Rick Wakeman
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Richard Christopher Wakeman is an English keyboardist and composer best known as a member of the progressive rock band Yes across five tenures between 1971 and 2004, and for his prolific solo career. AllMusic describes Wakeman as a "classically trained keyboardist extraordinaire who plied his trade with Yes and developed his own brand of live spectacular in a solo act."
Wakeman performing in 2017
Wakeman quit the Royal College of Music to become a full-time session musician
Among Wakeman's first sessions were for David Bowie
Wakeman performing with Yes in 1974. By this time, he had a distinctive look of long blonde hair and wearing capes on stage
Yes (band)
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Yes is an English progressive rock band formed in London in 1968 by lead singer Jon Anderson, bassist Chris Squire, guitarist Peter Banks, keyboardist Tony Kaye, and drummer Bill Bruford. The band has undergone numerous lineup changes throughout their history, during which 20 musicians have been full-time members. Since February 2023, the band has consisted of guitarist Steve Howe, keyboardist Geoff Downes, bassist Billy Sherwood, singer Jon Davison, and drummer Jay Schellen. Yes have explored several musical styles over the years and are most notably regarded as progressive rock pioneers.
Yes in concert, 1977. From left to right: Steve Howe, Alan White (behind the drums), Jon Anderson, Chris Squire, Rick Wakeman
Steve Howe in 1977
Rick Wakeman with Yes in March 1974, months before his first departure from the band
Yes performing in 1977