Heaven’s Gain: Chris Squire (1948-2015)

On By bradbirzerIn progressive rock music

I am terribly sad to see that Chris Squire (1948-2015) has passed away.

Drama Yes: 1980.
Drama Yes: 1980.

And, yet, it’s hard not to think: what an incredible life.  The man brought so much art and humor and personality to every single thing he did.  Certainly one of the greatest bassists of our time, Squire also possessed a beautiful voice.  And, though often overshadowed by the song writing due of Anderson/Howe, Squire’s compositions within and for Yes were just heavenly.

Back in the era of mix tapes, I made a mix tape for the ages—all of the Yes songs by Chris Squire, with On the Silent Wings of Freedom being my absolute favorite.

His one solo album, 1975’s FISH OUT OF WATER is a prog classic.  Some have called it a missing Yes album, and yet it highlights just how much Squire did contribute to Yes.  His distinctive bass, his distinctive vocal lines, and his distinctive personality make FISH OUT OF WATER a wonder to behold.

Squire's only solo album: FISH OUT OF WATER (1975).
Squire’s only solo album: FISH OUT OF WATER (1975).

Squire has been the heart of Yes from its founding, even as countless numbers of others have swirled around him.

No more.  Our loss, but Heaven’s gain.  Godspeed, Chris Squire.  As a man and as an artist, you changed the world.  What more could we ask of anyone?  We have all benefitted from you and your life’s witness to beauty.

I would guess he has already had some good chats with Hendrix, Davis, Coltrane, Wagner, Beethoven. . .

9 thoughts on “Heaven’s Gain: Chris Squire (1948-2015)”

  1. connormullin94

    How sad. I was fortunate enough to see Yes perform two summers ago, and Squire as usual played his bass unlike any other – loud enough to make my chair shake! A tough loss, indeed.

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  6. Bryan Morey

    Damn. Too young. I’m sad that I never got the chance to see him live. This truly is a great loss for music. He was, in my opinion, the best bassist ever, with a beautiful singing voice that excellently complemented Jon Anderson. Thanks, Brad, for your post honoring this great legend of rock.

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