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Yes

Live Performances by Yes in 1987

Yes - Rhythm of Love at Lugano Jazz Festival Concert

Lugano Jazz Festival
Lugano, Switzerland

September 21, 1987 | Video Length: 6:06
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  • In the vibrant landscape of progressive rock, Yes was riding a creative wave leading up to the Lugano Jazz Festival performance on July 8, 2004. Just ... Read Full Description >

    In the vibrant landscape of progressive rock, Yes was riding a creative wave leading up to the Lugano Jazz Festival performance on July 8, 2004. Just a few years prior, in 2001, they released "Magnification," an album that marked a significant transition for the band. It was their first studio album featuring an orchestral accompaniment, showcasing a mature sound that evolved from their classic 70s roots. Fast forward to 2004, this concert captured the essence of a band celebrating its legacy, and the live experience brought a unique energy to beloved hits. Notably, the Lugano performance was part of the "Songs from Tsongas" tour, highlighting a moment where Yes was reconnecting with fans old and new. The combination of historical depth and fan enthusiasm during this show created a lucent connection with the audience—a reminder that music has a wonderful way of bridging time. It's fascinating how concerts like this can encapsulate decades of artistry, isn’t it?

Yes - Full Concert Live in Springfield, Prairie Capital Convention Center

Prairie Capital Convention Center
Springfield, Illinois, United States

November 19, 1987 | Video Length: 2:7:47
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  • In November 1987, Yes was riding the wave of a new chapter in their career with the release of their album *Big Generator*, which had dropped just wee... Read Full Description >

    In November 1987, Yes was riding the wave of a new chapter in their career with the release of their album *Big Generator*, which had dropped just weeks before this Springfield concert. This period marked a shift for the band, as they were experimenting with a more radio-friendly sound, combining the progressive rock roots they were known for with the emerging pop elements of the late '80s. The Springfield show, part of their *Big Generator Tour*, showcased tracks from the album like "Rhythm of Love" and "Big Generator," reflecting their evolving style. Interestingly, this tour was the first to feature new guitarist Billy Sherwood, who joined the lineup after the departure of founding member, keyboardist, and mainstay Rick Wakeman. With fresh dynamics on stage, the audience could feel that electric energy, perhaps wondering how this lineup would shape the future of Yes in an industry that was rapidly changing.

Yes - Live in Detroit, MI | Full Concert | Big Generator Tour

Joe Louis Arena
Detroit, Michigan, United States

November 21, 1987 | Video Length: 1:58:44
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  • In November 1987, when Yes performed live at the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, they were deep into the Big Generator Tour, supporting their album "Big G... Read Full Description >

    In November 1987, when Yes performed live at the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, they were deep into the Big Generator Tour, supporting their album "Big Generator," which had been released just a few months earlier in September of the same year. This album marked a transitional phase for the band, as it blended their classic progressive rock sound with elements of the 1980s pop rock scene, a shift that was evident in tracks like "Rhythm of Love" and "Almost Like Love." Interestingly, this period also reflected the band's lineup changes, as new members brought fresh influences to their music, demonstrating Yes's ability to evolve over time while maintaining their hallmark complexity. The Detroit concert captures a dynamic moment in their career, not just showcasing their new material but also celebrating a loyal fanbase that had journeyed with them through numerous transformations, both musically and personally. Truly, it was a concert that echoed Yes’s enduring legacy in the rock world.

Yes Full Concert at Philadelphia Spectrum - November 29, 1987

Spectrum
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

November 29, 1987 | Video Length: 1:51:39
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  • In 1987, Yes was riding the wave of their comeback after a somewhat turbulent period in the early ’80s. Not long before their performance at the Phi... Read Full Description >

    In 1987, Yes was riding the wave of their comeback after a somewhat turbulent period in the early ’80s. Not long before their performance at the Philadelphia Spectrum, they released the album "90125," which marked a significant shift in their sound, embracing more radio-friendly rock elements while still maintaining their progressive roots. This album was a commercial success, featuring hits like "Owner of a Lonely Heart," which topped the charts and brought a fresh fanbase into the fold. By the time of the live show on November 29, 1987, Yes was on tour promoting "Big Generator," their follow-up album that delved deeper into the polished sound they’d embraced with "90125." It’s fascinating to consider how pivotal this era was for them; the band was not only reconnecting with fans who loved their earlier progressive works but also experimenting with a more mainstream appeal. The spectrum of their evolution during this period showcases their ability to adapt while still delivering the signature musicianship they’re known for.

Yes Full Concert: 1987 Performance at Philadelphia Spectrum

Spectrum
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

November 29, 1987 | Video Length: 1:51:35
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  • On November 29, 1987, when Yes rocked the Spectrum in Philadelphia, the band was riding a creative wave that started with the release of their album "... Read Full Description >

    On November 29, 1987, when Yes rocked the Spectrum in Philadelphia, the band was riding a creative wave that started with the release of their album "Big Generator" earlier that year. This album marked a bit of a pivot for the band, evolving their sound with a sharper pop sensibility, and it included hits like "Owner of a Lonely Heart," which had brought them major commercial success back in '83. Interestingly, "Big Generator" was also their last studio album before a hiatus, making this live recording a snapshot of a band at a crossroads. The tour behind the album showcased their ability to blend intricate musicianship with accessible melodies, and the improved audio from the recording certainly helps capture that exhilarating energy they were known for. Let’s be real—there’s something magical about hearing a band live, where every note and crowd cheer melds into a singular, unforgettable experience!

Yes Concert in Philadelphia - Performance of 'Heart of the Sunrise'

Spectrum
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

November 29, 1987 | Video Length: 13:04
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  • In the fall of 1987, Yes was riding a fascinating wave of their career, particularly highlighted by their pivotal album, *Big Generator*, which had co... Read Full Description >

    In the fall of 1987, Yes was riding a fascinating wave of their career, particularly highlighted by their pivotal album, *Big Generator*, which had come out just a year prior. This album featured a blend of progressive rock peppered with a more commercial sound, illustrating their evolution as artists. Fast forward to November 29, 1987, when they graced the Spectrum in Philadelphia, delivering a mesmerizing performance of "Heart of the Sunrise." It's a track that perfectly showcases their intricate musicianship and emotional depth, characteristics that their fans cherish deeply. Interestingly, this live rendition is set against the backdrop of a band that was navigating a period marked by lineup changes, yet they still connected powerfully with their audience, drawing out extended applause—a testament to their ability to create an electric atmosphere. The history of Yes is rich with such moments, solidifying their legacy in the progressive rock scene. The fact that they managed to sustain such intensity during a time of transition speaks volumes about their artistic resilience and connection with fans.

Yes Live Performance in Philadelphia: Intro, Almost Like Love, Drum Solo, Hold On

Spectrum
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

November 29, 1987 | Video Length: 13:31
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  • In November 1987, Yes was riding the waves of a major comeback. Their album "Big Generator," released earlier that year, marked a pivotal moment for t... Read Full Description >

    In November 1987, Yes was riding the waves of a major comeback. Their album "Big Generator," released earlier that year, marked a pivotal moment for the band following a tumultuous period in the '80s. It showcased a more accessible sound, blending their progressive roots with elements of pop—a shift that sparked a mixed reception among hardcore fans. This live recording from the Spectrum in Philadelphia captures that transitional phase beautifully, featuring tracks that highlight their evolving style. One interesting tidbit? The 1987 tour also marked the return of members Chris Squire and Alan White, who had been pivotal in crafting their signature sound. You can almost feel the energy in the air as they performed older classics alongside newer hits, demonstrating their resilience and ability to adapt. This performance not only reflects where Yes was at that moment but also hints at the enduring legacy they would continue to build.

Yes - And You And I Live Performance at The Summit, Houston, 1988

Spectrum
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

November 30, 1987 | Video Length: 10:40
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  • In the late '80s, Yes was riding a wave of renewed creative energy, especially around the time of the live recording of "And You and I" at the Spectru... Read Full Description >

    In the late '80s, Yes was riding a wave of renewed creative energy, especially around the time of the live recording of "And You and I" at the Spectrum in Philadelphia on November 30, 1987. This concert fell just after the release of their album *Big Generator*, which hit shelves in the fall of 1987. That album, while not universally acclaimed, marked a distinct shift as it leaned more into the realms of slick production and accessible melodies, embodying a more commercial sound compared to their earlier, sprawling prog-rock masterpieces. It’s fascinating how “And You and I,” originally from *Close to the Edge*, took on a new life in this era, allowing fans to experience both the nostalgia of classic Yes and the evolution of the band's sound. This particular performance showcases the band's resilience and adaptability, capturing a moment when Yes was striving to balance their rich legacy with the demands of a changing music landscape.

Yes - Shoot High Aim Low Live Performance from Houston, Texas

Spectrum
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

November 30, 1987 | Video Length: 8:20
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  • In November 1987, when Yes performed “Shoot High, Aim Low” at the Spectrum in Philadelphia, they were riding the wave of their album *Big Generato... Read Full Description >

    In November 1987, when Yes performed “Shoot High, Aim Low” at the Spectrum in Philadelphia, they were riding the wave of their album *Big Generator*, which had been released just a few months earlier. This album marked a notable evolution for the band, showcasing a shift towards a more accessible sound and incorporating elements of mainstream rock, which might not have been as apparent in their earlier, more progressive works. Interestingly, *Big Generator* was somewhat of a return to form for Yes after a turbulent period marked by lineup changes. Fans were excited to see how the band would infuse fresh energy into their performances amidst the evolving music scene. The live renditions, like the one captured in Houston, often included improvisational flourishes, breathing new life into the album’s tracks and highlighting the band's signature musicianship. It’s fascinating how a live set can encapsulate a moment in time while echoing the band's broader journey and transformations.

Merry Clayton Performs 'YES' at Dirty Dancing Live in Concert, 1988

Spectrum
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

November 30, 1987 | Video Length: 4:31
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  • In the late 1980s, Yes was navigating a fascinating phase of their career, marked by both continuity and change. By the time the live recording of "Me... Read Full Description >

    In the late 1980s, Yes was navigating a fascinating phase of their career, marked by both continuity and change. By the time the live recording of "Merry Clayton - YES" was captured on November 30, 1987, the band was riding high after releasing the album "Big Generator" earlier that year, a work that showcased their evolving sound and willingness to integrate modern rock influences. “Big Generator” was significant, not just for its music but also for the way it reflected Yes’s ability to adapt in a rapidly changing industry. Interestingly, the concert highlights a blend of familiar faces and newer collaborations, with producer Trevor Rabin's influence steering the band into a more accessible and radio-friendly direction. What's particularly striking is how the energy of live performances—like the one at the Spectrum in Philadelphia—really brought to life their intricate arrangements, giving fans a taste of the chemistry that had long been a hallmark of their shows. You could feel the passion radiating from the stage, inviting both die-hard fans and newcomers to experience the unique magic that Yes consistently delivered.

Live Performance of 'Big Generator' by Yes from The Big Tour 1988 in Houston

Spectrum
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

November 30, 1987 | Video Length: 5:44
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  • Before the "Big Generator" live recording in 1987, Yes had released their album "Big Generator" in 1987, marking a significant moment in their evoluti... Read Full Description >

    Before the "Big Generator" live recording in 1987, Yes had released their album "Big Generator" in 1987, marking a significant moment in their evolution. This album was a bold step that showcased the band's willingness to embrace 80s rock elements while maintaining their signature progressive style. Interestingly, during this period, the band experienced a lineup change, with Trevor Rabin taking a leading role, which added a fresh, pop-oriented approach to their sound. The Philadelphia concert, part of "The Big Tour," highlighted the band's dynamic live energy, with Rabin's guitar work and Jon Anderson's ethereal vocals captivating the audience. It’s also worth noting that this era was characterized by a mixed reception from critics, as fans debated the more mainstream direction of the band's music. Yet, love 'em or hate 'em, that unique blend of styles undeniably defined Yes during this transformative time.

Yes - Live in Quebec City - Full Concert Performing 4 Tracks

Colisée de Québec
Quebec City, Quebec, Canada

December 7, 1987 | Video Length: 2:3:44
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  • In December 1987, Yes was riding high on the wave of their recent album, "Big Generator," released just a few months earlier in September. This period... Read Full Description >

    In December 1987, Yes was riding high on the wave of their recent album, "Big Generator," released just a few months earlier in September. This period marked an intriguing phase in the band’s evolution, as they were transitioning into a more radio-friendly sound compared to their earlier progressive rock roots. You can hear echoes of this shift in their live performances, like the one captured at Colisée de Québec. It was during this tour, in fact, that Yes showcased some of the new tracks from "Big Generator," blending hits with their classic repertoire. Interestingly, this performance is part of a mini-tour through Canada, where they played four consecutive shows—talk about a commitment to their fans! The vibe was undoubtedly electric, showcasing the band’s resilience and adaptability during a time of change, and that particular night in Quebec was no exception.

Yes - Full Concert Live in Providence, RI featuring Almost Like Love and more

Providence Civic Center
Providence, Rhode Island, United States

December 17, 1987 | Video Length: 2:40
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  • In December 1987, Yes was in the midst of their “Big Generator” tour, promoting their album of the same name, which had been released that same ye... Read Full Description >

    In December 1987, Yes was in the midst of their “Big Generator” tour, promoting their album of the same name, which had been released that same year. This period marked a significant point in the band's evolution, showcasing their transition from the symphonic rock of earlier years to a more polished, radio-friendly sound. “Big Generator” also represented a step towards embracing the 1980s music scene, with catchy hooks and a more accessible vibe. Interestingly, this live recording at the Providence Civic Center captures Yes during a time when they were regrouping and redefining their identity after a tumultuous decade, including major lineup changes. The energy in the performance reflects both a seasoned band and a fresh exploration of sound, making the live experience particularly compelling for fans. Songs like “Heart of the Sunrise” reaffirm their progressive roots while newer tracks like “Big Generator” highlight their adaptive spirit. It’s a fascinating blend of nostalgia and innovation.

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