Rick Wakeman, the iconic keyboardist best known for his work with Yes, says he is “doing really well” after undergoing corrective brain surgery last week. The procedure addressed several ongoing health concerns that led to the postponement of his 2025 U.S. tour.
In a message posted on his official website, Wakeman explained that a few months ago he was forced to reschedule his American tour due to health problems. He revealed that he had been diagnosed with the neurological condition known as normal pressure hydrocephalus. After undergoing extensive hospital-based tests in September, he had the required corrective shunt brain surgery last week.
Wakeman wrote that the operation “was very successful” and added that he is now recovering at home with support from his wife — and, as he affectionately noted, their “wonderful furry healing animals.”
He added that while he needs to take it easy for a period, his surgeon assured him that he will be fully cleared to travel for his U.S. tour with his son Oliver in March. He also confirmed he will meet all future commitments, including two Saving Strays charity performances scheduled for December 19 and 20 in Norwich and Ipswich.
Wakeman also offered a lighthearted update on one of the things fans often worry about the most: whether surgery would impact his musicianship. He noted that it “doesn’t seem to have affected my piano playing in any way” and joked that he’s still perfectly capable of hitting “the odd wrong note” when his focus drifts. He closed his message by thanking everyone who offered kind wishes and encouragement during his recovery.
Earlier today, Wakeman reiterated the good news on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “a big thank you for all the lovely messages ….. I’m doing really well and driving my lovely wife nuts !!!”
Wakeman’s rescheduled U.S. trek, titled Wakeman & Son, will begin in March 2026 and marks the first time he will tour with his son and fellow keyboardist Oliver. The pair will perform music that spans their collective careers along with newer collaborative material.
In a statement about the upcoming run, Wakeman shared that performing with one of his children is always meaningful to him, and touring with his eldest son makes it even more special. He joked that the experience will be “very special — especially if, on the odd occasion, he buys me dinner!!”
The 13-date Wakeman & Son tour launches March 11, 2026, in Ridgefield, Connecticut, and wraps on March 29 in Red Bank, New Jersey.
Rick Wakeman and Son 2026 U.S. Tour Dates:
11 March – Ridgefield, CT, Ridgefield Playhouse
13 March – Phoenixville, PA, The Colonial Theatre
14 March – Poughkeepsie, NY, Bardavon
15 March – Derry, NH, Tupelo Music Hall
18 March – St Louis, MO, The Sheldon
20 March – St Charles, IL, Arcada Theatre
21 March – Kent, OH, The Kent Stage
22 March – Cincinnati, OH, Ludlow Garage
24 March – Richmond, VA, The National
25 March – Englewood, NJ, Bergen Performing Arts
26 March – Huntington, NY, The Paramount
28 March – Westerly, RI, United Theatre
29 March – Red Bank, NJ, The Vogel
