Peter Banks

Peter Banks, the original guitarist for the legendary prog-rock band Yes, was a true original in every sense of the word. With his flamboyant stage presence and virtuosic guitar playing, Banks was a force to be reckoned with in the early days of progressive rock.

Born in Chipping Barnet, England in 1947, Banks quickly made a name for himself in the burgeoning London music scene of the late 1960s. His work with Yes on their seminal albums "Yes" and "Time and a Word" helped to define the sound of prog-rock and establish the band as one of the premier acts in the genre.

Despite his undeniable talent, Banks was known for his eccentric personality and quirky sense of humour. His on-stage antics often left audiences in stitches, while his off-stage antics were the stuff of legend. Banks was a true rock and roll wild man, with a penchant for excess and a devil-may-care attitude that endeared him to fans and fellow musicians alike.

Sadly, Banks's time with Yes was short-lived, as he was famously ousted from the band in 1970. However, he continued to make music on his own terms, releasing a string of solo albums and collaborating with other artists throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

Peter Banks may not have achieved the same level of fame as some of his Yes bandmates, but his influence on the world of rock music is undeniable. His innovative guitar playing and quirky personality helped to shape the sound of prog-rock and establish him as a true original in the industry. So here's to Peter Banks, the pioneering guitarist who blazed a trail for future generations of rock stars to follow.