RICK WAKEMAN On Current YES Line-Up - "I Don’t Have Any Respect For The Current Tribute Band That Is Out There. You Can’t Have Yes Without Jon Anderson"
October 19, 2009, 15 years ago
Classic Rock Revisited founder Jeb Wright recently caught up with prog legend Rick Wakeman to discuss a host of topics. An excerpt from the interview is available below:
Jeb: As a father, is it gratifying to have your son stepping in to fill your shoes as the new keyboard player for YES?
Rick: "I got him the job as it happens. But we don’t discuss it at all because I don’t have any respect for the current tribute band that is out there. You can’t have Yes without Jon [Anderson, vocalist]."
Jeb: I talked to Jon Anderson last night. He is, obviously, not happy that Yes went out without him. He said to me that he does not think it is Yes unless Rick Wakeman and himself are in that band. He said it just does not have the same energy, no matter how good it sounds. Do you agree with that? Is he justified in his frustrations?
Rick: "He is completely justified. Yes is no longer a part of my life so I have nothing to add except to say that Jon is absolutely right. I think most fans would agree as well. But, it’s all over with regards to the classic line-up now. I just get on with my life and my music."
Go to this location for the complete interview.
