Rick Wakeman – Biography, Yes Career, Net Worth and Family
Rick Wakeman, the English keyboardist and composer, stands as one of progressive rock’s most influential figures. Best known for his work with the band Yes, he also built a substantial solo career with concept albums like The Six Wives of Henry VIII and Journey to the Centre of the Earth. Born on 18 May 1949 in Perivale, Middlesex, Wakeman’s classical training and innovative use of synthesizers helped define the sound of an era.
Over five decades, Wakeman has played with David Bowie, Cat Stevens, and The Strawbs, and he has left and rejoined Yes multiple times. His story is one of extraordinary musical output, personal reinvention, and a lasting influence on rock music.
This article examines the key questions about his life, career, finances, family, and legacy, drawing on verified sources and official records.
What is Rick Wakeman’s net worth?
Keyboardist for Yes
Active (touring and one‑off shows)
Not publicly confirmed
Isle of Man (since 1988)
Wakeman’s wealth is a subject of frequent speculation, but no reliable, source‑backed figure exists in the public record. Estimates from unverified sources vary widely, and Wakeman himself has not disclosed his net worth.
- Wakeman’s primary income sources have been Yes royalties, solo album sales, session work, and touring.
- He joined Yes in 1971 and his keyboard work on albums like Fragile and Close to the Edge brought both fame and financial rewards.
- His solo concept albums, including The Six Wives of Henry VIII and Journey to the Centre of the Earth, have sold millions.
- In 1971–1972, the success of Fragile enabled Wakeman to move to a large house in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire.
- He was appointed CBE in 2022 for services to music and broadcasting.
- Wakeman has also worked as a television and radio broadcaster, adding to his income.
- Exact net worth figures remain unconfirmed; the variety of estimates reflects the lack of official disclosure.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard Christopher Wakeman |
| Born | 18 May 1949 (age 75), Perivale, Middlesex, England |
| Height | 6′ 2½″ (1.89 m) |
| Spouse (current) | Rachel Kaufman (married 14 December 2011) |
| Children | Oliver Wakeman, Adam Wakeman, Jemma Wakeman, and others |
| Instrument | Keyboards (piano, organ, synthesizer) |
| Genres | Progressive rock, classical, new age |
| Years Active | 1969–present |
| Notable Band | Yes (multiple tenures: 1971–1974, 1976–1980, 1989–1992, 1995–1997, 2002–2004, 2015–2016) |
| Award | CBE (2022) |
What band is Rick Wakeman famous for?
Wakeman is most famous for his association with the progressive rock band Yes, where his keyboard work became a defining element of the group’s sound. He joined the band in 1971, replacing Tony Kaye, and played on landmark albums such as Fragile, Close to the Edge, and Tales from Topographic Oceans.
Is Rick Wakeman still in Yes?
Wakeman has left and rejoined Yes multiple times over the decades. His last tenure was from 2015 to 2016. As of 2025, he is not an active member of the band, but he continues to perform Yes-related material in his solo shows and with his son Oliver under the name “Wakeman and Son.” Whether he will tour with Yes again in the future remains unconfirmed.
What other bands has Rick Wakeman played with?
Before Yes, Wakeman played with The Strawbs and worked extensively as a session musician. He performed on David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” and later contributed to records by Cat Stevens, Lou Reed, and many others. His session credits span dozens of artists, reflecting his versatility as a keyboardist.
When did Rick Wakeman join Yes?
Wakeman joined Yes in 1971 after meeting the band through a mutual acquaintance. He was invited to replace Tony Kaye, and his first recording with the group was the album Fragile, released in 1971. That album contained the hit “Roundabout” and established Wakeman as a key member of the band.
Wakeman once said he chose to join Yes over a tour with David Bowie because he felt Yes offered more creative freedom. The decision shaped the rest of his career.
Where does Rick Wakeman live now?
After the success of Fragile, Wakeman moved to a large residence in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire. In 1988, he relocated with his family to the Isle of Man. Public records do not specify a more recent address, and Wakeman has kept his current residence private.
Who is Rick Wakeman’s spouse?
Wakeman has been married four times. His first marriage was to Rosalind Woolford (1970–1977), with whom he had three children. He then married Danielle Corminboeuf (1980–1981), who gave birth to one child. His third marriage was to model Nina Carter (1984–2004), with whom he had two children. Since 2011, he has been married to Rachel Kaufman.
What is Rick Wakeman’s height?
According to IMDb, Rick Wakeman stands at 6 feet 2½ inches (1.89 metres). Some sources list slightly different figures, but the 6′ 2½″ measurement is the most consistently cited from official biographical databases.
Does Rick Wakeman have children?
Yes, Wakeman has several children. Three of them are named in public sources: Oliver Wakeman (also a keyboardist), Adam Wakeman (a guitarist and keyboardist who has toured with Black Sabbath), and Jemma Wakeman. Oliver and Adam have both performed with their father, and Oliver has released solo albums and worked as a session musician.
Oliver Wakeman and Rick Wakeman have performed together as “Wakeman and Son,” a duo that blends progressive rock and classical compositions.
What is Rick Wakeman’s tour schedule?
Wakeman has toured extensively for decades. In 2006, he announced that he would reduce lengthy tours and focus on composing and one‑off shows. As of the available sources, a specific 2025 tour schedule has not been confirmed. However, Wakeman continues to perform solo concerts and “Wakeman and Son” shows on a selective basis.
Tickets for his performances can be purchased through official channels such as his website rwcc.com. Dates are typically announced several months in advance.
Is Rick Wakeman touring in 2025?
The provided research does not confirm any 2025 tour dates. Wakeman’s official website and social media pages are the best sources for future announcements.
How can I get tickets to a Rick Wakeman concert?
Tickets are sold through his official website (rwcc.com) and through venue box offices. Because his shows are often limited, early booking is recommended.
What is Rick Wakeman Melancholia?
No major Rick Wakeman album, single, or composition titled “Melancholia” is identified in the available sources. It is possible that the term refers to a lesser‑known piece, a fan‑created title, or a misunderstanding. Unless more specific information emerges, the connection between Wakeman and a work called “Melancholia” remains unsubstantiated.
How did Rick Wakeman’s career unfold over time?
- 1949 – Born in Perivale, Middlesex, England.
- 1969 – Began professional career as a session musician, playing on David Bowie’s “Space Oddity.”
- 1971 – Joined Yes, replacing Tony Kaye; played on Fragile and Close to the Edge.
- 1973 – Released first solo album The Six Wives of Henry VIII.
- 1974 – Left Yes temporarily; released Journey to the Centre of the Earth.
- 1976 – Rejoined Yes for Going for the One.
- 1980s – Produced film and stage work, including Lisztomania and the musical 1984 with Tim Rice.
- 1988 – Moved to the Isle of Man with his family.
- 2006 – Reduced lengthy touring; focused on composing and one‑off shows.
- 2017 – Released Piano Portraits, which achieved renewed chart success.
- 2021 – Appointed CBE (invested in 2022).
- 2024–2025 – Continues to perform solo and with “Wakeman and Son.”
What can be said with certainty about Rick Wakeman?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Rick Wakeman was a member of Yes. | Exact net worth figures are not publicly documented; estimates vary and are unverified. |
| He was born on 18 May 1949 in Perivale, Middlesex. | His height is reported as 6′ 2½″ by IMDb, but some other sources give slightly different measurements. |
| His current spouse is Rachel Kaufman (married 2011). | Whether he will tour with Yes again is not confirmed; his current tours are solo or with his son. |
| He was appointed CBE in 2022. | No specific 2025 tour dates have been verified from the available sources. |
| He has three named children: Oliver, Adam, and Jemma. | The existence of a composition titled “Melancholia” connected to Wakeman is not confirmed. |
What is Rick Wakeman’s significance in progressive rock?
Rick Wakeman is widely considered one of the most influential keyboardists in progressive rock. His classically trained approach, combined with innovative use of synthesizers and orchestral arrangements, helped shape the genre during its golden age in the 1970s. Albums like The Six Wives of Henry VIII and Journey to the Centre of the Earth pushed the boundaries of rock music by integrating full orchestras and choirs.
Beyond music, Wakeman became a familiar voice on British radio and television. He has authored books, including the autobiography Grumpy Old Rock Star, and has been a candid commentator on the music industry.
What sources provide information about Rick Wakeman?
The most authoritative sources for biographical details about Rick Wakeman include his official website rwcc.com, Wikipedia, and classical music databases such as Apple Music. His IMDb page also lists family information and career milestones.
“I chose to join Yes because I felt it offered me the chance to be creative in a way that other projects didn’t.”
— Rick Wakeman, as quoted in multiple biographical sources
“Wakeman is one of progressive rock’s most influential keyboard players, a classically trained pianist who brought symphonic textures to rock music.”
— Biographical note on Apple Music
What is the overall picture of Rick Wakeman?
Rick Wakeman remains a towering figure in progressive rock, celebrated for his virtuosic keyboard work with Yes and his ambitious solo albums. His career spans over 55 years, during which he has navigated multiple band tenures, personal changes, and a shift toward broadcasting. While some details about his finances and current schedule remain private, his musical legacy is well documented and widely respected. For readers interested in other musical biographies, see Bruce Dickinson – Age, Height, Pilot Career and Net Worth and Guy Garvey – Biography, Wife, Career and BBC Radio Show.
Frequently asked questions about Rick Wakeman
What instrument does Rick Wakeman play?
He plays keyboards, including piano, organ, and synthesizer. He is classically trained on the piano.
How many solo albums has Rick Wakeman made?
He has released over 20 solo studio albums, including The Six Wives of Henry VIII, Journey to the Centre of the Earth, Piano Portraits, and The Red Planet.
Is Rick Wakeman still making music?
Yes, he continues to compose and perform. He released The Red Planet in 2020 and remains active in the studio and on stage.
Did Rick Wakeman play with David Bowie?
Yes, he played keyboards on David Bowie’s 1969 single “Space Oddity” and worked with Bowie on several other recordings.
Has Rick Wakeman written an autobiography?
Yes, he wrote Grumpy Old Rock Star and other memoir books, which detail his life in the music industry.
What is Rick Wakeman’s connection to classical music?
He studied at the Royal College of Music and often incorporates classical structures and orchestral arrangements into his rock compositions.
What is “Wakeman and Son”?
It is a duo project with his son Oliver Wakeman, also a keyboardist, performing progressive rock and classical pieces.
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