Rick Wakeman Cancels US Tour Due To Health Issues

Legendary keyboardist Rick Wakeman has delayed his upcoming U.S. tour, originally scheduled to begin on July 18, 2025. Known for his work with Strawbs, David Bowie, Yes, and many others, Wakeman was set to launch the Strictly Wakeman tour alongside vocalist Hayley Sanderson.

According to a statement released by his publicist, Wakeman’s doctors have advised him to undergo surgery this month to address a persistent health issue. “Doctors have recommended that he undergo surgery this month to correct an ongoing health issue,” the statement reads.

Fans who purchased tickets are advised to retain them, as they will be honored once new dates are confirmed.

“Hold on to your tickets as they will be valid for any rescheduled dates. When further information about the shows are available, ticket holders will be informed.”

Other Performances to Go Ahead as Planned

While the U.S. dates are being rescheduled, Wakeman’s U.K. tour with the English Rock Ensemble in October, along with other planned performances, will proceed unaffected.

Wakeman has dealt with several health problems throughout his life, including arthritis, diabetes, and macular degeneration. He suffered a heart attack in 1974 at just 25 years old and has openly spoken about experiencing three heart attacks during his twenties.

A Unique Musical Collaboration with Hayley Sanderson

The postponed U.S. shows were intended to be a fresh concept: a stripped-down performance of piano and vocals featuring Wakeman and Sanderson, best known for her work on Strictly Come Dancing.

The tour was especially notable as Wakeman’s first time performing live with a female vocalist. “Hayley is great to work with, as she has the talent to feel the music in such a way as to make all the arrangements seamless,” he previously shared.

He also noted:

“Hayley and I have never worked in concert with just the piano and voice, and so it opens up opportunities for new arrangements of pieces from rare albums.”

The duo has worked together before, including on Sanderson’s 2009 album Just Songs, and live performances in the U.K. and South America. She also appeared on Wakeman’s Live at the London Palladium and his 2023 concept album A Gallery of the Imagination.

Below are the tour dates that have been postponed, with rescheduled dates expected to be announced in the future.

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