Summary What Is Rick Wakeman Famous For?

Rick Wakeman is widely recognized as one of rock’s greatest ever keyboardists. He’s known for his work with the legendary progressive rock band Yes and his own incredibly successful solo albums. He’s also contributed to some of David Bowie’s most iconic songs.

Let’s delve a little deeper into what made Rick Wakeman such a legend. He became a rock star through his work with Yes, a band that pushed the boundaries of progressive rock. Wakeman’s keyboard skills were central to Yes’s groundbreaking sound, and he played on some of their most celebrated albums, including “The Yes Album,” “Close To The Edge,” “Tales From Topographic Oceans,” and “Relayer.” These albums are widely considered to be among the greatest progressive rock albums ever made, and Wakeman’s contributions were instrumental in their success.

While his work with Yes established him as a rock icon, Wakeman also enjoyed a hugely successful solo career. He released a series of solo albums that showcased his unique keyboard virtuosity, ranging from the progressive rock of his early works to the more pop-oriented music of his later albums. Some of his most popular solo albums include “The Six Wives of Henry VIII,” “Journey to the Center of the Earth,” and “The Myths and Legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.” These albums solidified his place as a virtuoso musician and a musical innovator.

And let’s not forget his collaborations with David Bowie. Wakeman’s contributions to Bowie’s classic albums “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” and “Aladdin Sane” were essential in creating the unique and influential sounds of those records. He was a key member of Bowie’s band during this era and his keyboard work added a layer of depth and complexity to Bowie’s music.

So, Rick Wakeman’s impact on the music world is undeniable. He’s a true legend in the realm of rock music, and his contributions to Yes, his solo career, and his work with David Bowie have earned him a place among the greatest keyboardists of all time.