Why did Rick Wakeman postpone his U.S. tour? Reason explained

ARW Perform At BIC in Bournemouth - Source: Getty
Rick Wakeman postpones his 2025 U.S. tour - Image source: Getty

Rick Wakeman has officially postponed his "Strictly Wakeman" U.S. tour due to health concerns requiring surgical attention.

The beloved British keyboardist is mainly known for his work with progressive rock acts YES and his notable solo career. He was initially set to go on a nine-date tour across the United States in July 2025. However, following medical advice, Rick Wakeman will undergo surgery to address an ongoing health issue. It is worth noting that the issue has not been officially specified yet.

The news might disappoint fans who wanted to witness his latest show, which was set to be a collaboration with vocalist Hayley Sanderson. However, ticket holders are being asked to retain their passes as they would remain valid for rescheduled dates.

Rick Wakeman's team has confirmed that his upcoming U.K. tour in October 2025 will go as planned with no anticipated disruptions.

An official statement from his representatives explained:

"It is with great regret that Rick Wakeman has to postpone his 'Strictly Wakeman' tour of the U.S. with Hayley Sanderson in July, as his doctors have recommended that he undergo surgery this month to correct an ongoing health issue. Please hold on to your tickets as they will be valid for any rescheduled dates."

Initially, when Rick Wakeman announced the now-postponed July 2025 tour, he mentioned in an Instagram post:

"In July, Rick will be touring America joined on stage by the very vocally talented Hayley Sanderson, the voice of Strictly Come Dancing. This show is not expected to tour anywhere else in the world but they have decided to do what used to be called a warm-up, but undoubtedly will be considerably more than that when they perform at The Old Granary in Toft Monks, Norfolk on 29th June, all in aid of @savingstraysuk, the doggie charity so close to Rick's heart."

The post continued:

"Tickets, limited to 120 and cheap as chips at £30 each, are now on sale at https://buytickets.at/savingstrays/1715973. It truly will be a one-off event and a rare chance to hear songs and music from such rarely performed albums such as 1984 and Time Machine as well as some of the classics thrown in for good measure."

The tour was billed as an intimate performance series by Rick Wakeman that was expected to feature rare tracks and more. However, the musician's doctors have now advised against travel and performance in the short term.


Rick Wakeman's postponed 2025 "Strictly Wakeman" U.S. tour dates

Below are the original U.S. dates for his "Strictly Wakeman" tour, all of which are now postponed:

  • Friday, July 18, 2025 – Richmond, VA @ The National (with Hayley Sanderson)
  • Sunday, July 20, 2025 – Ridgefield, CT @ Ridgefield Playhouse (with Hayley Sanderson)
  • Monday, July 21, 2025 – Ocean City, NJ @ Ocean City Music Pier (with Hayley Sanderson)
  • Wednesday, July 23, 2025 – Englewood, NJ @ Bergen Performing Arts Center (with Hayley Sanderson)
  • Friday, July 25, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH @ Ludlow Garage (with Hayley Sanderson)
  • Saturday, July 26, 2025 – Northfield Park, OH @ MGM Northfield Park – Center Stage (with Hayley Sanderson)
  • Tuesday, July 29, 2025 – Derry, NH @ Tupelo Music Hall (with Hayley Sanderson)
  • Wednesday, July 30, 2025 – Poughkeepsie, NY @ Bardavon Opera House (with Hayley Sanderson)
  • Thursday, July 31, 2025 – Phoenixville, PA @ Colonial Theatre (with Hayley Sanderson)

New dates are expected to be announced after Rick Wakeman completes his recovery. Fans are advised to keep an eye on the official channels for updates.


Also Read: Stereophonics 2025 UK tour: Presale, dates, venues, and more explored

What is the current lineup of The Angels? Band announces 2025 'Echoes of Thunder' Australian tour

Maroon 5 2025 U.S. arena tour: Presale code, dates, venues, and more explored

Edited by Debanjana