The Journey of John Deacon: Queen's Quiet Genius
John Deacon, the unsung bassist of the legendary band Queen, has left an indelible mark on music history, contributing to some of their most iconic hits. After retiring from the music business in 1997, Deacon continues to influence the music world through his passion for drumming and his deep involvement in the financial legacy of Queen. This article explores the life and career of John Deacon, the man behind Queen's music and his continued impact on the music industry.
From Auditorium to Queen
John Deacon's journey began when he joined Queen in February 1971. Though he auditioned for the band, it was his musical talent and quiet demeanor that impressed the other members, including Freddie Mercury, Brian May, and Roger Taylor. Despite being a vital part of the band, John Deacon never ventured into the spotlight as a vocalist, choosing instead to contribute to the group's hits through his bass playing and occasional backing vocals during live performances.
Retirement and Continued Involvement
After the tragic death of Freddie Mercury in 1991, Deacon retired from the music business, finding it difficult to perform without his close friend and bandmate. While he did participate in a few shows alongside Brian May and Roger Taylor, he ultimately decided to fully retreat from the limelight, stating that it would not be the same without Mercury and acknowledging that the music business had changed significantly since he began his career in 1964. His decision to retire was both a personal choice and a recognition of the new era in music he had witnessed.
Life After Queen
John Deacon's life continues to be marked by his family. Married to Veronica since 1975 and a proud parent to six children, including five boys and one girl, Deacon has enjoyed the privileges of grandparenthood. While he has fully retired from performing, his influence on the band continues through his involvement in financial matters. Members of Queen, such as Brian May, have expressed their reliance on Deacon's insight in handling the band's finances, emphasizing the respect and trust he commands within the group.
Legacy and Musical Influences
John Deacon's contributions to Queen's music include, but are not limited to, works such as 'My Best Friend,' 'Another One Bites the Dust,' 'I Want to Break Free,' 'Spread Your Wings,' 'Back Chat,' 'One Year of Love,' 'My Life Has Been Saved,' and 'Misfire.' His preferred bass guitar, a Fender Precision bass, has been a staple of his performances. Throughout his career, Deacon was heavily influenced by the bass playing styles of Chris Squire of Yes and John Entwistle of The Who, two bassists he hold in high esteem.
Continuing Impact
Though he has retired from the stage, John Deacon's legacy lives on. While Brian May and Roger Taylor continue to perform under the Queen name with various collaborators, Deacon remains far from the spotlight, adhering to his decision to retire and focus on the financial aspects of the band. At 73 years old, Deacon continues to make contributions to the music industry through his expertise and insight.
Conclusion
John Deacon's contribution to Queen's success cannot be overstated. From his quiet demeanor to his powerful bass playing, Deacon played a significant role in some of the band's most enduring hits, including the iconic 'Another One Bites the Dust.' His journey from a young musician to a retired but influential figure in the music industry reflects the impact of his talent and dedication to the band.