How a band named Cinema accidentally became Yes and topped the global charts
In short: After Yes disbanded in 1981, its remaining members formed a new group called Cinema, aiming for a commercial pop sound. When they struggled to find a lead singer, they invited former frontman Jon Anderson back. The resulting album, named after its catalogue number, became the band's most successful release ever.
The origins of 90125 lie in the ashes of the progressive rock band Yes, which split in 1981. Bassist Chris Squire and drummer Alan White sought to continue, eventually teaming up with South African guitarist Trevor Rabin. Along with keyboardist Tony Kaye, they formed Cinema, a project designed to distance themselves from the complex, long-form structures of their past. They spent seven months arranging songs and another seven recording, with Trevor Horn—the band's original choice for lead singer—shifting into the role of producer.
The project faced significant hurdles, including Kaye's departure due to his resistance to new keyboard technology and the band's inability to secure funding. To save the project, manager Phil Carson played the tapes for Atlantic Records founder Ahmet Ertegun, who agreed to cover the remaining costs only after Jon Anderson was brought on to provide his distinctive lead vocals. The album was initially titled The New Yes Album, but the band ultimately chose its Atco catalogue number, 90125, as the title to maintain a sense of detachment from their history.
The album's release in November 1983 marked a massive commercial pivot. It reached number five on the US Billboard 200 and produced the band's only number-one single, 'Owner of a Lonely Heart'. While some critics lamented the loss of the band's 1970s-era complexity, others praised the 'slick' production and pop sensibility. The success of 90125 was so substantial that it led to a worldwide tour of over 110 dates, including a historic, high-security performance in Buenos Aires in 1985, marking the first time an English band had performed in Argentina following the Falklands War.
The album's legacy remains tied to its innovative use of technology, from the Apple IIe computer used to design its logo to the Fairlight CMI sampler used on its lead single. Though the band's lineup shifted during the recording process—with keyboardist Eddie Jobson briefly joining before Kaye returned—the final product became a 'game-changer' that introduced Yes to a new generation of listeners.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: 90125
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/places-90125.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Basics · More in Countries & Cities · Latest · A–Z · All topics
