Yes bassist and co-founder Chris Squire passes away

The iconic bassist recently announced he would be taking a break from Yes after being diagnosed with acute erythroid leukemia.

The sad news of his passing was broken today by Chris' bandmate Geoffrey Downes on Twitter:

> Utterly devastated beyond words to have to report the sad news of the passing of my dear friend, bandmate and inspiration Chris Squire. #yes > > — Geoffrey Downes (@asiageoff) June 28, 2015

Yes have also paid tribute in a statement on their Facebook page, which reads:

"It’s with the heaviest of hearts and unbearable sadness that we must inform you of the passing of our dear friend and Yes co-founder, Chris Squire. Chris peacefully passed away last night in Phoenix Arizona.

For the entirety of Yes’ existence, Chris was the band’s linchpin and, in so many ways, the glue that held it together over all these years. Because of his phenomenal bass-playing prowess, Chris influenced countless bassists around the world, including many of today’s well-known artists. Chris was also a fantastic songwriter, having written and co-written much of Yes’ most endearing music, as well as his solo album, Fish Out of Water.

Outside of Yes, Chris was a loving husband to Scotty and father to Carmen, Chandrika, Camille, Cameron, and Xilan. With his gentle, easy-going nature, Chris was a great friend of many … including each of us. But he wasn’t merely our friend: he was also part of our family and we shall forever love and miss him."

Planet Rock will be paying tribute to Chris Squire on Monday night, with previously unheard interview audio in "Darren Redick remembers Chris Squire" from 7pm. We'll also play 'The Yes Album' in full at midnight, as part of our Planet Rock Plays It In Full series.