Yours is No Disgrace

Discover "Yours Is No Disgrace," the powerful opening epic from Yes's landmark 1971 release, The Yes Album. This near ten-minute progressive rock masterpiece showcases intricate musicianship, dynamic shifts, stunning guitar work from Steve Howe, and marked a defining moment in the band's evolving sound.

Kicking off The Yes Album in 1971, "Yours Is No Disgrace" served as a grand introduction to guitarist Steve Howe's incredible talent within the band. This expansive progressive rock track features multiple sections, shifting tempos, and virtuosic interplay between Howe, Jon Anderson's soaring vocals, Chris Squire's melodic bass, Tony Kaye's Hammond organ, and Bill Bruford's dynamic drumming, establishing a new level of complexity.

Steve Howe's guitar work is central, moving from crisp opening riffs to intricate passages and powerful solos, defining much of the song's character. Coupled with Yes's signature vocal harmonies and a driving rhythm section, the track builds incredible energy. Its lyrics are often interpreted as reflecting on the disillusionment and experiences related to the Vietnam War era, solidifying its place as an early progressive rock classic from 1971.

SONG MEANING: While Yes lyrics are often open to interpretation, "Yours Is No Disgrace" is frequently viewed as an anti-war song, possibly commenting on the experiences of soldiers returning from or fighting in the Vietnam War. Lines like "Yesterday a morning came, a smile upon your face / Caesar's palace, morning glory, silly human race" could suggest lost innocence or the absurdity of conflict, though broader themes of societal disillusionment also resonate.