------------------------------------------------------- APRIL 23, 2005 ------------------------------------------------------- Source: El Universal OnLine, Habana, Cuba http://estadis.eluniversal.com.mx/notas/279625.html Translated from Spanish by Patricio Mátteri Ex-Yes member visits John Lennon's Monument [Caption] -- British keyboard player Rick Wakeman visited the ex Beatle monument, located in a downtown Habana park British rock star Rick Wakeman, ex-member of the band "Yes", paid a visit to The Beatles' former member John Lennon's statue, located in a park in downtown Habana. Wakeman, dressed with a green T-shirt, black trousers and white sneakers, listened to a Gerardo Alfonso's tune dedicated to John Lennon, while visiting the monument and taking pictures with fans. The British keyboard player offerd the first out of three concerts scheduled for this month in the Cuban capital city. At the beginning of his performance, which took place in Habana's theater "Karl Marx" last Friday night, Rick was warmly received by the Cuban musician Leo Brower, who stated that Wakeman is one of the most important classic rock musician to this day, and that he was the only one who was able to take his country's roots to a universal standard. The British musician, accompanied by the New English Rock Ensemble, was cheered non-stop several times by the audience. Wakeman, along with a drummer, a bass guitar player, a guitar player and a singer, demonstrated why he is followed by millions of fans around the world. The British musician thanked all of those who made it possible for him to fulfill his 20-year dream of playing on the Island. After his performance, the Cuban band "Síntesis", nominated for a Grammy award, played two of their songs which were well received by the fans. As an opening act, the Swedish band Cross Fire played some popular tunes, such as Bob Dylan's "Like a Rolling Stone", and "Can't Get Enough Of your Love" by Paul Rodgers and Bad Company. Close Window YesInThePress.com For site comments, inquiries, corrections, or additions, contact yitp@yesservices.com