Sad, so sad. Part of my life since the early seventies. YES, music was my first love. Saw HIM and…
Alan White
June 14, 1949 - May 26, 2022
Alan White, our beloved husband, dad, and grandpa, passed away at the age of 72 at his Seattle-area home on May 26, 2022, after a brief illness.
Throughout his life and six-decade career, Alan was many things to many people: a certified rock star to fans around the world; band mate to a select few, and gentleman and friend to all who met him.
Alan was born in Pelton, County Durham, England on June 14, 1949. He began piano lessons at the age of six, began playing the drums at age twelve, and has been performing publicly since the age of thirteen.
Throughout the 1960s, Alan honed his craft with a variety of bands, including The Downbeats, The Gamblers, Billy Fury, Alan Price Big Band, Bell and Arc, Terry Reid, Happy Magazine (later called Griffin), and Balls with Trevor Burton (The Move) and Denny Laine (Wings).
In 1968, Alan joined Ginger Baker’s Airforce, a new group that was put together by the former drummer of Cream and other noted musicians from England’s music scene including Steve Winwood, formerly of Traffic.
In 1969, Alan received what he thought at the time to be a prank phone call, but it was John Lennon calling to ask Alan to join the Plastic Ono Band. The next day Alan found himself learning songs in the back of an airliner headed to Toronto with Lennon, Yoko Ono, Eric Clapton, and Klaus Voormann. The ensuing album, Live Peace in Toronto, sold millions of copies, peaking at number 10 on the charts.
Alan’s association with Lennon continued, recording singles like ‘Instant Karma’ and the subsequent landmark album, Imagine, with Alan providing drums for the title song, ‘Jealous Guy’, and ‘How Do You Sleep at Night’. Alan’s work with Lennon led to an introduction to George Harrison, who asked Alan to perform on the album All Things Must Pass, including the single, ‘My Sweet Lord’, released in 1970. Alan subsequently worked with many artists for the Apple label, including Billy Preston, Rosetta Hightower, and Doris Troy.
Alan joined YES on July 27, 1972, and with only three days to learn the music, YES opened their US tour before 15,000 fans in Dallas, Texas on July 30, 1972. Alan has been with YES ever since, and with the passing of founding member, Chris Squire, in June 2015, Alan is the longest continuously serving band member.
Alan is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and May White (née Thrower), his sister-in-law, Mindi Hall, and many loyal furry companions. He is survived by his wife of forty years (May 15, 1982) Rogena “Gigi” (née Walberg), his children, Jesse (Emily), their two children JJ and Ellie, and Cassi (Kela), and sister-in-law Andrea Holmqvist (Robert).
Gigi, Jesse, and Cassi
Seattle, WA
such powerful & great sounding drums on “Big Generator” — tasteful throughout – an absolute favorite of mine — so…
RIP, Alan. Thanks for the music!
Thanks for the music, Alan! What a fantastic career. Best wishes to Alan’s family, friends and fans. 🎸👍
Enjoyed the music over the years! RIP. May family and friends find comfort in the promises of Jesus (John 11:26-26).
I only knew Alan from his musical performances(I was so lucky to witness 45+)- I will miss him! one of…
So much joy brought to so many people over so many years.
Thank you, Alan White, for all this wonderful music over the decades! Dear Gigi, Cassi and Jesse, I am deeply…
It’s very sad to lose such special people… people with talent and perfect jobs. Gratitude for your contribution to the…
I recall when Alan White replaced Bill Bruford with YES. I thought that those were some huge shoes to try…
Already something of a legend before he even joined Yes for what would become his home band for the next…
Dear Gigi, Cassie and Jesse, I’m so saddened to hear of Alan’s death. He was a true prog rock god…
So shocked and sadden on the passing of Alan White one of the greatest drummer’s that ever lived. Loved yes…
Dear Alan , Thank you for all your music you have to my life and everyone else’s ..although I never…
Dear Alan , Thank you for all your music you have to my life and everyone else’s ..although I never…
A real master of drums. Great sadness.
Sendest deepest condolences to you all. Alan and his music have been very dear to me for since I first…
Bye Alan. Thanks for all the great YesShows… Nous sommes du soleil. We love when we play. Open doors we…
A sad day indeed, I loved his style and the unique drum kits he came up with over the years.…
Condolences to friends and family. I’ve been trying to find info on the personnel who played on the Album “White”…
I should maybe add the fact that I live in Everett Wa. to my previous comment.
Heartfelt condolences to Gigi, the entire family and the members of YES, past and present. I was privileged to meet…
When Bruford left Yes i was pissed, but when i learned the replacement drummer’s name was Alan, I gave him…
Please accept our heartfelt condolences … the world is a better place because of Alan. He is a beacon of…
What a shining star. I remember the green from kit at cobo hall Detroit back in ‘73 just blew me…
Please accept our heartfelt condolences … the world is a better place because of Alan. He is a beacon of…
Thanks for your talent and commitment. I saw you in Tucson AZ in the 70’s. You guys were awesome and…
Thank you sir for the music and memories. You will be missed.
Thanks for the Music!!! RIP Alan.
So sad to hear this news. I always admired Alan as an amazing drummer. I’m glad to know there is…
To Alan’s Family: I am a younger (40) Yes & Beatles fan. I had the pleasure of seeing Alan in…
Peace to the White family. Dear Alan was a wonderful talent and helped make so many musical dreams come true.…
Alan, en ti se encuentran mis dos grupos por encima de todos los demás. Yes y The Beatles (con John…
Alan White desde Perú (Macchu Picchu) mis condolencias. Crecí escuchando a Yes y siempre me pareció grandioso el ritmo de…
Alan, you have been a musical inspiration to myself and millions of others. The back bone of Yes, you set…
Alan was the back-beat and support of my youth, my middle age, and my later years. I still regularly watch…
Dear Alan, we will miss you (another piece of my youthness is in heaven now ..,)
Dear Alan, we will miss you (another piece of my youthness is in heaven now ..,) .. we will miss…
A long time ago I was driving through a rainstorm on my way to work, listening to Yes’s Relayer (one…
Only a fan. A great musician. You will miss us. Alan.
RIP, Alan White. You are forever brilliant.
God Bless Alan’s soul. My most heartfelt condolences to Gigi and Alan’s family. As a 49er fan, I should be…
Mis más Debidas Condolencias para la Familia White. Soy Argentino, y un Gran Admirador del Grupo más Grande de Rock…
Very saddened to hear the news. Seemed like such a gentle man, even though he was fierce on the kit.…
Such a sad day. Allen White and Yes have been the soundtrack of my life. Countless number of amazing shows…
Since the early 70’s YES has been my band; my musical compass and guiding light. I have my sister and…
Alan White will be sorely missed. He gave me so much joy over the years. I hope he knew. I…
Alan will live on through his music. Love to those he left behind.
Fly high Alan, you were always in the stars!
Really sad day x Backbone of a band that spoke across generations and eras simultaneously. Never had the pleasure of…
Thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. He was a very talented human and it’s truly sad to…
Wery sad news. Remember when I bought my first Yes album “Going for the on” and was so impressed by…
Very sorry to here this. Alan was the best, always very nice when we met. Thoughts are with Gigi and…
So, so, so sad to hear these news. My heart and deepset condoleaces goes to Gigi, Jesse and Cassie, and…
Thank you Alan for the wonderful musical legacy . Rest in peace , Love and condolences to your family ,…
Oh, my! Such sad news this is. A great drummer who brought joy and dancing fun to so very many…
My deepest and heartfelt condolences at the passing of your beloved father, grandfather and husband. Alan White was a marvelous…
Rest in peace Alan, one of my greatest musical heroes. After listening to 90125 everything changed. And it happened a…
Top Musician, Rip.
I have been a Yes fan since 1973 when Alan start his career in the Band, he was gentle, feeling…
Thank you for the music, for being part of the soundtrack of my life.
Thanks for the music and the memories. I enjoyed reading that lovely and well written synopsis of his life.
My first live rock and roll show — Spokane, WA. Circa 1976. The set, the lights, the music, the friends…
So sad, thank you Alan for decades of music, that filled my life. My thoughts are with you ,your Family…
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. The beautiful picture shows a happy man surrounded by love of…
One of the best drummers ever. Was brought up on Yes by two older brothers. Still my regular go to…
Totally bummed. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing this incredible musician perform numerous times and always being jaw dropped at…
I have been a YES fan since 1983. Watching them live since 1994. Alan was a brilliant musician with such…
RIP Alan. I saw you playing with Yes in 1989 in Rotterdam.
So sorry to hear of your loss. I saw Alan play at my very first concert ever when Yes played…
Thank you for all the great music you helped create.
Deepest condolences to the White family, and to the Yes family, and to all the millions and millions of fans,…
I’m very sorry for your loss. I saw him play with Yes in the 70s at the Cow Palace (with…
What horrible news! I’m truly gutted he’s gone. I met Alan and Gigi a couple of years ago at Beatlefest…
I am so sorry
listening to my fav music … the beauty , the yearning… rest in peace Alan. love to Gigi and the…
Thoughts and prayers going out to the family of a legend.
Sir Alan White is one of the reasons I started playing drums. Sir White is one of my heroes that…
Sorry to hear about Alan white his family are in my pray
Gutted to hear this news. I saw Yes in concert in 1973 when they toured in support of “Tales from…
My condolences to Alan’s family. I had the pleasure of meeting and having my picture taken with Alan at Woodstick…
How do you process the loss of such an artist and gentleman. You listen to his music and thank whoever’s…
Dearest Gigi, Cassi and Jesse, So deeply sorry to hear of Alan’s passing….sending lots of love and support to you,…
So very sorry to hear this sad news. I am a lifelong YES fan and I am still amazed that…
Sad news, my condolences to his family. I was privileged to have seen him perform many times over the years…
Jesse – used to work with you at Texaco. My condolences to you and all your family. Your father was…
Condolences to the entire White family & the Yes family on the loss of Alan from this world. He is…
I am very moved by the news. Alan White will always be synonymous of progressive rock. My condolences to his…
So sorry to hear of Alan’s passing. A Seattle treasure and a gifted drummer. He will be missed! Sending positive…
I write this with tears in my eyes. I first saw Alan on the Relayer tour. I had never seen…
A shock to all devotees of YES and the classic lineup of which Alan White was at the heart.. be…
Our thoughts and prayers for healing are with the White family at this time. Alan, you will forever be in…
I am so bummed to hear about Alan’s passing. He was a master drummer. I’ve been trying to get a…
RIP Alan. You made music history in several ways.
From a lifelong fan since 1972, R I P dear Alan. You are now where there is no pain, leaving…
condolences.
Sad beyond measure to hear of Alan’s passing. His music has been a part of my life for over 50…
Awful news today,loyal to yes since 1972 ,great drummer,will be very much missed .Condolences to the family.RIP Alan.
May the Lord welcome you with open arms, R.I.P you will be greatly missed👏🏻🥁
If there’s a rock and roll heaven, WhiteFish is on the setlist.
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Very sad to learn of Alan’s passing. Was a great fan of his drumming and always felt a joyous vibe coming from Alan when I heard him speak.
How sad that so many of our music legends are no longer with us. I’ve been a huge YES fan for 45 years now and saw him perform for the last time a few years back at the Wilbur in Boston. Even with back problems he soldiered on, and it will be a show I’ll never forget.
RIP Mr White- you will be sorely missed, but thank you for all the joy you brought to all
https://twitter.com/YserbiusG/status/1529870917668585476?t=-pnU8EKbZnExr4MPFT1YoQ&s=19
Gigi,
I am not sure if you are able to see this personally or not but if not, may someone please get this note to Gigi.
This is Megan, Susie (Rothermel) and Ron Smith’s daughter. I just heard about Alan and I wanted to reach out to you to offer my deepest condolences and prayers. My phone number is 208-360-4117. Would love to be able to talk with you.
May God be with you, Jesse, and Cassi
Desde este rincòn del mundo les envìo un abrazo fraterno y mis sinceras condolencias por la partida del gran Alan White…referente indiscutido para los que amamos la bateria como instrumento y proyecciòn musical del alma.
Atentamente Claudio.
Gigi, Cassie & Jesse,
My deepest condolences. Having followed Alan’s career from early on, he was one of the greats. He will be greatly missed.
MON
When I first heard the particular drum work Alan performed was in “Release, release” and “On the silent wings of Freedom”, and however I was just 12 I knew I was standing at the very front of a gigantic musician. Over the years he filled my musical voyages with such rhythms. Enduring the test of time an he flies on this silent wings of Eternity, here on Earth his legacy will remain in those who were about to rock, as I do and many millions more. My sincere respect goes to his family and close relatives, may God receives him to enlight His Heaven with the Gift of Life He once granted him.
i met you in new hampshire at one of your shows i told you i had a set of north drums we have a cool conversation about them had my picture taken with ya you were an awesome drummer i listen to your stuff all the time rest in piece man u rock!!!!!!
I cannot find any words.
I cannot even think.
Nor feel
There’s a numbness in my whole being
We’ve lost the best of the best. Alan always knew the best thing to play and played it. Hearing that he passed did something to my spirit. I will never be the same again. My profound condolences to his wife and children. Courage.
D. Lindley
With the Dutch fanclub YesFocus I met Alan several times and he was always friendly, funny and interested. I cherish every moment, on and off stage. I wish Gigi, all family members and music fans a lot strength. Thank you for your art and talent dear Alan. Rest in peace.
With the Dutch fanclub YesFocus I met Alan several times and he was always friendly, funny and interested. I cherish every moment, on and off stage. I wish Gigi, all family members and music fans a lot strength. Thank you for your art and talent dear Alan. Rest in peace.
If there’s a rock and roll heaven, WhiteFish is on the setlist.
May the Lord welcome you with open arms, R.I.P you will be greatly missed👏🏻🥁
Awful news today,loyal to yes since 1972 ,great drummer,will be very much missed .Condolences to the family.RIP Alan.
Sad beyond measure to hear of Alan’s passing. His music has been a part of my life for over 50 years. It’s been such a pleasure to have seen him play live many times with Yes. Deepest sympathies to Gigoi and his whole family. Alan’s many fans the world over join you in your sorrw today, but also in rejoicing in his life and in the legacy that he left the world. Thanks for the music, Alan!
condolences.
From a lifelong fan since 1972, R I P dear Alan. You are now where there is no pain, leaving behind countless fans and others who loved you.
RIP Alan. You made music history in several ways.
I am so bummed to hear about Alan’s passing. He was a master drummer. I’ve been trying to get a used set of sticks from him, forever. As I have a big collection of used sticks from famous drummers all over the world. But he’s always been too busy. Now Ill never get a used pair from him for my collection. Supper bummed. 🙁 My condolences to his family, children and friends.
Our thoughts and prayers for healing are with the White family at this time.
Alan, you will forever be in our musical hearts and minds!
Thank you for all of your musical contributions.
A shock to all devotees of YES and the classic lineup of which Alan White was at the heart.. be it Tales from Topographic Oceans, Relayer or Going for the One .. Alan was part of that unique chemistry that was YES. RIP.
I write this with tears in my eyes. I first saw Alan on the Relayer tour. I had never seen a drummer so much a part of the sound of a band. You reached the soul of many fans. Rest in peace, you will never be forgotten.
So sorry to hear of Alan’s passing. A Seattle treasure and a gifted drummer. He will be missed! Sending positive thoughts and vibes of support to his family.
I am very moved by the news. Alan White will always be synonymous of progressive rock. My condolences to his family and all the followers of Yes.
Condolences to the entire White family & the Yes family on the loss of Alan from this world. He is now reunited with his old friend Chris.
Jesse – used to work with you at Texaco. My condolences to you and all your family. Your father was a great guy.
Sad news, my condolences to his family. I was privileged to have seen him perform many times over the years with YES, most recently a few years ago. A true part of rock and roll history with multiple artists. Rest in peace.
So very sorry to hear this sad news. I am a lifelong YES fan and I am still amazed that Alan learned the YES catalog in 3 days…..a true testament to the artist that he was. Charlie last year and Alan today…..let the jams continue.
Dearest Gigi, Cassi and Jesse,
So deeply sorry to hear of Alan’s passing….sending lots of love and support to you, extended family, and Yes band members.
I have thought of you often over the years and have many fond memories.
How do you process the loss of such an artist and gentleman. You listen to his music and thank whoever’s out there who let you live in the same time as this legend. Condolences to his family and close friends. Thank you Alan for a lifetime of remarkable memories and pure joy.
My condolences to Alan’s family. I had the pleasure of meeting and having my picture taken with Alan at Woodstick several years ago. He was a true gentleman. Rest in Peace.
Gutted to hear this news. I saw Yes in concert in 1973 when they toured in support of “Tales from Topographic Oceans.” What a complex work and Alan’s percussion was so integral to that music. Loved his work on “Relayer”. What a fine percussionist. RIP Mr. White.
Sorry to hear about Alan white his family are in my pray
Sir Alan White is one of the reasons I started playing drums. Sir White is one of my heroes that taught me the freedom to express myself while playing drums. I’ve had the privilege to see him perform life several times in Dallas, Texas (80’s & 90’s), where he started his career with Yes. Sir White and his bandmates were essential in getting me through some rough times in my life. His music, melody and grace always made my soul happy and glad to be alive. Thank you to the White family for sharing your loved one with us. He will never be forgotten. I will care him in my soul forever.
Thoughts and prayers going out to the family of a legend.
listening to my fav music … the beauty , the yearning…
rest in peace Alan. love to Gigi and the kids
I am so sorry
What horrible news! I’m truly gutted he’s gone.
I met Alan and Gigi a couple of years ago at Beatlefest in Chicago and they couldn’t have been sweeter. We had a long chat about Alan’s “last minute callups” to play with John Lennon and Yes. We had an equally long chat about his football clubs Newcastle United and Seattle Sounders. Such a wonderful memory for me. May Gigi and the rest of Alan’s family and friends find comfort in their memories of him.
I’m very sorry for your loss. I saw him play with Yes in the 70s at the Cow Palace (with Gentle Giant) and around 1980 in Portland where he played an amazing solo that thrilled all. The production crew added effects that blended perfectly. So much energy. I thought the Alan and Chris Squire created a sound that was bigger than drums and bass.
Deepest condolences to the White family, and to the Yes family, and to all the millions and millions of fans, so sorry to hear this news. Truly, for us fans, a great man, an inspirational and extraordinarily creative drummer – I am glad to have been able to witness Alan and Yes over the years, live in concert and listening to the wondrous music that defines progressive rock now and forever.
Thank you for all the great music you helped create.
So sorry to hear of your loss. I saw Alan play at my very first concert ever when Yes played “in the round in Long Beach, California. I was in the 9th grade which puts it at around 1979. The music of Yes has been my ‘happy music’ and the “beat” of my life for over 40 years. The world will miss him. Much love from California to you and yours.
RIP Alan. I saw you playing with Yes in 1989 in Rotterdam.
I have been a YES fan since 1983. Watching them live since 1994. Alan was a brilliant musician with such a tasteful, yet creative attitude with the groove. Such a musical inspiration! Your spirit will live on forever in and through all of the music you made!
Totally bummed. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing this incredible musician perform numerous times and always being jaw dropped at his playing Also many times had great conversations with him after shows, at NAMM, etc. his brilliance will be missed.
One of the best drummers ever. Was brought up on Yes by two older brothers. Still my regular go to travelling to golf each weekend. Thank you Alan for your wonderful gift you shared with us.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
The beautiful picture shows a happy man surrounded by love of his family, the greatest reward possible for a human being on this planet.
As a part of the music lover community I know how much his beat means to fans around the world.
Alan will live on in the ripples he leaves behind.
So sad, thank you Alan for decades of music, that filled my life. My thoughts are with you ,your Family and Friends.
Frank
My first live rock and roll show — Spokane, WA. Circa 1976. The set, the lights, the music, the friends who got me there. That experience set me on an unwavering path with live music as a key component. Thank you, Alan White. Thank you, Yes! Your beat helps to keep joy in my heart. You will live on through the music you made.
Thanks for the music and the memories. I enjoyed reading that lovely and well written synopsis of his life.
Thank you for the music, for being part of the soundtrack of my life.
I have been a Yes fan since 1973 when Alan start his career in the Band, he was gentle, feeling and available but he was one of the best drummer in the world. We will miss You.
Rest in peace Alan, one of my greatest musical heroes. After listening to 90125 everything changed. And it happened a few more times with records with Alan’s drumming on. Condolences to the White family and friends.
My deepest and heartfelt condolences at the passing of your beloved father, grandfather and husband. Alan White was a marvelous musician and drummer. The world of music has lost an incredible talent.
Oh, my! Such sad news this is. A great drummer who brought joy and dancing fun to so very many people he has been. The world is better because he was here. I send my condolences to Mr. White’s family and dear friends. May you find comfort in your sweetest memories of your beloved, in your faith and in the arms of one another. Deborah
Thank you Alan for the wonderful musical legacy . Rest in peace , Love and condolences to your family , YES and the fanbase.
I became a YES fan in 1978 and quickly appreciated the contribution that you brought to their music .
It was a pleasure to meet you at a YES meet and greet in Manchester a few years ago ( with Chris Squire )
I have many favourite YES songs . Your power is most demonstated on Sound Chaser , but my favourite amongst many is Turn of Century , which you penned with Jon Anderson , simply beautiful . Thank you . May your loved ones be comforted by the music legacy you leave . God bless Alan , Rest in peace .
So, so, so sad to hear these news. My heart and deepset condoleaces goes to Gigi, Jesse and Cassie, and the rest of the family! <3
The world will not be the same!!
Torbjörn Häggmark
the Swedish Yes Society
Very sorry to here this. Alan was the best, always very nice when we met. Thoughts are with Gigi and the rest of the family. Alan, rest in peace ❤️❤️❤️
Wery sad news.
Remember when I bought my first Yes album “Going for the on” and was so impressed by Alans skills and his drummiing on the song “Awaken”.
Since that I have all Yes albums.
RIP Mr Alan White. You will be deeply missed.
Thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.
He was a very talented human and it’s truly sad to see him go.
I wish you all the best for this rough period.
Really sad day x
Backbone of a band that spoke across generations and eras simultaneously.
Never had the pleasure of meeting but from all the words here, clearly a fantastic person x
Such a loss ❤️
Fly high Alan, you were always in the stars!
Alan will live on through his music. Love to those he left behind.
Alan White will be sorely missed. He gave me so much joy over the years. I hope he knew. I wish him peace, but not tranquility in the great beyond. They will need him to stir things up over there!
Since the early 70’s YES has been my band; my musical compass and guiding light. I have my sister and her then boyfriend to thank for introducing me to the group and their music. YES would stay with me ever since. To me, Alan White was as important as Bill Bruford had been before him. I will cherish every YES concerts I attended, the last of which was in Tokyo, Japan some years ago. Thank you Alan White. Rest in peace. My sincerest respect to his family and the other surviving members of YES.
– Van22
Such a sad day. Allen White and Yes have been the soundtrack of my life. Countless number of amazing shows and my one short encounter with Allen was joyous. End of an amazing era. God bless you Allen. And thank you for so many special moments in my life.
Very saddened to hear the news. Seemed like such a gentle man, even though he was fierce on the kit. My first serious listen of Yes was Relayer when I was 14 (now 63) – magnificent! RIP, Alan. Heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.
Mis más Debidas Condolencias para la Familia White.
Soy Argentino, y un Gran Admirador del Grupo más Grande de Rock Progresivo Sinfónico que el Mundo haya Conocido Jamás. Yes y algunos de sus Integrantes Solistas han Visitado Nuestro País y Tuve la Dicha de Presenciar Varios Conciertos. Estoy Realmente My Dolido por esta Noticia. Alan White fue ( y será por Siempre ) Uno de los Más Grandes y Eximios Baterístas de la Historia del Rock.
Sé que Tanto Alan como Chris Squire están en “El Lado Sur del Cielo” Ejecutando la Base Rítmica para que YES Siga Vivo y Haciendo Esa Tan Particular Música que los Ha Hecho Simplemente ÚNICOS…
Larga Vida al Rock’n’,Roll, ¡ Larga Vida a YES !
DESCANSA EN PAZ QUERIDO AMIGO MR. ALAN WHITE…
God Bless Alan’s soul. My most heartfelt condolences to Gigi and Alan’s family. As a 49er fan, I should be reluctant to say this, however on behalf of Alan “Go Seahawks, 12th man!!” Thank you for all the memorable music which meant so much to us growing up.
RIP, Alan White.
You are forever brilliant.
Only a fan. A great musician. You will miss us. Alan.
A long time ago I was driving through a rainstorm on my way to work, listening to Yes’s Relayer (one of my three all-time favourite albums) on my cassette player in the car. There’s a point in one of the songs where the band is frantically playing and then the song starts to slowly, MAJESTICALLY slow down and Mr. White’s drumming comes to a complete stop before the band launches into one of the most amazing pieces of music I’ve ever heard (gives me goosebumps just thinking about it) in an EXPLOSION of sound. Just as it hit that spot in the song I was really getting into it and looked over my left shoulder as the band came crashing back in and outside the sun burst out of the clouds beautifully… That’s well over forty years ago and I still think about it.
Thank you Mr. White – thank you.
Dear Alan, we will miss you (another piece of my youthness is in heaven now ..,) .. we will miss you …
Dear Alan, we will miss you (another piece of my youthness is in heaven now ..,)
Alan was the back-beat and support of my youth, my middle age, and my later years. I still regularly watch his performances with Yes on YouTube as I continue to celebrate the enormous contribution that this band had made to classic rock over the past 50 years. No one has ever come close to the sheer professionalism and musicianship of this group of (then) young and talented performers. He will go down in history as a truly talented and gifted performer. Alan; thank you, and may you rest in peace forever.
Alan, you have been a musical inspiration to myself and millions of others. The back bone of Yes, you set the bar very high for Prog Rock.
Ken
Alan White desde Perú (Macchu Picchu) mis condolencias. Crecí escuchando a Yes y siempre me pareció grandioso el ritmo de la batería en tantos discos buenos como The Yes Album; Fragile; Close to the Edge. Lamento mucho tu partida….
Alan, en ti se encuentran mis dos grupos por encima de todos los demás. Yes y The Beatles (con John y George). ¡Qué afortunados hemos sido con tu música! Gracias por ser el pegamento de Yes, por no desistir. Gracias por marcar el ritmo de tantas canciones que he cantado y tarareado. Gracias, gracias, gracias. Eternamente.
Peace to the White family. Dear Alan was a wonderful talent and helped make so many musical dreams come true. My heart is filled with gratitude for your life and I’ll miss you!
To Alan’s Family:
I am a younger (40) Yes & Beatles fan. I had the pleasure of seeing Alan in concert close to 30 times. His quiet low key demeanor and impeccable professionalism and talent was the glue that held Yes together these last few decades.
My deepest sympathies to the White family.
Andy Nichole’s
So sad to hear this news. I always admired Alan as an amazing drummer. I’m glad to know there is a beautiful family to cherish Memories of him. God Bless You all.
Scott
Thanks for the Music!!! RIP Alan.
Thank you sir for the music and memories. You will be missed.
Thanks for your talent and commitment. I saw you in Tucson AZ in the 70’s. You guys were awesome and always will be. See you in Heaven❤️
Please accept our heartfelt condolences … the world is a better place because of Alan. He is a beacon of light for generations of drummers, calling us to be ambassadors of peace through our music. I was 14 years old when I traveled from Queens to NYC to see Alan dynamically perform Tales from Topographic Oceans in its entirety at Madison Square Garden. Many years later when I read Autobiography of a Yogi, the revelation dawned on me, that Alan and Yes already invited me through their miraculous music. The smile on Alan’s face will always connect me to the Good Samaritan story because through his unifying drumming, Alan invited all of us to do good and live as one…. 🕉 Om Mani Padme Hum Brother now and forever ☸️ 🌻🙏🏿🌷🌈🥁💐😇🌎🌺🌸
What a shining star. I remember the green from kit at cobo hall Detroit back in ‘73 just blew me away. Your music will stay with till the end of my time. Thank you. RIP.
Please accept our heartfelt condolences … the world is a better place because of Alan. He is a beacon of light for generations of drummers, calling us to be ambassadors of peace through our music. I was 14 years old when I traveled from Queens to NYC to see Alan dynamically perform Tales from Topographic Oceans in its entirety at Madison Square Garden. Many years later when I read Autobiography of a Yogi, the revelation dawned on me, that Alan and Yes already invited me to this sacred place inside of me through their miraculous music. The smile on Alan’s face will always connect me to the Good Samaritan story because through his unifying drumming, Alan invited all of us to do good and live as one…. 🕉 Om Mani Padme Hum Beautiful Brother now and forever ☸️
When Bruford left Yes i was pissed, but when i learned the replacement drummer’s name was Alan, I gave him a break. 🙂 I think Alan’s best work was Instant Karma by Lennon, and Awaken by Yes, although Release Release is very close to the top of that list. His interpretation of Starship Trooper on YesSongs is another fave. Rest In Peace Mr Alan White. All the best to his family.
Heartfelt condolences to Gigi, the entire family and the members of YES, past and present. I was privileged to meet Alan White on a number of occasions and always found him to be an exception to the rule that you don’t want to meet your heroes. You wanted to meet Alan and then you were glad for it. A great drummer and one half of the finest rythem section in the history of Rock ‘n Roll. It would be a privelege to be of service to the family if there is ever a need.
I should maybe add the fact that I live in Everett Wa. to my previous comment.
A sad day indeed, I loved his style and the unique drum kits he came up with over the years. I have followed Yes since he joined them, he will be missed
Bye Alan. Thanks for all the great YesShows…
Nous sommes du soleil.
We love when we play.
Open doors we find our way
We look we see we smile
Surely daybreaks cross our path
And stay maybe a while
Sendest deepest condolences to you all. Alan and his music have been very dear to me for since I first woke up to Yes in 1980. What an extraordinary impact he and the band have had on my life. I feel privileged to have seen him playing live in 4 different decades. Thank you, AW x
A real master of drums. Great sadness.
Dear Alan ,
Thank you for all your music you have to my life and everyone else’s ..although I never got to meet you ,I knew what wonderful human being you were and will continue to honor your music until the day I die
Love to you and your family
Love Eric (longtime fan )
Dear Alan ,
Thank you for all your music you have to my life and everyone else’s ..although I never got to meet you ,I knew what wonderful human being you were and will continue to honor your music until the day I die
Love to you and your family
Love Eric (longtime fan )
So shocked and sadden on the passing of Alan White one of the greatest drummer’s that ever lived. Loved yes I grew up listening to yes and loved watching Alan play. Thank you Alan for all the music you gave and pleasure listening to you play drums. You are up there with the greatest drummer’s that ever lived. RIP Alan you will never be forgotten
Dear Gigi, Cassie and Jesse, I’m so saddened to hear of Alan’s death. He was a true prog rock god and will be sorely missed. Wishing you healing and strength over the coming weeks and months.
Already something of a legend before he even joined Yes for what would become his home band for the next 50 years! Quite a staggering achievement in itself, and I’m so grateful to have witnessed his skills since my first Yes gig at Wembley UK 1977 (supported by another legend which is Donovan.) And to see him ‘on fire’ a year later In The Round, again at Wembley, was simply unmissable! Alan wasn’t just another great drummer with Yes – he was a significantly huge chunk within the band, and his passing has had a profound impact throughout the world. Thank you Alan, for your outstanding contributions to Yes’ music and what you achieved for those other music ‘greats’ you previously worked with. We’re all so grateful for such groundbreaking music which had long defined what our generation was (and still is) all about. My sincerest condolences to Gigi and family. RIP xx
I recall when Alan White replaced Bill Bruford with YES. I thought that those were some huge shoes to try and fill.
Well, not only did he fill them, and busted them wide open. What a great drummer Alan White was.
My condolences to his family and bandmates. RIP.
It’s very sad to lose such special people… people with talent and perfect jobs. Gratitude for your contribution to the highest quality music.
Thank you, Alan White, for all this wonderful music over the decades!
Dear Gigi, Cassi and Jesse, I am deeply saddened to hear of Alan’s passing.
Since my first visit to a Yes concert in Hanover on March 23, 1998, he has changed my life like no one else outside my family.
My seat that night was really unfavourable, as I couldn’t see anything of him except for a few tips of his sticks.
But his sound and the whole spirit of the music triggered a spontaneous reaction on the way home that night.
He is the reason I decided to play drums at the age of 8 and will never give it up again!
My wish would have been to be able to tell him in person one day, but unfortunately if you miss the time, it’s too late someday,
which makes you even sadder. Maybe our spirits will meet in another life and I will get the chance to tell him my story, for which I am truly grateful.
Thinking about you and wishing you comfort and peace.
So much joy brought to so many people over so many years.
I only knew Alan from his musical performances(I was so lucky to witness 45+)- I will miss him! one of my all time favorite musicians – Thank You Sir .
RIP
Enjoyed the music over the years! RIP. May family and friends find comfort in the promises of Jesus (John 11:26-26).
Thanks for the music, Alan! What a fantastic career. Best wishes to Alan’s family, friends and fans. 🎸👍
RIP, Alan. Thanks for the music!
such powerful & great sounding drums on “Big Generator” — tasteful throughout – an absolute favorite of mine — so glad i got to see YES Live — my best to your family
Sad, so sad. Part of my life since the early seventies. YES, music was my first love. Saw HIM and the band ROUNDABOUT 78/79 at a Frankfurt show. May he rest in peace and harmony. ONWARD ! to the sky; onward to heaven. Prayer