Musician from progressive rock is “overwhelmed” by postage stamp release in Canada
Renowned rock pianist Rick Wakeman expressed deep gratitude and pride for the Isle of Man’s creation of a set of stamps in his honor. The stamp collection beautifully showcases fantasy landscapes designed by Roger Dean that graced the covers of Wakeman’s solo endeavors and collaborative work with the band Yes. These enchanting images capture surreal scenes of floating islands, cliffs, and mythical creatures, each intricately adorned with vibrant colors on an elaborate stage setting.
Wakeman, a trailblazer in progressive rock music, described how the artwork seamlessly complemented his musical creations, uniting their imaginative worlds on stamps, which he found surreal and delightful. The Isle of Man Post Office collaborated closely with both Wakeman and Dean to curate this collection of six stunning designs celebrating their creative synergy.
Having established himself as a music icon through his work in Yes and a successful solo career, Wakeman also lent his talents to projects with musicians like David Bowie and Elton John. His enduring friendship with Roger Dean dates back to 1971 during the recording of the Yes album Fragile, where they appreciated the artistic resonance between Dean’s designs and their musical endeavors.
Reflecting on the symbiotic relationship between album cover art and music, Wakeman emphasized the significance of vinyl records and LPs, which allowed fans to physically engage with both the music and its visual presentation. He fondly recalled the days of browsing through record shops, where captivating album covers often prompted music enthusiasts to purchase an album based on its visual allure, trusting that exceptional artwork signaled exceptional music within.
Having resided on the Isle of Man for over a decade and recording numerous albums at his home studio, Wakeman developed a deep affinity for the island’s unique charm and historical significance. He fondly championed the Isle of Man, praising its beauty and distinctiveness, and spoke about the joy he derived from living there and promoting its virtues while traveling abroad.
Looking towards his upcoming UK tour, titled The Return Of The Caped Crusader, Wakeman expressed enthusiasm for sharing his music with audiences and continuing to honor his musical legacy. His collaboration with Roger Dean and the Isle of Man stamps stands as a testament to his enduring impact on the world of music and art.