Spotify
Apple Podcasts
Amazon Music
CastBox
PocketCasts
RSS
YouTubeEarly Days: A Prodigy in the Making
Rick Wakeman is a pioneering English keyboardist, composer, and producer celebrated for his virtuosity and innovation in progressive rock and beyond. Born in Perivale, London, Wakeman showed prodigious talent from an early age, studying piano and honing his craft at the Royal College of Music.
The Session Master: Collaborations with Bowie, Stevens, and More
His career began as a sought-after session musician, working with icons like David Bowie—creating the unforgettable piano part for “Life on Mars?”—and Cat Stevens, where his contributions to hits like “Morning Has Broken” showcased his melodic brilliance.
Joining Yes: The Genesis of a Progressive Legend
In 1971, Wakeman joined the progressive rock band Yes, bringing a new dimension to their sound with his mastery of keyboards and synthesizers.
Fragile and Beyond: Defining Progressive Rock
His work on albums like Fragile, Close to the Edge, and the ambitious Tales from Topographic Oceans is heralded as some of the finest in the genre. Wakeman’s use of cutting-edge equipment and his larger-than-life stage persona, often featuring capes and elaborate setups, became trademarks of the band’s success during the 1970s.
Solo Flight: The Six Wives of Henry VIII
Parallel to his tenure with Yes, Wakeman launched a groundbreaking solo career. His debut album, The Six Wives of Henry VIII, was a daring instrumental concept piece blending rock, classical, and historical themes.
Epic Ambitions: Journey to the Centre of the Earth
This was followed by Journey to the Centre of the Earth, a symphonic rock masterpiece recorded with a full orchestra and choir, and The Myths and Legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, which featured lavish live performances on ice. These albums achieved commercial success and critical acclaim, establishing him as a visionary artist.
Beyond Yes: Exploring New Musical Horizons
Wakeman’s career has been marked by constant reinvention. After leaving and rejoining Yes multiple times, he expanded his repertoire with a diverse array of solo projects, film and TV scores, and collaborations with artists like Black Sabbath, Lou Reed, and Elton John. His music transcends genres, blending rock, classical, jazz, and even comedic elements, reflecting his eclectic influences and creative restlessness.
Reunion and Resilience: Returning to Yes
Beyond music, Wakeman has become a beloved figure in the entertainment world, known for his sharp wit and engaging personality. He has appeared on television shows, hosted radio programs, and written books, further endearing himself to fans worldwide.
Personal Challenges: Trials and Triumphs
Despite health challenges, including heart issues and a diabetes diagnosis, Wakeman remains an active performer, continuing to tour and record new material.
This Post Has 3 Comments
Supposedly doing farewell tour of U.S. soon, hope he stops in Ohio . Saw yes several times but never with wakeman, (Kaye, moraz, downes & koreshev). Just the way it turned out.
I’ve been a fan of Rick Wakeman since his days in Yes. Saw him at Derby Assembly Rooms, really enjoyable
Lived in the next road to me in Northolt , West London . Bought a few Rolls Royce’s and parked them in the street …