We have a collection of 6 arrangements for Yes - Roundabout
What iconic progressive rock band used a synthesizer-to-bass duel in "Roundabout"? Learn!
"Roundabout" is a progressive rock song by the British rock band Yes. Released in 1971 as a single and also appearing on their album "Fragile," it's one of the band's most iconic and enduring songs. Here are some interesting facts about "Roundabout":
Complex Structure: "Roundabout" is known for its intricate and complex musical structure, typical of progressive rock. The song features multiple time signature changes, including 5/4 and 7/8, which contribute to its unique and challenging composition.
Iconic Bassline: Chris Squire's bassline in "Roundabout" is legendary in the world of rock music. It's not only prominent but also melodic, which was somewhat unusual for a bass part in rock songs at the time.
Signature Intro: The song is instantly recognizable due to its distinctive acoustic guitar intro played by Steve Howe. This intro has become one of the most famous and beloved openings in rock music.
Lyric Collaboration: "Roundabout" features lyrics written by lead vocalist Jon Anderson and contributions from his then-girlfriend, Jennifer Baker. The lyrics are somewhat abstract and dreamlike, fitting the overall atmosphere of the song.
Progressive Rock Classic: "Roundabout" is often cited as one of the quintessential tracks of the progressive rock genre. Its combination of intricate musicianship, complex songwriting, and poetic lyrics helped define the progressive rock sound of the 1970s.
Radio Edit: The original album version of "Roundabout" runs for over eight minutes. To make it more radio-friendly, a shorter version with some of the instrumental sections edited out was released as a single. Despite the edits, the song still retains its essence.
Memorable Album Art: The "Fragile" album, which features "Roundabout," is known for its distinctive album cover. It's a Roger Dean design, and Dean would go on to create many iconic album covers for Yes and other bands.
Live Performances: "Roundabout" has been a staple of Yes' live performances throughout their career. The band often extended and improvised the song during concerts, showcasing their virtuosity as musicians.
Pop Culture References: The song has appeared in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials over the years, further solidifying its status as a classic rock track. Its inclusion in various media has introduced it to new generations of listeners.
Critical and Commercial Success: "Roundabout" received critical acclaim upon its release and helped propel the "Fragile" album to commercial success. It remains one of Yes' most enduring hits and is considered a classic of the rock genre.
"Roundabout" continues to be celebrated for its technical prowess and artistic innovation within the progressive rock genre, making it a timeless piece of music history.