British musician Peter Banks, who was the original guitarist of progressive rock band Yes, has died aged 65.

Peter Banks played on two albums with the group before pursuing his own band Flash, and a solo career which included a guest spot on Lionel Richie’s hit Hello.

Peter Banks was found dead at his London home on March 8 after not turning up to a recording studio.

He died from heart failure.

Peter was working on a live Flash album called Flash – In Public.

A post on his official website read: “It’s with great sadness to have to report the death of Peter Banks. He died in his London home on March 8, 2013. Thanks for all the music Peter!”

Peter Banks was in Yes for just a couple of years.

Peter Banks was found dead at his London home on March 8 after not turning up to a recording studio

In 1969, Yes recorded their eponymous debut album, to be followed by Time And A Word, on which his band mates Jon Anderson and Chris Squire wanted the backing of an orchestra.

It caused some eruptions within the group and after the record came out, he was asked to leave, along with keyboardist Tony Kaye, while there was less for them to do.

During his career, Peter Banks released three albums with Flash between 1972-73, recorded with Empire, contributed to all star tributes to Supertramp and The Who and worked with later Yes member Rick Wakeman’s son Oliver.

Former Yes member Billy Sherwood has paid tribute.

“I loved working with Peter on the many records I have produced over the years,” he said.

“He always delivered amazing stuff, creative, inspired and always with that classic original Yes flavor that came with his playing. He will be missed by me and many, many other fans of his music and playing.”

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