Yes drummer Alan White‘s family shared a post and announced that the musician died on his official Facebook account. Also, many musicians reflected their love and respect for him in their social media posts.
After being part of small local bands and working as a session musician for a while, a phone call from John Lennon in 1969 changed everything. Lennon invited him to Plastic Ono Band, and White joined the band of Yoko Ono, Eric Clapton, and Klaus Voormann. The performance was released as a live album, ‘Live Peace in Toronto 1969.’
Then, the drummer collaborated with Lennon and Ono for several iconic works such as ‘Imagine’ and ‘Instant Karma!.’ In 1972, White became Yes’ drummer replacing Bill Bruford and showed his extraordinary talent again in the band’s countless hit records.
White passed away at his home in Newcastle, on May 26, 2022, due to a brief illness, and his family revealed the devastating news by sharing highlights from his life to honor the late drummer. Also, Dream Theater’s Mike Portnoy stated that it’s so sad to hear about his passing as a person inspired by White.
Alan White’s family’s post read:
“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; bandmate to a select few, and gentleman and friend to all who met him.”
Here’s what Portnoy wrote:
“Absolutely stunned to wake up to the news of Alan White’s passing. His playing for the past 50 years was a massive influence on me, and I’ve had the honor of spending much time together through the years. My condolences to his wife Gigi, his family & the entire Yes camp.”
Steve Stevens emphasized one of his early live shows in 1974, saying that he was terrific by paying tribute to another late Yes member, Chris Squire. Yoko Ono, whom he teamed up with before, defined him as a wonderful musician and an essential part of their works and shared her condolences.
Steve Stevens shared his ideas, saying:
“One of the great drummers Alan White of Yes, has passed away. On February 18, 1974, I watched Alan at Madison square garden NYC absolutely make that place levitate with energy. The world beyond just got one of the great rhythm sections of Squire & White.”
Yoko Ono’s tweet read as follows:
“Alan White was a wonderful drummer who was an essential part of the sound of ‘Imagine,’ ‘Instant Karma!’ and more recordings. He was always gentle, kind, and good-humored. We were blessed he was part of our family.
Love & condolences to Gigi, Jesse & Cassi White; JJ, Ellie & Andrea.”
You can check out the posts below.
Photo Credit: Steve Stevens – Instagram
