Man Friday And Jive Junior + John Deacon

Picking Up Sounds 5:00
Written by Man Friday/John Deacon/Robert Ahwai
Appears on: UK Picking Up Sounds 7" vinyl, UK Picking Up Sounds 12" vinyl
From 1983, definitely not something you would expect to be associated with the Queen catalogue. John co-wrote, played bass, and co-produced this track. The song is actually a rap song with some background synthesizers. John's bass is very prominent and drives the song. The sound is similar to early US rap tracks, specifically the Sugar Hill Gang.

Picking Up Sounds (Radio Mix) 4:46
Written by Man Friday/John Deacon/Robert Ahwai
Appears on: UK Picking Up Sounds 7" vinyl, UK Picking Up Sounds 12" vinyl
Somewhat similar to the A-side version, this could be best described as an instrumental mix. The song is slightly edited for time and starts with an airplane flyover sound effect. There are a few samples of television newscasts throughout the radio mix that are not present on the regular version. The main rapper is not present during most of the song.

Elton John + John Deacon

Too Young 5:10
Written by Bernie Taupin/Elton John
Appears on: Ice On Fire

An excellent track from Elton John's 1985 album, Ice On Fire, which is an often overlooked album. Roger Taylor provides drums, while fellow Queen member John Deacon plays bass guitar. The song has a slow tempo and is classic Elton John. Highly recommended.

Angeline 3:24
Written by Bernie Taupin/Elton John
Appears on: Leather Jackets

Both Roger Taylor and John Deacon appeared on this track, which appears on Elton's 1986 album, "Leather Jackets." Leather Jackets is widely considered to be a weaker album than his previous 80's releases. This track is nothing special in particular, especially compared to the rest of Elton's catalogue. Angeline is basically a light-hearted throwback 60's style dance rocker.


More to come soon...