How Brian May, Queen's Legendary Guitarist, Crafted His Iconic Red Special Guitar
The story of Brian May, the iconic guitarist of the legendary rock band Queen, is filled with tales of passion, creativity, and a deep devotion to both music and science. One of the most remarkable aspects of May's journey is his creation of the Red Special guitar, a masterpiece fashioned from a fireplace hearth and other household items.
From an Idyllic Upbringing to a Passion for Music
Brian May's upbringing was marked by an idyllic atmosphere. As an only child, he was showered with the attention and care of his parents. His father, who doted on him, taught him to play the ukulele at a young age, setting the foundation for May's lifelong love of music. At the age of seven, his father purchased an acoustic guitar, thus igniting the fire of his musical aspirations.
The Birth of the Red Special Guitar
As Brian May's musical journey progressed, he decided to create a guitar that would perfectly suit his unique tones and playing style. With no guidelines to follow, and a scientific approach to building, May and his father embarked on a creative endeavor that would become a testament to their father-son bond.
According to the Queen: The Early Years book, the neck of the guitar was carved from a mahogany fireplace. The tension of the strings was balanced using motorcycle valve springs, while the tremolo arm was fashioned from a discarded knitting needle. The fretboard markers were made from mother-of-pearl buttons sourced from his mother's sewing box. The only compromise they made was to purchase a set of three Burns pick-ups, which were modified with the application of epoxy resin.
This meticulous, scientific approach ensured that the Red Special had a unique tonality that even the most expensive guitars could not replicate. The guitar, despite being challenging to play due to its thick neck, was a true reflection of Brian May's determination and love for music.
Personal and Professional Milestones
The creation of the Red Special guitar was but one of the many remarkable aspects of Brian May's life. His father nurtured his interests in astronomy, leading to May building his own spectrometer while living in a hut on a mountain in Switzerland during his university years. His multidisciplinary interests and the hands-on nature of his projects demonstrate his creative and scientific prowess.
From Science to Rock
Despite the closeness and mutual love between Brian May and his father, a significant gap emerged when May decided to pursue a career in rock music. This decision led to a period of estrangement for over a year. However, they ultimately reconnected, and the loss of his father during the same time Freddie Mercury passed away added to the emotional weight of this reunion.
Diy Culture and Its Impact
The DIY culture in which Brian May grew up was not uncommon in the good 'ole days. Kids and teenagers engaged in hands-on projects, often creating unique and complex items such as the Deacy Amp, which Queen's bass player John Deacon built using a portable radio circuit board and a 9-volt battery.
DIY projects encouraged creativity, problem-solving, and a sense of accomplishment. They provided quality time for family bonding and laid the groundwork for interests that could potentially turn into future professions. The Deacy Amp, in particular, paved the way for the distinctive sounds of Queen, including the iconic Procession and The Fairy Fellers Master-Stroke.
In conclusion, Brian May's story is a testament to the power of DIY culture and the profound impact it has on creative individuals. From crafting guitars to building scientific equipment, May's journey showcases the enduring legacy of hands-on learning and passion for music.