Released on November 7, 1983, 90125 by Yes marked a bold new direction for the legendary progressive rock band. With its polished production, chart-topping single “Owner of a Lonely Heart,” and lineup changes that redefined their sound, the album introduced Yes to a new generation of fans. While many know about its massive success and Grammy-winning track “Cinema,” here are five lesser-known facts about 90125 that may surprise even the most devoted Yes fans.
1. The Album’s Name Is a Catalog Number
The title 90125 wasn’t chosen for its artistic flair—it’s simply the catalog number assigned by Atco Records. Initially, the band considered other titles, but they ultimately decided on the practical choice to emphasize the album’s fresh start and distinguish it from their progressive rock past. The cover art for Yes’s 90125 is a perfect visual representation of the album’s sound, signaling a clean break from the band’s progressive rock roots and embracing a sleek, modern identity. Designed by Garry Mouat, the artwork features bold, minimalist geometric shapes and a sharp color contrast, reflecting the album’s streamlined production and concise, pop-oriented tracks. Unlike the intricate and organic designs of earlier Yes albums by Roger Dean, the 90125 cover mirrors the music’s precision and clarity. Tracks like “Owner of a Lonely Heart” and “Leave It” are meticulously crafted, with no excess—much like the cover’s clean lines and deliberate simplicity. The design’s technological feel, achieved using cutting-edge Apple IIe graphics, also reflects the album’s forward-thinking production, including the use of drum machines, sampling, and digital synthesizers.
2. “Owner of a Lonely Heart” Was Almost Rejected
Trevor Rabin originally wrote the demo for “Owner of a Lonely Heart” in 1979, but it was almost shelved due to its “American rock” vibe. Producer Trevor Horn championed the song, convinced it could be a hit. He added the now-famous sample from Funk, Inc.’s “Kool Is Back,” making it one of the first songs to incorporate sampling as a breakbeat.
3. “Leave It” Took Weeks to Perfect
“Leave It,” the album’s second single, almost didn’t make it due to a technical mishap. During recording, an engineer accidentally removed the click track, causing synchronization issues. Trevor Rabin spent several days fixing the vocals using a Synclavier before re-recording the entire song. Its complex vocal harmonies remain a highlight of 90125.
4. A Song Written in the Bathroom
“Owner of a Lonely Heart” wasn’t just a demo—it was largely composed by Rabin during a bathroom break. From the riff to the chorus, the core elements of the track were finalized in a decidedly unconventional setting. The song went on to become Yes’s only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100.
5. The Album Almost Had a Different Keyboardist
Keyboardist Eddie Jobson of Roxy Music briefly joined the band during the production of 90125 and even appeared in the “Owner of a Lonely Heart” video. However, Tony Kaye returned just in time for the tour, and Jobson left, citing internal politics and creative differences.
With its innovative sound, 90125 redefined Yes for the 1980s and remains a landmark album in rock history.
