late, but I just found out about Chris' passing. As a fellow bassist, he was one of my greatest influences. His style and presence was unsurpassed. I first heard Yes when they were a warm up act for Humble Pie, back in the summer of '71, at the Capitol Theater in Port Chester, NY. We were so totally amazed, an instant bond was created. "Thank You", Chris, for all the wonderful melodies, and fantastic bass lines. Also, thanks for being real! A true gentlemen!
J J
December 16, 2015
Just read that Chris left this earth 6 months ago. I'm so sad. As a bassist, Chris really moved me. I attended many YES concerts in LA in the 70's. The music was incredible, real & meaningful. Chris Squire will never be forgotten.
Craig Fazekas
October 12, 2015
Chris- You took us for a wonderful sonic journey right from the opening notes of 'Beyond and Before'. Thank you for many wonderful years of enjoyment, brother !
sharp,distance
Keith Winter
October 6, 2015
have a Guiness,turkey pot pie,shephards pie,pumpkin pie,no cigars,mince meat pie with icing.
Glenn Parks
September 29, 2015
I have been a YES fan since 1970 and Chris is the main reason. To hear Chris play you know you have heard the best, your music and memories will be with me forever, You will be missed but never forgotten.
chris kraeling
September 27, 2015
My first yesshow was in vancouver in 77 They were my first intro to prog in 71 Opus 3- No disgrace The Fish 3 nights in a row for Amazing Grace (ON A BASS) He was the backbone of a band of giants Titans "Fishy" is now back in the waters with the maker Condolences on the loss of your friend, Mr Anderson. Great love-chrisK
chris kraeling
September 27, 2015
farewell fishy and peace to you in His blessed realm chris k
John "Rusty" Curry
September 21, 2015
May GOD grant you the blessing of playing "Amazing Grace" before HIS throne!
mike beal
September 20, 2015
great meeting you on cruise. very kind and personal. my bass idol for 45 years. onward mr squire
and the word is YES
Jeff Clark
September 13, 2015
We all will miss you dearly, Brother! You have been MORE than an inspiration to me, and countless others ! Rock On !!!
Michael E
August 31, 2015
Thank you for a lifetime of inspiring music and musicianship. One of the best, to be sure. Rest in peace, Mr Squire.
dan syles
August 23, 2015
Mr squire you were amazing. Seen you from the spectrum tower there was now one like you
HARRY COHEN
August 18, 2015
Always from afar and since 1970, being an aspiring bass guitar player, a Chris Squire's pupil.
Never stopped listening to your music and never will.
May you play forever
Sincerely
Harry Cohen. IA/ DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
August 18, 2015
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
d H
August 13, 2015
Jesus loves us, this I know... Chris is in the arms of the master in Heaven now. God bless you all, in Jesus' name. David
Ann Brown
August 13, 2015
Wae aku i ka lani (Chosen by Heaven)
Sending love and prayers to your friends and family. Your music touched me as a youth and holds me to this day. I hope there is music in Heaven. Mahalo for sharing your gift with us all. I will be forever a Yes fan!
john whyte
August 12, 2015
chris u were one of the best sadly missed god bless r i p
Elizabeth Wickham
August 8, 2015
Your music enhanced my life. Thank you so much for all the beautiful music! You are so missed by so many!
August 8, 2015
Thank you for all the wonderful music!
Brian Sylvester
August 7, 2015
While setting the bar for all musicians, especially bass players, you shared an opportunity for us to experience your visions and joy. I listened to your music my whole life. Thank you.
rick coleman
August 3, 2015
Paul taught me the basics, you took me to the next level. Will never forget you. I hear your bass parts in my head every single day. RIP my great teacher and performer.
claudio pesavento
August 2, 2015
always in our hearts dear friend
Keith Hancock
August 1, 2015
I first saw Chris perform with The Syn in 1967 at Kettering WMC. Even then he had a great presence on stage. Next time was at the Marquee a couple of times before they released their 1st album. Their covers of songs by The Beatles, and Fifth Dimension were awesome! Followed their career for many years, and always thought Chris was the ultimate bassist. RIP my dear man !!!
John Riley
August 1, 2015
First saw you in 1977 bingley hall Stafford England and to this day have never forgot the majestic figure that stood in front of me.Thankyou Mr squire for the wonderful memories RIP.
Jim Dartouzos
July 26, 2015
I will remember you..your silhouette will charge the few of distance atmosphere..call it morning driving thru the sound and even in the valley...In and around the lake..mountains come out of the sky and they stand there....Heaven just received a musical angel..and Earth just said goodbye to a musical genius...Rest in Peace..Chris
M Montana
July 26, 2015
So many times I listened the Yes version of "America" as my morning mantra wake up call. Too many things to list on how Chris was so inspiring. Such a great loss to his family and the world. The Fish has swam to a greater ocean.
Hank L.
July 24, 2015
YES Winterlanded their way into the BayArea psyche with their preconcert classical overture and their CloseToTheEdgeLongPlays and the YouAndI Vocals.
Andy Cox
July 21, 2015
Great memories of a great band in the 70's. Chris was a driving force. Rest In Peace.
James Kirsch
July 21, 2015
Wow - Mr. Squire. Indeed a stalwart of my life-Gone. I will miss and envy that you go ahead of me. See you on the other side my friend. James Kirsch
robin Graham
July 20, 2015
Have been pounding out Yes on the hi-fi for last few weeks, Chris' track 'Onward' sounding particularly poignant. Rest in peace.
July 20, 2015
He was an amazing bass player, singer and stage presence. YES has always been my favorite band and I will have to spin some vinyl tonight and remember every concert I have seen them. See you on the other side Chris.
July 20, 2015
One of the great ones. an inspiration to musicians and music lovers all over the world. By all accounts a really fun person, loving father, and husband. Creative, innovative, pioneer of his instrument. Over 60 pus performances I have witnessed. This man and his music are part of the fabric of my life. Will never forget, will always honor and bask in the afterglow of the music he gave us.
Joel Pirard NEW WINDSOR NY
Henry L.
July 16, 2015
when you heard that classical overture before every Yesshow you knew you were in for a treat and you begin to like Stravinsky whereas before then you didn't know who the heck he was. Their male gowns and musicianship certainly added to their brilliance.Some even to this day do not understand the attraction of YES.
Lianne Meinzinger
July 16, 2015
Chris... you have been such a tremendous influence in this world, and those of us touched by your music and spirit will never be the same again. You and Rick are the greatest talents I've ever had the pleasure of seeing perform. Much love and peace to you, we all hope to see that smile and hear you play and sing again one day! You will live in our hearts forever.
Harry Burke
July 15, 2015
A genius on the bass fantastic voice I first heard a yes album in 1973 and have been a fan ever since.You will be missed my friend may God grant your family peace at this difficult time.Lots of love to your family and extended Yes family throughout the world.
Dave Yanichko
July 14, 2015
It was a great joy watching you perform so many times, I will never forget every time I waited to meet you, you always found the time to stop. Thanks Chris. May God welcome you into a place in his many mansions.
July 13, 2015
Chris and Geddy are the reason I play a Rickenbacker. I am broken up to hear about Chris passing. I have lost count how many times that I have seen him live. Amazing musician/singer/songwriter. The world is emptier without him in in it.
Reid Lindgren
Danny Mcnutt
July 13, 2015
Rip chris great bassist you'll be playing bass with John Lennon and Rory Gallagher in heaven hope to see the gig one day
Brendan Newport
July 13, 2015
Before I listened to Chris Squire play, I never really paid any attention to the sound a bass guitar made, or could make.
Chris transformed the image of the bass player. No longer just 'locking-in' with the drummer, he was out there, front (and just to the left of Jon) singing and playing a bass as a lead instrument. He never ever played second fiddle to a lead guitarist and in a band that has featured guitarists as good as Steve Howe and Trevor Rabin he always ensured his always melodic dynamic playing drove the band on. He was at the heart of Yes music. In a band that features so many unique and gifted musicians he was the most unique - no one else could even dream of being able to play how he did and what he wrote.
Because he wasn't just a musician, he was also a hugely gifted song-writer, and perhaps the most consistent writer the band has had. Tracks like 'Onward' and 'On The Silent Wings of Freedom' are incredibly different in sound and texture, but they reveal just how wide Chris's palette was. He had either a leading hand or key collaborative hand in all of Yes' music, from the earliest days in the late 1960s to recent times, and at no point did he suffer a dip in form or seem to lose the muse.
Chris, you left an enormous positive mark upon the world and generations of musicians and music lovers. You will never be forgotten.
Jimmy Hotz
July 12, 2015
Onward to larger realities, my friend. By the Love of God Most High and the wondrous gift of Eternal Life, through His Son Jesus, we shall indeed meet again!
Jimmy Hotz
July 12, 2015
Chris you will be sorely missed. I have fond memories of our conversations and was always impressed with your creativity. May God grant you Peace, as He leads you on to grand new adventures! God bless you my friend,
Jimmy Hotz
Darrell Livesay
July 12, 2015
What a tremendous loss of Chris Squire. I remember at age 12 hearing "Roundabout" on AM radio right when FM radio was taking shape and have been a YES fan ever since. Chris was a very talented musician and composer. He and ALL the members of YES both past and present are rightfully deserving inducted into the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame. This honor should have taken place years ago. My condolences to his family.
Olias Sunhillow
July 11, 2015
Chris, you were sent here to earth for battle- as an ultimate "Starship Trooper". Your music has continued to inspire my soul for 40 years. May the honor of expressing my gratitude directly be granted when we're all in Our Lord's hands. Until then.... May God bless the Squire family in preparation for that Day.
Olias- Carson City, NV
Allen Hebert
July 10, 2015
Thanks for the great music Chris. I've always been a fan of "Yes" through my years. You will be missed! Sorrow is a pain we all must go through when we loose so much, but we turn sorrow into smiles when we think of memories of what they left us! Keep playin' that bass bro! Your the best!
July 9, 2015
My Respects and Condolences.. which do not fully say how truly devastated I am, and a small circle of friends. Peace, Love and Grooviness... Your influence, those "hair standing on end' moments, Your consistent greatness! WE're gonna miss you so much Love You Chris busted up in Winnipeg...
Steve Kesler
July 9, 2015
I first saw Chris with Yes on their 1972 US tour. November 4th, in Cclumbus Ohio's St. John Arena, and finally had the opportunity to meet and speak with him 41 years later, on the Edge. The voice he gave the strings will transcend the rhythms of eternity. Bless you and your family and all the friends you have touched during your time with us.
Fred Lozano
July 9, 2015
Chris.... words cannot express how much I admired your talent. Yes was, is, and will be my favorite largely due to you.
(F. Lozano Fleming Island, FL)
July 9, 2015
Saw you in Australia with my three grown sons. This was a father/son moment you gave me I'll always cherish. Thanks for the decades. TCat
July 8, 2015
Thank you for bringing me joy and inspiration from my teenage years and into adulthood, and God bless you and your family.
Greatest Bassist of My Generation!
James Graham
July 8, 2015
My heartfelt condolences to the family of Chris Squire.
claudio pesavento
July 8, 2015
Elizabeth duggar
July 8, 2015
You may be gone from us, but your music will live on.will miss the sounds and the way you made that bass sing.I'm sure you've already put a band together in heaven, jam on with yo bad self
July 8, 2015
Chris.....Thank you for every moment of musical bliss you shared from your soul with the world. Truly...NAMASTE` Chris....Namaste`
Cole Coleman
July 7, 2015
Chris and the rest of the original and classic Yes are my musical fathers; I became a musician directly because of them. So, very sad to have Chris no longer here. But, what an amazing legacy he has left. I will remember his life with joy and massive respect for the otherworldly music he created.
Mike
July 7, 2015
One of the great, quiet bassists. One of the fist albums I purchased was Fragile. I think was probably his best work. He left us way too soon.
Carl Schultz
July 7, 2015
What a huge loss. A wonderful bass player and wonderful human being. Had the chance to meet him a few years ago and he was warm, courteous and funny! When I asked if I could have my picture with him he said yes and instantly started shoulder bumping me. A night I will never forget. RIP Mr. Squire you will always be in our hearts.
Ed S
July 6, 2015
What a devastating loss of a true artist and virtuoso. Chris, you will be remembered as a driving force in the progressive rock movement, a brilliant song writer and a master bass player. God bless you and your family.
steve lowe
July 6, 2015
First watched chris in Liverpool 1975 also many times after, incredible to see him play like only he could, the master, a true great, really sad to hear of his passing , deepest sympathy to the squire family at this difficult time.
Rick Crowe
July 5, 2015
Chris, You were a great influence and undoubtly the best bass player in my opinion as a drummer. Rest in peace and may God bless you.
terre carranza
July 5, 2015
You will be missed! Love you always! Prayers to your family & extended family -FANS!!!! GRATEFUL FOR THE YES MUSIC AS A WHOLE! !!! LOVE YOU ALL. WELCOME BILLY SHERWOOD! !!!!
Dave Hicks
July 5, 2015
R.I.P. Chris God Bless
Lington
July 5, 2015
My teenage years and beyond were partnered by YES, from having all the vinyls and then the Cds...and then back to vinyl. He played bass where other bassists had cobwebs. One of my favourites 'Chamber of Horrors' by Rick Wakeman...A piece of music that could have been on GFTO.
Thank you for continuing to share my life with your music and I wish your family comfort and peace at this difficult time.
Curt Simmons
July 4, 2015
I feel like the yes band is part of my existence
"Chris will be missed by all"
Robert Goulet
July 4, 2015
When music touches someone, truly touches someone, it takes them to a special place. It's a place which is unreachable by any other means. Music transcends time, space and links us with better times, places and people. Music is the conduit that creates those warm special memories we can escape to when needed. It invokes emotions, ignites passions and speaks to us in a way no other form of communication is capable of doing. Thank you for sharing your gift. It brings a joy that lasts a lifetime! Onward Silent Wings of Freedom Chris.
Chris Manders
July 4, 2015
Memory - 1971 - one great night in Amman, Jordan with a Lebanese group I'd met, listening to their albums of Yes/Floyd/Zep.
Memory - 1975 - Finding a bootleg of a Yes concert while rummaging around a record store in Geneva.
Memory - 2012 After spending one month in Perth, Australia, left the day before Yes performed there! Big regret.
Chris inspired hundreds/thousands of bass guitarists including me.
Thanks big guy, at least we have the albums, CD's etc, to keep you in our minds.
Roger Strosky
July 4, 2015
Such a HUGE Influence on my Musical Life....You will be missed by MANY...The world of music will never be the same....Rest In Peace and Prayers Chris Squire....I loved you!!!
Tom DiNardo
July 4, 2015
The heart of Yes departed from us far too soon. A musicians band, best one in the universe. Yes Chris. Yes is an institution ! (Your own quote my friend.)
RIP Mr. Squire.
Helen Dolman
July 4, 2015
Thanks for everything. Never forget your kindness. Sleep well angel.
Steve McCue
July 4, 2015
YES music has been the sound track of my life and Chris Squire was the member of the band that first stood out to me and caught my attention in 1974. That was repeated with a number of friends I introduced to YES music with their comment's about what a great Bass player YES had. The power of YES was always the lead bass of Chris. His one of a kind vocals often in harmony with Jon Anderson was my favorite part of YES music. Chris was the greatest bass player in rock music history and his sound will be in my head and heart forever. That you Chris for how you changed my life with your music.
Lynda Agland
July 4, 2015
"Soon oh soon the light pass within this endless night' we are all devasted in the Agland Clan. RIP Chris Such an influence on us all!
Dave ,Lynda and all the Agland family Newbridge Wales UK
Art DAmbrosio
July 3, 2015
RIP Chris, Ive been down all week, listened to your solo album Fish out of water, cried and found my peace...as you have found yours. Thank You for making a difference in my Life.
Tom
July 3, 2015
I attended my first Yes concert on July 4, 1975 at the Chicago Stadium. I have been a fan ever since and am saddened by the passing of Chris Squire.
My wife and I got to meet Chris during the 35th anniversary tour and he was very pleasant and generous to sign some of our Yes memoribilia.
My sincere condolences to his family and band mates.
David Price
July 3, 2015
Although it's an inevitablity for all of us, when it happens to the ones we love, admire, and respect it's never easy.
While there is no particular order, Yes is easily in the top 5 of my favorite bands, and Mr. Squire's talents are a huge part of the reasons why.
My prayers & condolences for his family, and friends during this time of loss.
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