Blue Plate Special: Yello
Yello, a pioneering Swiss electronic music band, was formed in Zurich in 1979. The band initially consisted of Boris Blank, who provided the music through his innovative use of sampling, and Carlos Perón, who specialized in creating tapes and soundscapes. Shortly after, they were joined by Dieter Meier, an eccentric artist, lyricist, and vocalist with a larger-than-life personality. Meier’s theatrical voice brought a unique edge to Blank’s experimental soundscapes, and together they defined Yello’s distinct style. Perón eventually left the band in 1983 to pursue a solo career, leaving Meier and Blank to shape Yello into an iconic electronic duo.
Yello’s music is characterized by unusual sound samples and rhythmic intensity, creating an unmistakable blend of humor, theatricality, and a surreal atmosphere. Their tracks, like the 1985 hit “Oh Yeah,” became globally recognized after being featured in major films, including Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and have remained a pop culture staple. “The Race,” another standout single, reached No. 7 on the UK Singles Chart in 1988 and demonstrated the duo’s innovative approach to creating rhythm from unconventional sounds. Yello’s discography boasts 14 studio albums, each marked by Blank’s unique sound manipulation and Meier’s playful, enigmatic vocals, building a legacy of electronic artistry that’s hard to categorize.
Beyond their sound, Yello became known for their visuals and an avant-garde aesthetic, from their music videos to their rare live performances. Avoiding live concerts for decades, Yello captivated audiences through music videos that mirrored their sound’s eccentricity, incorporating noir-like imagery, humor, and theatrical sets. Despite limited live shows, their 1983 performance at New York’s Roxy Club was transformative, inspiring Blank’s dedication to dance music and showing their global influence. Yello’s commitment to creating immersive soundscapes and offbeat, sophisticated imagery has made them lasting icons in the electronic music world.
Favorite singles and deep tracks from their extensive catalog:
Oh Yeah – from the album Stella (1985)
I Love You – from the album You Gotta Say Yes To Another Excess (1983)
Planet Dada – from the album The Eye (2003)
Bostich – from the album Solid Pleasure (1980)
How How – from the album Zebra (1994)
To The Sea – from the album Pocket Universe (1997)
Si Senor The Hairy Grill – from the album One Second (1987)
The Race – from the album Flag (1988)
The Evening’s Young – from the album Claro Que Si (1981)
Waba Duba – from the album Point (2020)
Desert Inn – from the album Stella (1985)
