Steve Howe Bands Overview
Steve Howe is an English guitarist best known for his work with Yes, Asia, GTR, and The Steve Howe Band. He has been a member of Yes across multiple eras, contributing to albums such as "Fragile," "Close to the Edge," and "Going for the One." His tenure in Yes spans from 1970 to 1981, a reunion from 1990 to 1992, and a return from 2015 onward, with the band still active as of the latest public lineup data. Howe's role in these groups centers on electric and acoustic guitar, composition, and production, with his work frequently cited in discussions of progressive rock and symphonic rock. His projects have generated millions in recorded music sales and streaming plays across major platforms according to Forbes.
Beyond Yes, Howe co-founded Asia with members of King Crimson and ELP in 1981, and later formed GTR with Steve Hackett in 1985. The Steve Howe Band has functioned as his primary solo vehicle, releasing albums such as "The Grand Scheme of Things" and "Time." These projects have featured shifting lineups that include keyboardists, bassists, and drummers from the broader progressive rock scene. The Steve Howe Band continues to tour and record, with current members often drawn from his family and longtime collaborators. His solo discography includes more than a dozen studio albums, blending progressive rock, jazz fusion, and folk influences.
Key Steve Howe Bands and Lineups
Yes remains the central focus of Steve Howe's career, with the band's classic lineup from 1971 featuring Jon Anderson, Chris Squire, Rick Wakeman, Alan White, and Howe. Later Yes lineups have included Trevor Rabin, Geoff Downes, Billy Sherwood, and Jon Davison, with Howe rejoining for the "Yes50 Live" and subsequent tours. The current Yes lineup as of the latest available public data features Howe, Davison, Sherwood, and Jay Schellen, with the band continuing to release new music and tour globally per the official Yes website. Howe's contributions to Yes have earned multiple gold and platinum certifications, and the band remains one of the most recognized names in progressive rock.
Asia, formed by Howe, John Wetton, Carl Palmer, and Geoff Downes, released its self-titled debut in 1982, which became the best-selling debut album of that year in the United States. The Steve Howe Band has featured musicians such as Virgil Donati, Dylan Howe, and Andrew Jackman across various iterations. GTR, a short-lived project with Steve Hackett, produced one studio album and a single charting hit before disbanding in 1987. Howe's solo work often emphasizes instrumental compositions and collaborations with guest musicians, maintaining a consistent focus on melodic and technical guitar writing.
Steve Howe Band Members and Collaborators
Current and former members of the Steve Howe Band include Dylan Howe on drums, Virgil Donati on drums and percussion, and Andrew Jackman on keyboards. The band has also featured bassist Dave Kilminster, keyboardist Geoff Downes, and drummer Jay Schellen in various configurations. Howe frequently collaborates with his son Dylan Howe, who has contributed to multiple Steve Howe Band albums and live performances. These lineups have supported studio albums and extensive touring, particularly in Europe, North America, and Japan.
Notable Collaborations Outside of Steve Howe Bands
Howe has collaborated with artists such as Rick Wakeman, Jon Anderson, and King Crimson