Guitarist Steve Howe Undergoes Surgery, Yes Forced to Change Tour Schedule

Yes guitarist Steve Howe. (Instagram @yesofficial)

JAKARTA - British progressive rock band Yes has been forced to make a tough decision by postponing their European tour series, which was originally scheduled to start rolling in April 2026.

Originally, the tour titled "The Classic Tales of Yes" was to open in Glasgow on April 22. In a series of 11 show schedules, they plan to bring the masterpiece album "Fragile" (1971) in its entirety on stage.

However, Steve Howe's health condition is the top priority of the management and other band members. The guitarist must undergo an important surgery that cannot be postponed.

In a statement released through the official website, the band explained that Steve Howe needed immediate medical treatment that required a significant recovery time.

"This decision was made to ensure that Steve can return to the stage in full health and give the performance that fans deserve," a Yes official statement read, quoted Sunday, April 5.

Furthermore, the band, which is also led by Jon Davison (vocals), Billy Sherwood (bass), Jay Schellan (drums), and Geoff Downes (keyboards), asks ticket holders to keep their tickets.

"We are working hard to reschedule the shows in the UK and EU to the next date, with full details to be announced after Easter. Please keep your tickets as they will remain valid for the rescheduled dates," he added.

Even though the spring schedule has shifted, Yes is ensuring that the tour plans for the end of 2026 will not be affected and will still run according to the original plan.

Steve Howe is the only member of the "Fragile" album lineup still in the band today - making him a central pillar in every Yes live show.

This delay adds to the long record of the band's dynamics that have been standing since the late 1960s.

Previously in 2023, Yes had been in the spotlight of the music industry after selling their recording catalog rights under the Atlantic Records label to Warner Music Group (WMG).

The sale includes their first 12 iconic studio albums, including various live recordings and compilations that have shaped the history of world rock music.