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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)

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?

Keep Yourself AliveQueen

It was Queen’s debut single and was also used in a car commercial.

At that time, Freddie didn’t yet have the wild image he later became known for; he took the stage in androgynous, glam rock–style outfits.

Those outfits were put together from vintage clothing, and most of the pieces were reportedly chosen by Freddie and Roger.

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

Now I’m HereQueen

Queen – Now I’m Here (Official Video)
Now I’m HereQueen

This is a cool track with a guitar sound that still feels modern.

As heard in the film “Space Travelers,” the lyrics are cool and intellectual, very much in Brian’s style.

It’s also popular at live shows and is regarded by fans as a hidden gem.

We Are The ChampionsQueen

Queen – We Are The Champions (Official Video)
We Are The ChampionsQueen

An immortal anthem loved around the world.

I’ve heard it was written with the expectation that it would be sung in football stadiums, and the fact that this has become reality shows just how incredible Queen is.

As for the title’s “We,” it doesn’t refer to Queen themselves, but rather carries the meaning that each and every person around the world is a champion.

InnuendoQueen

Queen – Innuendo (Official Video)
InnuendoQueen

From an intro that feels like a movie soundtrack, to an acoustic guitar solo, then a vocal solo section, and even a development in odd time signatures, this song has a very complex structure.

It’s an astounding track that even hints at the later influence on prog and metal.

Listening to works like this makes it clear why Queen is a legendary band.

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.