The Making of Yes' 'Fragile' and Much More with Guitarist Steve Howe
Aug 24, 2024
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Guitar legend Steve Howe, renowned for his work with Yes, shares fascinating insights about the making of 'Fragile' and the birth of progressive rock. He discusses the significance of clean tones in his unique guitar playing and the creative journeys within Yes. The dynamics of collaborative songwriting are explored, especially in creating the iconic track 'Roundabout.' Howe also reflects on audio innovation in music mixing and shares details about his solo project 'Guitar Scape,' showcasing his enduring creativity.
Steve Howe discusses his innovative guitar approach that helped shape the sound of progressive rock, diverging from mainstream pop influences.
The collaborative songwriting process within Yes allowed for unique musical experimentation, leading to their distinctive and complex arrangements.
Deep dives
Alienware's Impact on Communities
The episode highlights how Alienware is making strides to provide technology and AI literacy to underserved communities through its Back to School event. This initiative aims to equip solar community hubs with essential tech skills, helping empower remote, displaced, or disconnected populations globally. Alienware's dedication to merging gaming technology with social responsibility illustrates a growing trend among tech companies to leverage their innovations for positive societal outcomes. This effort exemplifies how modern businesses can contribute to community development while promoting their latest products.
Exploring the Origins of Prog Rock
The discussion delves into the evolution of progressive rock, with guitarist Steve Howe sharing insights about the genre's roots in psychedelic music. He recounts his early experiences, noting the creative challenges and groundwork he laid before joining the band Yes. The conversation reveals how Howe initially viewed contemporary music as an opportunity to expand on existing musical forms rather than conform to mainstream pop styles. His innovative approach to guitar playing, devoid of typical blues clichés, played a significant role in shaping the progressive rock sound.
The Creative Process Behind Yes's Music
Howe reflects on the collaborative nature of songwriting within Yes, particularly when crafting songs from simple initial ideas to complex arrangements. He emphasizes the band's willingness to experiment and push musical boundaries, resulting in distinctive tracks like 'Roundabout.' The interplay between band members allowed for a unique sonic landscape, where contributions from various instruments, including keyboards, often led to unexpected creative directions. This synergy among the musicians contributed to the rich and multifaceted sound characteristic of Yes's music.
Legacy and Influence on Modern Music
The conversation touches on the lasting impact of Yes on contemporary bands, particularly highlighting their influence on Rush. Howe expresses admiration for how Rush embraced and built upon ideas originating from Yes's work, which he considers a flattering acknowledgment of their pioneering efforts. The dialogue also examines Howe's ongoing contributions to music, including a forthcoming solo album, showcasing his enduring creativity and adaptability in the industry. This reflection on legacy underscores the interconnectedness of musical evolution and the importance of innovation across generations.
"Too Twiddly Didn’t Exist For Us": Guitar legend Steve Howe on the making of Yes' Fragile, the birth of prog, why he loves Rush, and much, much more in an interview with host Brian Hiatt