George (Cat)
Over the years, Rick Wakeman has welcomed several pets into his life. In 2011, he adopted a rescue pet named George, coinciding with his participation in Cats Protection’s campaign, “I’m A Celebrity…Let Me Volunteer!” This event celebrated the dedication of over 7,000 volunteers who provide care and comfort to approximately 215,000 cats and kittens annually under Cats Protection.
Harry (Cat)
Rick Wakeman once had a cat named Harry, who sadly passed away after being diagnosed with a tumor[1].
St. Mary Le Tower Church (Dog)
Dedicated to animal welfare, Rick Wakeman performed at a charity concert titled “Saving Strays At Christmas with Rick Wakeman and Friends” on December 23, 2023, at St. Mary Le Tower Church in Ipswich, Suffolk, U.K. This event, featuring the progressive rock keyboard legend, was organized to support Saving Strays, a charity committed to helping stray and abandoned dogs in Europe and the U.K. Wakeman, a patron of the charity, aimed to raise funds and awareness through this special concert.
Rick Wakeman
Birthday
May 18, 1949 (75)
Links (Tags)
Rick Wakeman, CBE, is an English keyboardist, songwriter, and composer, renowned for his tenure with the progressive rock band Yes and his extensive solo career. Wakeman’s work is characterized by his classical training and proficiency in rock music, making him a pivotal figure in the development of progressive rock. His most acclaimed solo albums include “The Six Wives of Henry VIII,” “Journey to the Centre of the Earth,” and “The Myths and Legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.”
Wakeman’s career began as a session musician, contributing to songs by artists like David Bowie, Elton John, and Cat Stevens. He joined Yes in 1971, contributing to some of their most influential albums. Simultaneously, he launched a successful solo career in 1973, gaining fame for his ambitious concept albums. Wakeman’s work with Yes and as a solo artist has been marked by a blend of rock and classical music influences, showcasing his virtuosity on the keyboard.
Throughout his career, Wakeman has collaborated with numerous musicians and bands. His most notable collaborations include his work with Yes members Jon Anderson and Steve Howe, as well as his contributions to albums by artists like David Bowie and Cat Stevens.
Wakeman’s contributions to music have been recognized with several awards and honors. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Yes in 2017 and was awarded a CBE for his services to music and broadcasting in 2021. His discography includes over 90 solo albums, spanning various musical styles, and he has been a prominent figure in television and radio, further cementing his legacy in the music industry.
