Spirit Of Prog: Dream Theater

Whichever way you look at it, 2009 has been a sensational year for prog. Not just the launch of Classic Rock Presents...Prog magazine, but also the way the genre has infiltrated the mainstream in an extent not seen since its 70s heyday. And now it has its own award.

It’s Dream Theater’s singular dedication to progressive rock that makes the band the worthy first recipients of the Spirit Of Prog. Drummer Mike Portnoy looked gobsmacked to receive his band’s award from Rick Wakeman.

Portnoy: I honestly had no clue that I’d won anything. I’m used to being hated in England. So what an honour.

Wakeman: Mike’s acceptance speech came from the heart. This genre of music has taken a battering over the years, and it takes courage to stick to your principles. I’ve got so much time for these guys. They’ve taken what we started [with Yes] to another level.

Portnoy: When our bands toured together in 2004 you could see the generations coming together. This music is timeless. It’s despised by so many people, but it’s also embraced.

You said some nice things about Classic Rock from the stage.

Portnoy: Yours was the first magazine to really place the emphasis on music, and not the pointless trivia that accompanies it.

Wakeman: What I love most about this evening, it’s all music based, not about who can set up the best press stunt.

Portnoy: For the first 15 years of Dream Theater’s career we endured constant shit-storms from the British press. And then 10 years ago the tide began to turn, people actually started to applaud us. Ten years ago is when Classic Rock was born. And now you have Prog magazine. Are you trying to tell me that’s a coincidence?