Asia is a British rock supergroup formed in London in 1981. The original lineup consisted of lead vocalist and bassist John Wetton (formerly of King Crimson and UK), guitarist Steve Howe (Yes), keyboardist Geoff Downes (Yes and The Buggles), and drummer Carl Palmer (Emerson, Lake & Palmer). Asia was created in the wake of the progressive rock movement, and the band's sound was characterized by a more commercially accessible approach, which fused elements of progressive rock with an arena rock sensibility. Their self-titled 1982 debut album was a major success and remains their most popular work, featuring classic hits such as "Heat of the Moment" and "Only Time Will Tell".

Asia became known for their catchy melodies, virtuosic musicianship, and polished production. Despite undergoing various lineup changes and periods of hiatus, the band has continued to tour and release music. They have survived the changing tides of musical tastes and have maintained a loyal fanbase. Live performances, such as those captured in "Live at the Teatro Colegiales, Buenos Aires, Argentina, 2011" and "Live at the Stanley Theatre, Pittsburgh, PA, USA, 25 April 1982," showcase the band's enduring stage presence and musical prowess. Asia's legacy is built on not only their studio work but their memorable live concerts, which continue to draw crowds eager to hear their classic anthems and witness their tour de force performances.

Genres

Album Rock

Classic Rock

Glam Metal

Hard Rock

Mellow Gold

Progressive Rock

Soft Rock

Related Artists

Kansas

Rush

Yes

Styx

Journey

TOTO

Genesis

Foreigner

Supertramp

Jethro Tull

Dream Theater

King Crimson

Latest Release

Live at The Cambridge Rock Festival, Cambridge, UK, 9 August 2009

Asia

Album - 12 Tracks - Released February 23, 2024