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- classically trained pianist, Wakeman first tasted success in the Strawbs
- replaced Tony Kaye in Yes (1971) when he left to play with Badger
- Kaye eventually ended up with Badfinger
- 1972 - released Fragile, with the single "Roundabout" (edited
version)
Roundabout
- 1972 - also released Close to the Edge
- album contained three extended cuts
- adventurous art rock aesthetic
For a detailed discussion & analysis of "Close to the Edge,"
see the chapter by Covach in Understanding Rock. Listening examples to
accompany this article are provided on this site, simply <click
here>.
- 1973 - released first solo effort The Six Wives of Henry VIII; below is a photo of Wakeman's impressive keyboard set-up for recording this album (click the image below to see a full-size image)
- 1974 - expressing disillusionment & conflicts with other members, Wakeman
left Yes
- he is reputed to be an extroverted, meat-eating beer drinker ... quite
distinct from the other philosophically-oriented vegetarians in the band
- 1974 - released Journey to the Center of the Earth based on Jules
Verne's novel
- 1975 - released King Aurthur and the Knights of the Round Table
Sir Lancelot & the Black
Knight
- excerpt: synthesizer break (2:00) to end ... notice
the 7/4 meter when the lead vocalist enters
- amazing keyboard virtuosity
- accomplished orchestral composition
- 1977 - rejoined Yes for 2 years until replaced by Trevor Horn & Geoffrey
Downes of the Buggles ("")
- Wakeman has produced several solo albums since
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