Rick Wakeman is recovering from brain surgery. The legendary keyboardist underwent the procedure due to health issues. The surgery and subsequent recovery time have forced Wakeman to postpone his tour of the United States.
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"I am pleased to say was very successful and I am now recuperating at home being cared for by my lovely wife and our wonderful furry healing animals," Wakeman has told his fans via rwcc.com.
Wakeman has also provided an update on his impending tour, assuring his fanbase that it will eventually go ahead.
"I have to take things easy for a while but have been told by my surgeon that I will be perfectly fine to travel to America for the tour with my son Oliver in March and will be fine for all future engagements after that," Wakeman continued.
Wakeman underwent the surgery due to "normal pressure hydrocephalus." He had a shunt brain surgery to help correct the issue. Of course, with such a big operation, the recovery period will be significant. Nevertheless, everyone will be pleased to hear the surgery was a success. And it's only a matter of time until Wakeman is back to full health.
Rick Wakeman's Surgery Hasn't Impacted His Keyboard Skills
In the same update, Wakeman confirmed that the surgery hasn't impacted his ability to jam out on the keyboard.
"I am also pleased to say that it doesn't seem to have affected my piano playing in any way. I still seem to be very capable of hitting the odd wrong note here and there when I lose my concentration!! Once again, I'd like to thank everybody who wished me well over the last few months for a speedy recovery, as it really did mean a lot to me."
Wakeman will play two live shows on December 19th and 20th, in Norwich and Ipswich, UK. It's fair to assume he will use those two shows as a barometer for how long it will take before he's ready to embark on a transatlantic tour and reconnect with his U.S. fanbase. In truth, we're likely looking at some point in 2026. Whether it's the first half or the second half of the year will remain up for debate.
