White Car / Does It Really Happen?

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning the eclectic vibes of "White Car / Does It Really Happen?" by Yes from their 1980 album Drama for all the Zoo Freaks tuning in. This track, a brief instrumental at just over a minute, showcases the band’s progressive rock prowess with swirling synths and intricate guitar work. In a 1980 interview with Melody Maker, guitarist Steve Howe described "White Car" as a spontaneous studio creation, inspired by a fleeting moment of musical experimentation. He noted that the song’s title came from a literal observation—a white car passing by the studio window—capturing the band’s knack for turning everyday moments into art. On Yes’s official Facebook, a 2020 post celebrating Drama’s 40th anniversary highlighted fan comments praising "White Car" for its ethereal, almost cinematic quality, with one fan calling it “a cosmic interlude that feels like a dream.”

Delving deeper, "White Car" reflects the unique circumstances of Drama’s creation. During a 2010 interview with Progressive Ears, keyboardist Geoff Downes shared that the song emerged during a transitional period for Yes, with new members Trevor Horn and himself stepping in after Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman’s departure. Downes recalled late-night sessions where the band embraced a more experimental edge, blending punk and new wave influences into their prog roots. A post on Yes’s X account in 2016 mentioned "White Car" as a favorite from the Drama tour, noting its rare live performances due to its complexity. Fans on the Yes Fans Facebook group often debate its brevity, with some speculating it was meant as a prelude to the album’s longer tracks, like "Machine Messiah."

Yes began in London in 1968, founded by vocalist Jon Anderson, bassist Chris Squire, drummer Bill Bruford, keyboardist Tony Kaye, and guitarist Peter Banks. According to the band’s biography on their official website, Anderson and Squire met at a Soho club, bonding over their love for complex harmonies and ambitious arrangements inspired by The Beatles and Simon & Garfunkel. Their early gigs at venues like The Marquee Club blended covers with original songs, earning them a cult following. By 1969, their self-titled debut album showcased a mix of rock, jazz, and blues, setting the stage for their progressive rock legacy. The addition of Steve Howe in 1970 and Rick Wakeman in 1971 solidified their signature sound, leading to iconic albums like Fragile and Close to the Edge.

Over the decades, Yes has seen numerous lineup changes, with 20 full-time musicians contributing to their evolving sound. Their Instagram often shares throwback photos and tour updates, connecting with fans through nostalgic posts about their 1970s heyday and recent performances. The band’s resilience is evident in their ability to adapt, as seen during the Drama era, which introduced a more modern, synth-driven sound. Fan communities thrive online, with sites like YesFans.com offering forums for discussions on everything from album analyses to concert memories. The Yes Fans Facebook group is particularly active, with thousands of members sharing rare photos, bootlegs, and stories of meeting band members.

For the latest on Yes, check out their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Fans can dive deeper into the band’s world through communities like YesFans.com and the Yes Fans Facebook group, where the Zoo Freaks might find fellow enthusiasts to geek out with over "White Car" and beyond.