Freddie Mercury, born Farrokh Bulsara in Zanzibar in 1946, was a British musician, singer, and songwriter best known as the lead vocalist of the rock band Queen. With his flamboyant stage presence, powerful vocals, and songwriting skills, Mercury helped lead Queen to worldwide fame in the 1970s and 1980s, producing such hits as “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Somebody to Love,” and “We Are the Champions.” Mercury’s vocal range and ability to engage and entertain an audience were legendary, and he was known for his dynamic live performances.
In addition to his work with Queen, Mercury also released solo albums and collaborated with other artists. His musical influence extended beyond rock music and his eclectic taste in music, from opera to disco, can be heard in his work.
Mercury was diagnosed with AIDS in 1987 and passed away in 1991 at the age of 45. Despite his relatively short life, his impact on music and popular culture is enduring. Mercury is regarded as one of the greatest singers in the history of rock music and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans around the world.
1. I Can Hear Music/Going Back (1973)
“I Can Hear Music” is a song originally written by Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich, and Phil Spector, and popularized by The Ronettes in 1966. The Beach Boys covered the song in 1969, and then in 1973 released a medley of “I Can Hear Music” and “Going Back” on their album “Holland”. The medley is a catchy and upbeat track, featuring the sweet harmonies and vocal interplay that The Beach Boys are known for. The song became a minor hit for the band, and is a beloved deep cut for fans of their music. The medley has been covered by several artists over the years, including Dusty Springfield and Kathy Troccoli.
2. Love Kills (1984)
“Love Kills” is a hauntingly beautiful song performed by Freddie Mercury, the legendary frontman of the British rock band Queen. The track was originally released as part of the soundtrack for the 1984 film “Metropolis,” which was a restoration of the classic silent movie of the same name. The song showcases Mercury’s remarkable vocal range and emotive delivery, as he sings about the intense and destructive nature of love. The atmospheric instrumentation, with its driving synth line and dramatic string section, perfectly captures the film’s futuristic dystopian setting. “Love Kills” stands out as a testament to Mercury’s immense talent as a songwriter and performer, and remains a beloved classic among fans of both Queen and 80s pop music.
3. I Was Born To Love You/Stop All The Fighting (1985)
“I Was Born to Love You” is a song by Freddie Mercury, released as a single from his debut solo album “Mr. Bad Guy” in 1985. The song showcases Mercury’s unique vocal range and his flair for writing infectious pop hooks. The upbeat disco-influenced track features lively guitar riffs, synthesizer hooks, and a driving bassline. The song’s lyrics express Mercury’s devotion to his lover and his desire to spend his life loving them. “Stop All the Fighting” is the B-side of the single, which features Mercury’s more experimental side, featuring a blend of rock, pop, and electronic elements. The song’s energetic chorus and memorable melody make it a standout track in Mercury’s solo career.
4. Made In Heaven/She Blows Hot And Cold (1985)
“Made In Heaven/She Blows Hot And Cold” is a track from the album “Made in Heaven” by the British rock band Queen, released in 1985. The song was a posthumous release, as it featured vocals recorded by the band’s frontman Freddie Mercury before his death in 1991. The song is a powerful ballad, showcasing Mercury’s vocal range and his ability to evoke emotion with his singing. “She Blows Hot And Cold” is a bouncy, upbeat track that serves as a great contrast to the slow, mournful tone of “Made In Heaven”. The two songs work well together, demonstrating the variety of musical styles that Queen was known for.
5. Living On My Own/My Love Is Dangerous (1985)
“Living On My Own” and “My Love Is Dangerous” are two songs that were released as a double A-side single by Freddie Mercury in 1985. “Living On My Own” is an upbeat dance track that was originally included on Mercury’s solo album, Mr. Bad Guy. The song features a catchy synth-pop melody and infectious beats that make it a popular party track. “My Love Is Dangerous,” on the other hand, is a darker and more ominous song that features Mercury’s distinctive vocals over a brooding, atmospheric musical backdrop. Together, these two songs showcase the range of Mercury’s musical talents and continue to be beloved by fans of the legendary singer.
6. Love Me Like There’s No Tomorrow/Let’s Turn It On (1985)
“Love Me Like There’s No Tomorrow” and “Let’s Turn It On” are two songs that were released as a double A-side single by Freddie Mercury in 1985. “Love Me Like There’s No Tomorrow” is a heartfelt ballad that showcases Freddie’s vocal range and emotional depth, while “Let’s Turn It On” is an upbeat and energetic pop-rock track that features a catchy chorus and guitar riffs. Both songs were included on Freddie’s debut solo album, “Mr. Bad Guy”. The single received mixed reviews but still managed to reach the top 20 on the UK Singles Chart. The songs are a testament to Freddie’s versatility and show his ability to excel in a variety of genres.
7. Time/Time (Instrumental) (1986)
“Time” is a song by the British rock musician Freddie Mercury, originally released in 1986 on his debut solo album “Mr. Bad Guy”. The song features Mercury’s powerful vocals and memorable lyrics, emphasizing the preciousness of time and urging the listener to make the most of every moment. The song’s instrumental version, “Time (Instrumental)”, was released as the B-side to the single and features a haunting, synth-heavy melody that underscores the song’s message of fleeting time. The song was re-released in 2019 in a remixed version by musician Dave Clark, featuring updated instrumentation and additional backing vocals.
8. The Great Pretender/Exercises In Free Love (Freddie’s Vocal) (1987)
“The Great Pretender” is a song originally recorded by The Platters in 1955, and it was later covered by many artists, including Freddie Mercury in 1987. In Mercury’s version, he gives a passionate vocal performance while the music blends elements of rock and pop. The song’s lyrics speak to the idea of pretending to be happy when you’re really not, a feeling that many can relate to. The B-side of the single, “Exercises in Free Love,” features Mercury’s vocal improvisations over a funky beat, showcasing his immense vocal range and his ability to experiment with different genres. The single was released as a tribute to Mercury, who had passed away the year prior.
9. Barcelona (Single Version)/Exercises In Free Love (Montserrat’s Vocal) (1987)
“Barcelona” is a song performed by Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Caballé. It was the title track of the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona and became an anthem for the event. The song is a powerful showcase of Mercury’s soaring vocals and Caballé’s operatic range. The two singers duet together in perfect harmony, backed by a dramatic orchestral arrangement. The lyrics, which reference the city’s history, beauty, and culture, add to the song’s emotional impact. “Barcelona” is a timeless classic and a testament to the power of collaboration between two musical icons.
10. The Golden Boy (Single Edit)/The Fallen Priest (B-side Edit)
“The Golden Boy” is a single by Freddie Mercury, released in 1988, and features Montserrat Caballé. The song was composed by both Mercury and Caballé, and it became the fifth and final single to be released from the album “Barcelona”. The song is an operatic rock ballad that showcases the unique vocal range and power of both Mercury and Caballé. “The Golden Boy” received positive reviews for its majestic orchestration, powerful vocals, and emotional lyrics. The B-side of the single, “The Fallen Priest,” is a darker, more somber song that contrasts the bright and upbeat tone of “The Golden Boy.”
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
