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Rick Wakeman

74quotes

Full Name and Common Aliases


Rick Wakeman is a British musician and composer best known as a former member of the progressive rock band Yes.

Birth and Death Dates


Born on May 18, 1949, in Perivale, Middlesex, England. Still active and alive.

Nationality and Profession(s)


English keyboardist, organist, songwriter, record producer, author, actor, and television presenter.

Early Life and Background


Rick Wakeman grew up in a musical family and began playing the piano at a young age. He was largely self-taught, but did attend the Royal Academy of Music for a short period before dropping out to pursue his own interests. This decision led him down the path of becoming a professional musician.

Major Accomplishments


Wakeman's breakthrough came when he joined the progressive rock band Yes in 1971. He played with them on some of their most successful albums, including Fragile, Close to the Edge, and Going for the One. His signature keyboard sound is instantly recognizable and has been emulated by many other musicians.

Notable Works or Actions


Some of Wakeman's notable works include:

The concept album The Six Wives of Henry VIII (1973), which showcased his ability to create intricate, elaborate compositions.
 The soundtrack for the film Journey to the Centre of the Earth (1976), a science fiction adventure starring Eric Roberts and Sylvia Kristel.
* His autobiography, Grumpy Old Rock Star (2004), in which he shares stories about his time with Yes and other aspects of his career.

Impact and Legacy


Rick Wakeman's impact on progressive rock music cannot be overstated. He has been named one of the greatest keyboardists of all time by publications such as _Guitar World_ and _Classic Rock Magazine_. His innovative approach to composition and arrangement continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Wakeman's wit, humor, and willingness to share his opinions have made him a popular figure in the music industry. He has been quoted extensively on topics ranging from music production to life philosophy. His intelligence, creativity, and infectious enthusiasm have earned him a special place in the hearts of fans around the world.

His work with Yes helped shape the sound of progressive rock during the 1970s. The band's influence can still be heard today in various forms of popular music.

Quotes by Rick Wakeman

My dad died in 1980, and I found out afterwards from mum that my piano lessons, which cost £2 a week, took up nearly a third of his income.
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My dad died in 1980, and I found out afterwards from mum that my piano lessons, which cost £2 a week, took up nearly a third of his income.
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I've been married three times and divorced three times.
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I've been married three times and divorced three times.
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I read numerous books - loads in fact - and, as I always do when recording a historical project, immersed myself into the subject matter. I spent many hours at Henry's old homes, such as Hampton Court, and visiting the Tower of London. I read no other books during that period.
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I read numerous books - loads in fact - and, as I always do when recording a historical project, immersed myself into the subject matter. I spent many hours at Henry's old homes, such as Hampton Court, and visiting the Tower of London. I read no other books during that period.
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But I’d play on everything from pop records to a lot of the glam stuff to rock stuff to classical stuff. I used to get called to do all those things, it was great.
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But I’d play on everything from pop records to a lot of the glam stuff to rock stuff to classical stuff. I used to get called to do all those things, it was great.
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I read numerous books – loads in fact – and, as I always do when recording a historical project, immersed myself into the subject matter. I spent many hours at Henrys old homes, such as Hampton Court, and visiting the Tower of London. I read no other books during that period.
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I read numerous books – loads in fact – and, as I always do when recording a historical project, immersed myself into the subject matter. I spent many hours at Henrys old homes, such as Hampton Court, and visiting the Tower of London. I read no other books during that period.
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When I die, I’ll probably climb out of the coffin and play the organ at my own funeral!
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When I die, I’ll probably climb out of the coffin and play the organ at my own funeral!
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But I listen to live recordings of things that I did back in the ’70s and then how I’ve done things since. And there’s no doubt about it: if I compare the two, it’s like chalk and cheese.
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But I listen to live recordings of things that I did back in the ’70s and then how I’ve done things since. And there’s no doubt about it: if I compare the two, it’s like chalk and cheese.
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I like Toronto a lot, it’s a good city. The only thing that really annoys me about Toronto is that you’re turning Maple Leaf Gardens into a grocery store, which is absolutely nothing short of disgusting.
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I like Toronto a lot, it’s a good city. The only thing that really annoys me about Toronto is that you’re turning Maple Leaf Gardens into a grocery store, which is absolutely nothing short of disgusting.
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Even the two times that I left, I never really felt like I left the band. It’s very bizarre. It’s like there’s sort of an umbilical cord that stretches between us spiritually.
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Even the two times that I left, I never really felt like I left the band. It’s very bizarre. It’s like there’s sort of an umbilical cord that stretches between us spiritually.
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I’m always writing or playing because that is my life.
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I’m always writing or playing because that is my life.
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