The Wizard of Prog

From piano-playing childhood prodigy, through to classically trained keyboardist and onto his rise with Yes and as a solo artist, Rick Wakeman's story is one of very dramatic spirals, spectacular comebacks and legendary rock ‘n’ roll excess.

There was a time when an average day for Rick would include mocking a studio up like a farmyard, while knocking back double figures of pints, a couple of bottles of wine and at least a bottle of Scotch, and getting through 80 cigarettes. His health choices led to a series of heart attacks by the age of 25, after which he improved them.

Rick describes himself as his own worst enemy. He gets into extreme situations, including a period of sleeping on park benches, but he lives to tell the tale, which he famously does in a very entertaining manner.

Now aged 76, he wants to write it all down. The true stories behind the myths and legends. Looking at what really happened and why, what inspires him, and where the music comes from.

This will be the definitive, legacy memoir of one our greatest and most beloved homegrown rock ‘n’ roll icons and music visionaries.