To hardcore fans of Yes, 1983's 90125 was a big departure from their progressive rock sound of the 1970s. But for the MTV generation, it was our first introduction to Yes and the immense talent within the band. Driven by new member Trevor Rabin as the guitarist, sometime lead vocalist & dominant songwriter and former lead singer Trevor Horn as producer, Yes went in a more commercial and pop direction. Anchored by the return of singer Jon Anderson, stalwart Chris Squire on bass, long time drummer Alan White and returning member Tony Kaye on keyboards, they sold more than 3 million copies in the US and were all over MTV thanks to Owner of a Lonely Heart.

But what did the progressive rock Yes fans think about 90125? Was it too far a departure from their prog rock roots? Was the guitar too heavy compared to the picking of Steve Howe? UK fans didn't embrace this album like the US fans did and now Yes, led by Steve Howe who was in supergroup Asia during the recording of 90125, don't play songs from this record. Owner of a Lonely Heart hit #1 in the US but ony #28 in the UK and the rest of the videos were seen more in the US than England. We go track by track, review all the videos and talk about the politics and lineup changes that are very much a part of the legacy of Yes as 90125 turns 40 November 11, 2023.

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