5 Things to Know About Alan White Joining Yes for the Close to the Edge Tour

Alan White replaced Bill Bruford just three days before the tour started. Bruford left Yes to join King Crimson, leaving the band scrambling for a replacement.

The tour covered over 90 dates worldwide. It ran from 1972 to 1973, making it a massive undertaking for a drummer with almost no rehearsal time.

White learned the complex material on the fly. He had to master songs like “Close to the Edge” and “And You and I” with minimal preparation.

His drumming style differed from Bruford’s. White brought a heavier, more rock-oriented feel, which influenced Yes’s sound on later albums.

White remained with Yes for over 50 years. He became the band’s longest-tenured drummer, playing on every album from 1972’s Close to the Edge onward.