meeting Jon

[Devotee]

As a young google eyed fan I met Jon the first time on his Animation solo tour. I was dumbfounded and kept silent - mainly because I didn't want to appear stupid. I reviewed the tour in a local Seattle paper. But all I could really think was 'oh my god, his eyes really are that blue'. I'm so glad I didn't say that to his face.
Over the years of course I matured and met him again on several occasions. He is very articulate, if not "out there" with his idears. Very easy to talk to. I have since gotten involved with Opio Foundation, published a few things in the magazine, and bought his paintings. A VERY complex man, and in my opinion the driving force of YES. This is not just the singer in a rock n' roll band.

[luckyseven]

Hopefully I will get to meet him someday, and then I will decide!

That was really funny Devotee. I can see myself in the same situation but not having the wisdom that you had--keeping your mouth shut. I guess that's why you are the lucky dog that you are and I am the unlucky one--that is, one who has never had the opportunity to meet Jon--not that I haven't tried. I think the universe is trying to spare both Jon and myself from years of humiliation and post-meeting self-flagellation.






That life is just a worrying and getting in a mess.....

[Tanbar]

i hate to disagree with you Devotee, but Jon is most definantly human, just like madonna, dennis rodman, and david bowie.

sooner,
~Z~

"so that would make bethany part black?" Jay in DOGMA

Tanbar, I'm real curious where you saw that Devotee said that Jon was not human. I may have a problem with that but I surely didn't see it in Devotee's posting. Help me out.

[Tanbar]

you see, Devotee and i have been having quite a debate on the origin of Jon b/c she thinks he's not human... that he's from "somewhere else"

sooner,
~Z~

"i don't want knowledge, i want certainty" d. bowie

[Tanbar]

oh, and my reply was a joke. heehee.
:drummer:

~Z~

[Flo]

I saw Jon at the end of last Paris Concert in the Olympia (Nov 26th 2001) and I was struck by his look ; he seemed spaced out after his 2h45 show on stage. I had my ticket signed but couldn't speak a word. All I said was "thank you so much". But definitely a wonderful moment and something I shall not forget as he's been my heroe in the world of music for more than 17 years.

[sadcaver]

He lost his humanity by spouting all that New Age babble for so long.

Sadcaver, I would recommend that you lay off those brewskies for a few months. It's clouding your thought processes. IMHO Jon is the coolest guy in the world--ever and still.

[sadcaver]

Don't get me wrong, I've been a fan of the music for 30 years. I've seen them 6only 6 times, but the Drama tour show was one of the best shows I've ever seen. Look in those New Age catalogs, it all starts with angels, lights, and rainbows, but by the time you get to what's behind it, it's all skulls, dragons, and demons. Collectively, Yes are about the best musicians around, but the lyrics...........

I agree with you about the skulls, dragons and demons, I don't have any interest in that either. I never thought about the angels and stuff being in front of it, but I guess it makes sense though--in a dualistic universe--and all that. All that fantasy stuff does not interest me either and there is a measure of that in Jon's stuff--I'm thinking of Olias and the "legend" behind that. I suppose I just try to get what is there for me and leave the rest. I think of Tales, and... I get chills just thinking about it. No fantasy stuff there--as far as I am concerned anyway. Just a clear vision of the source and how to get there. Nothing better for me.

Yes lyrics are superb though IMO--particularly in their earlier best works AND there are big glimpses of lyric genius in Magnification too.

I'm also wondering how you could be a fan of Yes for 30 years and only see them 6 times? Seems unthinkable to me--something like a bizarro world--please, I'm not knocking you at all--it just seems incomprehensible to me. Would you give me some insight on that?

[sadcaver]

Certainly....Until just recently I've always been poor. Just got my first computor 2 weeks ago and just got online. I've been so happy finding all the Yes, Asia, ELP and Genesis stuff that's available here.
Spent what little cash I could round up by going hungry and buying albums that would last awhile. My Genesis, Yes, ELP only collections about 100 albums. I'm a fan.

Thanks for the insight sadcaver. Poor is something I am too acquainted with as well. Since your situation has changed--as you mentioned, you can make up for it this year when Yes tour. I've made it a plan to try to go to every show within a 1000 mile radius for this tour. Not that I can afford it but I feel like I really cannot not afford it--as they may lay off for years and maybe forever after this tour. This may be our last chance.

I'm psyched to death for this upcoming tour.

[sadcaver]

Do you know when or where they may be around Richmond or D. C.? It's probably been at least 15 years since I've seen them.

What I would recommend sadcaver is for you to be a frequent visitor to Yesworld.com. When there, click on News. Their tour information will break there first. You never know when they will update, so you really need to check it every day.

Check out the whole site too. It's really cool. There is a LOT to see on that site and will take you some time to go through it all--just to see what is on it. They do a really good job. While you are there, don't miss visiting Jon's website. Read his bio. So much fun and heartbreaking as well. And his "touring nutcase" articles. They are so much fun you won't believe it. You are in for a first class treat!

[sadcaver]

Thanks yessiree. I'll do that.

I want to hear your experiences too. Let us all know please.

[sadcaver]

Previously or the as yet?

[sadcaver]

The yesworld site doesn't mention any keyboard players. Does that mean Patrick Moraz and Geoff Downs still have a chance to return?

Previously and now.

They don't mention keyboard players because they don't have one now. No one knows what they'll do this tour--whether or not Tom will come back, or if they will continue to have an orchestra or anything. It's all a mystery that we'll just have to watch and see how it unfolds.

To address your issue of whether or not certain keyboard players return--my hope, and I know a lot of others disagree with me, is that Moraz does not return. But what do I know--that's just my opinion.

[sadcaver]

When Geoff did his 20 minute version of White Car, it just blew me away. The best stylings of Emerson and Banks while being neither. Some of the finest playing and creating I've ever seen in my life.
I'm embarassed by it now, but during the line ...and answer to...with the silent second, I guess I couldn't help myself and shouted 'YES!!!!!!!' into it. That got the arena's attention. It certainly did. Although I thought I got a nod from Chris for my trouble.

[upbgirl]

I had the pleasure of meeting Jon and talking to him for a bit after the Union tour. [as well as Steve, Rick, Chris, Alan, and Bill-Trevor was busy with a blonde trophy] My husband and concert going brother had both gone into the military, and so i decided to take my baby brothers friend. He was all decked out in his leather and bandanas, but liked the show just fine. [virgin of Yes] Even though i had just had my son and was recovering from that, we decided to stick around after the show and just 'people watch'. [In reality, we forgot where we parked and was just killing time till some of the cars left] We walked around back where the semi-trucks were and just sat on the wall watching people. [what a happy, happy crowd! i remember EVERYONE being so polite and content] Jon came out first with a scarf wrapped around his neck. I was the only chick out there waiting [with about 15 dudes] so i took my opportunity and approached Jon, called him Mr Anderson [that always gets them-calling them mr. when i called out 'Mr Wakeman', Rick laughed like he was surprised] and thanked him for a great show. He cleared his throat and said thanx. He said he had a bit of a sore throat, hence the scarf, and said he was worried he was coming down with something. I reached up and wrapped the scarf a bit closer to his throat [i can't believe i almost touched his throat! ahh!] and said he should get out of the diesel fumes cause they can't be good for him or his voice. He said he never thought of that and thanked me. While he was signing my Union cd sleeve, i started telling him all the important times in my life Yes was there for/with me. My marraige, the birth of my child, and my grandmothers death. I told him thru the tunes, i had survived alot of stuff and i thanked him for it. He said how nice that was to hear, and REACHED OVER THE BARRICADE AND HUGGED ME!! for once, i was speechless. It was all i could do to MAKE myself let go of him. [i chalked it up to hormone malfunction-new baby and all] Meanwhile, the dudes who were slow to move were getting restless now because it seemed to them i was taking too much time talking to Jon and they were waiting. One of them even jostled me and said something about 'having a turn'. I couldn't help it, and told him [politely, of course-the band was all there watching] that i had been a yes fan since they were still ####ting yellow, and no one was gonna rush me!! Rick cracked up [yes, WAKEMAN!] and said, "man, these american girls have some balls" Well, that was my opportunity to talk to Rick for a bit, and then everyone else signed for me. [Chris seemed lit and Alan was nice as usual. Steve..well, that's another story-but i still love Steve] my buddy [in his Van Halen regalia] was quite impressed. He had seen guns & roses the previous week and he said you couldn't even get close to them after their show [and who would want to]. It was a night to remember for sure. I keep the signed tour sleeve in a frame on my wall next to all my other Yes stuff on my Yesshrine. I will never forget the sound of his voice talking or the smell of his hair. I have been trying to find that shampoo ever since!! when you guys post the 'let's hear about when you met such and such or so and so', i will be ready for that one too!

upbgirl I am taken aback by your wonderful experience. Thanks so much for telling us about it. You lucky girl you!

I'm still wondering, how did you ever let go?

[Omar Mohamed Fares]

14th December 1997, last concert of OYE North American Tour.
Mr. Tiano didn´t believe that I came from Brazil, to attend the last three concerts of that Tour in USA. Lucky me, I was honoured with a backstage badge to behold the legends. So,
I was watching the gentle Billy while I was forced to turn around by an amazing, smooth, harmonic and blessed talking I´d ever heard: It was JON, greeting the fans, making jokes, giving signs, etc.... I must confess, I stuck, simply froze, paralized. I just remember that I gave him my pen to give me a sign and it didn´t work properly then he says like an angel " Oh, Oh", I thought that I was on stage really, then I realized he was asking me to make the pen works. What I should´ve done? It was quite amazing listening to his voice very close to me. He has a very beatiful Aura, it´s difficult to let him go away that easy, something really makes you stay around him.
An Angel on Earth.

[hypatiamarshall]

I met Jon at Yescapade last year at the Konocti Resort in Kelseyville, CA. I actually gave something to him, rather than begging for something to be signed. I already had a card from him many many years back, so I didn't really need a signature. I made a flip-book of Pangea to modern times. It had about 60 original drawings. It took me 2 weeks to make. It was definitely a rough proto-type. hahahaha I handed it to him and he said, "Thank you!" in such a sweet voice, and so sincere. I know he didn't have any idea what I had just given to him. hahahahah I didn't care. I told him it was an educational toy I would try to market or something. I looked up and noticed Jane to his right. I suddenly said, "She's beautiful!" They both smiled. That was the first time I had seen her close up and she was lovely. She had on sunglasses and a very charming roundish straw hat. Jon had on a sort of tropical Hawaiianesque shirt. He seemed a little fatigued, but very happy. It was very, very quick. I knew other people were behind me waiting to talk, too. I wasn't going to be a hog about it. I did not get to meet Chris, and am hoping to in the near future. There is much more, but I will write about it some other time. I met yesfans from all around the world: Japan, Australia, Germany..... It was a once in a lifetime experience!

Jan in Erie CO

Omar and Jan, my heart skips a beat when I read your posts. You have good karma my friends. I just hope that I would have the constancy of mind you demonstrated if I ever got the opportunity to meet the wonder man himself.

Omar, I see this is your first post. Welcome Welcome. You know we have other Yesfans here from Brazil. Very nice to have you aboard. Please visit and post often.

[Roman]

Oh, you lucky guys and girls. I often dream of how it would be to meet Jon, but I have only a little chance that this dream could ever come true...

[Flo]

As I said in an earlier post, I met Jon after the last Yes concert in Paris, in Nov 2001. Indeed, it seems easy to meet Yes after a concert : after the show there were only 12 of us waiting and all members politely stopped in their vans to sign for us in a very quiet and relaxed atmosphere. I couldn't speak a word as I was so impressed. I just said "thank you so much" and that was it. But being able to approach him was tremendous joy to me. I was nearly mesmerized.

Nearly mesmerized? I'm mesmerized just hearing about it!

Ok, Flo, since you have found it easy to meet them, you MUST tell me what you did. How did you get back there? Where is back there? Did you have to lay down in the street to get the cars to stop? I'm open to suggestions!

[Flo]

Yessiree, It was just after the concert and we were waiting by the Concert Hall parking just near the concert Hall main public entrance. We waited 1 hour and a half and someone from the crew I suppose, went to see how many people were waiting. Later, the cars appeared from the parking and were about to get out on the main avenue. But before that they all stopped for us and all members had their pen ready to sign (felt pen !!) easily. Just as simple as that. Every one of us could be served as there was no hurry nor panic. I don't know if it's like that in the States. But in Paris it was a small hall and there were few fans waiting. I had heard through the Yes web site that other French fans had done the same the previous year, that's why I had a go at it.

What a great story Flo! I'll bet that Paris is different from the usa though. Parisians have a reputation of being non-plussed about celebrity and they don't have guns. In America however, the opposite is true. I will keep your experience in mind though after the next tour. So, there was no tour bus, only cars? And they just stopped and opened the windows so you would know it was them? Seems all too simple. Thanks!

[Devotee]

I have met Jon several times. Big cities like LA are more a matter of luck or intuition than the smaller ones. First time was during a solo tour in a small club in Seattle - that was easy, though terrifying, his eyes really are that blue! Next was 90125, and that was because I prayed really hard to get backstage. Then I gave him a rosary after the show. Sometimes I get in sometimes I don't, and since I'm one of the "lucky ones" I don't let it get me down (too much) if I don't get in. Prayer helps though...

Prayer, huh? Hey at this point, I'm up for anything. I was determined to meet him after the Chicago show and so I dragged along my friends to all the fancy hotels in town looking for the guys. No luck.

[Flo]

Yessiree, next time you have to come to Paris if Yes are decided to visit us again !

My goodness Flo, you sure drive a hard bargain! Just imagine, Paris and Yes. I would think that I died and went to heaven. Then meeting Jon while in Paris? How could I survive such fun? If they announce Paris again, let's talk and see if it could happen. I've never been to your fair city and have always wanted to go.

[Flo]

Yessiree, let's hope for the best. Yes have visited us in 1998, 2000 and 2001 (the 2000 and 2001 show being held in small venues of about 1500 people). Keep our fingers crossed. And if you don't know Paris, that could be a nice treat.

I'll say!

[yesmusic]

Yes, I can say I never meet JON or group & will someday hope to, I know what I would say to him "I love your music and that such ewnic voice you have with the lyrics are composed so well & I know your wife and children are great inspirations to your music for all of us to listen to"
yesmusic .. .. Bob

[nightliner]

I've met Jon around a half a dozen times. One of those I was able to sit down next to him and chat. He is human...a very spacey human, but he is human.

[RobAdams]

The only interactions I've ever had with a famous person were

a) Talking on the phone to Gail Zappa to see if the FRANK ZAPPA "OLD MASTERS" Box set I ordered was on its way to me yet. I tried to see if I could talk to Frank, just to say hello, and Gail had one of the kids see if he was awake. Gail had told me that my records should arrive soon and that the check had cleared. She was very nice to me. I could hear kids in the background and a dog barking. I soon learned that Frank was sleeping. Gail said he was up all night mixing tapes and that he is usually asleep in the day time. I asked if 200 MOTELS was going to be available soon and Gail told me that United Artists sold the rights to MCA, so Frank was negotiating with them over it.

b) I saw the GRATEFUL DEAD at Cornell University in Ithica NY many times. One time I was very close to the stage and in between songs I yelled up to Phil Lesh "Can you guys play DISCO DUCK tonight?" And Phil smiled and said "Third set!".
My friends and I were making fun of that song on our way to the show.

c) Hal Linden (maybe spelling is wrong), the guy who played Barney Miller, showed up at a McDonalds I worked at in Branford CT. He was in some off broadway play at the Schubert Theater in New Haven, and stopped in for a bite to eat. Barney Miller had only ended not long before this, so he was recognized by most of us. I was cooking, so I'm the one who made his Big Mac.

d) Spoke breifly to Jakob Dylan at TOAD'S PLACE in New Haven when the Wallflowers were touring for BRINGING DOWN THE HORSE. Until that show I had NEVER heard them before, so when a bunch of us lined up by the dressing room, we all took turns saying hello and getting autographs. He was very friendly. I said something along the lines of "I never heard you guys before tonight. Great show. I'm a fan of your Dad, too." Jakob said "So am I." Then he autographed my ticket stub.

I think if I met Jon or anyone else in YES, my main thing would be to say that I enjoy their music a lot.

Originally posted by yesmusic
Yes, I can say I never meet JON or group & will someday hope to, I know what I would say to him "I love your music and that such ewnic voice you have with the lyrics are composed so well & I know your wife and children are great inspirations to your music for all of us to listen to"
yesmusic .. .. Bob

Hey there yesmusic! Welcome to the site! Yes, hopefully, you and I will have better luck this year and we can post our success on this site. Stay tuned...

Originally posted by nightliner
I've met Jon around a half a dozen times. One of those I was able to sit down next to him and chat. He is human...a very spacey human, but he is human.

Really, spacey? I guess it makes sense--with all those big fat marijuana SeeGars I've heard him associated with. But human too, huh? Very interesting. Invite me next time, nightliner.

[jcostello]

I think Jon is from Saturn, just like Sun Ra said he was, and I think he'll return to Saturn when he decides to leave planet Earth. But Shhhh!, it's a secret.

I've never met Jon before, but I'm pretty certain that a couple of times I've made eye contact/gesture contact with him at shows. I'd really like to interview the guy. It's been fun to interview Alan White twice, but I want to get someone else's perspective on the band.

Peace, Love, and Going for the Jon,

John C.

[YesGrrl]

I am lucky enough to be married to someone "in the business" who also has worked with Yes, so I've met them all. But my story about meeting Jon is the funniest...

I was in the Production Office during pre-tour rehearsals for a-to-remain-unnamed tour when Jon came in. My husband said, "Jon, have you met my wife?" Jon answered no, came over and took my hand, introduced himself...while I managed to stammer "I'm L____, P____'s husband." AAAACK!!! Fortunately, Jon thought my gaffe was charming but boy, did I feel like a doofus!

In my experience, Jon is always gracious and kind to everyone he encounters, as is his wonderful wife, Jane. They are two of the nicest, most unassuming people in the industry.

Originally posted by YesGrrl
AAAACK!!! Fortunately, Jon thought my gaffe was charming but boy, did I feel like a doofus!

In my experience, Jon is always gracious and kind to everyone he encounters, as is his wonderful wife, Jane. They are two of the nicest, most unassuming people in the industry.

See YesGrrl, that's how I would see myself if I ever was lucky enough to have the opportunity and because of that, it's probably for the best that I don't get the opportunity.

As I have thought--regarding Jon and Janeeee being nice and unassuming. It would stand to reason.

[Jackaranda]

She's a lot better looking than he is.

[Flo]

She's much younger above all. I think Jon was rather good looking when he was younger...

[Devotee]

and Jon still has them................................

Seriously. as men and women age, men become "distinguished" and women , well , get plastic surgery. As an "older man", Jon definately still has what it takes in the looks department. With Jane, they are absolutely adorable and I agree very unassuming. Very cool people.

[Neverthirst]

I think we should have poll on who Jon was in his former life.

Good idea Neverthirst. Perhaps we could start it out with say, The Buddah?

[Neverthirst]

good one.

how about David? singer/song(psalm)writer/poet

[Q]

He was Gene Roddenberry. No, he was Steve Jobs. Oops, wrong timeframe.

[Devotee]

I saw a photo of him at a piano back when he donned a pony tail. I could swear he looked like Mozart.
He also says he met Jane in Atlantis, and I don't think he was talking about the casino town in Europe.
I'm reasonably certain he was a south american shaman of some sort too, probably Mayan.

Good ones Devotee!

And Neverthirst, David is probably the best yet.

I'm also thinking, perhaps, Babaji. But David is better.

[Neverthirst]

what if he were a renaissance artist ... who would he be?

Michelangelo

[Neverthirst]

Nice.

I'm rather intrigued by what Devotee mentioned about Jon meeting Jane in Atlantis.

Yeah, me too.

[Olias_01]

Jon is from Sunhillow http://www.theunholytrinity.org/cracks_smileys/contrib/edoom/spacecraft.gif He Astral Travelled to us from the future and therefore has not been born yet. In the future he will be the Firstborn of Earthmother and will thereafter be known as The Messiahhttp://216.40.198.77/mysmilies/s/contrib/navigator/indian.gif

Hey Olias_01, it works for me! Messiah, huh? I have a pix of Jon--an artist's rendition--that looks quite messianic. I don't think you are the only one who has that thought. Jon's come to save the world through his music. Has a good ring to it.

[Devotee]

when I was a teenager absoulutely enthralled by this guy who was SOOOOOOOOO good looking and sexy, yet spiritual at the same time, I thought he must be some kind of avatar. In sanskrit avatar is the term used for an incarnation of one of the gods. Many hindu's regard Jesus as an avatar and remain hindu. Cool huh. Anyway years have passed and Jon remains one of my greatest inspirations and teachers (whether he likes it or not); I'm sure I'm not alone. I'd say if he is an avatar it must be of Krishna - that explains the groupies/gopi's (girls he loves other than his soul mate Radha/Jane). But, maybe I'm just nuts...........

Well, Devotee, if you are nuts, then I am too cause I'm right there with you!

Alright no wise cracks from the peanut gallery!

hahaha

Mr. Man Indeed!

[hypatiamarshall]

You can just add my vote....hahaha

Jan in Erie CO

P.S. I don't have any peanuts....

[Flo]

And mine by the way !
He's not a saviour but he's like a rainbow in our sky.

[soleil7]

i've never met Jon, or any of the Yes members for that matter ! i would love to meet him, altho i fear i would make a fool of myself !! i can just see it now.....umm j-j-jon..

Soliel7, that is my fear as well. What does one say to someone as cool as Jon? Hello--perhaps---if one can think that far. hahaha

[Flo]

I felt so stupid when I met him. I had my concert ticket gently signed by him and all I could say was "thank you so much". Nothing more. It's as if I couldn't speak English at all.

[Devotee]

I think Jon must be used to what he does to people. On one occassion I went up to him, said my name that I was a long time fan and then stammered saying I was "speechless". He snickered like he got a kick out of it...

[bataisflow]

I met Jon, Steve and Rick outside the Worcester Centrum on the Union Tour. Jon and Rick were driving together in an audi or Mercedes or BMW,I can't remember. Steve was in an SUV. I just waited for them at the back of the arena. I got there autographs shook hands. I told Rick that he was the best Keyboard player on the planet. He responded by saying something like "oh really, thank you very much etc..." I replied with "yeah, millions of yesfans can't be wrong etc..." and he started laughing - cool moment. It was very cool, although short lived. My freind got backstage by sneaking in and hung out for like an hour.

Steve was really mellow and wouldn't shake hands, but he politely signed my ticket and asked me if I enjoyed the show.

Great night - great show!

Cool stories Devotee and bataisflow!

I guess what can you do if somebody is falling all over themselves over you--like those guys have had to do for so many years--but try to get over it and enjoy the moment.

[umgekehrt]

Jon is from England. That's about five hundred light years from here.

[TRUEYOUTRUEME]

Love reading all this.

Jon is from Sunhillow. Love it!

I got a chance to meet Steve after a show one night and felt like 'duh' or something. I stood in line and got up there and though it was very nice to meet, was a great feeling, but felt like I could have no clue what to say that could be right. Got a autograph, said how great he was and moved on like I was on-line at a store talking to a teller or something.

After that I got to meet Geoff Downes at a festival show and the rest of Asia and even hang out in a bar with them and some other bands. My best friend plays keyboards and I got to snap a shot of them both with their hands interlocked in front of them. Very cool. But I ended up doing one too many shots of JD and very politely made my way to the bathroom, yes... to get sick, and of course who is standing there as I come in but... it was cool though I handled myself alright considering I needed to get sick. It was a wild weekend. And an absolutely great weekend.

Recently I got to see Jon. In Atlantic City. And again I felt dumb-founded. What saved me where the talents of my girlfriend. She had made her own tour t-shirts so as I was walking away after a "hi", "your great" and a autograph I got called back in front of Jon so I could show the shirt to Jon and Jane. It was cool. I got to talk about myself and my girlfriend, chit-chat abit, and smile more.

At the next show we brought Jon and Jane both a custom t-shirt with both of their pictures on it from the AC show and the words "The Power of Love", it was nice. They held it up and fawned over it, I blushed alot, I think, definetally smiled alot and talked got to have a moment.

Jon still wanted the other custom shirt we had though but I think I was enjoying talking to him so much and it didnt sink in til later. (Dumbfounded again) Would of gladly gave it to him (He signed it though). Hope to meet him and Jane again at a show or somewhere. It was very nice time for me. Jon is blessed. and Very cool.

[stevepenn]

I've had the great fortune to meet him several times. Most recently was this past April in Ft. Lauderdale the night before the show. My wife and I sat down on the sidewalk bar to order a Pusser's Painkiller (great cocktail BTW). Our table was facing the ocean right across the small road and there was a one-man band back farther behind us in the courtyard area. I turned to see what this guy was all about and blam, sitting directly behind me at the next table about two feet away was Jon and Jane having a Guiness. I introduced my wife, chatted a bit about the tour and bid him farewell as he and Jane left to go back to their hotel upstairs. It was a nice five minutes.

I met him backstage at the Ladder tour once but he had a terrible cold and it was evident he wanted to get the hell out of the meet and greet and who could blame him. He was very pale and needed some rest.

The first time (well the first two times) was unbelievable. It was August '84 and I was doing a gig at the Music Hall in Omaha (I used to be a professional magician) the night before Yes was kicking off the second leg of their 90125 tour. The band had been in town two days to set up, rehearse and sound check. After the curtain closed on my show, I put my stuff away very quickly, told the stage hand I'd be back in 30 minutes to strike the rest and split. Since I knew the layout of the convention complex quite well, I negotiated the levels of the complex and doorways and found my way into the main floor of the arena where the sound check was in progress. Jon was standing up on stage just singing acapella. It was really beautiful. I saw Chris Squire talking to the lighting guy and and he seemed rather agitated. I said hello, but he was complaining that, get this, Bruce Springsteen had a better light show!!! Too funny. Anyway, I walked over to the front of the stage and just stood there listening to Jon when a guy approached me. Now remember that I'm in tuxedo tails, so I looked prolly both funny and certainly conspicuous!! Turns out this man is Jon's personal assistant and that Jon is a big fan of magic. We chatted awhile and he asks me if I'd like to meet Jon. I am stunned and thrilled and stammer out something I can't remember that resembles a "I'd be honored" or something. Well, he tells me where they are staying, gives me a name to mention at the hotel desk and instructs me to show up the next morning around 11 a.m. So the next day, I head out not knowing what to expect. I talk to the front desk and Yan Epstein (Jon's assistant) comes down, shakes hands and welcomes me back into the pool area (closed off to the public). There's a cart with beer and soda and a bunch of lounge chairs and Yan asks me to sit down. I look in the pool and Trevor and Alan are swimming and goofing around. Tony and Jon are playing tennis. Lord knows where Squire was! We talked for a long time about painting and Chris and Jon and poetry and life. And then Jon later called him up to do whatever. About 20 minutes later Jon comes down and we started talking about Chagall, the tour, and the gig that night, how he's feeling about life (seemed happy) and the band. I was in heaven. I was on my own to wander around for awhile and per earlier instruction was to meet Jon at the bar as the band were going to get a bit to eat. We chatted a little bit more after he ordered a chicken club sandwich and Michelob Light (why I remember this, I don't know). He told me there would be backstage passes waiting on the list at the will call window for the night's show and bid me farewell. My girlfriend finally arrived after work, picked me up helped me float back home. I later enjoyed a spectacular concert, free roaming in the front area and met Jon again backstage. (Also met Nikki Squire, who was quite cranky. Didn't seem happy at all.)

The best part of this whole deal, was that I was invited to come backstage again two weeks later at the concert at Sandstone Amphitheater in Kansas City. The security guard had thought I was full of beans with my story as I was trying to get backstage before the soundcheck. I gave him my magic business card and simply told him to give it to the band when they arrived. You should have seen the look on this guys's face when the limo rolled up and the band got out and got out and looked at me and said "Hey, Omaha!" Pretty funny. I ended up first row of that concert and then at the party afterwards backstage.

Needless to say, it was the greatest time of my life and I will never forget it.

[Gabriel]

I must say this has been a fantastic read for me, since i've never had the pleasure of meeting Jon [or anyone else from Yes for that matter] and since I dont know much about Jons personality, its been a good insight!

When I was at the Yesshow at Wembley last month, I was talking to someone randmon and they told me that Jon was 'opinionated' I didnt really understand to what extent they meant though. Perhaps some of you guys could shed some light on that? Any idea what sort of things Jon has strong views on?

[Koko]

Jon is simply another joe bloggs/john doe - who is gifted with an 'extra-ordinary' voice - and a n amazing talent for composition that suits both his voice and those he co-composes with

The problem IS....that some people place him on a pedastal - and that IS where thr trouble begins.....

No one human is greater than another - we 'each' have unique gifts & Talents, some people have a gift for flower arranging, some people have a gift for carving wood / wooden figures...some people have a gift for healing people...others a gift for poetry...others a gift for working with (and understanding) Mathematical Equations etc

Jon has a most wonderful voice and has also been blessed with the 'opportunity' to be able to express with that voice in the biggest way possible (upon the international stage)- excuse - no pun intended.

Who knows maybe there's a mass murderer somwhere who also has a voice comparable with Jon's who just decided not to use and employ that aspect of themself - or perhaps for whatever reason didn't get the opportunity.............who knows???....anything is possible.....

Just because a person likes Yes or is a fan of Yes Music doesn't elevate them above anyone else , or automatically qualify them as being a "Good Human Being".

I've met Jon on a number of occasions - first time back in 1970...and I think he would prefer that people think of him as just another bloke - as a musicain - and not as a demi god - which is what happens a great deal...the people who do that..are living in illusion...I used to think he was beyond criticism...when I was in my teens...(a Loooooong time ago! LOL!) I used to think because the music was so Astoundingly Beautifully Awesome - that he must also be the same - but hey! we all wake up

and it's not just Jon that this happens to and applies to - you see it all the time - how people singularly or collectively - put another, an indiviual or team or band on a pedastal - it's another form of 'Cultism' - that's how cult's are born...by another person giving away their personal power to another
a dangerous thing to do...and even worse a dangerous thing to let someone do to you....to let them give their power away to you....

but hey what do I know.


Koko.

[stevepenn]

Wow, Koko. This is pretty harsh stuff. You're awfully judgemental here. As a professional journalist for five years and now having been in advertising for the past 20 years, I've had an opportunity to meet a lot of celebrities, politicians and musicians. From presidents to astronauts to rock stars and actors. I for one am hardly star struck as anyone who knows me will attest. I'm one of the most cynical people on the planet and idle idol worship is ridiculous. Yes, it's no big deal in the final analysis to meet a rock star or anybody else you look up to in whatever way you look up to them. We are all human and all the same. No better no worse. I've seen Chris Squire be an asshole and heard stories about how Jon likes to bend the truth alot. Alan's always kind. I don't give a rip. Yes, they are people. But for some folks, it's great to meet and speak with people they admire. For better or worse. For me, at the time it was the coolest thing. Since then the birth of my son and daughter, my lovely wife every day, trips here and there and any number of other things have far eclipsed simply meeting a rock star. Of course. But it doesn't make the sensation at the time any less legitimate or the memory any less exciting or the thrill any less forgettable. Sometimes when we meet somebody and they dis us or don't autograph this or brush by or whatever, we realize their human foibles and that can be a let down. Smart, sensate, clear minded people will shine it on. Maybe the guy was a prick. Maybe he or she was sick. Or just plain ol tired. But it's no big deal one way or another, that's certainly true enough. But other times, a simple smile and a handshake or even a brief conversation with or "hello" from someone you admire ~ for whatever the reason ~ can brighten a person's day in a very special way and leave a lifelong, wonderful impression that gives and gives and gives for years to come. It can be a very legitimate thrill for people.

So while I understand what you are saying, I'm not certain why you felt the need to rain on this thread's parade. Just my opinion.

Peace :}

Steve

[custom55]

I will be meeting YES next month. As I meet each one, I'll say something like this...

Your music has brought joy and energy into my life for the last 30 years and I'd like thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Jim

[Nellsalot]

I have met many of my favorite musicians and actors over these past few years, to varying degrees - with some I've had an autograph and a handshake, with others an hour long conversation. Most of the people I've met are relatively B-level type people, like people in bands which make it to Mtv2 but not Mtv, you know? Anyway, I have a strong tendency to develop great, huge, life-altering admiration for some people if I connect with their ideas and what they do. I have met many of these people, and while my experiences have been generally very positive and successful, I think the key is to have realistic expectations.

This is something that I've discussed with people many many times and I'm sure there isn't any on true answer, but as far as talent reflecting personality goes, I think it is quite possible for real assholes to be very talented. HOWEVER, I think that the way people use their talents, the ideas they have and the way they handle their careers and lives can be a reflection of their personality. So while a talented person who writes beautiful, uplifting songs won't necessarily be nice to you, I still say it's reasonable to expect a certain amount of decency and intelligence from certain people. I have never met Jon. But from what I have heard, he's not at all a perfect person and he is not a god and it is unfair to proclaim him as so. But he is a very talented guy with strong vision who sounds like he's very sweet with fans and who has brought much joy to the world. So while you shouldn't expect his handshake to bring you immortal, golden life, I think it's a healthy, sometimes very inspiring thing to admire and appreciate a fellow human being.

Okay, that whole thing was probably pretty useless to the discussion, but I thought I throw in some thoughts...

[stevepenn]

Sounds like a healthy perspective to me.

[BigGenerator]

I've met Jon Anderson a few times
The first time I met him was in a restaurant;a local radio announced his coming in a restaurant to advertise the new Yes album "Talk";the following day I came in this little restaurant where a dozen fans were waiting for him;he came on time,shook hands with some fans and sat at the end of the room;he was given some food,ate it slowly;the owner of the restaurant started to talk about Yes music and the new album;then he answered to some questions asked by the owner (of the restaurant);one interesting question was:'which one is his favorite album?' he answered 90125,then Talk
He sang a new song called "children of light" with his acoustic guitar;he was with his wife,I guess (rather lovely one) and his son (a young man with almost the same face)
At the end it was the time for autographs and dedications;he gave a fews CDs of his album;I had brought the sleeve of TALK,he signed an autograph on it;the most striking about him when I saw him very close is his height;he's a little man