All You Need Is Love 3:32
Appears on: All You Need Is Love CD single, Bandaged Together CD
Bandaged is an all-star collaboration from 2009 to raise money for BBC's
Children In Need. This cover of the classic Beatles track features Peter
Gabriel, Bryan Ferry (Roxy Music), Bill Wyman (The Rolling Stones),
Nick Mason (Pink Floyd), Brian May (Queen), Midge Ure (Ultravox), Sharon
Corr (The Coors), and others. Most of the track was recorded in Abbey
Road Studios. Brian May, of course, plays guitar on the track.
All You Need Is Love (Pudsey Mix) 3:24
Appears on: All You Need Is Love CD single
The Pudsey Mix is available exclusively on CD single and iTunes download.
As opposed to an edit, this is a remix of the track, featuring different
vocalists performing different verses. Most notably, Midge Ure starts
the song off, singing the first two verses. Part of Brian's guitar parts
are omitted in favor of the orchesetra.
All You Need Is Love (Chapel Edit) 3:08
Appears on: All You Need Is Love CD single
The Chapel Edit is available exclusively on CD single and iTunes download.
This edit removes the instrumental intro and fades out a bit earlier.
All You Need Is Love (Goodnight Mix) 3:23
Appears on: Bandaged Together CD
The Goodnight Mix of All You Need Is Love omits the horn section at
the beginning and overall has a shorter mix than the normal album/single
version.
Billy Squier
(Another) 1984 4:54
Appears on: US
Signs Of Life LP, US
Signs Of Life CD, US
Signs Of Life re-release, US
(Another) 1984 12" promo vinyl
Billy Squier's 1984 album Signs Of Life continued his string of success
in the early 80s. The album went two times platinum in the US and
its lead single Rock Me Tonight went to #15. The sixth track on the
album, (Another) 1984, features Brian May on guitar. The track features
lots of "futuristic" synthesizer effects, harmonies, and Orwellian
overtones. Brian's guitar solo sounds more like early Queen as opposed
to his guitar sound of the 80s.
Black Sabbath
When Death Calls 6:55
Appears on: UK
Headless Cross LP, UK
Headless Cross CD, US
Headless Cross CD
When Death Calls comes from Black Sabbath's 1989 album Headless Cross,
which is the second album to feature Tony Martin on lead vocals. Brian
shares guitar solo duties with Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi. Also
of note, Cozy Powell co-produced (with Iommi) and played drums on
the album. Cozy later recorded and toured with Brian. Headless Cross
is generally viewed positively by Sabbath fans.
Brian Wilson
God Only Knows 2:27
Appears on: UK God Only Knows CD single, UK God Only Knows digital
download
Brian Wilson, along with numerous other music legends and contemporary
artists, recorded a cover version of God Only Knows to launch BBC
Music. The track was released in October 2014 as a download and eventually
as a CD single for the Children In Need Charity. A who's who of artists
appear on the track including Elton John, Chris Martin, Dave Grohl,
Pharrell Williams, Sam Smith, and of course Brian May on guitar, to
name a few. The single went to #20 on the UK charts.
God Only Knows (Instrumental) 2:28
Appears on: UK God Only Knows CD single
An instrumental version of God Only Knows appears exclusively on the
CD single.
God Only Knows (Video Version) 2:49
Appears on: God Only Knows BBC Music promo video
The excellent God Only Knows video was a striking way to promote BBC
Music. The video features all the musicians from the recording in
a well-done, visually impressive video. Brian May appears playing
in front of a wall of "May" branded Vox AC30 amps. The video
is longer than the single and instrumental versions, adding some orchestral
warm up sounds at the beginning.
Bruce Dickinson
Black Night (Live at The Sunflower
Superjam) 6:51
Appears on: Ian Paice's Sunflower Superjam DVD/CD
The Sunflower Jam is a charity founded by the wife of Deep Purple's
Ian Paice. The Sunflower Superjam concert was held at the Royal Albert
Hall on September 16, 2012. Bruce Dickinson performed two songs at
the event, handling lead vocals. He was joined onstage by Brian May,
John Paul Jones, Ian Paice, and Brian Auger to perform the Deep Purple
classic Black Night.
Black Night (Live at The Sunflower Superjam)
7:21
Appears on: Ian Paice's Sunflower Superjam DVD/CD
The Sunflower Jam is a charity founded by the wife of Deep Purple's
Ian Paice. The Sunflower Superjam concert was held at the Royal Albert
Hall on September 16, 2012. The finale to the concert was an all-star
performance of Smoke On The Water. Bruce Dickinson handled lead vocals
and Brian May was on lead guitar.
Carmine Appice
Nobody Knew (Black White House)
(Long Version) 4:47
Appears on: UK Guitar Zeus CD album, UK Ultimate Guitar Zeus CD, UK
Nobody Knew CD single
Carmine Appice is recognized as one of the best hard rock drummers.
Appice has appeared on albums by Rod Stewart, Paul Stanley, and Ted
Nugent to name a few. Carmine's 1995 Guitar Zeus album included many
guest guitarists, including Brian May. Brian appears on the album
and single version of Nobody Knew (Black White House). The track is
very heavy and showcases both Appice and May very well.
Nobody Knew (Black White House) (Radio Version)
3:50
Appears on: UK Nobody Knew CD single
The Radio Version of Nobody Knew is obviously a little more radio
friendly, cutting about a minute off of the running time. A large
portion of the instrumental break is removed along with a verse of
lyrics in middle and the "whole in the blue sky" lyrics
at the end.
Catherine Porter
Somebody To Love 3:49
Appears on: Gems For Ruby
Catherine Porter's voice should be well known to Queen fans. Catherine
sanging backing vocals for the Brian May Band during his Back To The
Light tour. Later, Brian recruited her to sing backing vocals on the
1995 Queen track Let Me Live and on his 1998 solo album Another World.
When the time came for Catherine to record her own album of cover
songs, it was a natural for Brian to be involved. Somebody To Love
is the second track on her 2009 album Gems For Ruby. Brian May, naturally,
plays guitar on the track.
Chris Thompson
A Shift In The Wind (Parts
1 & 2) 6:42
Appears on: Radio Voices
Chris Thompson is and English singer and guitarist who has had a successful
solo career and was lead vocalist of Manfred Mann's Earth band. He
has appeared on many Queen-related projects including singing backing
vocals for the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert, The Brian May Band,
and at the 46664 concert. He also appeared on The Stonk and on the
Yes We Can charity single. A Shift In The Wind (Part 1 & 2) are
from his 1985 solo album Radio Voices. Brian plays guitar on the track.
A Shift In The Wind (Backtrack Version) 4:23
Appears on: Backtrack 1980-1994
The 2008 release Backtrack is a career retrospective of Chris Thompson.
Included on this release is an edited version of A Shift In The Wind.
This version is made up of mostly the first four and a half minutes
of the song, minus the intro and outro. Brian plays guitar on the
track.
Claire Sweeney
Too Much Love Will Kill You
4:22
Appears on: Claire
CD
Claire Sweeney is an actress and singer from the UK. She is known
for her role in Brookside and appearing in Celebrity Big Brother.
In 2002, she released her album, Claire, which charted well in the
UK. The album features original material as well as cover songs. One
of the cover songs is Too Much Love Will Kill You, featuring Brian
May and UK session player Phil Palmer on guitar.
Cliff Richard
Move It (Live) 2:43
Appears on: Party
At The Palace CD, Party At The Palace DVD
Recorded live at Buckingham Palace June 3, 2002. A live version of
the Cliff Richard hit. Brian May is featured on lead guitar.
Move It 4:07
Appears on: 21st Century Christmas/Move It 7" vinyl, 21st Century
Christmas/Move It CD single, Two's Company - Duets
Legendary UK pop singer Cliff Richard released a new recording
of his 1958 hit single Move It in 2006. This new version featured
Brian May on guitar and Brian Bennett from The Shadows on drums. The
single was released in December 2006 in an effort to be the #1 Christmas
single. It reached #2 on the UK charts. The song was later included
on the Cliff Richard Two's Company compilation CD.
Cozy Powell
Somewhere In Time 3:50
Appears on: The Drums Are Back
Cozy Powell was a well-respected English drummer who worked with Rainbow,
Jeff Beck, Whitesnake, Black Sabbath, and The Brian May Band. Somewhere
In Time is from Cozy's 1992 album "The Drums Are Back."
The track features Brian May on guitar and John Deacon on bass. This
track was the inspiration for Nothin' But Blue on Brian's Back To
The Light album. This is also the same track that appeared as Nothin'
But Blue (Guitar Version) on the Back To The Light CD single.
Craig Weir & The Cabalistic
Cavalry
The Highland Road 4:52
Appears on: The Highland Road digital download single
The Highland Road is a digital only single from 2017 by Craig Weir
& The Cabalistic Cavalry. The track starts with a somber piano
backing as a poem is read by 21 different artists and personalities.
When the poem ends, the music tempo picks up considerabily, becoming
acoustic guitar, bagpipe and drum based. The uptempo part continues
with lyrics and choruses that are obviously heavily influenced by
Scottish folk. Brian reads a line of the poem at 1:54.
The Crickets
Peggy Sue (The Strat Pack,
Live at Wembley, September 2004) 2:28
Appears on: The Strat Pack: Live In Concert DVD
The Strat Pack was a concert held on September 24, 2004 to celebrate
the 50th Anniversary of the Fender Stratocaster guitar. The concert
opened with a performance by The Crickets. Sonny Curtis sings lead
vocals. They were joined on stage by Brian May and Albert Lee. Brian
plays guitar on this song (a Fender, not his red special) and sings
backing vocals. This concert was released on DVD in 2005 and later
on Blu-Ray format.
Maybe Baby (The Strat Pack, Live at Wembley,
September 2004) 1:36
Appears on: The Strat Pack: Live In Concert DVD
The second song performed by The Crickets, May, and Lee at the Strat
Pack concert was Maybe Baby. Brian gets to sing lead vocals for The
Crickets and play guitar (again, a Fender). Also of note, Brian did
record a studio version of Maybe Baby in 1998 (see Another World).
I Fought The Law (The Strat Pack, Live at
Wembley, September 2004) 1:47
Appears on: The Strat Pack: Live In Concert DVD
Sonny Curtis takes lead vocals on this song. Brian plays Fender guitar
and sings backing vocals.
Oh Boy (The Strat Pack, Live at Wembley, September
2004) 1:52
Appears on: The Strat Pack: Live In Concert DVD
Sonny Curtis continues to sing lead vocals on this song. Brian plays
Fender guitar and sings backing vocals.
That'll Be The Day (The Strat Pack, Live at
Wembley, September 2004) 2:38
Appears on: The Strat Pack: Live In Concert DVD
Ronnie Wood (The Faces, The Jeff Beck Group, The Rolling Stones) joins
Brian May, Albert Lee, and The Crickets for this performance. Brian
plays Fender guitar and sings lead vocals.
The Cross
Love Lies Bleeding (She Was
A Wicked, Wily Waitress) (Album Version) 4:24
Appears on: UK
Shove It, Track 7
Love Lies Bleeding (She Was A Wicked, Wily
Waitress) (Original Version) 4:14
Appears on: UK
Cowboys and Indians 7" vinyl, UK
Cowboys and Indians 12" vinyl, UK
Cowboys and Indians promo CD
Brian May appears on this track, both on the album and the single,
playing some great guitar. This was the lead-off single for the album,
so it came out before the album did, making this version the Original.
The differences to the album aren't huge, but you'll notice the beefier
guitars. Roger sings "I want you to burn! Burn! Burn!" on this version,
which is edited on the album (except the last "Burn!") for some reason.
This version is also about ten seconds shorter, fading out earlier.
D-Rok
Games Workshop, maker of tabletop Warhammer games,
began to incorporate music as a companion piece to their games. They
started a record company, Warhammer Records, in the early 90's. One
of the bands signed to this label was UK hard rock band D-Rok. Their
only album was 1991's Oblivion, which took some inspiration from Warhammer
40,000. Brian May had visited the Games Workshop store with his son,
Jimmy May, and met the band. Upon meeting them, he offered to play
on their album. Brian played guitar on two of their songs, Red Planet
Blues and Get Out Of My Way. The second was released as a single and
features two alternative mixes.
Red Planet Blues 6:35
Appears on: Oblivion
Get Out Of My Way 6:06
Appears on: Oblivion
Get Out Of My Way (D-Mix) 7:10
Appears on: Get
Out Of My Way 12" vinyl, Get
Out Of My Way CD single
The D-Mix would be best described as an extended remix of the album
version of the song. It has been heavily remixed, featuring much more
programmed purcussion bits.
Get Out Of My Way (Air Mix) 4:09
Appears on: Get
Out Of My Way 12" vinyl, Get
Out Of My Way CD single
The Air Mix is essentially a single remix of the album version. The
chanting opening on the album version has been shortened and mixed
differently, making it more appropriate as a single release. The backbeat
is remixed and a little poppier and more produced.
Dappy
Rockstar 3:37
Appears on: Rockstar CD single, Rockstar iTunes single, Bad Intentions
This pop/rap/rock track by Dappy, of the group N-Dubz, features a
closing guitar solo by Brian May. Dappy's vocals are autotuned, which
is standard for the genre and may turn off some listeners. Brian recorded
his parts in November 2011 and the track was released in mid-January
2012.
Rockstar (Instrumental) 3:37
Appears on: Rockstar CD promo single, Rockstar iTunes single
The instrumental of Rockstar is a mix of the album/single version
that omits the vocals. This is not available on the regular CD single;
if you want this one, you need to download it or find a promo CD single.
Rockstar (Clean) 3:37
Appears on: Rockstar CD promo single
A "clean" version of Rockstar is available on some promo
CD singles. The song edits out the words "fuck" and "shit"
from the performance.
Rockstar (BBC Live Lounge) 3:38
Appears on: Bad Intentions - High Grade Edition
Brian May joined Dappy on Ferne Cotton's Radio 1 Lounge Session on
February 27, 2012 for a live performance. The two are joined in the
studio by live session musicians, which makes the song sound more
"authentic" than the recorded version.
We Will Rock You (BBC Live Lounge) 2:58
Appears on: Bad Intentions - High Grade Edition
Brian May joined Dappy on Ferne Cotton's Radio 1 Lounge Session on
February 27, 2012 for a live performance. Brian and Dappy are joined
by session musicians for a performance of the Queen classic We Will
Rock You.
Def Leppard
Travellin' Band (Live) 6:21
Appears on: 2009 Pyromania Deluxe Edition
Def Leppard performed at the L.A. Forum in September 1983 as part
of their tour to promote their smash album Pyromania. They were joined
onstage by Queen guitarist Brian May for a cover of the classic Creedence
Clearwater Revival song Travellin' Band. The concert has been heavily
bootlegged for years. An edited version of the show (and this song)
finally appeared on the 2009 Deluxe Edition release of Pyromania.
The full version featured on bootlegs almost ten minutes in length.
Now I'm Here (Live at the Freddie Mercury
Tribute Concert) 4:56
Appears on: Tonight 7" vinyl, Tonight 12" vinyl, Tonight CD single
Def Leppard were a main act for the April 1992 Freddie Mercury Tribute
Concert. The band performed a three song set before the proper Queen
set. One of the track they performed was Now I'm Here. Def Leppard
were joined onstage by Brian May for the live performance. This performance
is featured on the 1993 single Tonight.
Diana Ross
Crazy Little Thing Called
Love 3:15
Appears on: UK
I Love You
CD, UK
I Love You - Special Edition CD
From the UK version of Diana Ross' 2006 album "I Love You."
This is one of the most jarring and odd Queen covers that I have heard.
The track starts with a horn section (that continues throughout the
track) and features a different arrangement. Diana's vocals are good,
but again are slightly odd for this song. Brian plays guitar throughout
the track and performs a solo that is very different from the original.
Note that the US version of "I Love You" does not feature this track.
Don Nix
Going Down 5:58
Appears on: Going Down: The Songs Of Don Nix
Don Nix is a songwriter and musician from Memphis, Tennessee.
He is known as being a key part of the Memphis sound at Stax Records.
Going Down is his best known track, which was released in 1969 by
the band Moloch. The song later was covered by The Who, Deep Purple,
Led Zeppelin, and numberous others. Don released a new version on
his 2002 album Going Down: The Songs Of Don Nix. Brian May plays guitar
on the track. There are other versions of this song, released on albums
by Troy Turner and Leslie West. They seem to be possibly all recorded,
in part, in the same sessions. The mixes are different for sure and
different takes may have been used.
Dweezil & Ahmet
Zappa
Unknown Track
Appears on: Shampoohorn
From 2006, Brian May rumored on guitar for an unspecified track.
Eddie Howell
The Man From Manhattan 3:22
Appears on: The Solo
Collection, Ghost
Of A Smile, The Man From Manhattan CD
Man From Manhattan was recorded in Mid-January, 1976, just before
the band flew to New York (where, incidentally, they guested on Ian
Hunter's "You Nearly Did Me In"). This track sounds extremely Queen-like,
and it should. Freddie produced, played piano, and provided backing
vocals. To add to the Queen sound, Brian May played guitar and also
provided backing vocals. A fantastic song, borrowing a lot musically
from Killer Queen.
The Man From Manhattan (Back Again) 4:56
Appears on: Ghost
Of A Smile, The Man From Manhattan CD
This is a dodgy re-cutting of the song. Now we get some backwards
bits added. Stick the original version.
Man From Manhattan (Radio Version) 3:27
Appears on: UK Man From Manhattan CD single (1995)
A rather pointless edit/mix that appears on the CD single from 1995.
The intro is very slightly different and a repeated section at 3 minutes.
Man From Manhattan (2018 Radio Mix) 3:55
Appears on: Man From Manhattan 2018 CD single
A new version of Man From Manhattan, produced by Mike Moran, features
a brand new arrangement by the Pirate Swing Band while still retaining
the original performances by Eddie Howell, Freddie Mercury, and Brian
May, with some extra keyboard by Moran.
Man From Manhattan (2018 Extended Mix) 5:36
Appears on: Man From Manhattan 2018 CD single
Man From Manhattan (2018 Karaoke Mix) 3:54
Appears on: Man From Manhattan 2018 CD single
An instrumental version of the 2018 Radio Mix.
Extreme
Love Of My Life 4:31
Appears on: Song For Love 7" single, Song For Love 12" single, Song
For Love CD single
Song For Love is a track from Extreme's 1990 top 10 album Extreme
II - Pornograffiti. The single was not released until 1992, reaching
#12 in the UK. The B-side of the single is a cover of Queen's Love
Of My Life. The building blocks of this track were live recorded at
the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert. Further production work was put
into the track. The audience noise removed and it features additional
electric guitar by Brian May.
Foo Fighters
Have A Cigar 4:02
Appears on: Mission
Impossible 2 Soundtrack, Medium Rare, The Best Guitar Album In
The World! III
A heavy, rip-roaring cover of the classic Pink Floyd track. Taylor
Hawkins, not Dave Grohl provides lead vocals. Brian's guitar is throughout
the track. Please note that the Foo Fighters originally performed
this as a B-side without Brian May; this version is different from
that B-side version. This can only be found on the 2000 Mission Impossible
2 soundtrack.
Tired Of You 5:12
Appears on: One
By One
From the Foo Fighter's 2002 album, One By One, Tired Of You features
Brian's "Queen II-type" guitar sound by request of the Foos. The track
is is quiet and somber with Brian's orchestral guitar in the background.
One By One went on to be a big hit, although it was the band's least
favorite album.
Freddie Mercury
She Blows Hot And Cold (Alternative
Version featuring Brian May) 4:36
Appears on: The
Solo Collection
This is actually the original version recorded by Freddie, with Brian
on guitar. Because Freddie didn't want the other members to appear
on the album, he asked Brian to do the guitar track with the intention
of getting the session guitarist to redo it more or less the same
way Brian did it. So the finished version has the session guitarist
Paul Vincent copying this performance by Brian. The drums and piano
aren't as punchy as the finished version, but this is still a must
for Queen fans as Freddie and Brian seem to be having a lot of fun.
She Blows Hot And Cold (2019 Never Boring
Mix) 3:25
Appears on: Never
Boring CD, Never
Boring vinyl, Never
Boring Box Set
The 2019 Freddie Mercury compilation Never Boring mostly consisted
of new mixes of Freddie Mercury's solo work. The mixes preserved the
performance and sounded more contemporary. She Blows Hot And Cold
combines the performances of the original B-side with Brian May's
guitar from the Alternative Version).
Fuzzbox
Self! 3:43
Appears on: UK
Self! 7" vinyl, UK
Self! 7" vinyl picture disc, UK
Self! CD single, Big Bang
Fuzzbox were a UK all-girl rock band formed in Birmingham in 1985.
Their 1989 album Big Bang was a change of direction for the band;
their sound changed from rock to dance-oriented pop. Brian May plays
guitar on the track Self!, which was also released as a single. The
single reached as high as 24 in the UK charts.
Self! (Selfish Mix) 8:20
Appears on: UK
Self! 12" vinyl, US
Self! 12" vinyl, UK
Self! CD single
The Selfish Mix of Self! is a very long extended version. There are
large sections off added backbeat/drum machine percussion in between
the verses of the song. There doesn't seem to be any involvement from
Brian on this extended "selfish" mix.
Gareth Marks
Lady Of Leisure 5:01
Appears on: Unreleased
Lady Of Leisure is an unreleased song by Gareth Marks, who happens
to be a friend of Anita Dobson. A video was produced for it as well,
but it too was not officially released at the time. The song is a
fun, percussion-heavy funk-rock track. Brian plays guitar and also
appears in the video. The video can now be found on Gareth Marks'
website. Some sources have this track being recorded in 1989 and others
have it as late as 1991.
Go Bopper Go 3:30
Appears on: A Tribute To The Big Bopper
Gareth Marks played The Big Bopper in "Buddy - The Musical"
at The Victoria Palace in London. He recorded two songs in tribute
to the deceased singer. From the album "A Tribute To The Big
Bopper", Go Bopper Go is faithful to the original and features
Brian May on guitar. A video can be found on his website.
Bopper's Boogie Woogie 4:18
Appears on: A Tribute To The Big Bopper
Bopper's Boogie Woogie is another faithful tribute to The Big Bopper.
Like Go Bopper Go, this track features Brian on guitar and appears
on "A Tribute To The Big Bopper".
Gordon Giltrap
Heartsong 4:24
Appears on: Music
For The Small Screen
Gordon Giltrap is a well regarded English guitarist and composer.
Heartsong, originally released in 1977, was one of Giltrap's most
well-known songs. Giltrap's 1995 album Music For The Small Screen
features a re-recording of the classic track, this time featuring
Brian May, Steve Howe, Midge Ure, Rick Wakeman and Neil Murray.
Guns n' Roses
Catcher In The Rye (Demo)
5:37
Appears on: Unreleased
Guns N' Roses 2008 album Chinese Democracy was on track to be one
of rock n' roll's biggest unreleased projects. Axl Rose had fired
all of the original band members and had slowly rebuilt the band from
scratch. Long gone were Slash, Duff McKagan, Izzy Stradlin, et. al.
In their place were guitarists Buckethead, Ron Thal, Tommy Stinson
(Replacements), Robin Finck (NIN), and others. During the process
of recording the album, it seemed as though the band was a constant
revolving door of musicians. In around 1999, Brian May was called
on by Rose to contribute guitar on Catcher In The Rye. The demo, which
is not that different from the final release, features Brian prominently.
By the time the album was released in 2008, Brian's contributions
were replaced. This track, among others, were leaked on the internet
in the mid 2000's and gave a good view of where the project was headed.
Hale And Pace
The Stonk 3:46
Appears on: The
Stonk 7" vinyl, The
Stonk 12" vinyl, The
Stonk CD single
Gareth Hale and Norman Pace are a UK comedy team best known for their
sketch comedy television shows. In 1991, they released a charity single
on 7" vinyl, 12" vinyl, and CD single to aid the British
Charity, Comedy Relief. The single's main song, The Stonk, featured
an all-star line-up. Brian May from Queen produced, played keyboards,
and also played guitar. Roger Taylor, also from Queen, played drums.
The rest of the line-up is as follows: Hale and Pace (lead vocals),
Toni Iommi (guitars), Dave Gilmour (guitars), Cozy Powell (drums),
Rowan Atkinson (drums), Neil Murray (bass), Mike Moran (keyboards/backing
vocals), Joe Griffiths (keyboards), Chris Thompson (backing vocals),
Judie Tzuke (backing vocals), Maggie Ryder (backing vocals), Miriam
Stockley (backing vocals), and Suzie O'List (backing vocals). The
single reached number 1 in the UK in March 1991.
The Stonk (Extended Version) 5:17
Appears on: The
Stonk 12" vinyl, The
Stonk CD single
The Extended Version of The Stonk differs a bit from the normal version.
The "good evening, here is the six o' clock stonk" spoken
intro is removed completely; a very long piano intro replaces it.
There are many added instrumental bits, which, along with the intro,
adds a lot to the running time. The last three verses, however, are
removed.
Hank Marvin
We Are The Champions 5:04
Appears on: Into The Light, We Are The Champions 7" vinyl, We Are
The Champions CD single
Hank Marvin is an English guitar player who was part of the legendary
band The Shadows. The Shadows are best known for their instrumental
hits Apache and FBI. Hank Marvin's 1992 solo album Into The Light
features a guitar duet with Brian May, playing the classic Queen song
We Are The Champions.
We Are The Champions (Promo Edit) 4:00
Appears on: We Are The Champions promo CD single
The promo edit is an excellent, shorter version of the lengthy Hank
Marvin/Brian May version. A large chunk of the song is edited at the
third verse, removing some of the extraneous guitar. The edit is unnoticeable
and actually makes it more like the Queen version.
Heavy Pettin'
Glasgow based Heavy Pettin' grew out of a band called
Weeper. Weeper members Gary Moat (drums), Brian Waugh (bass), and
Gordon Bonnar (guitars) were joined by Steve Hayman (vocals) and Punky
Mendoza in 1981 to form Heavy Pettin'. Their first album, Lettin'
Loose, was released in 1983 under the Polydor label. Their heavy style
attracted Brian May and Mack to produce the album. Surprisingly, Brian
did not play guitar on any tracks.
In And Out Of Love 3:50
Appears on: Lettin
Loose, In And Out Of Love 12" vinyl
Track 1 on the Lettin' Loose album.
In And Out Of Love (Single Edit) 3:24
Appears on: In
And Out Of Love 7" vinyl
The single edit of In And Out Of Love appears exclusively on the
7" vinyl single. The edit effectively removes some of the instrumental
portions of the song.
Broken Heart 4:08
Appears on: Lettin
Loose, In
And Out Of Love 7" vinyl, In And Out Of Love 12" vinyl
Track 2 on the Lettin' Loose album.
Love On The Run 4:00
Appears on: Lettin
Loose
Track 3 on the Lettin' Loose album.
Love Times Love 4:59
Appears on: Lettin
Loose, Love
Times Love 7" vinyl, Love
Times Love 12" vinyl, Love
Times Love 7" picture disc
Track 4 on the Lettin' Loose album.
Victims Of The Night 5:14
Appears on: Lettin
Loose
Track 5 on the Lettin' Loose album.
Rock Me 4:58
Appears on: Lettin
Loose, Rock
Me 7" vinyl, Rock
Me 12" vinyl
Track 6 on the Lettin' Loose album..
Rock Me (Single Edit) 3:09
Appears on: Rock
Me 12" vinyl
The single edit of Rock Me appears only on the 12" vinyl
single. It is a fairly major edit, removing some instrumental sections
and four whole verses.
Shout It Out 3:34
Appears on: Lettin
Loose, Love
Times Love 7" vinyl, Love
Times Love 12" vinyl, Love
Times Love 7" picture disc
Track 7 on the Lettin' Loose album.
Devil In Her Eyes 5:08
Appears on: Lettin
Loose
Track 8 on the Lettin' Loose album.
Hell Is Beautiful 4:07
Appears on: Lettin
Loose
Track 9 on the Lettin' Loose album.
Holly Johnson
Love Train (Stroke It Up)
a.k.a. (7" Mix) a.k.a. (Americana Pop Version) 3:52
Appears on: Blast
Holly Johnson was the singer from Frankie Goes To Hollywood. This
'80s pop-rock dance track from his 1989 album Blast will appeal to
fans of the era, but maybe not rock purists. As an example of the
genre, it's rather good, an upbeat, bouncy track. Brian's guitar solo
fits quite well, too. This version goes by a few different subtitles,
which all seem to sound the same.
Love Train (Ride The "A" Train Mix) 6:45
Appears on: Love Train 12" vinyl
An extended mix of the track which breaks the backing the track down
in places and rebuilding it, similar to most '80s extended mixes.
If you like the original, you'll probably like this version. Brian's
guitar work is included in this mix.
Love Train (Americanos Big Beat Version) a.k.a.
(Frankie Knuckles Remix) 6:42
Appears on: Love Train Frankie Knuckles Remixes 12" vinyl, The People
Want To Dance 12" vinyl
This version does not include Brian May, but is listed here for information
purposes and to avoid confusion. A different extended mix, this one
favoring the back beat rhythm percussion parts and strips most of
the other backing out. The song is more laid back as a result, but
loses Brian's guitar work.
Love Train (Americana 12" Mix) 6:24
Appears on: Love Train 12" vinyl
This version does not include Brian May, but is listed here for information
purposes and to avoid confusion. This is an extended mix of the standard
version, which retains most of the layers throughout and seems to
favour the piano parts, as they feature more prominently here compared
to the other mixes. There's no sign of Brian on this version, either.
Love Train (Big Beat Radio Version) 4:22
Appears on: Love Train Frankie Knuckles Remixes 12" vinyl, The People
Want To Dance 12" vinyl
This version does not include Brian May, but is listed here for information
purposes and to avoid confusion. This is an edit of the Americanos
Big Beat Version and also doesn't feature Brian.
Ian And Belinda
Who Wants To Live Forever
3:52
Appears on: UK
Who Wants To Live Forever 7" vinyl, Queen
Greatest Video Hits II (Hidden Easter Egg Video)
Who Wants To Live Forever was re-recorded and released again in 1989
as a charity single for the British Bone Marrow Donor Appeal. Auditions
were held for children to sing the lead vocals; Ian Meeson and Belinda
Gillett were chosen. Brian May produces, plays guitar, and keyboards.
Roger Taylor plays percussion, John Deacon is on bass, and Michael
Kamen arranges. The track was recorded in June 1989 at Abbey Road
Studios.
Who Wants To Live Forever (Instrumental Version)
3:47
Appears on: UK
Who Wants To Live Forever 7" vinyl, UK
Who Wants To Live Forever 12" vinyl
The instrumental of the new Ian And Belinda version of Who Wants To
Live Forever is simply the backing track with no lead vocals. This
is a nice version to have, just to hear the new arrangement of the
song.
Who Wants To Live Forever (Extended Version)
4:11
Appears on: UK
Who Wants To Live Forever 12" vinyl
The Extended Version of the Ian and Belinda version of Who Wants To
Live Forever features an excellent orchestral intro that unfortunately
is missing from the proper version. This version appears exclusively
on the 12" vinyl single.
Who Wants To Live Forever (Original Demo)
3:47
Appears on: UK
Who Wants To Live Forever 12" vinyl
The demo version of Who Wants To Live Forever is a working version
of the track. Brian wanted a guide vocal work off of the new version
of the song. The most readily available child vocalist was none other
than his daughter, Louisa May. The backing track is the keyboard synthesizer
and some percussion.
Ian Hunter
You
Nearly Did Me In 5:46
Appears on: All-American Alien
Boy (1976)
A great song from the former lead singer to Mott The Hoople. This
track features Freddie, Brian, and Roger singing backing vocals. Appears
on Hunter's All American Boy album, which was rereleased in 1996.
Worth finding just for this song alone.
You Nearly Did Me In (Once Bitten Twice Shy Edit)
3:31
Appears on: Once Bitten Twice Shy compilation
A major edit, removing over two minutes of the song. Most notably
the piano intro is gone along with the final three verses.
All The Way From Memphis (Live at the Astoria
Theatre) 5:38
Appears on: Just Another Night: Live At The Astoria, London DVD
Ian Hunter's 2004 DVD Just Another Night is an excellent live concert,
featuring songs spanning his whole career. It was recorded live on
May 28, 2004 at The Astoria Theatre in London. All The Way From Memphis,
which was covered by Brian on Another World, was a stand-out performance
of the evening. Brian plays guitar and sings backing vocals, Joe Elliot
(Def Leppard) and Ian sing lead vocals, and Mick Ralphs of Bad Company
plays guitar as well.
Jayce Lewis
We Are One 4:57
Appears on: Millions Part 1
Jayce Lewis is a Welsh electro-rocker singer, songwriter and percussionist.
His song, We Are One, incorporated the hammer on guitar riff from
Brian May's song Cyborg. Brian's original guitar parts were sampled
one this track.
Jeffrey Osborne
Stay With Me Tonight (Single
Version) a.k.a. (Original US Album Version) 4:15
Appears on: US Stay With Me Tonight LP, UK Stay With Me Tonight 7"
vinyl
Jeffrey Osborne's second album from 1983 featured multiple hits and
a platinum award. One of those hits was the funky Stay With Me Tonight
(US 30/UK 18). Osborne's vocals are deep, different, and generally
fairly good. Brian's guitar solo only lasts a few seconds and is not
a major part of the song, but it is instantly recognizable. This version
was used as the album mix for the original US vinyl release in 1983
and for the UK 7" single.
Stay With Me Tonight (European Album Version)
4:55
Appears on: UK Stay With Me Tonight LP, 1989 US Stay With Me Tonight
CD LP
A longer version of Stay With Me Tonight was used in the European
market for the album. The US album cut featured the 7" single
edit used in Europe. Whenever the album was eventually released on
CD and later digital markplaces, this version would be the one to
appear on the album.
Stay With Me Tonight (Extended Remixed Version)
5:52
Appears on: UK Stay With Me Tonight 12" vinyl 1, US Stay With Me Tonight
12" vinyl
The Extended Version of Stay With Me Tonight is just that, a longer
version of the proper version. There is no heavy remixing or new twists,
just more repetition. The remix was done by American producer and
songwriter Bill Bottrell.
Stay With Me Tonight (Dub Version) 6:42
Appears on: US Stay With Me Tonight 12" vinyl, UK Stay With Me Tonight
12" vinyl 2
The Dub Version, as opposed to the Extended Mix, is more of a proper
remix. The song structure has changed. A bit of the backing vocals
introduces the track, which continues into a very repetitive, extended
version of the backing track. There are a few bits of backing vocals
and brief vocals from Jeffrey. This is best described as an extended,
remixed, instrumental version. The remix was done by American producer
and songwriter Bill Bottrell.
Stay With Me Tonight (Froggy Mix) 5:13
Appears on: UK You Should Be Mine 12" vinyl
The Froggy Mix is a fairly good remix of the proper version. The instruments,
especially the rhythm and bass guitars at the opening are more prominent.
This mix is preferable to the longer extended version.
The Jeffrey Osborne Soul Mix 8:30
Appears on: UK Stay With Me Tonight US Club Mix 12" vinyl
The Jeffrey Osborne Soul Mix appears on the B-side of a UK Stay With
Me Tonight 12" vinyl single. The "Soul Mix" mixes four
seperate songs into an eight and a half minute mash-up. This mix was
also done by Froggy.
Stay With Me Tonight (US Club Mix) 5:43
Appears on: UK Stay With Me Tonight US Club Mix 12" vinyl
This extended club mix, named the "US Club Mix", appears
exclusively on a UK 12" vinyl release (catalogue number AMX 188).
Judging by the track time on the label, it is a unique mix and not
the Extended Remixed Version.
Two Wrongs Don't Make It Right 4:43
Appears on: Stay With Me Tonight
From the 1983 album Stay With Me Tonight, this track is similar in
style to Stay With Me Tonight, but with a much faster, poppier, tempo.
Brian, again, plays guitar on the track.
Jennifer Rush
Who Wants To Live Forever
3:58
Appears on: Out
Of My Hands
US pop singer Jennifer Rush is best known for her track The
Power Of Love. Jennifer was also a part of the Artists United For
Nature in 1989, along with Brian May. In 1995 Jennifer and Brian
collaborated again on the classic Queen track Who Wants To Live
Forever. Brian, of course, plays guitar, sings backing vocals, and
even sings lead vocals for a verse.
Jerry Lee Lewis
From Jerry Lee Lewis' November 21, 1989 concert
at the Hammersmith Odeon in London (then named 'Labatt's Apollo').
The concert featured many guest musicians, including Brian May,
Van Morrison and Dave Davies, to name a few. The concert was filmed
and released on VHS under the title The Killer Live and later on
DVD as Jerry Lee Lewis And Friends. Brian performs on eight tracks.
High School Confidential
Appears on: The Killer Live VHS, Jerry Lee Lewis and Friends DVD
Live from the 1989 Hammersmith Odeon concert.
Rockin' My Life Away
Appears on: The Killer Live VHS, Jerry Lee Lewis and Friends DVD
Live from the 1989 Hammersmith Odeon concert.
Johnny B. Goode
Appears on: The Killer Live VHS, Jerry Lee Lewis and Friends DVD
Live from the 1989 Hammersmith Odeon concert.
Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On
Appears on: The Killer Live VHS, Jerry Lee Lewis and Friends DVD
Live from the 1989 Hammersmith Odeon concert.
Great Balls Of Fire
Appears on: The Killer Live VHS, Jerry Lee Lewis and Friends DVD
Live from the 1989 Hammersmith Odeon concert.
Good Golly Miss Molly / Tutti Frutti
Appears on: The Killer Live VHS, Jerry Lee Lewis and Friends DVD
Live from the 1989 Hammersmith Odeon concert.
High Heel Sneakers
Appears on: The Killer Live VHS, Jerry Lee Lewis and Friends DVD
Live from the 1989 Hammersmith Odeon concert.
Wild One (also known as Real Wild Child)
Appears on: The Killer Live VHS, Jerry Lee Lewis and Friends DVD
Live from the 1989 Hammersmith Odeon concert.
Jimmy Gnecco
Someone To Die For 5:07
Appears on: Spider-Man
2 Soundtrack
Someone To Die For is an excellent track that appears on the 2004
Spider-Man 2 Soundtrack. Jimmy Gnecco provides excellent lead vocals
and Brian's guitar soars throughout the entire song. Chris Cornell
of Soundgarden/Audioslave fame co-wrote the lyrics and Rick Rubin
produced. Unfortunately, the song was completed just for addition
on the soundtrack and was not actually used in the movie. Also of
note, there is a demo version of this song featuring Chris Cornell's
lead vocals (but no guitar from Brian).
Jonathan Kelly
Fork In The Road
Appears on: Unreleased
Jonathan Kelly is an Irish musician who has been performing and
recording since the mid 60s; including being a member of Humpy Bong
with former Smile member Tim Staffell. Kelly's song Fork In The
Road, featuring Brian May, most likely was recorded in the early
days of Queen, but some sources say it was recorded while he was
still with Smile. The Fan Club Biography dates it to 1989. Regardless,
Brian plays guitar on this still unreleased track.
José Lucas
Electric Rhumba (Tour Du
Monde En 45 Tours) 3:55
Appears on: France Electric Rhumba 7" vinyl
Electric Rumba is a French-only 7" and 12" release by
José Lucas. Brian is reported to play guitar on the track
and is thanked on the back sleeve. Brian was asked about the track
on his website and he responded, "No recollection - sorry.
Does anyone have a copy?". A 12" was also released with
remixes, but no information is known about them or Brian's involvement
as of yet.
Electric Rhumba (Tour Du Monde - Club Remix)
6:55
Appears on: France Electric Rhumba 12" vinyl
Electric Rhumba (Tour Du Monde - Radio Mix)
5:20
Appears on: France Electric Rhumba 12" vinyl
Judie Tzuke
I Can Read Books 4:48
Appears on: Wonderland
Judie Tzuke is an English singer and songwriter best known for her
hit Stay With Me Till Dawn. Judie's 1992 album Wonderland featured
Brian May playing guitar on the track I Can Read Books. The album
was later re-issued in 2001 on the Sanctuary label.
Lady Ga Ga
Yoü And I 5:07
Appears on: US
Born This Way CD, US
Born This Way 2 CD Special Edition, UK
Born This Way CD, UK
Born This Way 2 CD Special Edition
From Lady Gaga's monster 2011 release, Born This Way, Yoü And
I is a fantastic track; showing off all of Lady Gaga's writing and
performing talents. Brian appears on the track with some great guitar
work (although it is slightly buried in the mix). Queen's familiar
stomp-stomp-clap from We Will Rock You is also sampled into the
track. Also of note, Lady Gaga was joined by Brian at the 2011 MTV
Video Music Awards for a live performance of this song.
Note: Many versions of this song exist, incorporating different
cities into the lyrics, presumably for local markets.
The Left Handed Marriage
This background information is based off of the
November, 1995
article
in Record Collector Magazine.
Bill Richards, a one time band-mate of Brian May, formed a band
called The Left Handed Marriage. The band consisted of Bill Richards
(guitar/vocals), Jenny Hill (vocals), Henry Deval (vocals), and
Terry Goulds (flute/vocals). After two years of performing, the
band released their first album pressing called On The Right Side
Of The Left Handed Marraige in 1967. The pressingly was privately
done and done in a very small number. In March 1967, Bill Richards
signed a 1 year contract with EMI. Bill asked Brian May, then with
1984, for help. Brian was to provide guitar and backing vocals on
some recording sessions to create a "fuller" sound for
the band.
Give Me Time (AMC Sound Acetate Version)
Appears on: AMC 7" EP Acetate - Never professionally released
Recorded April 4, 1967 at AMC Sound in Manor Road, Twickenham. This
track is an early version of I Need Time. The band line-up included
Jenny Hill, Henry Devel, Terry Goulds, Bill Richards, and guest
guiarist Brian May from 1984.
She Was Once My Friend (AMC Sound Acetate
Version)
Appears on: AMC 7" EP Acetate - Never professionally released
Recorded April 4, 1967 at AMC Sound in Manor Road, Twickenham. The
band line-up included Jenny Hill, Henry Devel, Terry Goulds, Bill
Richards, and guest guiarist Brian May from 1984.
Sugar Lump Girl (AMC Sound Acetate Version)
Appears on: AMC 7" EP Acetate - Never professionally released
Recorded April 4, 1967 at AMC Sound in Manor Road, Twickenham. The
band line-up included Jenny Hill, Henry Devel, Terry Goulds, Bill
Richards, and guest guiarist Brian May from 1984.
Yours Sincerely (AMC Sound Acetate Version)
Appears on: AMC 7" EP Acetate - Never professionally released
Recorded April 4, 1967 at AMC Sound in Manor Road, Twickenham. The
band line-up included Jenny Hill, Henry Devel, Terry Goulds, Bill
Richards, and guest guiarist Brian May from 1984.
I Need Time (Abbey Road Acetate Version)
Appears on: Abbey Road 7" EP Acetate - Never professionally
released
Recorded June 29, 1967 at Abbey Road Studios. The band line-up included
Jenny Hill, Henry Devel, Terry Goulds, Bill Richards, guest guiarist
Brian May from 1984, and guest bass player Dave Dilloway, also from
1984.
Appointment (Abbey Road Acetate Version)
Appears on: Abbey Road 7" EP Acetate - Never professionally
released
Recorded June 29, 1967 at Abbey Road Studios. The band line-up included
Jenny Hill, Henry Devel, Terry Goulds, Bill Richards, guest guiarist
Brian May from 1984, and guest bass player Dave Dilloway, also from
1984.
I Need Time (Regent Sound Version) 3:15
Appears on: 1993 Crazy Chain CD
Recorded July 31, 1967 at Regent Sound, London. The band line-up
included Jenny Hill, Henry Devel, Terry Goulds, Bill Richards, Peter
Trout (drums), guest guiarist Brian May from 1984, and guest bass/piano
player John Frankel. This recording was finally released as one
of the final three tracks on the reformed Left Handed Marriage's
1993 CD Crazy Chain. The master tape no longer exists, so the track
was sourced from the 7" acetate.
Appointment (Regent Sound Version) 2:36
Appears on: 1993 Crazy Chain CD
Recorded July 31, 1967 at Regent Sound, London. The band line-up
included Jenny Hill, Henry Devel, Terry Goulds, Bill Richards, Peter
Trout (drums), guest guiarist Brian May from 1984, and guest bass/piano
player John Frankel. This recording was finally released as one
of the final three tracks on the reformed Left Handed Marriage's
1993 CD Crazy Chain. The master tape no longer exists, so the track
was sourced from the 7" acetate.
She Was Once My Friend (Regent Sound 7"
Edit Version) 3:16
Appears on: 1993 Crazy Chain CD
Recorded July 31, 1967 at Regent Sound, London. The band line-up
included Jenny Hill, Henry Devel, Terry Goulds, Bill Richards, Peter
Trout (drums), guest guiarist Brian May from 1984, and guest bass/piano
player John Frankel. This recording was finally released as one
of the final three tracks on the reformed Left Handed Marriage's
1993 CD Crazy Chain. This track was sourced from the original master
tape. Also of note, if you know Brian's guitar work with Smile,
you'll recognize the intro to this track.
She Was Once My Friend (Regent Sound Version)
Appears on: Unreleased
Recorded July 31, 1967 at Regent Sound, London. The band line-up
included Jenny Hill, Henry Devel, Terry Goulds, Bill Richards, Peter
Trout (drums), guest guiarist Brian May from 1984, and guest bass/piano
player John Frankel. This is the full, unedited version from those
sessions. It is unknown if this track still exists in any form.
Leslie West
Going Down 4:16
Appears on: Soundtrack
Leslie West is an American musician, best known for being a founding
member of the band Mountain. His 2015 solo album, Soundtrack, features
a cover of the Don Nix song Going Down. Brian plays guitar on the
track. There are other versions of this song, released on albums
by Don Nix and Troy Turner. They seem to be possibly all recorded,
in part, in the same sessions. The mixes are different for sure
and different takes may have been used.
Living In A Box
Blow The House Down 4:16
Appears on: Gatecrashing LP, UK Blow The House Down 7" vinyl,
UK Blow The House Down 12" vinyl, UK Blow The House Down 12" vinyl
picture sleeve, UK Blow The House Down CD single
Living In A Box was a British trio whose second album, Gatecrashing,
was released in June 1989. The second track, Blow The House Down,
is a high-energy '80s pop-rocker (more pop than rock), with a
lot of percussion and synths. Brian May's guitar solo is very
recognizable here.
Blow The House Down (Keith Cohen Mix)
6:25
Appears on: UK Blow The House Down 12" vinyl picture sleeve, UK
Blow The House Down CD single
This extended dance mix breaks down the the elements of the song
down and layers each onto the percussion track as is it progresses.
A showcase for each part, really. By easing into each part, the
manic-ness of the original is restrained, resulting in a calmer
mix, but one that lacks Brian's solo and has practically no guitars
at all.
Blow The House Down (Club Dub Mix) 6:22
Appears on: UK Blow The House Down 12" vinyl, UK Blow The House
Down 12" vinyl picture sleeve, UK Blow The House Down CD single
Another dance mix that, like the Keith Cohen Mix, breaks the percussion
and synth tracks down and lacks Brian's guitar work entirely.
Blow The House Down (Conversion Mix) 7:09
Appears on: UK Blow The House Down 12" vinyl, UK Blow The House
Down CD single
The Conversion Mix is closer to the original version of the song,
rather than a dance mix, this track retains Brian's solo is all
its glory and is more of a straightforward extended version. It
features some nice instrumental sections throughout.
Blow The House Down (House Mix)
Appears on: UK Blow The House Down 12" promo vinyl
The House Mix appears only on a UK white label promo vinyl (cat
#LIBXR 5). No further information on this version (or whether
it features Brian).
Lonnie Donegan
Diggin' My Potatoes 3:31
Appears on: Puttin' On The
Style
After lengthy absense, 50s "King of Skiffle" Lonnie Donegan returned
with a new record, accompanied by some of the biggest names of
the 60s and 70s. One of those names was Brian May. The track was
recorded in Wessex Studios during the News Of The World sessions
and released in 1978. The track sounds sound very much from the
50s, but is also a very fun track. Brian's guitar playing goes
along nicely with the song and is instantly recognizable. Also
of note, Elton John plays piano on this track.
I'm Just A Rolling Stone 7:29
Appears on: Puttin' On The Style 2007 Remaster
I'm Just A Rolling Stone was an unreleased track from Donegan's
1978 album Puttin' On The Style. Almost 30 years later, a remastered
edition of the album was released, this time with bonus tracks.
Donegan sings lead vocals, Brian plays guitar and provides background
vocals. The rip-roaring piano track is by none other than Elton
John. Although it is a bit lengthy, the performance from all three
has a lot of passion.
Let Your Heart Rule Your Head
Appears on: Unreleased
Brian May provided background vocals and wrote Let Your Heart
Rule Your Head for Lonnie Donegan's 1988 album. The song was ultimately
never used for the project. Brian later recorded a new version
for his 1992 Back To The Light album.
Lynn Carey Saylor
If We Believe (Single
Version) 4:01
Appears on: If We Believe CD single
Lynn Carey Saylor is an American writer, singer, piano player,
and guitarist. The 2002 US If We Believe CD single was her first
commercially available release; a portion of the sales went to
the Mercury Phoenix Trust.. Lynn sings lead vocals, Brian May
provides background vocals and guitar.
If We Believe (Album Version) 3:55
Appears on: You Like It Clean CD
In 2007, Lynn Carey Saylor released her first full album entitled
You Like It Clean. If We Believe was included on this album, although
it is a whole new version of the song. Lynn's lead vocal performance
is difference, and the percussion has backing track has been changed.
Brian's guitar performance is still here, unchanged.
We Belong 4:29
Appears on: You Like It Clean CD
We Belong was originally a #5 US hit in 1985 for Pat Benetar.
Lynn Carey Saylor recorded a cover version for her 2007 album
You Like It Clean. Brian May helps out on backing and lead vocals
(in places) and of course, plays guitar. Also of note, Danny Miranda
and Spike Edney perform on the track. Original track writers Eric
Lowen and Dan Navarro also provide backing vocals.
Meatloaf
A Time For Heroes 4:13
Appears on: UK
A Time For Heroes 7" vinyl, US
A Time For Heroes 12" vinyl, US
A Time For Heroes CD single
A Time For Heroes served as the theme of the 1987 International
Summer Special Olympics World Games. The original single and extended
versions are instrumental and are performed by Tangerine Dream.
The vocal version features Meat Loaf on lead vocals and Brian
May on guitar.
Bad For Good 7:32
Appears on: Bat
Out Of Hell III: The Monster Is Loose CD
Twenty-nine years after the first Bat Out Of Hell, and thirteen
years after Bat Out Of Hell II; Meat Loaf returned in 2006 with
Bat Out Of Hell III: The Monster Is Loose. Bad For Good was written
by Jim Steinman to appear on the follow-up to the original Bat
Out Of Hell album. Steinman ended up recording the track himself
years later for his 1981 album also called Bad For Good. Brian's
guitar is very obvious at the opening of the song, returns at
4:30 for a solo, and appears sporatically throughout. A highlight
of the album.
Love Is Not Real/Next Time You Stab Me
In The Back 7:33
Appears on: Hang
Cool Teddy Bear CD
From Meat Loaf's 2010 album, Hang Cool Teddy Bear, Love Is Not
Real/Next Time You Stab Me In The Back is a track stacked with
notable guest musicians. Brian May and Steve Vai share guitar
duties, while Taylor Hawkins from Foo Fighters assists with background
vocals (and has a co-writing credit on the track). The song is
typical Meat Loaf, going through many shifts between a big over
the top sound that are accentuated with quieter parts. As you
would expect, Steve Vai and Brian May share thrashing guitar solos.
A Kiss Is A Terrible Thing To Waste (Demo)
Appears on: 1998 The Very Best of Meat Loaf, Whistle Down The
Wind
The 1961 film Whistle Down The Wind was adapted as a musical by
Andrew Lloyd Webber and Jim Steinman. A 1998 concept album featuring
popular artists performing songs from the musical was released.
The track A Kiss Is A Terrible Thing To Waste was performed by
Meat Loaf and Bonnie Tyler. There are rumors that Brian played
additional guitar on the final version of this song. Other sources
state that he only was involved at the demo stage and never made
it on the final version.
Mick Ronson
All The Young Dudes
Appears on: Heaven And Hull
This is the live version taken from the Freddie Mercury Tribute
Concert. It appears on Mick Ronson's posthumous Heaven And Hull
album.
Minako Honda
Minako Honda was a Japanese vocalist and actress.
Minako Honda met Brian in 1986 and wanted to do UK style rock
song. The result is the Brian May-penned Golden Days and Crazy
Nights. The two tracks were released in various formats and versions
in 1987 (depending on the country). The Japan releases featured
Japanese lyrics, while the UK release had English lyrics. Brian
may wrote, produced, and played guitar on both tracks. Honda's
career began as a pop singer, but evolved after taking formal
singing and acting lessions. She died in 2005 as a result of Leukemia.
Brian later revisisted the song Golden Days in 2017 with Kerry
Ellis; their
studio
album shared the same name.
Golden Days (English Version) 4:04
Appears on: UK Golden Days 7" vinyl
Minako Honda recorded Golden Days and Crazy nights in both
English and in Japanese. The English version of the Golden Days
only appeared on the UK Golden Days 7" vinyl. The track was
paired with the English version of Crazy Nights as a B-side. Brian
wrote the song, plays guitar, and produced.
Golden Days (Japanese Version) 4:29
Appears on: Japan Crazy Nights 12" vinyl, Japan Crazy Nights 7"
vinyl, Japan Golden Days CD single
The Japanese vocal version of Golden Days appears exclusively
on the Japan 7" and 12" vinyl formats. The instrumental
backing track is slightly different than the English version,
resulting in the difference in length. Brian wrote the song, plays
guitar, and produced.
Golden Days (2006 Remix) 4:29
Appears on: Golden Days CD
As a tribute to Minako Honda, Brian May (with help from Justin
Shirley-Smith and Kris Fredriksson) remixed Golden Days. There
seem to be some new performance elements from Brian as well. The
vocal track used is the english one. It was released on the 2006
Golden Days compilation tribute CD. The remix is preferable to
the original 1987 release, sounding much cleaner and fresh. Brian
wrote the song, plays guitar, and produced.
Crazy Nights (English Version) 4:17
Appears on: UK Golden Days 7" vinyl
The English vocal version of Crazy Nights appeared exclusively
on the UK Golden Days 7" vinyl. The run time is slightly
different than the Japanese vocal version due to some changes
in instrumental backing track. Brian wrote the song, plays guitar,
and produced.
Crazy Nights (Japanese Version) 4:07
Appears on: Japan Crazy Nights 7" vinyl, Japan Crazy Nights 12"
vinyl
The Japanese vocal version of Crazy Nights was released exclusively
in Japan in 1987. The backing track is different than the English
version. Brian wrote the song, plays guitar, and produced.
Momo Cortés
Tanto Amor No Es Bueno
4:22
Appears on: Constante Contradicción
Momo Cortés played the role of Galileo in the Spanish production
of the Queen musical We Will Rock You. His 2007 album Constante
Contradicción includes a Spanish lyric version of Too Much Love
Will Kill You. Brian appears on the track playing guitar, providing
a fresh guitar solo.
Motörhead
The Devil 2:54
Appears on: Bad Magic
Motörhead's 22nd and last album "Bad Magic" was released
in August 2015, four months before the death of frontman Lemmy
Kilmister. Brian May provides a guitar solo for the track The
Devil.
Os Paralamas Do Sucesso
El Vampiro Bajo El Sol
4:14
Appears on: Severino
A translation of this song from Portuguese to English shows that
it appears to be about a vampire, or the vampire is a metaphor.
Musically, it's a good Brazilian rock song, with a lot of flavour.
Brian's guitar work is very recognizable and if you're after something
a bit different from straightforward rock, you can't go wrong
here.
Paul Rodgers
I'm Ready 2:59
Appears on: Muddy
Water Blues
Ten Years after his first solo album, Cut Loose, Paul Rodgers'
follow-up album Muddy Water Blues was released in 1993. The entire
album is a tribute to the songs of Muddy Waters. The album features
an incredible line-up of guest musicians including Jeff Beck,
David Gilmour, Steve Miller, Buddy Guy, and Slash to name a few.
One of those guest musicians is Brian May, who plays guitar on
the classic song I'm Ready.
Good Morning Little School Girl (Live
at the Montreux Jazz Festival, 1994) 4:13
Appears on: Live At Montreux 1994 CD, Live At Montreux 1994 DVD
Paul Rodgers' 1994 live performance in Montreux was finally released
on DVD/CD in 2011. The setlist is made up of songs from his Muddy
Waters tribute album and from his time with Free and Bad Company.
Paul welcomes Brian onstage to play guitar as part of the set,
starting with the blues standard Good Morning Little School Girl.
I'm Ready (Live at the Montreux Jazz Festival,
July 1994) 3:36
Appears on: Live At Montreux 1994 CD, Live At Montreux 1994 DVD
Paul Rodgers' 1994 live performance in Montreux was finally released
on DVD/CD in 2011. Brian plays guitar on I'm Ready, which he also
did on Paul's 1993 album "Muddy Water Blues".
Little Bit Of Love (Live at the Montreux
Jazz Festival, July 1994) 3:32
Appears on: Live At Montreux 1994 CD, Live At Montreux 1994 DVD
Paul Rodgers' 1994 live performance in Montreux was finally released
on DVD/CD in 2011. Brian May continues to play in the set on the
Free classic Little Bit Of Love. Queen + Paul Rodgers would play
this track sporadically on their 2005 European Tour.
All Right Now (Live at the Montreux Jazz
Festival, July 1994) 6:55
Appears on: Live At Montreux 1994 CD, Live At Montreux 1994 DVD
Paul Rodgers' 1994 live performance in Montreux was finally released
on DVD/CD in 2011. Brian plays guitar on the Free classic All
Right Now.
Crossroads (Live at the Montreux Jazz
Festival, July 1994) 4:40
Appears on: Live At Montreux 1994 CD, Live At Montreux 1994 DVD
Paul Rodgers' 1994 live performance in Montreux was finally released
on DVD/CD in 2011. Brian plays guitar on the Robert Johnson blues
standard Crossroads. This song is best known for the version performed
by Cream.
Hoochie Coochie Man (Live at the Montreux
Jazz Festival, July 1994) 7:37
Appears on: Live At Montreux 1994 CD, Live At Montreux 1994 DVD
Paul Rodgers' 1994 live performance in Montreux was finally released
on DVD/CD in 2011. Paul's Montreux concert ended with an ensemble
performance of Hoochie Coochie Man. Brian plays guitar.
All Right Now (The Strat Pack, Live at
Wembley, September 2004) 6:52
Appears on: The Strat Pack: Live In Concert DVD
The Strat Pack was a concert held on September 24, 2004 to celebrate
the 50th Anniversary of the Fender Stratocaster guitar. Brian
joined Paul Rodgers on stage to perform All Right Now. This performance
was the catalyst for the formation of Queen + Paul Rodgers. Brian
May plays guitar, this time his Red Special, not a Fender.
Pavarotti
Too Much Love Will Kill
You 4:27
Appears on: Pavarotti & Friends
Performed at the Pavarotti & Friends concert in Modena, Italy
on September 27, 1992. This is not a duet with Pavarotti (which
would happen at a concert years later), but rather Brian performing
on his own. At least some of this live performance is to a backing
track.
Phenomena
Phenomena was a super-group formed by record producer
Tom Galley, Metalhammer magazine founder Wilfried Rimensberger,
and Whitesnake guitarist Mel Galley (brother of Tom Galley). The
original line-up was made of Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple), Don Airey
(Ozzy Osborne band), Mel Galley (Whitesnake), Neil Murray (Whitesnake),
and Cozy Powell (Whitesnake, Rainbow, Brian May Band). Though
the years and different albums, the band's line-up changed regularly,
the one constant being the involvement of Tom Galley (later billed
as the creator of Phenomena).
The third album, 1988's Phenomena 3: Inner Vision, is produced
by Tom Galley and Leif Johansen. The band lineup is made up of
Scott Gorham (guitar), Keith Murell (vocals), Michael Sturgis
(drums), and Merv O' Ryan Spence (bass & vocals). Brian May
plays guitar on two songs on the album, A Whole Lot Of Love and
What About Love.
A Whole Lot Of Love 5:39
Appears on: Phenomena III: Inner Vision
What About Love 5:04
Appears on: Phenomena III: Inner Vision
Quartz
Circles 3:38
Appears on: UK Stoking Up The Fires Of Hell 7" vinyl,
Stand Up And Fight 2008 remaster, Satan's Serenade
Quartz was a UK metal band founded in 1974. The group's self-titled
first album was produced by Black Sabbath founder and guitarist
Tony Iommi. Quartz's 1980 single Stoking Up The Fires Of Hell
featured a B-side called Circles. For the track Circles, recorded
in 1977, Iommi enlisted some help from Sabbath bandmate Ozzy Osbourne
for backing vocals and Queen guitarist Brian May for additional
guitar. The song was later made available on the Stand Up And
Fight 2004 remaster and the Satan's Serenade compilation album.
Ramoncín
Como Un Susurro 4:59
Appears on: La Vida En El Filo, Spain Como En Susurro 7" vinyl,
Spain Como Un Susurro 12" vinyl
Ramoncín is a famous Spanish rock singer and songwriter,
finding success in the late 70s an early 80s in Spain. His 1986
album La Vida En El Filo features Brian May playing guitar on
the track Como Un Susurro.
Rick Parfitt
Twinkletoes 2:55
Appears on: Over And Out
Over And Out is the first and only solo album by Status Quo guitarist,
singer and songwriter Rick Parfitt. Rick passed away before the
album could be finished, but it was completed posthumously by
his producer and various collaborators. Brian May appears on the
lead track, Twinkletoes, providing his signature guitar sound.
Rick Wakeman
From Wikipedia: "In 2007 Brian May completed
his PhD dissertation, which was left unfinished in 1974 when
Queen began to achieve significant success. May’s work focused
on zodiacal dust in the solar system. He had studied at Tenerife
earlier through Imperial College in London, and resumed work
there more than 30 years later. In 2007, his new advisor was
Garik Israelian, and the two struck up a friendship, Israelian
also being a musician. This led to the founding of the Starmus
Festival — the name paying homage to stars and music — and the
stage was set for the first Festival, which would occur four
years later."
The 2014 Starmus Festival featured Rick Wakeman (best known
from Yes) and the English Rock Ensemble. Brian May joined them
for a few songs that evening. The performance and other clips
of the festival were released on DVD in September 2016.
Guitar Solo/Last Horizon (Live at the
Starmus Festival, September 2014) 11:14
Appears on: Live At Starmus DVD
Brian joins Rick Wakeman and the English Rock Ensemble to perform
his signature guitar solo and Last Horizon.
'39 (Live at the Starmus Festival, September
2014) 3:31
Appears on: Live At Starmus DVD
Brian joins Rick Wakeman and the English Rock Ensemble to perform
'39. Brian explains the meaning of the song and the science
behind the story at the beginning. Rick Wakeman handles chorus
effects and the "space journey" part on keyboards.
Starship Trooper (Live at the Starmus
Festival, September 2014) 17:32
Appears on: Live At Starmus DVD
Brian joins Rick Wakeman and the English Rock Ensemble to perform
the Yes classic Starship Trooper. Brian starts performing at
around 12 minutes into the song.
Robbie Williams
Eternity 4:59
Appears on: Eternity CD single, Robbie Williams' Greatest Hits
Eternity is a single-only release from the former Take That
member and hugely successful UK solo artist Robbie Williams.
The song was an instant hit for Robbie Williams, topping the
UK chart at number 1 in 2001. Brian May appears on the track
playing guitar.
Eternity (Radio Edit) 4:09
Appears on: Eternity promo CD single
This promo radio edit of Eternity omits two verses (from
"I sing this summer..." through to "before you
know it's come and gone too soon").
Rock Against Repatriation
Sailing 4:10
Appears on: UK Sailing 7" vinyl, UK Sailing 12" vinyl, UK Sailing
CD single
Sailing was written by Gavin Sutherland and originally released
on the 1972 album Lifeboat, by The Sutherland Brothers Band.
Rod Stewart later recorded it, resulting in a number 1 UK hit.
Steve Hackett, guitarist from Genesis, later recorded/produced
the song in 1990 with help of some musician friends. This group
was called Rock Against Repatriation and featured Hacket, Brian
May, Phil Manzanera, Bonnie Tyler, and many others. The song
served as a charity single and a protest song to stop the repatriation
of the Vietnamese boat people in Hong Kong. An entire album
was planned, but the lack of success from the single brought
the project to an end. Brian May provdes guitar.
Sailing (Instrumental Version) 4:10
Appears on: UK Sailing 7" vinyl, UK Sailing 12" vinyl, UK Sailing
CD single
This is a proper instrumental version of the Sailing single
(no vocals).
Rock Aid Armenia
Rock Aid Armenia was a charity project created
by Jon Dee to raise money for victims of the 1988 Spitak Earthquake
in Armenia. One of the charity releases was a cover of the Deep
Purple classic song Smoke On The Water. The recording features
an all star cast of musicians:
Guitars: Ritchie Blackmore (Deep Purple, Rainbow), David
Gilmour (Pink Floyd), Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath), Alex Lifeson
(Rush), Brian May (Queen)
Bass Guitar: Chris Squire (Yes)
Rhythm Guitar: Geoff Beauchamp (Eighth Wonder)
Vocals: Bryan Adams, Bruce Dickinson (Iron Maiden), Ian
Gillan (Deep Purple), Paul Rodgers (Free, Bad Company)
Keyboards: Geoff Downes (Yes, Asia), Keith Emerson (Emerson,
Lake & Palmer)
Drums: Roger Taylor (Queen)
Producers: Gary Langan, Geoff Downes
The song was recorded over five sessions at Metropolis Studios
in London. David Gilmour from Pink Floyd was the first artist
to join the cause, giving it validity and a big name to entice
other stars to join. Neil Peart from Rush was to also play drums
on the track, but schedules did not allow that to happen.
Session info from
Rockaidarmenia.com
Session 1 - July 8, 1989
Brian May, Roger Taylor, Chris Squire, and Geoff Downes began
work on the backing track. Brian was limited due to a broken
arm from a skateboard accident. Geoff Beauchamp from Eighth
Wonder stepped in on guitar for this session. Paul Rodgers laid
down his lead vocal session. David Gilmour and Ian Gillan came
in later on this session.
Session 2 - August 5, 1989
This session features the famous footage of Brian May and David
Gilmour performing in the studio together. Brian's guitar solo
originated from this session. Ian Gillan laid down his vocal
track.
Session 3 - August 27, 1989
Bruce Dickinson recorded his lead vocals and worked on backing
vocals with Ian Giilan. Bryan Adams and Ian also laid down backing
vocals later in the day. Keith Emerson recorded keyboards as
well.
Session 4 - September 10, 1989
Tony Iommi, Ritchie Blackmore, and Brian May all played guitar.
Brian and Tony later went to the main studio to mess around,
playing Apache by the Shadows.
Session 5 - September 24, 1989
Alex Lifeson recorded his guitar parts and was joined by Geoff
Downes.
The final mix of all five sessions was completed the next week.
This new recording of the song was a top 40 hit in the UK. It
was featured in various forms on 7" vinyl, 12" vinyl,
CD single, and on The Earthquake Album. The original singles
from 1989 feature the first mix; it was remixed again for a
1990 release (and for the album). The song was released again
in 2010 as Smoke One The Water: The Metropolis Sessions, featuring
some of the familiar 1989 mixes, a new mix, and a DVD.
Smoke On The Water (Radio Mix) 5:08
Appears on: UK
Smoke On The Water 7" vinyl (1989), UK
Smoke On The Water CD single (1989), UK
Smoke On The Water '90 Mayhem Mix 12" vinyl, UK
Smoke On The Water '90 7" vinyl
The original Smoke On The Water release was the Radio Mix, found
on the 7" vinyl and CD single from 1989. Note that the
2010 re-release lists the 1990 Radio Mix. It is not this mix,
but rather it is The Earthquake Album version. This mix is also
labelled as the "original extended version" on the
UK/French Smoke On The Water '90 12" vinyl single.
Smoke On The Water (Extended Mix) 5:52
Appears on: UK
Smoke On The Water 12" vinyl (1989), UK
Smoke On The Water CD single (1989), UK
Smoke On The Water '90 Mayhem Mix 12" vinyl, Smoke
On The Water: The Metropolis Sessions
The extended mix of Smoke On the Water first appeared on the
1989 12" vinyl single and on the 1989 CD single. It was
later released again in 1990 in various formats as "The
Mayhem Mix". It features the chrous repeated a few times
and some additional instrumental bits. Note, this is labelled
as the "Original 1989 Mix" on the 2010 re-release.
Smoke On The Water (Mayhem Mix) 5:52
Appears on: UK
Smoke On The Water 12" vinyl (1989), UK
Smoke On The Water CD single (1989), UK
Smoke On The Water '90 Mayhem Mix 12" vinyl, Smoke
On The Water: The Metropolis Sessions
As mentioned in the previous entry, this is a renaming of the
original 1989 Extended Mix.
Smoke On The Water (Mega-Rock Remix)
6:02
Appears on: UK
Smoke On The Water Mega-Rock Remix 12" vinyl
The Mega Rock Remix appears only its own, blue 12" vinyl
release. It is very similar to the extended version. This version
extends The Earthquake Album version. The intro instrumental
is quite a bit longer. There are some other minor mix differences
at the beginning.
Smoke On The Water '90 (a.k.a The Earthquake
Album Version, a.k.a. '90 Radio Mix) 4:06
Appears on: UK
The Earthquake Album, UK
Smoke On The Water '90 7" vinyl, Netherlands
Smoke On The Water '90 7" vinyl, Smoke
On The Water: The Metropolis Sessions
The Earthquake Album version is a remix of the 1989 7"
release. It loses the final two verses and some instrumental
bits. This is called the 1990 Radio Mix on the 2010 re-release.
Smoke On The Water (2010 Wermut &
Dee Remix) 4:20
Appears on: Smoke
On The Water: The Metropolis Sessions
This new remix appears exclusively on the 2010 Smoke On The
Water re-release. It is a very clean-sounding remix, benefiting
from modern mixing techniques. It features some different guitar
and keyboard bits as well. A few very minor vocal parts/lyrics
are removed.
Smoke On The Water (1989 Ian Gillan
Vocal Session) 4:20
Appears on: Smoke
On The Water: The Metropolis Sessions
This new remix from 2010 features the original Smoke On The
Water singer Ian Gillan singing all of the lead vocals. The
backing track is remixed; removing all of the keyboards, to
sound heavier and more rock-oriented.
Rock Therapy
Reaching Out 2:42
Appears on: UK
Reaching Out CD single
Reaching Out was a charity single released in 1996 to aid the
Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy Centre. Rock Therapy is made up
of Brian May on guitar, Charlie Watts from the Rolling Stones
on drums, and Paul Rodgers from Free/Bad Company on lead vocals.
Backing vocals are provided by Sam Brown, Andy Fairweather-Low,
and Lulu. The song was later performed live by Queen + Paul
Rodgers on their 2005 and 2006 tours.
Reaching Out (Acoustic Version) 2:41
Appears on: UK
Reaching Out CD single
The Acoustic Version of Reaching Out retains Paul Rodgers' lead
vocals, but removes Brian's lead guitar and Charlie Watts' drums.
Paul is backed up by an acoustic guitar, player unknown. Backing
vocals are also removed from this version.
Reaching Out (Instrumental Version)
2:39
Appears on: UK
Reaching Out CD single
The Instrumental Version of Reaching Out takes out Paul Rodgers'
lead vocals but retains the backing vocals and Brian's lead
guitar.
Rocky Horror Picture Show
Unknown
Appears on: Rocky Horror Show selected highlights (1995 Cast)
Info coming soon.
SAS Band
With A Little Help From
My Friends (Live at Party In The Park, July 2000)
Appears on: The Show Tour Program with CD-Rom
In 2002, The SAS Band released a live CD/DVD of their Shepherd's
Bush Empire show in February 2000. The Tour Program included
a CD-ROM that featured a bonus track from the Party In The Park
concert in Hyde Park. Brian May plays guitar and is joined by
numerous vocalists including Lionel Ritchie and Marti Pellow.
Sissel
What Are We Made Of?
3:42
Appears on: The
Adventures Of Pinocchio Soundtrack
The Adventures Of Pinocchio soundtrack album was released by
Decca Records in 1996, featuring two songs by Brian May and
Sissel. Sissel is a Norweigian soprano singer who is probably
best known for singing the 1994 Lillehammer Winter Olympics
Hymn. This is a beautiful duet and worth seeking out as a Brian
solo track. It's a full, proper song, where Il Colosso sort
of depends on knowing the context of the movie. The song is
similar in style to "Who Wants To Live Forever," though its
far more upbeat.
Il Colosso 7:36
Appears on: The
Adventures Of Pinocchio Soundtrack
From the film, this marionette show has the hero battling Il
Colosso (The Colossus) and winning. It features excerpts from
famous operas and classical pieces. The singer is Brian, with
his voice pitched higher to sound like a child (whom he credits
as "Just William" on the album sleeve). The end features a segment
of the song What Are We Made Of?
S.O.L.
Make My Dream Come True
4:03
Appears on: S.O.L. - Some Other Language
S.O.L.'s only album, Some Other Language, is primarily the work
of German artist Stefan Zauner and Armand Volker. Many other
artists appear on the album including The Hooters, Curt Cress
(who played drums on Freddie Mercury's Mr. Bad Guy album), and
of course Brian May on guitar. Brian performs on the opening
track of the album, Make My Dream Come True.
The Strat Pack All Stars
Stay With Me (The Strat
Pack, Live at Wembley, September 2004) 7:19
Appears on: The Strat Pack: Live In Concert DVD
The Strat Pack was a concert held on September 24, 2004 to celebrate
the 50th Anniversary of the Fender Stratocaster guitar. The
concert ended with a performance from the entire cast of The
Faces song Stay With Me. Brian May plays his Red Special guitar
during this finale. This concert was released on DVD in 2005
and later on Blu-Ray format.
Soundgarden
New Damage 5:24
Appears on: Greenpeace - Alternative NRG
Soundgarden is an American rock band, best known for their tracks
Black Hole Sun, Rusty Cage, and Outshined. They are credited
with being one of the most influential bands of the Seattle
grunge movement. Their song New Damage, a song criticizing right-wing
government, was originally released on the 1991 album Badmotorfinger.
The 1994 Greenpeace benefit album Alternative NRG was released
by Hollywood Records in 1994. This album features a new version
of New Damage with Brian May on guitar. The track was recorded
in two separate locations. Brian May's part was in PIE Studio
OD'S in Glen Cove, New York; Soundgarden was recorded at Bear
Creek Studio in Seattle, Washington. The song was produced by
Michael Beinhorn (who also produced Superunknown) and mixed
by Chris Cornell in 1993. The main difference between this and
the version of New Damage that appears on Badmotorfinger (besides
the addition of Brian May in the newer version) is that the
newer version is much, much heavier. May actually has a minimal
part; you can only hear him if you really try. A special thanks
to
web.stargate.net/soundgarden
for additional information.
Steve Cropper
I Do 2:48
Appears on: Dedicated: A Salute To The 5 Royales
Steve Cropper is a legendary guitar player, best known for
being a founding member of Booker T. and the MG's. Steve's
main influence was Lowman Pauling of the 5 Royales. In 2011,
Steve released a tribute album celebrating the work of the
5 Royales. Brian May appears on I Do, singing lead vocals
and helping out on guitar.
Status Quo
Raining In My Heart
3:32
Appears on: Don't
Stop
1996's Don't Stop is an album of covers performed by Status
Quo that was released for their 30th anniversary. Raining
In My Heart was originally a Buddy Holly ballad. Brian plays
guitar solos on the track.
Steve Hackett
Steve Hackett is a singer/songwriter and guitarist
best known for his time in Genesis. Hackett left Genesis for
a solo career and to form supergroup GTR with Steve Howe of
Yes and Asia. In 1986, during the time of GTR, Hackett began
writing and recording a series of songs. Some of the songs
were for a GTR album and some were to appear on a solo release.
Ultimately, due to contractual problems with the guest musicians
and with Arista Records, the songs were shelved. They were
bootlegged heavily amongst Genesis fans. Hackett and Howe
decided to go their separate ways in 1986, leaving GTR in
ruins. Hackett wanted to continue recording on his own and
got in contact with Brian May. Two of the tracks from this
time period, Cassandra and Slot Machine, feature Brian May,
the latter co-written by Hacket/May. The songs were finally
released in 2000 on the Feedback 86 album.
Cassandra (Original Version) 4:08
Appears on: Feedback 86
Cassandra finally saw an official release on the Feedback
86 compilation album. Brian plays guitar on the track, Steve
Hackett sings backing vocals, Pete Trewavas plays bass, Nick
Magnus plays keyboards, Ian Mosley plays drums, and Chris
Thompson provides lead vocals.
Cassandra (1992 Re-take) 3:42
Appears on: Guitar Noir
The 1992 Re-Take of Cassandra appears as an unlisted track
on the US release of the 1993 Steve Hackett solo album Guitar
Noir. This re-recorded version features Steve Hackett, not
Chris Thompson, on lead vocals.
Cassandra (Work-in-progress version
1) 4:06
Appears on: Unreleased
This is an unreleased work-in-progress version of the song.
This has been bootlegged among Genesis tape traders.
Cassandra (Work-in-progress version
2) 2:54
Appears on: Unreleased
This is an unreleased work-in-progress version of the song.
This has been bootlegged among Genesis tape traders.
Slot Machine (Original Version) 4:23
Appears on: Feedback 86
Slot Machine is an excellent rock song, featuring some great
guitars from Hackett and May. Not only did the two guitar
greats perform on this track, but they co-wrote it as well.
Chris Thompson, again, handles lead vocals for this track..
Slot Machine (Edit Piece) 3:31
Appears on: Unreleased
This is an unreleased work-in-progress version of the song.
This has been bootlegged among Genesis tape traders.
Slot Machine (Work-in-progress version
1) 4:05
Appears on: Unreleased
This is an unreleased work-in-progress version of the song.
This has been bootlegged among Genesis tape traders.
Slot Machine (Work-in-progress version
2) 3:53
Appears on: Unreleased
This is an unreleased work-in-progress version of the song.
This has been bootlegged among Genesis tape traders.
Don't Fall In Love With Me (Work-In-Progress
Version)
Appears on: Unreleased
This unreleased track from Hackett and May went on to inspire
Don't Fall Away From Me. This in progress version, with its
original ideas, was never completed by the pair.
Don't Fall Away From Me (1992 Re-take) 3:36
Appears on: The Unauthorised Biography
This was a previously unreleased Brian May and Steve Hackett
song from the same sessions as Cassandra and Slot Machine.
It started life as Don't Fall In Love With Me, but changed
quite a bit. Brian co-produced the track and may appear on
guitar.
Stephen Kalinich and Jon
Tiven
Out Of The Darkness
7:42
Appears on: Symptomology/Shortcuts To Infinity
Stephen Kalinich and Jon Tiven (known on some releases as
Yo Ma Ma) are a lo-fi rock/grunge duo. This track from the
double album Symptonology/Shortcuts To Infinity, is upbeat,
and a bit different from straightforward rock (typical of
the lo-fi genre, with lots of distorted instrumentation and
vocals). Brian's guitar work stands out and if you want something
rough and rugged for a change of pace, this is a good place
to start.
Rude Awakenings 4:49
Appears on: Each Soul Has A Voice
Kalinich and Tiven's 2015 album Each Soul Has A Voice features
Brian on guitar for the opening track Rude Awakenings.
Tangerine Dream
From Wikipedia: "In 2007 Brian May completed
his PhD dissertation, which was left unfinished in 1974 when
Queen began to achieve significant success. May’s work focused
on zodiacal dust in the solar system. He had studied at Tenerife
earlier through Imperial College in London, and resumed work
there more than 30 years later. In 2007, his new advisor was
Garik Israelian, and the two struck up a friendship, Israelian
also being a musician. This led to the founding of the Starmus
Festival — the name paying homage to stars and music — and
the stage was set for the first Festival, which would occur
four years later."
The first Starmus Festival took place on June 24, 2011 in
Tenerife, Spain. The concert featured Edgar Froese's Tangerine
Dream. Brian May joined the group, playing guitar, for a few
songs.
Supernova (Real Star Sounds) (Live
at the Starmus Festival, June 2011) 10:40
Appears on: Starmus - Sonic Universe
The Starmus Festival concert begins with an instrumental performance
by Brian May and Tangerine Dream. Garik Israelian and Brian
May recorded sounds from star movement and incorporated them
into the performance.
Last Horizon (Live at the Starmus
Festival, June 2011) 5:57
Appears on: Starmus - Sonic Universe
Brian May is joined by Tangerine Dream for a new arrangement
of his song Last Horizon. Brian plays guitar on this performance.
Tangerine Dream add an electronic rock backing.
Sally's Garden (Live at the Starmus
Festival, June 2011) 4:40
Appears on: Starmus - Sonic Universe
Sally's Garden is a traditional Irish song. Brian joins Tangerine
Dream for the performance and provides lead guitar.
We Will Rock You (Live at the Starmus
Festival, June 2011) 12:47
Appears on: Starmus - Sonic Universe
Brian and Tangerine Dream jam to an extended improvised performance
that contains We Will Rock You. Brian provides lead vocals
and plays guitar.
Taylor Hawkins &
The Coattail Riders
Way Down 3:48
Appears on: Red
Light Fever
Taylor Hawkins is the drummer for Foo Fighters and former
drummer for Alanis Morissette. Hawkins has formed a side band
called Taylor Hawkins & The Coattail Riders. To date,
they have released two albums. The second album, 2010's Red
Light Fever, features tracks with Brian May and Roger Taylor.
Way Down (and the CD as a whole) is a great blend of classic
rock and modern rock styles. Brian co-wrote, provides guitar,
and backing vocals on this track. The last chorus features
Brian's vocals and sounds very "Queen-like."
Don't Have To Speak 3:44
Appears on: Red
Light Fever
Don't Have To Speak is another great mid-tempo classic rock
style song from Taylor Hawkins & The Coattail Riders.
The track features Brian May on guitar from about 2:25 onwards.
Tim Staffell
Earth (Brian May/Tim
Staffell Duet Lead Vocals) 4:52
Appears on: aMIGO
Earth seems to be a favorite song of Staffell's. Earth is
featured in the original Smile recordings; he also recorded
an acoustic version in 1972 with his post-Smile band, Morgan,
for their epic suite Nova Solis. This version, recorded for
his 2003 album, aMIGO, is heavier compared to the original
Smile recording. Lead vocals are split between Tim and Brian
(who also plays lead guitar). A few lyrics changes and updated
backing harmonies make this a nice alternative to the original.
Earth (Tim Staffell Lead Vocals) 4:52
Appears on: aMIGO
Special Edition
A "Special Edition" of Tim Staffell's aMIGO album
was sold exclusively at the 18th International Queen Convention
at Prestatyn Sands in May 2003. This CD is a rarity firstly
due to its limited run of 200 and for the unique mix of Earth.
Instead of Brian and Tim sharing lead vocals duties, Tim sings
lead the whole way through.
Doin' Alright 3:43
Appears on: aMIGO
Doin' Alright is another Smile track that was re-recorded
for Tim Staffell's solo album, aMIGO. This song was co-written
by Brian, and was previously recorded by Queen for their first
album (a BBC session also exists). This version, though, is
significantly different from the previous renditions, featuring
a much lighter feel through a very different arrangement.
Brian shares the lead vocals again, as well as playing guitar.
Doin' Alright (Tim Staffell Lead Vocal)
3:43
Appears on: aMIGO
Special Edition
Like Earth, there is a unique version of Doin' Alright on
the "Special Edition" of aMIGO. Tim sings lead vocals
for the entirety of the song.
Tony Iommi
Flame On 4:26
Appears on: Iommi
Tony Iommi is the guitarist and founding member of the heavy
metal band Black Sabbath. In 2000 he released his first full,
true solo album entitled simply "Iommi". The album
was 5 years in the making and features an impressive line-up
of guest musicians (Henry Rollins, Dave Grohl, Billy Idol,
Ozzy Osbourne, Billy Corgan, and others). Brian May plays
guitar on two tracks, Flame On and Goodbye Lament. Flame On
is a heavy track and features Ian Astbury of The Cult singing
lead vocals.
Goodbye Lament 4:48
Appears on: Iommi
Goodbye Lament is the third track from the Iommi album. It
was released as a single in the US, reaching #10 on the Mainstream
Rock Tracks chart. Brian May and Tony Iommi play guitar, Dave
Grohl (from Foo Fighters/Nirvana) plays drums and sings lead
vocals, and Laurence Cottle plays bass.
Tony Martin
If There Is A Heaven
4:58
Appears on: Back Where I Belong CD, German If There Is A Heaven
7" vinyl, German If There Is A Heaven CD single
Back Where I Belong, released in 1992, is the first solo album
from Black Sabbath replacement vocalist Tony Martin. The album
featured guest musicians Zak Starkey, Neil Murray, and Brian
May to name a few. Brian May provides guitar on track If There
Is A Heaven., which was released as the album's first single.
If There Is A Heaven (Single Edit)
3:56
Appears on: German If There Is A Heaven 7" vinyl, German If
There Is A Heaven CD single
The single edit of If There Is A Heaven simply begins to fade
out at around 3:40 to 3:47; the rest of the track is silent.
This is a very straight forward early fade that cuts about
a minute off of the album version.
Troy Turner
Going Down 5:18
Appears on: Whole Lotta Blues
Troy Turner is a Louisiana blues guitarist and vocalist. He
covers Don Nix's track Going Down on his 2010 album Whole
Lotta Blues. Brian May plays guitar on the track. There are
other versions of this song, released on albums by Don Nix
and Leslie West. They seem to be possibly all recorded, in
part, in the same sessions. The mixes are different for sure
and different takes may have been used.
Come To Your Senses 4:14
Appears on: Whole Lotta Blues
Come To Your Senses is an unreleased Brian May track from
the early 2000's. Troy Turner recorded a version of the song
on his 2008 album Whole Lotta Blues. Brian does not appear
on Troy's version of the song. The song was co-written by
Jon Tiven, who produced the album.
Various Artists
One Voice 3:53
Appears on: One Voice (from the documentary "A Dog Named
Gucci") 12" vinyl, One Voice digital download
From the end credits of the documentary "A Dog Named
Gucci", this track features Norah Jones, Aime Mann, Susanna
Hoffs, Lydia Loveless, Neko Case, Kathryn Calder and Brian
May. Dean Falcone, who wrote the film's score, also produced
this track. Brian provides electric guitar, backing vocals
and perhaps acoustic guitar. The song was released as a digital
download and as a 12" vinyl for Record Store Day - April
16, 2016, with profits from the sale of the single going to
benefit animal charities. Also of note, Brian May and Kerry
Ellis later recorded a version of this song, which was released
as a digital single and appeared on their album Golden Days.
One Voice (Acoustic) 3:31
Appears on: One Voice (from the documentary "A Dog Named
Gucci") 12" vinyl, One Voice digital download
This stripped down version, features only acoustic guitar
and some violin as the instrumentation; the vocal performances
are the same. As a result of the stripped down direction of
this version, the intro is removed, starting with just acoustic
guitar here.
One Voice (Instrumental) 4:09
Appears on: One Voice (from the documentary "A Dog Named
Gucci") 12" vinyl, One Voice digital download
A completely instrumental version, without vocals. This version
is a few seconds longer; adding some additional instrumental
bits.
The Yardbirds
Mr. You're A Better
Man Than I 3:22
Appears on: Birdland
2003 saw the first new release from The Yardbirds in over
35 years, an album called Birdland. Original Yardbirds Chris
Dreja and Jim McCarty are joined by new members for the album.
Birdland has seven new tracks and eight remakes of older Yardbirds
tracks. The album has many guest musicians such as original
Yardbird Jeff Beck, Slash from Guns n' Roses, Joe Satriani,
and Steve Vai to name a few. Brian May plays guitar on a new
recording of the 1965 classic Yardbird song Mr. You're A Better
Man Than I.
Zucchero
Il Mare Impetuoso
Al Tramonto Sali Sulla Luna E Dietro Una Tendina Di Stelle....
3:56
Appears on: Zu & Co
Zucchero is a successful Italian singer and performer who
over the years has performed with Brian multiple times, including
the 1992 Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert and the 46664 concert.
2004's Zu & Co release from Zucchero is essentially a
duets album. The album is stacked with big name artists including
Eric Clapton, Sheryl Crow, Sting, Tom Jones, and Pavarotti
to name a few. Brian plays guitar on the track Il Mare.
Il Mare 4:20
Appears on: Zu & Co. Live At The Royal Albert Hall DVD
Zucchero's May 6, 2004 performance at The Royal Albert Hall
was released on DVD in 2007. Many of the artists that appear
on the Zu & Co album appear at this concert, performing
with Zucchero. Brian plays guitar on the live performance
of Il Mare.