RICK WAKEMAN
Rick Wakeman is a pioneer in the use of electronic keyboards such as Moog, Mellotron and various other synthesizers in rock and progressive rock music. He became internationally renowned as a member of YES after joining them in 1971, where his phenomenal keyboard talent is showcased on their Fragile , Tales from Topographic Oceans, Close to the Edge, Relayer, Going for the One, Tomato, Union, and Keys to Ascension albums. In addition Rick’s playing is featured on YES’s live album, Yessongs.
Rick’s extraordinary solo career has also contributed to his legendary status with the release of The Six Wives Of Henry VIII (1973), Journey to the Centre of the Earth (1974), and the concept album The Myths and Legends of King Arthur and the Kngits of the Round Table (1975).
His work also includes session work with artists such as David Bowie, Cat Stevens and Al Stewart.
In 2002 Rick rejoined YES and continues with his successful solo career.
Rick’s studio and tour rig consists of a Motion Sound PRO-145 rotary speaker keyboard amplifier, featuring an actual mechanical rotary horn and mechanical rotary drum driven by 200 watts total power.
Rick is or has been the keyboard player with the following bands & artists:
• Denny Laine
• Vivian Stanshall
• Brian May
• Black Sabbath (keyboards on Sabbath Bloody Sabbath)
• Ozzy Osbourne
• T. Rex
• Elkie Brooks
• Lou Reed
• Elton John
• Brotherhood of man
• John Williams
• Alice Cooper
• Al Stewart
• Cat Stevens (including piano on "Morning Has Broken")
• David Bowie
• Strawbs
• Yes