Rick Wakeman, born in West London in 1949, is an English keyboardist and composer renowned for his work with the progressive rock band Yes and for his prolific solo career. Classically trained and recognized for his technical mastery, Wakeman joined Yes in 1971, performing on many of their most acclaimed albums during multiple periods with the band until 2004. Alongside his work with Yes, he became a leading figure in progressive rock with successful solo concept albums such as 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 began as a sought-after session musician, contributing to iconic recordings by David Bowie, Elton John, Cat Stevens, and others. He joined the Strawbs before rising to fame with Yes. In addition to his solo studio work, he formed the English Rock Ensemble for live performances and film scores. Throughout his career, Wakeman has released over 100 solo albums across diverse genres, from rock and classical to new-age and Christian music. Beyond music, he became known for his entertaining television and radio appearances, and his writing. Among his honors are induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Yes and being awarded a CBE for services to music and broadcasting. Wakeman continues to record, perform, and tour internationally, with his most recent album, Yessonata, released in 2024.