Queen was a British rock band formed in London in 1970. The band consisted of Freddie Mercury (lead vocals, piano), Brian May (guitar, vocals), John Deacon (bass guitar), and Roger Taylor (drums, vocals). Known for their distinctive sound and flamboyant stage presence, Queen became one of the most successful bands in the world, with hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody”, “We Will Rock You”, and “Don’t Stop Me Now”.
The band’s music spanned a variety of genres, including rock, pop, and opera, and they were known for their innovative use of studio technology. Their music often tackled social issues and championed diversity, with songs like “I Want to Break Free” and “Somebody to Love”.
Queen’s frontman Freddie Mercury was widely regarded as one of the greatest singers in the history of rock music, with a powerful and distinctive vocal range. He tragically passed away in 1991 due to complications from AIDS.
Despite Mercury’s death, Queen’s music continues to be celebrated and remains popular to this day. In 2018, the biopic film “Bohemian Rhapsody” was released, which tells the story of the band and Mercury’s life, and became a huge success, further cementing Queen’s legacy.
10. ‘Stone Cold Crazy’
“Stone Cold Crazy” is a fast-paced heavy metal track by British rock band Queen, originally released on their 1974 album “Sheer Heart Attack”. The song’s aggressive riffs and driving rhythm showcase the band’s hard rock influences and the powerful vocals of frontman Freddie Mercury. Known for its frenetic tempo changes and intricate guitar work, “Stone Cold Crazy” has been recognized as an early precursor to thrash metal and has been covered by several notable artists, including Metallica. The song’s energetic performance and catchy hooks have made it a fan favorite and a staple in Queen’s live shows.
9. ‘Tie Your Mother Down’
“Tie Your Mother Down” is a hard rock song by British rock band Queen, released in 1976 as part of their album “A Day at the Races.” The song is known for its driving guitar riff, catchy chorus, and powerful vocals by frontman Freddie Mercury. The lyrics are playful and suggestive, with Mercury singing about a rebellious lover who wants to break free and have fun. “Tie Your Mother Down” became a popular live staple for Queen, with its energetic and infectious sound making it a favorite among fans. Overall, the song is a classic example of Queen’s signature blend of rock and pop sensibilities.
8. ‘Killer Queen’
“Killer Queen” is an iconic rock track by British band Queen, released in 1974. The song features a driving beat with catchy guitar riffs and Freddie Mercury’s electrifying vocals, while he sings about a seductive and dangerous woman. The chorus is a standout moment, with Mercury declaring “She’s a Killer Queen, gunpowder, gelatine, dynamite with a laser beam, guaranteed to blow your mind”. The song’s theatricality and clever lyrics made it an instant hit and remains a classic rock anthem. With its infectious melody and memorable chorus, “Killer Queen” is a must-listen for any Queen fan or rock music lover.
7. ‘Somebody to Love’
“Somebody to Love” is a classic rock song by Queen, released in 1976 on their album “A Day at the Races”. The song, written by Freddie Mercury, is known for its gospel-inspired harmonies and powerful vocals. It features a grand arrangement with the band’s signature combination of rock, pop, and opera styles, and has been praised for its emotional depth and cathartic release. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of yearning for love and connection, and it has become one of Queen’s most beloved and iconic tracks. Its catchy melody and stirring chorus have made it a staple of classic rock radio and a fan favorite at live performances.
6. ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love’
“Crazy Little Thing Called Love” is a rockabilly song by British rock band Queen, released in 1979 as part of their album “The Game.” The song is known for its catchy guitar riff, upbeat tempo, and infectious melody, which was written by lead singer Freddie Mercury in just 10 minutes. The lyrics are playful and romantic, with Mercury singing about the ups and downs of love and the way it makes him feel. “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” became a massive hit for Queen, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a staple of their live shows. Overall, the song is a fun and lighthearted tribute to the joys of love.
5. ‘Fat Bottomed Girls’
“Fat Bottomed Girls” is a classic rock track by British band Queen, released in 1978. The song features a driving beat with heavy guitar riffs and Freddie Mercury’s powerful vocals, while he celebrates curvy women. The chorus is a standout moment, with Mercury proclaiming “Fat bottomed girls, you make the rockin’ world go round”. The song’s rebellious and tongue-in-cheek lyrics made it a favorite among Queen fans and rock music lovers alike. With its catchy melody and raucous energy, “Fat Bottomed Girls” is a must-listen for anyone who loves classic rock and Queen’s iconic sound.
4. ‘Under Pressure’ (with David Bowie)
“Under Pressure” is a legendary collaboration between Queen and David Bowie that became a hit in 1981. The song features a distinctive bassline that forms the backbone of the track, with powerful vocals from Freddie Mercury and David Bowie that blend together beautifully. The lyrics speak to the pressures of life and the importance of love and understanding, with a powerful message that still resonates with audiences today. The song’s popularity has endured over the years, with its catchy melody and powerful harmonies continuing to captivate new generations of listeners. It remains one of Queen’s most iconic and beloved tracks, as well as a testament to the power of collaboration and musical creativity.
3. ‘Another One Bites the Dust’
“Another One Bites the Dust” is a disco-inspired funk song by British rock band Queen, released in 1980 as part of their album “The Game.” The song is known for its signature bassline, which was written by bassist John Deacon and is one of the most recognizable in music history. The lyrics, sung by lead singer Freddie Mercury, are about the dangers of living life on the edge and how easily one can fall from grace. “Another One Bites the Dust” became a massive hit for Queen, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying their status as musical legends.
2. ‘We Will Rock You / We Are the Champions’
“We Will Rock You / We Are the Champions” is a legendary medley by British rock band Queen, released in 1977. The song features two iconic anthems seamlessly woven together, with “We Will Rock You” featuring a stomping beat and audience participation, and “We Are the Champions” showcasing Freddie Mercury’s soaring vocals and powerful lyrics about triumph and perseverance. The medley has become an enduring symbol of sports and victory, often played at sporting events around the world. With its driving beat, memorable melodies, and powerful lyrics, “We Will Rock You / We Are the Champions” remains a beloved classic rock anthem.
1. ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’
“Bohemian Rhapsody” is a classic rock song by the British band Queen, released in 1975. The song is known for its unique structure, consisting of several different sections with varying styles, including a ballad, opera, and hard rock. It features Freddie Mercury’s powerful vocals and showcases the band’s musical creativity and innovation. The lyrics are also famous for their cryptic and metaphorical content, which has led to many interpretations and debates over the years. “Bohemian Rhapsody” became a massive commercial success and has since become one of the most iconic and beloved songs in rock history, often cited as one of the greatest songs of all time. It has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon.
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.
