In a recent interview with Goldmine, legendary keyboardist and composer Rick Wakeman opened up about his fruitful musical collaborations and the guidance he received from none other than the late great David Bowie. The musician, who has been a dominant figure in the progressive rock scene since the 1970s, shared his experiences and insights, offering a glimpse into the harmony behind his successful career.
One of his most notable collaborations has been with the talented vocalist Hayley Sanderson. The two have developed a unique chemistry and harmony in their music, which has captivated audiences and critics alike. It’s this harmony that Wakeman attributed to some sage advice he received from David Bowie.
In the interview, the former member of Yes shared that the secret to their amicable partnership was in the wisdom imparted by David Bowie. He recalled the latter telling him the importance of selecting musicians who understand his vision rather than simply focusing on technical prowess. The keyboardist explained that the late musician’s advice had a significant impact on his approach to collaboration and stated that the harmony he shares with Sanderson and his band is a testament to this.
He expressed his opinion and quoted Bowie, saying:
“[Hayley] has a tremendous range and is a clever singer. She is another listener. At The Palladium, we did ‘King Arthur, Journey to the Centre of the Earth,’ and a whole Yes set as well and received rave reviews. One paper wrote, ‘Hayley Sanderson is the new Yes singer if they ever need one.’ We are all a big family, with me being the granddad.
David Bowie once said to me, ‘When you are making an album be sure to pick musicians who understand what you are trying to achieve. You can have the best musicians in the world, but if they don’t understand what is in your head, you’ll be frustrated.’ That is what I have with Hayley and the band. They understand the stupidity that goes on in my head, they get it the first time, and it is brilliant.”
Rick Wakeman’s enduring accomplishments in the music industry highlight the significance of Bowie’s counsel. Those who aspire to make their mark in the world of music should take this advice to heart, recognizing that genuine harmony is achieved not solely through technical expertise but also through a collective comprehension of the creative vision.
