Rick Wakeman has undergone successful shunt brain surgery.
The prog rock legend and renowned classical keyboardist – who is known for his tenures with Yes and his session work for David Bowie, Sir Elton John, Marc Bolan, Cat Stevens, and Lou Reed – has Hydrocephalus, a build-up of fluid in the brain, which, if left untreated, can cause damage to the brain.
Last week, he underwent a procedure where a thin tube called a shunt was implanted in his brain. The excess cerebrospinal fluid in the brain flows through the shunt to another part of your body and is absorbed into your blood, according to the NHS website.
The 76-year-old musician also underwent spinal cord surgery earlier this year and was forced 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 next March.
He told fans on his website: “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 hospitalised 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!”
He continued: “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 – and I will also be fine for the 2 Saving Strays charity concerts in Norwich and Ipswich on December 19th and 20th.”
Wakeman is fortunate that the neurological condition hasn’t impacted his ability to play his beloved piano.
He added: “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.”
Last month, Wakeman told fans: “I spent a week in hospital have surgery on my spine and spinal cord, which although was successful, I did suffer afterwards during recovery and then before I knew it, rehearsals were starting… and how great were they!”
His return to the stage next year follows his recent UK run, which wrapped in Bristol on October 29.