The music world is mourning today as Yes guitarist Peter Banks dies, at the age of 65. The original guitarist for the influential prog rock band Yes, Banks had died of heart failure and was found at his home in London, when he failed to turn up to a recording session.

Members of his former band, Yes, had posted a statement on their own Facebook page, mourning the loss of their friend. “We are deeply saddened to learn about the passing of fellow band mate and founding Yes member, Peter Banks. He was a huge piece of the fabric that made Yes what it is, and our thoughts, sincere condolences, and prayers are with him and his family. Peter, we shall miss you greatly.” Banks was a member of the band for their first two albums, Yes and Time And A Word, before being replaced by Steve Howe. After leaving Yes, Banks went on to form a new band, Flash.

A statement regarding his death was posted on the Flash website, as have tributes from fellow musicians, including Yes vocalist John Anderson, who wrote “ I was watching the BBC footage just last month, and we spoke about those wonderful times. Peter was a unique guitar player and a kind soul. I will miss him.
I feel very lucky to have spoken with him over the past year. Even though he was very sick, he would chat away about music and laugh about the journey we have all been on.
He will be missed.”

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