Alan White, who has died aged 72 after a short illness, was one of rock’s most versatile and highly regarded drummers. He will be chiefly remembered for his career with the British progressive rockers Yes, whom he joined in 1972 after the departure of their original drummer, Bill Bruford. Had White’s health not been failing, the band’s forthcoming tour next month would have marked his 50 years with it.
White joined Yes just as they were about to begin touring with their fifth album, Close to the Edge (1972), which comprised three extended tracks and is regarded by many as the pinnacle of Yes’s elaborate, quasi-classical prog-rock.
