Fb-Button
Queen Archives - Classic Rock Guitar

Tag: Queen

  • Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody

    Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody

    Queen

    Queen was formed in 1971 in London. From the beginning, it was composed of Freddie Mercury (vocals and piano), John Deacon (bass guitar and keyboards), Roger Taylor (drums, keyboards, and vocals), and Brian May (guitar, keyboards, and vocals). Two years later, the band signed their first record deal and released their debut album “Queen”.

    In 1975 Queen presented their next album “A Night at the Opera” and the single “Bohemian Rhapsody” was released. The 5’55 “track turned out to be one of the most popular singles in history. It stayed at number one on the UK charts for 9 weeks. Bruce Gowers’s music video for this song is considered the first promotional video. A great success” A Night at ” the Opera “was just as astonishing – the album was the first in the group’s career to be certified platinum.

    In the spring of 1976, all four of the band’s albums made it to the UK’s top 20 albums list. In the same year, the album “A Day at the Races” was released. A year later, another “News of the World” and the legendary double single, “We Will Rock You / We Are The Champions”.

    On the album “Jazz”, released in 1978, there was another great hit – “Bicycle Race”. The group spent most of 1979 touring in Europe and Japan. Then their first concert album – “Live Killers” was released. In addition, Queen was asked to compose a soundtrack for the movie “Flash Gordon”. Before that, however, the band released the album “The Game” in 1980. “Another One Bites The Dust” from that album became the group’s best-selling single in the US. At the end of the year, the track to “Flash Gordon” was released and the combined sales of Queen’s records worldwide exceeded 45,000,000.

    In 1981 three albums were released simultaneously: “Greatest Hits”, “Greatest Flix” and “Greatest Pix”. Greatest Flix was the first-ever set of music videos to be released. A year later, during the European tour, Queen’s twelfth album – “Hot Space” was released. 1984 saw the premiere of “The Works”. The single “Radio Ga Ga” became a huge hit all over the world, reaching the top of the charts in 19 countries. Another hit from the album was “I Want To Break Free”. The song promoted one of the most famous music videos in the history of the group, in which all the musicians performed disguised as women. In 1985, the band made history once again with a fantastic concert for Live Aid at Wembley Stadium. This performance turned out to be a turning point in the group’s career. The first release after Live Aid was “One Vision”.

    1986 is the premiere of the 14th album – “A Kind of Magic”, which was the soundtrack to the movie “Immortal” by Russell Mulcahy. The title track became another big hit and the album debuted on the UK chart at number 1. Released in the same year, the concert album – “Live Magic”, jumped straight to third place on the list. In the years 1988-1991, three more albums were released: “The Miracle” (1989), “Innuendo” (1991), and “Greatest Hits Two” (1991). All three albums as well as the single “Innuendo” debuted at # 1 on the UK chart.

    On November 23, 1991, Freddie Mercury announced to the world that he had AIDS. The next day, he died at home, surrounded by family and friends. The news of Mercury’s death was a real shock to fans.

    Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody

    We appreciate your time and dedication in reading our article, “Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody,” to its conclusion. For more of the finest classic rock music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “Classic Rock Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.

  • QUEEN – THE SHOW MUST GO ON

    QUEEN – THE SHOW MUST GO ON

    QUEEN - THE SHOW MUST GO ON

    The Unyielding Spirit of a Song

    In the pantheon of musical masterpieces, Queen “The Show Must Go On” stands as a towering testament to resilience, a phoenix rising from the ashes of adversity. This song, born in the crucible of Freddie Mercury’s waning days, resonates with the power of unyielding spirit.

    Imagine a canvas painted with the hues of courage and despair, where each stroke is a note from Mercury’s soulful voice. The opening chords strike like a lightning bolt, electrifying the air with a sense of foreboding and determination. Freddie’s voice, a mélange of pain and defiance, weaves through the melody like a dance of shadows and light.

    The lyrics, crafted with the precision of a poet’s pen, speak of a performer’s unbreakable resolve. “Inside my heart is breaking, my makeup may be flaking, but my smile still stays on.” These words, a poignant blend of sorrow and bravery, embody the ethos of the song. They mirror the human condition, capturing the essence of our collective struggle to persevere in the face of life’s trials.

    A Symphony of Resilience

    As the song progresses, the instrumentation crescendos, mirroring the emotional turmoil within. The guitar, played with a blend of aggression and finesse, cuts through the melody like a ray of hope piercing through a stormy sky. The drums, steady and strong, are the heartbeat of the song, pulsating with the rhythm of an indomitable will.

    In the final act, Freddie’s voice ascends, a clarion call to all who listen. It is a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit, a reminder that even in our darkest hour, the show must go on. This song is not just a melody; it’s a beacon of hope, a reminder that no matter what, we must face the curtain with a bow.

    “The Show Must Go On” is more than a song. It’s a legacy, an immortal echo of a voice that refused to be silenced, a melody that continues to inspire generations. As the final note fades, we are left with an imprint of Mercury’s spirit, a lingering reminder that in the grand theatre of life, the show must indeed go on.

    We appreciate your time and dedication in reading our article to its conclusion. For more of the finest classic rock music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “Classic Rock Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.

  • QUEEN – KILLER QUEEN

    QUEEN – KILLER QUEEN

    Title: Queen ‘Killer Queen’: A Game-Changing Crown Jewel

    Ever wondered about the catalytic masterpiece that launched Queen, the unabashedly flamboyant rock royalty, into global stardom? The answer is nestled in their gleaming trove of hits – ‘Killer Queen’.

    Just picture it: the year is 1974, and the landscape of rock music is about to be irrevocably altered. From the chrysalis of creative collaboration emerges ‘Killer Queen,’ a sonic spectacle, a bold declaration of Queen’s unique flavor. It’s like a siren’s song, hypnotically drawing you into the audacious world of Freddie Mercury and company.

    A Symphony of Audacity

    Doesn’t this tune, with its electrifying guitar riffs, feel like an exhilarating roller-coaster ride through a carnival of sheer audacity? Brian May’s guitar work weaves a complex tapestry, mingling with Mercury’s dynamic vocals to craft an unforgettable harmony. It’s the orchestral conductor that commands the chaos, creating a symphony of disparate sounds, and hence, a revolutionary ‘Queen’ sound is born.

    The story ‘Killer Queen’ spins with its lyrics is akin to an avant-garde painting, filled with bright hues and enigmatic figures. It tells of a high-class call girl, using this character as a metaphor to make a bold statement about society. Didn’t the song challenge you to question societal norms and expectations, all while having you tap your feet to its irresistible rhythm?

    From the moment you’re seduced by the opening guitar riff, to the powerful crescendo of the chorus, ‘Killer Queen’ holds you in its thrall. It’s like being caught in a riptide – powerful, awe-inspiring, and undeniably thrilling. It’s this compelling force that pushed the song up to the lofty heights of the UK Singles Chart, carving Queen’s name in the annals of rock ‘n roll history.

    In the grand banquet of music, ‘Killer Queen’ is the main course that leaves a lasting taste, an auditory feast that catapulted a band to the zenith of stardom. It isn’t just a song; it’s a pulsating heartbeat in the body of rock music, a testament to the immortal spirit of Queen. Now, isn’t that a killer legacy?

    We appreciate your time and dedication in reading our article, “Queen – Killer Queen,” to its conclusion. For more of the finest classic rock music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “Classic Rock Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.

  • Queen – Innuendo

    Queen – Innuendo

    Queen

    Queen was formed in 1971 in London. From the beginning, it was composed of: Freddie Mercury (vocals and piano), John Deacon (bass guitar and keyboards), Roger Taylor (drums, keyboards, and vocals), and Brian May (guitar, keyboards, and vocals). Two years later, the band signed their first record deal and released their debut album “Queen”.

    In 1975 Queen presented their next album “A Night at the Opera” and the single “Bohemian Rhapsody” was released. The 5’55 “track turned out to be one of the most popular singles in history. It stayed at number one on the UK charts for 9 weeks. Bruce Gowers’s music video for this song is considered the first promotional video. A great success” A Night at ” the Opera “was just as astonishing – the album was the first in the group’s career to be certified platinum.

    In the spring of 1976, all four of the band’s albums made it to the UK’s top 20 albums list. In the same year, the album “A Day at the Races” was released. A year later, another “News of the World” and the legendary double single, “We Will Rock You / We Are The Champions”.

    On the album “Jazz”, released in 1978, there was another great hit – “Bicycle Race”. The group spent most of 1979 touring in Europe and Japan. Then their first concert album – “Live Killers” was released. In addition, Queen was asked to compose a soundtrack for the movie “Flash Gordon”. Before that, however, the band released the album “The Game” in 1980. “Another One Bites The Dust” from that album became the group’s best-selling single in the US. At the end of the year, the track to “Flash Gordon” was released and the combined sales of Queen’s records worldwide exceeded 45,000,000.

    In 1981 three albums were released simultaneously: “Greatest Hits”, “Greatest Flix” and “Greatest Pix”. Greatest Flix was the first-ever set of music videos to be released. A year later, during the European tour, Queen’s twelfth album – “Hot Space” was released. 1984 saw the premiere of “The Works”. The single “Radio Ga Ga” became a huge hit all over the world, reaching the top of the charts in 19 countries. Another hit from the album was “I Want To Break Free”. The song promoted one of the most famous music videos in the history of the group, in which all the musicians performed disguised as women. In 1985, the band made history once again with a fantastic concert for Live Aid at Wembley Stadium. This performance turned out to be a turning point in the group’s career. The first release after Live Aid was “One Vision”.

    1986 is the premiere of the 14th album – “A Kind of Magic”, which was the soundtrack to the movie “Immortal” by Russell Mulcahy. The title track became another big hit and the album debuted on the UK chart at number 1. Released in the same year, the concert album – “Live Magic”, jumped straight to third place on the list. In the years 1988-1991, three more albums were released: “The Miracle” (1989), “Innuendo” (1991), and “Greatest Hits Two” (1991). All three albums as well as the single “Innuendo” debuted at # 1 on the UK chart.

    On November 23, 1991, Freddie Mercury announced to the world that he had AIDS. The next day, he died at home, surrounded by family and friends. The news of Mercury’s death was a real shock to fans.

  • Queen – Tie Your Mother Down

    Queen – Tie Your Mother Down

    The Story Behind “Tie Your Mother Down” by Queen

    Formed in London in 1970, Queen is a British rock band famed for its eclectic style, flamboyant stage presence, and intricate harmonies. Its primary members consisted of vocalist Freddie Mercury, guitarist Brian May, drummer Roger Taylor, and bassist John Deacon. Known for their innovative approach to music, Queen’s influence is still strongly felt in the music world, even decades after they first burst onto the scene. One of the iconic tracks from their repertoire is “Tie Your Mother Down” — a song that is as unique in its creation as it is in its interpretation.

    Creation of “Tie Your Mother Down”

    “Tie Your Mother Down” was written by Brian May, the band’s virtuoso guitarist, and is the opening track on their 1976 album “A Day at the Races.” The song is known for its hard rock style and fast, energetic tempo, marking it as a distinctive departure from some of Queen’s more theatrical compositions.

    The song’s inception is tied to May’s academic pursuits, long before the band achieved worldwide fame. In the late 1960s, May was working towards a Ph.D. in Astrophysics at Imperial College, London. During his Tenerife expedition to study interplanetary dust, he brought along his guitar as a means of relaxation and started to create the riff that would ultimately become the backbone of “Tie Your Mother Down.”

    Upon his return to England, May shared his new creation with the rest of the band, where it was eagerly embraced. Over several sessions, the song took shape as May’s electrifying guitar riffs were supplemented with Mercury’s powerful vocals, Taylor’s pulsating drums, and Deacon’s rhythmic bass lines. It quickly became a staple of Queen’s live performances and remains one of their most popular live tracks to this day.

    What is “Tie Your Mother Down” About?

    Despite its seemingly violent title, “Tie Your Mother Down” is not about violence or hostility. According to May, the song is a metaphor, intended to represent the idea of breaking free from constraints and living life to the fullest. The “mother” in the song title is not a literal mother, but rather symbolizes the restrictions that hold individuals back.

    May, known for his dry sense of humor, often introduces the song during live performances with a playful warning: “It is only a song, remember. In the event of any emotional confusion, please consult your family doctor.” This tongue-in-cheek introduction further illustrates the lighthearted spirit in which the song was written and performed.

    Interesting Facts about Queen guitarist Brian May

    Beyond his musical accomplishments, Brian May is a multi-faceted individual with a wide range of interests. Here are some interesting facts about him:

    1. Academic Achievement: Brian May is one of the few rock stars with a Ph.D. After an over three-decade hiatus, May returned to Imperial College, London, to complete his Astrophysics degree in 2007. His thesis, titled “A Survey of Radial Velocities in the Zodiacal Dust Cloud,” was based on the research he had begun back in the late 1960s.
    2. Animal Activism: May is a devoted animal rights activist. He co-founded the organization “Save Me” in 2010, which is dedicated to preventing cruelty against common but often overlooked animals like badgers and foxes in the UK.
    3. Inventor: May is credited as the co-designer of the Red Special, also known as the “Fireplace” — his iconic guitar that he and his father built using materials from an old fireplace mantel. This guitar has been used in almost all of Queen’s recordings

    We appreciate your time and dedication in reading our article, “Queen – Tie Your Mother Down,” to its conclusion. For more of the finest classic rock music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “Classic Rock Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.

  • QUEEN – SOMEBODY TO LOVE

    QUEEN – SOMEBODY TO LOVE

    QUEEN - SOMEBODY TO LOVE

    In Search of Solace: Queen is “Somebody to Love”

    Picture this: a symphony of emotion thundering from the speakers, a sonic wave crashing against the shores of your heart. This is the essence of Queen is “Somebody to Love”, a potent potion of raw passion and poignant longing.

    From the moment the piano keys tinkle, like raindrops against a windowpane, you’re drawn into the eye of a storm, a tempest of heartache and hope. The song unfurls like a desperate plea, its rhythm throbbing with a fervor that resonates deep within the marrow of our shared human experience.

    A Heart’s Cry Echoing in Harmony

    In the eye of this sonic tempest, the voice of Freddie Mercury stands as a lighthouse, its beacon sweeping across the dark expanse of solitude. His voice, both a cry and a caress, spirals into the ether, a comet streaking across the night, leaving trails of yearning in its wake.

    The lyrics, a profound confession of the soul, beat against your eardrums like a lonely heart against a ribcage. “Can anybody find me somebody to love?” Mercury implores, his plea echoing in the hollow chambers of countless hearts.

    The gospel-inspired backing vocals are like a choir of celestial beings, their harmonies weaving a silver thread of hope amidst the melancholic tapestry. The pulsating drumbeat, meanwhile, is the ticking clock, the relentless march of time underscored by the urgency of longing.

    “Somebody to Love” is more than just a song; it’s a mirror reflecting the universal desire for connection, for understanding, for love. It’s a sonic cathedral, its arches filled with the echoes of unspoken dreams and untold stories.

    As the final notes fade into the ether, you’re left awash in the afterglow of this profound musical journey. The song’s echoes linger, like whispers in the wind, a comforting reminder that in our shared quest for love, no heart beats in solitude. Queen’s “Somebody to Love” is more than a song, it’s a testament to our shared human experience – an anthem for every heart in search of its melody.

    We appreciate your time and dedication in reading our article, “Queen – Somebody To Love,” to its conclusion.
    For more of the finest classic rock music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “Classic Rock Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.

  • QUEEN – WE WILL ROCK YOU

    QUEEN – WE WILL ROCK YOU

    Queen – We Will Rock You: A Musical Masterpiece That Will Stand the Test of Time

    When it comes to rock music, few bands can match the sheer power and passion of Queen. From their incredible musicianship to their unforgettable stage presence, they are a true force to be reckoned with. One of their most iconic tracks, “We Will Rock You,” is a testament to their enduring legacy and impact on the world of music.

    The song begins with a simple but unforgettable beat, a pounding rhythm that echoes through your bones and sends shivers down your spine. As the guitars and drums kick in, the energy and excitement of the song build to a fever pitch, driving you forward with a sense of urgency and power.

    The lyrics of “We Will Rock You” are equally powerful. The song tells the story of a group of people who are determined to overcome their struggles and triumph over adversity. It’s an anthem of empowerment and resilience, a rallying cry for anyone who has ever faced a challenge and emerged stronger on the other side.

    One of the most memorable lines of the song is, “Buddy, you’re a boy, make a big noise playin’ in the street gonna be a big man someday.” It’s a powerful metaphor for the idea of chasing your dreams and making your mark on the world. Whether you’re a young boy playing in the street or a seasoned musician taking the stage, “We Will Rock You” reminds us that we all have the potential to make a difference.

    As the song reaches its climax, the chorus explodes in a burst of energy and excitement. It’s a moment of pure rock and roll magic, a testament to the power of music to unite people and inspire them to greatness. Whether you’re listening to the song on your headphones or experiencing it live in concert, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of being swept up in the energy and passion of “We Will Rock You.”

    Queen’s “We Will Rock You” is a true masterpiece of rock music that will stand the test of time. With its unforgettable beat, powerful lyrics, and electrifying energy, it has inspired generations of fans and musicians alike. Whether you’re a die-hard Queen fan or simply appreciate the power and passion of great music, “We Will Rock You” is a song that you won’t soon forget.

    QUEEN - WE WILL ROCK YOU
  • QUEEN – RADIO GA GA

    QUEEN – RADIO GA GA

    Queen’s “Radio Ga Ga” – A Timeless Classic That Transcends Generations

    Queen’s “Radio Ga Ga” is an iconic song that has stood the test of time since its release in 1984. The song’s infectious beat, catchy chorus, and thought-provoking lyrics have made it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio.

    As the opening drumbeat kicks in, the listener is transported to a world of nostalgic memories and fond recollections. The song’s energy is electric, drawing the listener in and never letting go. The use of vivid imagery in the lyrics creates a sense of atmosphere that is both thrilling and evocative.

    One of the standout features of “Radio Ga Ga” is the use of the metaphor of the radio as a powerful force that unites people across the globe. Queen frontman Freddie Mercury sings, “You had your time, you had the power / You’ve yet to have your finest hour / Radio – Radio.” The lyrics paint a picture of a world connected by a shared love of music and the power of radio to bring people together.

    The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with the repeated chant of “Radio Ga Ga, All we hear is Radio Ga Ga.” This line serves as a reminder that while technology may evolve and change, the power of music remains constant and universal.

    The song’s bridge, which features Mercury’s soaring vocals and a dramatic guitar solo, is a standout moment that elevates “Radio Ga Ga” to new heights. The song’s energy and emotion build to a climax that is both cathartic and exhilarating.

    “Radio Ga Ga” is a timeless classic that speaks to the power of music to connect people across borders and generations. Its use of vivid imagery, catchy chorus, and thought-provoking lyrics have ensured that it remains a fan favorite to this day. Its message of unity and the universality of music makes it a true gem in Queen’s legendary catalog.

  • Queen – Don’t Stop Me Now

    Queen – Don’t Stop Me Now

    Queen

    Queen was formed in 1971 in London. From the beginning, it was composed of Freddie Mercury (vocals and piano), John Deacon (bass guitar and keyboards), Roger Taylor (drums, keyboards, and vocals), and Brian May (guitar, keyboards, and vocals). Two years later, the band signed their first record deal and released their debut album “Queen”.

    In 1975 Queen presented their next album “A Night at the Opera” and the single “Bohemian Rhapsody” was released. The 5’55 “track turned out to be one of the most popular singles in history. It stayed at number one on the UK charts for 9 weeks. Bruce Gowers’s music video for this song is considered the first promotional video. A great success” A Night at ” the Opera “was just as astonishing – the album was the first in the group’s career to be certified platinum.

    In the spring of 1976, all four of the band’s albums made it to the UK’s top 20 albums list. In the same year, the album “A Day at the Races” was released. A year later, another “News of the World” and the legendary double single, “We Will Rock You / We Are The Champions”.

    On the album “Jazz”, released in 1978, there was another great hit – “Bicycle Race”. The group spent most of 1979 touring in Europe and Japan. Then their first concert album – “Live Killers” was released. In addition, Queen was asked to compose a soundtrack for the movie “Flash Gordon”. Before that, however, the band released the album “The Game” in 1980. “Another One Bites The Dust” from that album became the group’s best-selling single in the US. At the end of the year, the track to “Flash Gordon” was released and the combined sales of Queen’s records worldwide exceeded 45,000,000.

    In 1981 three albums were released simultaneously: “Greatest Hits”, “Greatest Flix” and “Greatest Pix”. Greatest Flix was the first-ever set of music videos to be released. A year later, during the European tour, Queen’s twelfth album – “Hot Space” was released. 1984 saw the premiere of “The Works”. The single “Radio Ga Ga” became a huge hit all over the world, reaching the top of the charts in 19 countries. Another hit from the album was “I Want To Break Free”. The song promoted one of the most famous music videos in the history of the group, in which all the musicians performed disguised as women. In 1985, the band made history once again with a fantastic concert for Live Aid at Wembley Stadium. This performance turned out to be a turning point in the group’s career. The first release after Live Aid was “One Vision”.

    1986 is the premiere of the 14th album – “A Kind of Magic”, which was the soundtrack to the movie “Immortal” by Russell Mulcahy. The title track became another big hit and the album debuted on the UK chart at number 1. Released in the same year, the concert album – “Live Magic”, jumped straight to third place on the list. In the years 1988-1991, three more albums were released: “The Miracle” (1989), “Innuendo” (1991), and “Greatest Hits Two” (1991). All three albums as well as the single “Innuendo” debuted at # 1 on the UK chart.

    On November 23, 1991, Freddie Mercury announced to the world that he had AIDS. The next day, he died at home, surrounded by family and friends. The news of Mercury’s death was a real shock to fans.

    We appreciate your time and dedication in reading our article to its conclusion. For more of the finest classic rock music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “Classic Rock Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.

  • How to play: Another One Bites the Dust

    How to play: Another One Bites the Dust

    Super easy guitar acoustic lesson on how to play “Another One Bites the Dust”. This lesson is for someone who almost the first time takes the guitar in his hands. With the main riff you learn here you can really impress your friends.
    With enough practice, you’ll be able to play “Another One Bites the Dust” with confidence and feel like a rock star. Have fun and keep on playing!
    “Another One Bites the Dust” is a song by the British rock band Queen. It was released as the lead single from their 1980 album “The Game.” The song was written by bassist John Deacon and produced by the band and Reinhold Mack.
    It quickly became one of Queen’s most popular songs and one of the most recognizable songs of the 1980s.
    The song features a distinct bassline and a catchy, upbeat tempo, and its lyrics are interpreted as being about the end of a relationship.
    The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and remaining there for three weeks. It also reached the top ten in several other countries and became one of Queen’s most successful singles.
    The song has been covered and sampled by many artists over the years, including Michael Jackson, Vanilla Ice, and 50 Cent.
    “Another One Bites the Dust” has become one of Queen’s most iconic and enduring songs, and it continues to be a favorite among fans and a staple of classic rock radio.
    Queen’s use of complex vocal harmonies, guitar riffs, and elaborate piano and keyboard arrangements also influenced many bands such as Radiohead, Coldplay, and My Chemical Romance.
    By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this post, you’ll be able to play the song with ease and confidence. Remember to take your time, practice regularly, and have fun with it. Happy strumming!