Freddie Mercury was a British musician and singer-songwriter who is best known as the lead vocalist and lyricist of the legendary rock band Queen. Born Farrokh Bulsara in Tanzania, Mercury moved to London in 1964 where he formed the band Smile with guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor. The group later became Queen and achieved international success with hits such as “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You,” and “Somebody to Love.”
Mercury’s flamboyant stage presence, four-octave vocal range, and dynamic performances made him one of the most iconic figures in rock music. His songwriting skills were also highly praised, with songs like “Don’t Stop Me Now” and “We Are the Champions” becoming anthems for generations of fans.
Mercury tragically passed away from complications related to AIDS in 1991, but his music and legacy continue to inspire and influence musicians around the world. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001 and continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest frontmen in the history of rock music.
1. Made In Heaven/She Blows Hot And Cold (1985)
“Made In Heaven” is the title track of Freddie Mercury’s posthumous album. The song is a poignant and introspective ballad that showcases Mercury’s incredible vocal range and emotive delivery. The song speaks to the idea of eternal love and the afterlife, and it features a lush and melodic instrumental arrangement. “She Blows Hot And Cold” is a more upbeat and energetic song, showcasing Mercury’s ability to switch between different musical styles seamlessly. The song features a groovy bassline, catchy chorus, and strong vocal harmonies. Despite being two very different songs, both “Made In Heaven” and “She Blows Hot And Cold” demonstrate Freddie Mercury’s versatility and artistry as a musician and performer.
2. I Was Born To Love You/Stop All The Fighting (1985)
“I Was Born To Love You/Stop All The Fighting” is a vibrant and energetic song by British singer-songwriter Freddie Mercury, released in 1985. The song features an upbeat and catchy melody, with Mercury’s powerful vocals delivering a passionate declaration of love. The song’s driving rhythm and infectious hooks make it a perfect dance floor anthem, while its message of peace and unity resonates with audiences of all ages. The song’s blend of pop, rock, and disco elements showcases Mercury’s versatility as an artist, and its enduring popularity has made it a beloved classic of his extensive catalog. “I Was Born To Love You/Stop All The Fighting” is a testament to Mercury’s talent as a performer and his ability to connect with his fans on a deeply emotional level.
3. The Great Pretender/Exercises In Free Love (Freddie’s Vocal) (1987)
“The Great Pretender” is a song by Freddie Mercury, released in 1987 as part of his solo career. The song is a cover of the classic hit by The Platters and showcases Mercury’s impressive vocal range and emotive performance style. The song’s lyrics express the pain of unrequited love and the feeling of putting on a façade to mask one’s true emotions. The accompanying music video features Mercury in various costumes and settings, showcasing his flair for theatricality and showmanship. “The Great Pretender” is a classic pop ballad that highlights Mercury’s undeniable talent as a vocalist and performer, and remains a beloved favorite of fans around the world.
4. I Can Hear Music/Going Back (1973)
“I Can Hear Music/Going Back” is a soulful and emotive song by British singer-songwriter Freddie Mercury, released in 1973. The song features a smooth and mellow melody, with Mercury’s soulful vocals delivering a poignant tribute to the power of music and the enduring nature of love. The song’s soaring harmonies and lush production evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, making it a favorite among fans of Mercury’s early solo work. The song’s message of hope and resilience in the face of life’s challenges has made it a timeless classic, and a testament to Mercury’s enduring legacy as a gifted artist and passionate advocate for the power of music to unite and inspire.
5. Time/Time (Instrumental) (1986)
“Time” is a song from Freddie Mercury’s solo album “Mr. Bad Guy,” released in 1985. It was also included in the soundtrack of the science-fiction movie “Metropolis” in the same year. The song is a dramatic ballad that showcases Mercury’s powerful vocals and emotional range. It features a prominent piano melody with orchestral backing, and the lyrics explore themes of time and mortality. The instrumental version of the song, included as a B-side to the single release, allows the listener to fully appreciate the intricate arrangements and musical details of the track. Overall, “Time” is a poignant and heartfelt masterpiece that further demonstrates Freddie Mercury’s exceptional talent as a singer and songwriter.
6. Love Me Like There’s No Tomorrow/Let’s Turn It On (1985)
“Love Me Like There’s No Tomorrow” is a song by Freddie Mercury, released in 1985 as part of his solo career. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and lyrics that encourage listeners to live life to the fullest and embrace love without reservation. Mercury’s vocals are as powerful and emotive as ever, conveying both the song’s joyful spirit and its underlying message of carpe diem. The accompanying music video features Mercury in various colorful and eclectic costumes, showcasing his unique style and flair for the dramatic. “Love Me Like There’s No Tomorrow” is a fun and uplifting song that captures the infectious spirit of Freddie Mercury’s music.
7. Living On My Own/My Love Is Dangerous (1985)
“Living On My Own/My Love Is Dangerous” is a dynamic and electrifying song by British singer-songwriter Freddie Mercury, released in 1985. The song features an infectious dance beat and Mercury’s soaring vocals, delivering a defiant declaration of independence and self-reliance. The song’s pulsating rhythm and catchy hooks make it a favorite among fans of Mercury’s solo work, while its message of living life to the fullest and embracing one’s own individuality has made it an anthem of personal liberation and self-expression. The song’s bold and unapologetic spirit is a testament to Mercury’s talent as an artist and his enduring legacy as a trailblazer in the world of music.
8. Love Kills (1984)
“Love Kills” is a song by Freddie Mercury, which was originally written for the 1984 restoration of the Fritz Lang classic film, Metropolis. It was later released as a single in 1985, and was included in the soundtrack for the restoration of the film. The song features a pulsing, electronic beat and showcases Mercury’s powerful vocals. The lyrics touch upon the themes of love, passion, and obsession, and are delivered with a raw emotional intensity that is characteristic of Mercury’s style. “Love Kills” was a commercial success, charting in several countries and cementing Mercury’s status as a solo artist outside of Queen.
9. Barcelona (Single Version)/Exercises In Free Love (Montserrat’s Vocal) (1987)
“Barcelona” is a song by Freddie Mercury and Spanish soprano Montserrat Caballé, released in 1987 as part of their collaborative album of the same name. The song is a soaring, operatic pop ballad that showcases both Mercury and Caballé’s vocal prowess and chemistry. The song’s lyrics celebrate the beauty and energy of Barcelona, the city where Mercury and Caballé recorded the album. The accompanying music video features footage of the two singers recording the song and exploring the city, highlighting the joyful and creative spirit of their collaboration. “Barcelona” is a stunning and unique song that combines the best of both Mercury and Caballé’s talents, and remains a beloved favorite among fans of both artists.
10. The Golden Boy (Single Edit)/The Fallen Priest (B-side Edit)
“The Golden Boy” is a duet with Montserrat Caballé, showcasing Freddie Mercury’s classical vocal range. The song is a dramatic ballad with soaring melodies, epic orchestration, and lyrics about striving for success and realizing one’s dreams. The B-side, “The Fallen Priest,” is an energetic and upbeat rock song featuring Mercury’s signature falsetto and Brian May’s electrifying guitar solos. The two songs were released as a double A-side single and were later included on the album “Barcelona,” a collaboration between Mercury and Caballé. “The Golden Boy” is considered one of Freddie Mercury’s finest vocal performances, showcasing his versatility and range as a singer.
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.
