Music News | Inside Rick Wakeman's Journey: A Look at His Life-Changing Brain Surgery

Inside Rick Wakeman's Journey: A Look at His Life-Changing Brain Surgery

Best known for his stint with Yes and his session work for David Bowie, Sir Elton John, Marc Bolan, Cat Stevens, and Lou Reed, renowned classical keyboardist Rick Wakeman has undergone successful brain surgery.

The progressive rock legend suffered from Hydrocephalus, a build-up of fluid in the brain, which, if left untreated, can cause permanent damage. And last week, the 76-year old musician had a shun implanted in his head allowing excess cerebrospinal fluid to flow to another part of your body that is absorbed into your blood.

Not his first 2025 surgery, earlier this year Wakeman underwent spinal cord surgery that forced him to cancel his American tour due to his health issues. However, he has confirmed he will return to the stage alongside his son, Oliver Wakeman, for their Wakeman and Son tour in March of 2026.

In a formal statement posted to his website, Rick wrote “As many of you may be aware, a few months ago I had to reschedule my American tour because of health issues as I was diagnosed with the neurological disorder “normal pressure hydrocephalus” and following hospitalized operational tests in September, I had the necessary corrective “shunt” brain surgery last week which 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!” “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 â€" and I will also be fine for the 2 Saving Strays charity concerts in Norwich and Ipswich on December 19th and 20th.”

Adding that his neurological condition has not impacted his ability to play the piano, the British-born artist said “I am also pleased to say that it doesn’t seem to have affected my piano playing in any way as 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.” “Thanks again… Rick.”

Rick’s 2026 return to the stage follows his recent UK run, which wrapped in Bristol on October 29.

Image: Stéphane Gallay from Laconnex, Switzerland

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