On June 27, 1986, Queensrÿche released Rage for Order, one of the most ambitious and forward-thinking albums of the 1980s metal era. Moving beyond the traditional heavy metal sound of their early releases, the band incorporated progressive structures, futuristic themes, layered production, and electronic textures that were years ahead of their time. Featuring songs like "Walk in the Shadows", "I Dream in Infrared", "The Whisper", and "Screaming in Digital", the album explored technology, alienation, and the growing relationship between humanity and machines. While some fans were initially surprised by its experimental direction, Rage for Order would later be recognized as a critical stepping stone toward the masterpiece that was Operation: Mindcrime. Produced by Neil Kernon and Queensrÿche.

On June 27, 2002, rock lost one of its greatest bass players when John Entwistle of The Who passed away at age 57. Nicknamed "The Ox," Entwistle redefined what a rock bassist could do, bringing speed, melody, technical precision, and thunderous power to classics like "My Generation", "Baba O'Riley", "Won't Get Fooled Again", and "The Real Me". While Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, and Keith Moon often commanded attention onstage, Entwistle stood almost motionless while producing some of the most complex and influential bass lines in rock history. His playing inspired generations of musicians and helped elevate the bass guitar from a background instrument to a lead voice within the band. Many bassists are influential. Very few permanently change the instrument.

On June 27, 2015, progressive rock lost one of its foundational figures when Chris Squire of Yes passed away at age 67. As the band's bassist and only constant member throughout its history, Squire helped define the sound of progressive rock through his distinctive tone, melodic playing, and innovative approach to the instrument. His work on albums like Fragile, Close to the Edge, and Relayer produced unforgettable performances on songs such as "Roundabout", "Heart of the Sunrise", and "Starship Trooper". Squire's bright, aggressive bass tone often functioned as a lead instrument, weaving complex counter-melodies throughout Yes's intricate compositions.

For countless progressive rock musicians, Chris Squire was not simply a great bassist - he was the blueprint. His influence can still be heard whenever a bass player decides the instrument should do more than just follow the guitar.