David Johnson

Wednesday, August 3, 2016 9:05 PM

Thank you Linda previous post you brought a tear to my eye and the vivid memory overcame me some 40 years later , do you remember there was fake ticket mini riot and upon leaving Johnson gymnasium the glass was all broken on the entrance from unruly fans unable to enter ? But just a great concert

Linda

This was my first Yes concert. It was also my first date with my future husband. I had always been a music freak, and had a strong appreciation for good music. I had heard the Fragile album, and fell in love with this band's unique style and sound. Jon's voice was magical to me, and Rick's keyboards had stolen my heart. I had not yet heard anything from Close to the Edge.

I was not prepared for what I was about to experience. The Firebird Suite was a total surprize for me at a rock concert, but I absolutely loved it. Then they came storming on with Siberian Khatru. I'm sure I sat there with my jaw hanging open. I remember the response of the audience around me, they were also blown away. "Heart of the Sunrise" took me on a journey I would never forget. Today this is still one of my all-time favorite songs. "Close to the Edge" was so different from anything I had ever heard. I remember Jon slowly strolling the stage under blue and green lights with smoke billowing around him, and felt like I was in a dream. With his voice singing "I get up, I get down..." I thought I was in heaven. I will never forget Rick's keyboard solo that just left the audience begging for more. Of course Steve, Chris and Alan all left everyone in awe, also. I had never witnessed a band where ALL the musicians were so talented and impressive.

Then there was the song that I remember the most, "And You And I". This song was a spiritual experience for me. My date took my hand and sqeezed it. I was in love. Not only with my date; but with this band. And I knew it was forever with both! This song took me on a journey of every possible emotion I could experience; and left me a quivering mass of tears! I had never heard a song more beautiful and dramatic!

Thus started my journey with Yes in my life. As soon as I had the money, I was at the record store buying Close To The Edge, and their music has remained with me and my husband since.