Freddie Mercury's Musical Influences: Discovering the Bands and Singers He Adored
Freddie Mercury, the iconic frontman of Queen, had a diverse taste in music. His unique sound was shaped by a variety of artists and genres that he fell in love with. From the Beatles to Elton John, David Bowie, and beyond, Mercury's musical influences played a significant role in his career and performances.
Classical and Rock Influences
Freddie Mercury's love for classical music and rock was evident in his musical journey. Here are some of the bands and singers he admired and listened to:
The Beatles
Mercury admired the Beatles' songwriting and innovative approach to music. Their unique sound and creative spirit inspired him throughout his career. Fans often hear his covers of Beatles songs, demonstrating his appreciation for this influential band.
David Bowie
Mercury had a close relationship with David Bowie and even collaborated on the famous song "Under Pressure." Bowie's versatility and theatrical style left a lasting impression on Mercury. Their combined talents created some of music's most iconic moments.
Elton John
Mercury appreciated Elton John's flamboyant personality and songwriting prowess. Their shared passion for music and stage presence could be seen in their performances and records, contributing to the rich musical heritage of the 1970s and 1980s.
Jimi Hendrix
Mercury was deeply influenced by Jimi Hendrix's exceptional guitar skills and stage presence. His performances were nothing short of electric, and Mercury admired Hendrix's ability to capture the essence of rock's raw energy.
Led Zeppelin and The Beatles
Mercury was a fan of Led Zeppelin's rock sound and powerful performances. Similarly, the Beatles' influence can be heard in his music, particularly in the way he approached harmonies and songwriting.
The Beach Boys
Mercury admired The Beach Boys' harmonies and production techniques. Their meticulous approach to studio recording and their singing style were significant influences on Mercury's own work.
Opera and Show Tunes
Besides these rock and pop acts, Mercury had a deep love for opera, particularly artists like Montserrat Caballé with whom he collaborated on the album Barcelona. Additionally, he enjoyed other genre artists such as Frank Sinatra and show tune singers like Liza Minnelli.
Later Influences and Favorite Artists
As Mercury matured, his taste in music evolved. In his adult years, some of his favorites included Jimi Hendrix, Aretha Franklin, and the Beatles. Other artists he loved spanned across different genres, from rock and jazz to opera and Cole Porter's classic tunes.
Miscellaneous Influences and Group Performance
Brian May, Queen's lead guitarist, mentions that Kansas was another group that influenced Mercury. He would watch their performances and even arrived early to appreciate their level of skill and tight performances. This appreciation for other bands' talents speaks to Mercury's open-minded and eclectic taste in music.
Personal Anecdotes
According to Phoebe Freestone, Freddie's personal assistant, at the end of his life, Mercury listened to a lot of Natalie Cole's album "Unforgettable… with Love." This intimate detail provides a glimpse into his personal life and musical preferences in his later years.
Conclusion
Freddie Mercury's diverse musical tastes contributed immensely to the unique sound and style of Queen. His love for theatricality and performance not only influenced his sound but also his stage presence, inspiring countless fans around the world.