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[Rock and Roll Hall of Fame] Queen’s iconic songs: must-hear signature tracks chosen by fans

Queen, the British rock band whose popularity has been reignited by the film Bohemian Rhapsody.

Many of you have probably seen the film in theaters, and I imagine quite a few people thought, “I’d never really listened to Queen before, but now I want to give them a proper listen!”

That’s only natural—the movie features many of their classic songs and even depicts how they came to be.

In this article, we’ll introduce timeless tracks that long-time Queen fans will love, and that those who discovered them through the film can enjoy as well!

[Rock and Roll Hall of Fame] Queen’s iconic masterpieces: Top 10 must-listen tracks chosen by fans (1–10)

Radio Ga GaQueen

Queen – Radio Ga Ga (Official Video)
Radio Ga GaQueen

This song, composed by drummer Roger, was reportedly inspired by his son, who, when he was still a baby, listened to the radio and said “radio, gaga,” which led to the title after tweaking the ending.

In the film’s climactic Live Aid sequence, the scene where the massive Wembley Stadium crowd erupts to this song is breathtaking.

Also, Lady Gaga’s stage name is derived from this track.

We Will Rock YouQueen

Queen – We Will Rock You (Official Video)
We Will Rock YouQueen

Haven’t we all heard this “Dun-dun-cha!” rhythm at least once? This soul-stirring track is used in many sports as well.

On the Bohemian Rhapsody film soundtrack, it features a special arrangement that transitions from the studio recording to a live performance.

Killer QueenQueen

Queen – Killer Queen (Top Of The Pops, 1974)
Killer QueenQueen

This song, written by Freddie, was their first international hit.

It’s extremely popular in Japan, having been used by Honda in a commercial.

Its graceful, sophisticated arrangement shows that Queen was far more than just a rock band, and the use of effects on Freddie’s vocals doesn’t feel like something from the ’70s, does it?

[Rock and Roll Hall of Fame] Queen’s classic songs: Must-listen signature tracks chosen by fans (11–20)

Teo Torriatte (Let Us Cling Together)Queen

Queen – Teo Torriatte (Let Us Cling Together) (Official Lyric Video)
Teo Torriatte (Let Us Cling Together)Queen

Queen has had many fans in Japan since their debut.

This song mixes Japanese and English lyrics, and the chorus is sung in Japanese.

It’s also a track that’s frequently used in Japanese commercials.

In addition, it has been covered by artists such as Aoi Teshima.

Let Me LiveQueen

Queen – Let Me Live (Official Lyric Video)
Let Me LiveQueen

Featuring grand backing vocals, this song is sung like a relay with Freddie, Roger, and Brian each taking a verse.

It is also the first and last song in which all members capable of singing—everyone except John—provide vocals.

Thinking of it that way, it feels like a rare and valuable work.

Another One Bites the DustQueen

Queen – Another One Bites the Dust (Official Video)
Another One Bites the DustQueen

It’s said that Michael Jackson encouraged releasing this song as a single.

It certainly has a Michael Jackson–like dance-pop vibe, but I think the powerful vocals and the rock band feel of the phrases are outstanding.

The bass line feels great.

Who Wants To Live ForeverQueen

Queen – Who Wants To Live Forever (Official Video)
Who Wants To Live ForeverQueen

This song was produced by Brian long before Freddie passed away.

If you listen while carefully taking in the lyrics, it feels all the more poignant.

The string accompaniment adds a sense of grandeur, and the song’s wide dynamic range offers a glimpse of the members’ refined sensibilities.