YES Announces ‘The Fragile Tour 2025, The Album Series’

Legendary progressive rock band Yes has announced “The Fragile Tour 2025, The Album Series,” set to commence in the fall of 2025 in the United States. This eagerly anticipated tour kicks off on October 1st in Wallingford, Connecticut, and will conclude on November 16th in Reno, Nevada. The band, currently comprising Steve Howe on guitars and vocals, Geoff Downes on keyboards, Jon Davison on vocals and acoustic guitar, Billy Sherwood on bass guitar and vocals, and Jay Schellen on drums, will perform their iconic 1971 album “Fragile” in its entirety as part of this tour. Fans can look forward to hearing classic tracks such as “Roundabout,” “Long Distance Runaround,” and “Heart of the Sunrise,” alongside other gems from their extensive and celebrated catalog.

“Fragile” holds a special place in Yes’s discography, as it not only propelled the band to headline status in the U.S. but also distinguished itself with its unique blend of musical artistry. According to Steve Howe, the collaboration with co-producer Eddie Offord during this period helped the band reach new creative heights. Howe explains that during the making of “Fragile,” the band members focused on crafting four main songs with full arrangements while also exploring individual creative pursuits, an idea originally suggested by then-drummer Bill Bruford. This creative approach led to a distinctive and innovative sound that arguably contributed to the development of what is now known as progressive rock. Howe recalls this period as one where the band was determined to achieve success, driven by their heightened creativity.

The 2025 tour promises to merge the auditory and visual aspects that have always distinguished Yes as a band. The concerts will feature a video wall displaying AI-generated interpretations of Roger Dean’s iconic album artwork, designed back in 1971. Dean’s artwork significantly contributed to the band’s image and appeal, becoming an integral part of their identity and live performances. The use of these visuals serves as a testament to the continued importance of artistic design in enhancing the listener’s experience in the rock music scene. Roger Dean’s artwork will also be available for fans to purchase at the concerts, offering a tangible connection to the band’s rich artistic legacy.

The tour also serves as an opportunity for audiences to experience the evolution of the band’s lineup over the years. While Yes was originally formed in 1968, the current lineup showcases a blend of longstanding and newer members. Steve Howe, who joined the band in 1970 and has been a pivotal force since the passing of founding bassist Chris Squire, leads the band into this new chapter. The ensemble is rounded out by Geoff Downes, who joined in 1980, Billy Sherwood, who was handpicked by Squire to join the band in 1994, and Jay Schellen, who has taken over drumming duties. Jon Davison, who became the band’s lead vocalist in 2012, completes this lineup, carrying forward the vocal traditions initially set by Jon Anderson.

Tickets for “The Fragile Tour 2025” will be available for purchase starting June 13th, and the band encourages fans to visit www.yesworld.com/live for more ticketing information. Given the band’s storied history and beloved status among fans of progressive rock, this tour is set to be a major event for music enthusiasts, offering a rare chance to experience one of the genre’s cornerstone albums performed live. As the tour progresses across the U.S., Yes aims to rekindle the magic of their seminal album while reinforcing their lasting impact on the world of rock music. Ultimately, “The Fragile Tour 2025, The Album Series” not only celebrates the band’s historic achievements but also showcases their continued relevance and influence in the modern musical landscape.