“If You Only Knew” was once compared to Yes’ earlier “Love Will Find a Way” in expert Simon Borrow’s book Solid Mental Grace. While sonically and musically different, the pop sensibilities running through both songs are unmistakable.
“Love Will Find Away,” from the 1987 Big Generator album, was not conceived as a Yes song by guitarist Trevor Rabin, and contained few, if any, prog-rock elements. What the song did have was stellar playing and an unmistakable hook. “If You Only Knew,” while credited to the entire band, has a feel of a Jon Anderson solo track – right down to its personal and tender lyrics.
Unlike “Love Will Find a Way,” there are many more musical elements to boost the melody. Billy Sherwood’s electric rhythm guitar delightfully dances with Steve Howe’s steel guitar, and the in-the-pocket Yes rhythm section of Alan White and Chris Squire. Igor Khoroshev’s piano work is subtly sufficient, and works well with his organ playing.
There isn’t a wasted note on “If You Only Knew,” and Jon Anderson’s lead vocal is truly the icing on this Yes cake.
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