Founding Member of Yes, Peter Banks Dies Aged 65

The rock world is saddened today at the new of Peter Bank’s death, aged 65. He died at his home in London, according to multiple sources. He was known as one of the key pioneers of progressive rock guitar.

Alongside Chriss Squire – Banks’ band mate in Syn, the duo helped form Yes in 1968. The guitarist played with the prog-rock group for their first two albums, '1969's 'Yes' and 1970's 'Time And The Word', but a disagreement about the direction of the band led to Banks' dismissal before the release of the second album. A statement from fellow Yes band members said: "We are deeply saddened to learn about the passing of fellow bandmate and founding Yes member, Peter Banks. He was a huge piece of the fabric that made Yes what it is, and our thoughts, sincere condolences and prayers are with him and his family. Peter, we shall miss you greatly." Before his death, Banks published his autobiography, 'Beyond & Before', and was reportedly putting the final touches to a Flash live album, titled 'Flash – In Public'.

Chris Squires performing with Yes

Tributes are starting to roll in, but one of the first came from fellow musician Rick Wakeman, who tweeted: “Sad news hearing Peter Banks passed away I knew him both as a gentleman and a talented man. The gap he leaves will be filled by his music.” Other posts on the social networking site attribute the influence of Banks to the existence of bands like Interpol and Bloc Party today.