Rick Wakeman Announces New 2025 Tour Dates

Renowned keyboardist and composer Rick Wakeman, celebrated for his groundbreaking work with the band YES, has announced an exciting tour scheduled for summer 2025. This new series, dubbed the “Strictly Wakeman Tour,” will feature Wakeman alongside the remarkable Hayley Sanderson, known in the UK for her vocal contributions on the popular television program “Strictly Come Dancing.” This collaboration marks a refreshing departure from Wakeman's previous one-man shows, as it introduces a vocal dynamic that complements his iconic piano arrangements. Sanderson's inclusion represents a significant addition, infusing new vitality into Wakeman's live performances which, historically, have been defined by his rich history of progressive rock and solo musical creations.

Rick Wakeman's partnership with Hayley Sanderson showcases a long-standing professional relationship. Wakeman first collaborated with Sanderson on her 2009 album “Just Songs,” and was profoundly impressed by her vocal clarity and versatility. Since then, Sanderson has frequently joined Wakeman on stage, performing at esteemed venues including the Royal Albert Hall and the O2 Arena. Her voice has also been a prominent feature on the influential “Live at The London Palladium” box set, where she lent her vocals to Wakeman’s band performances of iconic albums such as “The Six Wives of Henry VIII” and “Journey to the Centre of the Earth.”

Wakeman's career has spanned over five decades, earning him a remarkable reputation as both a solo artist and a pivotal member of YES during their heyday as a leading force in progressive rock. His work extends beyond the band's success, with Wakeman's solo ventures including chart-leading instrumental albums like “Piano Portraits” and “Piano Odyssey,” which have earned him status as the only pianist to have two solo albums debut in the UK's top 10 charts. Always innovating, Wakeman now seeks to embrace Sanderson's vocal prowess for a tour combining piano and voice, thus opening new avenues for reimagining pieces from lesser-known albums, such as “Time Machine” and “1984.”

The upcoming “Strictly Wakeman Tour” is set to visit diverse venues across the United States, with performances confirmed in places from Virginia to New Hampshire. Ticket sales for venues such as Richmond's The National and Ridgefield's Playhouse are currently underway, promising audiences a rare and engaging live experience. Wakeman’s new performance paradigm, intricately blending instrumental mastery with vocal excellence, promises to delight fans who have followed his illustrious career.

Rick Wakeman, Strictly Wakeman 2025 Tour
July 18 – Richmond VA – The National
July 20 – Ridgefield CT – Ridgefield Playhouse
July 21 – Ocean City NJ – Ocean City Music Pier
July 23 – Englewood NJ – Bergen Performing Arts Center
July 25 – Cincinnati OH – Ludlow Garage
July 26 – Northfield Park OH – MGM Northfield Park – Center Stage
July 29 – Derry NH – Tupelo Music Hall
July 30 – Poughkeepsie NY – Bardavon Opera House
July 31 – Phoenixville PA – Colonial Theatre