Alan White, a longtime British drummer for the progressive rock band “Yes” has died unexpectedly at the age of 72. White also played on many projects with John Lennon and George Harrison.

Though he was born in County Durham, England, he died in America on May 26, 2022. He only had a quick sickness prior to his death.

“Alan White, our beloved husband, dad, and grandpa, passed away at the age of 72 at his Seattle-area home on May 26, 2022, after a brief illness,” his family said in a statement shared on his Facebook page.

“Throughout his life and six-decade career, Alan was many things to many people: a certified rock star to fans around the world, band mate to a select few, and gentleman and friend to all who met him,” the family said of White.

The band also posted a statement describing the shock of White’s death. “The news has shocked and stunned the entire YES family,” his bandmates wrote

In fact, Yes had been planning an upcoming tour in the UK to celebrate White’s 50th anniversary with the band. That said, the group will be dedicating another tour they’re doing in June to White—their “much-loved drummer,” as they describe him. White was super popular among the musician world. In fact, tons of celebrities who he impacted paid tribute to White via Twitter.

“I was so sad to hear about the passing of Alan yesterday. He was such a gentle soul… except when behind his drum kit where he was so powerful and creative. I will miss you brother,” said former Yes bandmate, Rick Wakeman.

Artist and activist Yoko Ono, who worked with White in the Plastic Ono Band, called him a “wonderful drummer who was an essential part of the sound of Imagine, Instant Karma! and more recordings,” adding, “He was always gentle, kind & good humored. We were blessed he was part of our family.”

White has always been a musician at heart. At the ripe age of 12, he began to play the drums and was doing public performances just one year after that. He was in a few other bands before joining Yes in 1972. John Lennon was actually responsible for it—he invited White to join the Plastic Ono Band, which was the reason he was featured on a few Lennon albums, including “Imagine.” As they say, the rest is history!

To hear more about White’s death, check out the video below.

Are you a fan of Yes? What’s your favorite song?

[Image credit: Wikipedia]