We have a collection of 6 arrangements for Yes - Roundabout
What iconic bassline opens this progressive rock masterpiece? Learn!
"Roundabout" is a progressive rock classic by the British rock band Yes. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Release Date: "Roundabout" was released in 1971 as part of Yes' fourth studio album, "Fragile."
Signature Opening: One of the most iconic aspects of "Roundabout" is its distinctive opening. The song begins with a complex and memorable acoustic guitar and bass riff, setting the stage for the intricate musical journey that follows.
Extended Solos: The song features extended instrumental solos, showcasing the virtuosity of the band members. Steve Howe's guitar solo is particularly notable and showcases his innovative guitar playing techniques.
Lengthy Composition: "Roundabout" is relatively lengthy for a rock song, clocking in at over eight minutes. This extended duration allowed the band to explore various musical ideas and create a dynamic piece of music.
Commercial Success: Despite its length and complexity, "Roundabout" became one of Yes' most commercially successful songs. It reached #13 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it one of their highest-charting singles.
Frequent Radio Airplay: Despite its progressive and complex nature, "Roundabout" has received extensive radio airplay over the years and remains a staple of classic rock radio stations.
Covered and Sampled: The song has been covered by various artists and has also been sampled in hip-hop and electronic music tracks, attesting to its enduring influence on different music genres.
Live Performances: Yes has performed "Roundabout" in countless live concerts throughout their career. The song often serves as a highlight of their live performances, allowing the band to showcase their musical prowess.
Legacy: "Roundabout" is considered one of the quintessential progressive rock songs of the 1970s and is frequently cited as a defining track of the genre. It continues to be celebrated by fans of Yes and progressive rock enthusiasts worldwide.
Recognition: In 2017, "Roundabout" was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of Yes' overall recognition for their contributions to the music industry.
"Roundabout" remains a timeless piece of music that exemplifies Yes' musical talent and innovation within the progressive rock genre.