Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody never gets old for May
Guitarist Brian still loves classic track, 40 years on - but won’t discuss its meaning
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Brian May says he’s never got tired of classic Queen track Bohemian Rhapsody – but he doesn’t like talking about what the song is about.
The Freddie Mercury composition was released on October 31, 1975, and went on to become the third biggest-selling single in UK chart history. It’s been the subject of several affectionate spoofs, including the iconic scene in 1992 movie Wayne’s World.
May tells the BBC: “I’m not sick of it. You can’t complain that people want to talk about it all these years later.
“I still enjoy hearing it – if it comes on the radio I’ll turn it up and listen. But no air guitar. I’m too old.”
He adds: “I do think Freddie enjoyed the fact there were so many interpretations of the lyrics. It’s an outlandish song. I think it’s beyond analysis.
“I have my own ideas and feelings about Bohemian Rhapsody – but I hate talking about it and I generally refuse.”
Queen will release a limited-edition 40th anniversary 12-inch single of the track on November 27, after a 1975 live concert film goes on sale. The band are to receive the Living Legends Award at the 2015 Classic Rock Roll Of Honour ceremony next month.
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Not only is one-time online news editor Martin an established rock journalist and drummer, but he’s also penned several books on music history, including SAHB Story: The Tale of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, a band he once managed, and the best-selling Apollo Memories about the history of the legendary and infamous Glasgow Apollo. Martin has written for Classic Rock and Prog and at one time had written more articles for Louder than anyone else (we think he's second now). He’s appeared on TV and when not delving intro all things music, can be found travelling along the UK’s vast canal network.
