The Miracle
Produced by: Queen and David Richards
Recorded at: Olympic Sound Studios, The Townhouse Studios, and Mountain
Studios
UK Parlophone LP: 22 May 1989 PCSD 107 / UK Chart #1
USA Capitol LP: 6 June 1989 C1-92357 / Billboard #24
Side One
1. Party (Queen) 2:24
2. Khashoggi's Ship (Queen) 2:47
3. The Miracle (Queen) 5:01
4. I Want It All (Queen) 4:41
5. The Invisible Man (Queen) 3:57
| |
Side Two
1. Breakthru (Queen) 4:08
2. Rain Must Fall (Queen) 4:22
3. Scandal (Queen) 4:42
4. My Baby Does Me (Queen) 3:23
5. Was It All Worth It (Queen) 5:44
|
Related Songs
Chinese Torture (Queen), Hang On In There (Queen), Stealin', Hijack My Heart
(Queen), My Life Has Been Saved (Queen), Too Much Love Will Kill You (May/Musker/Lamers),
I Guess We're Falling Out, A New Life Is Born, Dog With A Bone, Face It
Alone, All God's People (Queen/Moran), Too Much Love Will Kill You (May/Musker/Lamers)
Singles
UK Singles
- I Want It All (Single Version) c/w Hang On In There 7" / UK Chart #3
- I Want It All c/w I Want It All (Single Version) / Hang On In There 12"
- I Want It All / Hang On In There / I Want It All (Single Version) CD single
- Breakthru c/w Stealin' 7" / UK Chart #7
- Breakthru c/w Stealin' 7" picture disc
- Breakthru (12" Version) c/w Breakthru / Stealin' 12"
- Breakthru (12" Version) / Stealin' / Breakthru CD single
- The Invisible Man c/w Hijack My Heart 7" / UK Chart #12
- The Invisible Man c/w Hijack My Heart 7" clear vinyl
- The Invisible Man (12" Version) c/w The Invisible Man / Hijack My
Heart 12"
- The Invisible Man (12" Version) c/w The Invisible Man / Hijack My
Heart 12" clear vinyl
- The Invisible Man (12" Version) / Hijack My Heart / The Invisible
Man CD single
- Scandal c/w My Life Has Been Saved 7" / UK Chart #25
- Scandal c/w My Life Has Been Saved 7" w/ poster bag
- Scandal (12" Version) c/w Scandal / My Life Has Been Saved 12"
- Scandal (12" Version) / Scandal / My Life Has Been Saved c/w etching
12" etched vinyl
- The Miracle c/w Stone Cold Crazy (Live at the Rainbow) 7" / UK Chart
#21
- The Miracle c/w Stone Cold Crazy (Live at the Rainbow) 7" hologram
sleeve
- The Miracle c/w Stone Cold Crazy (Live at the Rainbow '74) / My Melancholoy
Blues (Live in Houston '77) 12"
- The Miracle c/w Stone Cold Crazy (Live at the Rainbow '74) / My Melancholoy
Blues (Live in Houston '77) 12" w/ print
- The Miracle / Stone Cold Crazy (Live at the Rainbow '74) / My Melancholoy
Blues (Live in Houston '77) CD single
US Singles
- I Want It All (Single Version) c/w Hang On In There 7" / Billboard #50
- Scandal / My Life Has Been Saved / Hijack My Heart / Stealin' CD single
(withdrawn) / Did Not Chart
- Scandal / My Life Has Been Saved cassette single
- Breakthru / I Want It All (Single Version) cassette single / Did Not Chart
Album Info
Three year's after the UK #1 album A Kind Of Magic, Queen's
thirteenth album, The Miracle, reclaimed the band's position at the top
of the chart. After a much needed break and various solo projects, Queen
returned to the studio in late 1987 / early 1988 at Freddie's insistance
to try some new tracks. The dynamic was very different this time, as the
band worked as one; all tracks would be credited to Queen, taking away any
squabbles of royalties and credit. As a result, The Miracle sessions were
the most productive of their career, spawning approximately thirty tracks
in various states of completion. Some tracks found a home as B-sides, others
were carried over to other projects, while the rest remain unreleased.
Produced by Queen and David Richards, The Miracle was recorded in The Townhouse,
Olympic, and Mountain Studios throughout 1988 and 1989. Originally titled
The Invisible Men, the band settled on the final title of The Miracle. Released
on May 22, 1989 in the UK, The Miracle, as mentioned before, reached #1
in the charts, followed by five hit singles. Stateside, the album faired
better than its predecessor, reaching #24.
The UK singles were all released on at least 7", 12", and CD single,
amongst other collectible, if not gimmicky formats. Non-album B-sides and
extended mixes ensured customers would not only buy the album, but also
double dip on the singles.
Inspired by Brian's future wife Anita Dobson, I Want It All was the lead
single, reaching #3 on the UK singles chart while reaching #50 in the US.
The B-side, Hang On In There, was also included as a bonus track on the
album CD release.
Breakthru, which stemmed from Roger, was chosen as the second single. Backed
with the non-album Stealin', Breakthru was another hit, reaching #7. The
video showcased the band performing on The Miracle Express train, accompanied
by famous model Debbie Lang (who happened to be the significant other to
a certain drummer).
The Invisible Man coupled with Hijack My Heart, both Roger tracks, was released
in August 1989, reaching #12. The video, which was state-of-the-art for
the time, featured the band go digital, as they become part of a child's
videogame. The video version has a slightly different mix to the album and
12" versions.
Scandal, written primarily by Brian, is a scathing statement of how the
press treated the band personally and professionally in recent years. Each
member had been hounded by the press over their relationships and Freddie's
health issues. The track was not as successful as the previous three singles,
reaching #25 in the chart.
Primarily written by Freddie, the title track, The Miracle, was released
at the end of November 1989. Bonus tracks included two live performances
to promote Queen's upcoming VHS tape Rare Live. Stone Cold Crazy from the
Rainbow Theatre, 1974 and My Melancholy Blues from The Summit in Houston,
1977 were welcome bonuses as fans craved early live performances. The video
for The Miracle was one of Queen's best. Four children were cast as younger
lookalikes to the band - performing as Queen throughout their career. The
band joined them at the end; Freddie joked they should be sent out on tour.
Too Much Love Will Kill You originally began as a Brian May solo project
with Elizabeth Lamers and Frank Musker. A Queen version was recorded during
The Miracle sessions, almost making the final cut for the album. The Queen
version remained on the shelf due to publishing issues; Brian released a
solo version in August 1992 to support his solo album Back To The Light.
The Queen version appeared on the final studio album Made In Heaven and
was released as a single, reaching #15 on the UK chart.
Freddie was diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 1987 and was not sure he would see
the end of The Miracle project. With the inevitability of the situation
surrounding them, the band became closer and more productive to support
their most valued member. Sessions for the next album began almost immediately
after The Miracle was released. Fans clamored for a new Queen tour to support
the album, but that was not meant to be.
Party
Party (Album Version) 2:24
Appears on: The
Miracle, Track 1
Party (The Teaser Tape Edit) 2:23
Appears on: The
Teaser Tape
Surprisingly, this is almost the entire track, with only two edits: opening
music is gone, with the track starting with Freddie singing, and the second
edit is in the "..come back and play" portion. The track ends the same way
as the album, cutting off where the next track, Khashoggi's Ship, starts.
Party (Work-In-Progress Preview Mix) 1:46
Appears on: 13 Track Preview cassette for Capitol Records
In late 1988, a 13 track cassette was sent by Queen to executives at Capitol
Records in the USA. The cassette served as avpreview to their new, as of
yet unnamed album. The cassette had excerpts of work-in-progress song versions
to satisfy the curiosities of Capitol Records. Five of those tracks have
leaked freely amongst traders (Scandal, Too Much Love Will Kill You, The
Invisible Man, I Want It All, and The Miracle). The tape is currently owned
by Queen collector John S. Stuart. Party, from this cassette, seems to be
an edited version of the performance used on the album version. The song
starts with vocals instead of the full instrumental intro. Lots of Brian's
guitar and instrumental bits have been omitted.
Party (Rough Mix) 2:24
Appears on: Capitol
Records "Rough Mixes" cassette tape
In early 1989, Queen sent Capitol Records an 11 track cassette tape with
full-length rough mixes of the proposed tracklisting for The Miracle. The
rough mix of Party features the same performance that appears on the final
album version. Any differences between the two are strictly in the mix of
the song (instrumental volume levels, stereo effects, etc).
Party (The eYe Version) 2:26
Appears on: Queen: The eYe (Non-English Versions), The Art Of Queen: The
eYe
This rare instrumental remix of Party is featured on the non-English versions
of The eYe videogame and on the CD from The Art Of Queen: The eYe book.
This remix, like all of The eYe remixes was done by former member of The
Cross, Joshua J. Macrae.
Party (Stand-Alone Version)
Appears on: Unreleased
This track premiered at the 16th International Fan Club Convention in Prestatyn.
This is a complete stand-alone version that does not segue into Khashoggi's
Ship.
Khashoggi's Ship
Khashoggi's Ship (Album Version)
2:47
Appears on: The
Miracle, Track 2
Khashoggi's Ship (Deep Cuts Version) 2:54
Appears on: UK
Deep Cuts 3 (1984-1985)
Instead of the beginning segueing from Party, this completely stand alone
version of Khashoggi's Ship starts with a simple drum beat and cymbal crash.
Khashoggi's Ship (The Teaser Tape Edit) 2:07
Appears on: The
Teaser Tape
Like the album, this starts with the segue from Party, continues through
the first verse, then jumps to Freddie's scat in the middle and continuing
to the end of the song. It is actually a fairly seamless edit.
Khashoggi's Ship (Work-In-Progress Preview Mix)
1:58
Appears on: 13 Track Preview cassette for Capitol Records
In late 1988, a 13 track cassette was sent by Queen to executives at Capitol
Records in the USA. The cassette served as a preview to their new, as of
yet unnamed album. The cassette had excerpts of work-in-progress song versions
to satisfy the curiosities of Capitol Records. Five of those tracks have
leaked freely amongst traders (Scandal, Too Much Love Will Kill You, The
Invisible Man, I Want It All, and The Miracle). The tape is currently owned
by Queen collector John S. Stuart. This version of Khashoggi's Ship sounds
more or less like an edit of the final version.
Khashoggi's Ship (Rough Mix) 2:48
Appears on: Capitol
Records "Rough Mixes" cassette tape
In early 1989, Queen sent Capitol Records an 11 track cassette tape with
full-length rough mixes of the proposed tracklisting for The Miracle. The
rough mix of Khashoggi's Ship features the same performance that appears
on the final album version. Any differences between the two are strictly
in the mix of the song (instrumental volume levels, stereo effects, etc).
Khashoggi's Ship (The eYe Version) 1:37
Appears on: Queen:
The eYe
From the Electronic Arts videogame, Queen: The eYe. An instrumental version
of roughly the first minute and a half of the album version. Fades out with
a phased effect. Notice that this version appears twice on The eYe videogame.
Khashoggi's Ship (Demo)
Appears on: Unreleased
This track premiered at the 16th International Fan Club Convention in Prestatyn.
This was recorded in Olympic Studios, November 1988. This version has Freddie
Mercury's guide vocals. Three to four different vocal takes are on this
mix to give a flavor of the different versions recorded. Lyrics include,
"This big bad fucker - I said go get laid" (instead of "I said uh huh babe").
The Miracle
The Miracle (Album Version) 5:01
Appears on: The
Miracle, Track 3
The Miracle (Greatest Hits II CD Edit) 4:54
Appears on: Greatest
Hits II CD
The same as the album version, just fading out sooner. The closing lyrics
"the time will come, one day you'll see, when we can all be friends" is
repeated one less time. The edit was made by David Richards to fit this
track onto the Greatest Hits II CD.
The Miracle (Classic Queen Edit) 4:24
Appears on: Classic
Queen
This is a major edit of the album version. The instrumental section near
the end (which starts with the brief bass solo) is completely cut out. The
song goes from the lyrics "Peace on Earth and end to war..." right into
the closing chorus parts.
The Miracle (Forever Cross-Fade Version) 4:57
Appears on: Forever
Deluxe Edition
The Deluxe Edition of the 2014 compilation album "Forever" features
a minor cross-fade from the ending of "The Miracle" into the beginning
of "Is This The World We Created".
The Miracle (Video Version) 5:08
Appears on: Greatest
Video Hits 2, Greatest
Flix II
Again, same as the album version, except the closing lyrics "the time
will come, one day you'll see, when we can all be friends" is repeated one
more time.
The Miracle (Greatest Video Hits 2 Surround Mix)
5:18
Appears on: Greatest
Video Hits 2 DVD
A new 96/24 DTS 5.1 surround mix of The Miracle was made for the 2003 Greatest
Video Hits 2 DVD. The new mixes on this DVD were produced by Justin Shriley-Smith.
Engineered by Justin Shirley-Smith and Kris Fredriksson. Pro Tools HD by
Kris Fredriksson. The mixes were done at Sphere Studios, London. A few seconds
of silence are added to the beginning of the track for the video title card
on the DVD.
The Miracle (The Teaser Tape Edit) 1:56
Appears on: The
Teaser Tape
Here's almost the first two minutes of the song, uncut. It fades out before
the "If every leaf..." verse comes in. Again, it is a sampler edit, so on
that level, it works just fine.
The Miracle (Work-In-Progress Preview Mix) 1:43
Appears on: 13 Track Preview cassette for Capitol Records
In late 1988, a 13 track cassette was sent by Queen to executives at Capitol
Records in the USA. The cassette served as a preview to their new, as of
yet unnamed album. The cassette had excerpts of work-in-progress song versions
to satisfy the curiosities of Capitol Records. Five of those tracks have
leaked freely amongst traders (Scandal, Too Much Love Will Kill You, The
Invisible Man, I Want It All, and The Miracle). The tape is currently owned
by Queen collector John S. Stuart. This version features a few instances
of a different vocal track from Freddie. Brian throws in some different
guitar bits here and there. The lyrics here are not that different from
the album version.
The Miracle (Rough Mix) 5:01
Appears on: Capitol
Records "Rough Mixes" cassette tape
In early 1989, Queen sent Capitol Records an 11 track cassette tape with
full-length rough mixes of the proposed tracklisting for The Miracle. The
rough mix of The Miracle (the song) features the same performance that appears
on the final album version. Any differences between the two are strictly
in the mix of the song (instrumental volume levels, stereo effects, etc).
The Miracle (Karaoke Version) 5:13
Appears on: Greatest
Karaoke Hits
This is a great sounding instrumental version. The outro is longer by repeating
a few lines. No click track at the beginning.
The Miracle (Kevin Cohen and Femi Jiya Mix) 4:55
Appears on: Queen - The Unauthorized Club Record 10 track promo CD-R
The Kevin Cohen and Femi Jiya mix of The Miracle is another in a long line
of Hollywood BASIC remixes. This appeared on a 10 track promo CD-R from
Hollywood called Queen: The Unauthorized Club Record. Cohen and Jiya are
known for some of their production work with Prince. Keith Cohen also remixed
the Living In A Box song, Blow The House Down (which featured Brian May).
I Want It All
I Want It All (Album Version) 4:41
Appears on: The
Miracle, Track 4
The definitive album version, which differs from the later 1991 US remaster.
The first chorus has no backing vocals, lead vocals are double tracked,
synth is more prominent, and there is no lead guitar. The first chorus repeat
has backing vocals and lead guitar.
I Want It All (Hollywood Records Album Version)
4:33
Appears on: The
Miracle Hollywood Remaster (1991)
Appearing only on the 1991 Hollywood Records remaster of The Miracle. At
1:14 into the track, the chorus that repeats the lyrics "I Want It All"
is missing completely. Additionally, there are added backing vocals in the
track. The first chorus has no backing vocals, lead vocal has more obvious
multitracking, less prominent synth, more rhythm guitar, and lead guitar.
There is no first chorus repeat. How did this mistake happen? Quite simply
when Hollywood Records was remastering the album, Queen Productions provided
the incorrect album master tape to Hollywood Records. The I Want It All
mix that appears on the Hollywood release was added to the album master
on March 15, 1989.
I Want It All (Single Version) 4:00
Appears on: I
Want It All 7" vinyl, I
Want It All 12" vinyl, I
Want It All CD single, Greatest
Hits II, Jewels
II, UK
The Single Collection Volume 3, UK
2011 The Miracle Deluxe CD
A great single mix that improves on the album version. The opening features
a chorus starting out the song singing "I Want It All" three times. Some
of Brian's guitar is edited out but it isn't missed all that much. Recommended
over the album version. The I Want It All single reached #3 in the UK chart.
I Want It All (Argentinia Single Edit) 4:10
Appears on: Argeninia I Want It All 7" vinyl
The same as the UK album version except at 2:57 there is a large edit of
the instrumental section that is painfully obvious.
I Want It All (Rocks Mix) 4:30
Appears on: Queen
Rocks, Stone
Cold Classics
A great remix that basically combines the album and single versions. This
mix starts out like the single mix with the chorus vocal and goes into the
rest of the album version. Brian's guitar solo is unedited. This is the
best mix of the song in my opinion.
I Want It All (Greatest Video Hits 2 Surround Mix)
4:09
Appears on: Greatest
Video Hits 2 DVD
A new 96/24 DTS 5.1 surround mix of I Want It All was made for the 2003
Greatest Video Hits 2 DVD. The new mixes on this DVD were produced by Justin
Shriley-Smith. Engineered by Justin Shirley-Smith and Kris Fredriksson.
Pro Tools HD by Kris Fredriksson. The mixes were done at Sphere Studios,
London. A few seconds of silence are added to the beginning of the track
for the video title card on the DVD. The audio mix is based on the single
version.
I Want It All (The Teaser Tape Edit) 1:40
Appears on: The
Teaser Tape
This edit starts abruptly part way through the opening music and then edits
into the "Listen all you people..." verse. It then continues until Brian's
middle eight verse, taking a rather long fade out over it, ending just before
the guitar solo. Unlike the first three edits on the tape, this sounds a
bit more choppy.
I Want It All (Work-In-Progress Preview Mix) 1:26
Appears on: 13 Track Preview cassette for Capitol Records
In late 1988, a 13 track cassette was sent by Queen to executives at Capitol
Records in the USA. The cassette served as a preview to their new, as of
yet unnamed album. The cassette had excerpts of work-in-progress song versions
to satisfy the curiosities of Capitol Records. Five of those tracks have
leaked freely amongst traders (Scandal, Too Much Love Will Kill You, The
Invisible Man, I Want It All, and The Miracle). The tape is currently owned
by Queen collector John S. Stuart. The guitar performance has some differences
from the final version. Brian's "Pete Townshend" vocal bit is
incomplete with unfinished lyrics. Freddie's line "listen all you people"
is from a different take as well.
I Want It All (Rough Mix) 4:38
Appears on: Capitol
Records "Rough Mixes" cassette tape
In early 1989, Queen sent Capitol Records an 11 track cassette tape with
full-length rough mixes of the proposed tracklisting for The Miracle. The
rough mix of I Want It All has the same structure as the 1991 Hollywood
Records album version (see above), as opposed to the proper album mix. The
rough mix ending is longer than the Hollywood album version; the droning
synth sound at the end is extended, adding a few seconds to the track.
I Want It All (Karaoke Version) 4:03
Appears on: Greatest
Karaoke Hits
An instrumental of the single version, which still retains the beginning
chorus vocals. Starts with a click track.
I Want It All (Instrumental Demo) 3:38
Appears on: Unreleased
A very long instrumental demo. Sounds very good, but a little uninteresting
without the vocals. Similar to the final backing track, with some minor
changes here and there. Ends with some parts of Chinese Torture.
I Want It All (The eYe Version 1) 4:43
Appears on: Queen:
The eYe
From the Electronic Arts videogame, Queen: The eYe. An almost full instrumental
version of the album track, starting about halfway through the opening guitar
chord.
I Want It All (The eYe Version 2) 4:53
Appears on: Queen:
The eYe
From the Electronic Arts videogame, Queen: The eYe. Another full instrumental
version, again starting just a second late into the track. The first 10
or so seconds is looped a second time with a synthesizer effect added to
blend them together.
The Invisible Man
The Invisible Man (Album Version)
3:57
Appears on: The
Miracle, Track 5
The Invisible Man (12" Version) 5:29
Appears on: UK
The Invisible Man 12" vinyl, UK
The Invisible Man CD single, UK
The Miracle, US
Capitol Records The Miracle, The
Miracle Hollywood Remaster (1991), UK
2011 The Miracle Deluxe CD
Remixed by David Richards, The Invisible Man extended version is a fairly
major departure from the album version. At over a minute longer, this version
is a very different mix. The track opens differently with electronic whistling
sound effects. The band member introductions are no longer there. The backing
track is remixed, with more instrumental sections. The ending has also been
changed with Roger singing the lyrics "I'm the invisible man." Worth a listen
just to hear the differences, but probably not as good as the album version.
The Invisible Man (Video Version) 4:16
Appears on: Greatest
Video Hits 2, Greatest
Flix II
A really good version that would have made a nice single remix. The track
starts with sound effects that are in the beginning of the Extended Version
up to Roger singing his invisible man lyric, then it goes right into the
normal album version.
The Invisible Man (Greatest Video Hits 2 Surround
Mix) 4:19
Appears on: Greatest
Video Hits 2 DVD
A new 96/24 DTS 5.1 surround mix of The Invisible Man was made for the 2003
Greatest Video Hits 2 DVD. The new mixes on this DVD were produced by Justin
Shriley-Smith. Engineered by Justin Shirley-Smith and Kris Fredriksson.
Pro Tools HD by Kris Fredriksson. The mixes were done at Sphere Studios,
London. A few seconds of silence are added to the beginning of the track
for the video title card on the DVD. The audio mix is based on the video
version.
The Invisible Man (The Teaser Tape Edit) 1:36
Appears on: The
Teaser Tape
The intro is cut down, the first verse survives, then it jumps to the middle
part of the song, then repeats the intro, cutting off right after "..see
right through me!" Unlike the other edits on the tape, which at least tried
to maintain the overall structure of the original track, this is the only
one to change that around by closing with the intro part. Obviously, if
you know the album version, this is a surprising change.
The Invisible Man (Work-In-Progress Preview Mix)
1:19
Appears on: 13 Track Preview cassette for Capitol Records
In late 1988, a 13 track cassette was sent by Queen to executives at Capitol
Records in the USA. The cassette served as a preview to their new, as of
yet unnamed album. The cassette had excerpts of work-in-progress song versions
to satisfy the curiosities of Capitol Records. Five of those tracks have
leaked freely amongst traders (Scandal, Too Much Love Will Kill You, The
Invisible Man, I Want It All, and The Miracle). The tape is currently owned
by Queen collector John S. Stuart. The Invisible Man from this tape has
some different instrumentation on the backing track. Freddie has an additional
set of lyrics that did not appear on the final version, but was officially
featured on the Early Version from the 2011 Bonus EP.
The Invisible Man (Rough Mix) 3:55
Appears on: Capitol
Records "Rough Mixes" cassette tape
In early 1989, Queen sent Capitol Records an 11 track cassette tape with
full-length rough mixes of the proposed tracklisting for The Miracle. The
rough mix of The Invisible Man features the same performance that appears
on the final album version. Any differences between the two are strictly
in the mix of the song (instrumental volume levels, stereo effects, etc).
The Invisible Man (Karaoke Version) 4:17
Appears on: Greatest
Karaoke Hits
An instrumental to the video version, not the album version. The vocal intro
is retained. No click track on this one.
The Invisible Man (1989 Fan Club Convention Message)
2:06
Appears on: A
Message From Queen Fan Club vinyl
Queen's fan club message to the 1989 Fan Club Convention features the backing
track to The Invisible Man. All four members leave a message for the people
in attendance. Freddie sings his part.
The Invisible Man (Early Version with Guide Vocal,
August 1988) 5:03
Appears on: 2011
UK The Miracle Deluxe CD
Originating from Roger Taylor, this demo of The Invisible Man features him,
not Freddie on lead vocals. Freddie, however, does appear on vocals in the
middle section singing "was it shyness in my soul that made me lonely
just like you? No one noticed I was there, when I walked into the room."
This middle vocal section also appeared on another, unreleased, early version
of the track that is listed above. This is a great version of the song.
Roger's vocals and his drumming performance really suit this track well.
The Invisible Man (Early Demo)
Appears on: Unreleased
This track premiered at the 16th International Fan Club Convention in Prestatyn.
Roger Taylor sings his original guide vocal on this demo.
Breakthru
Breakthru (Album Version) 4:08
Appears on: The
Miracle, Track 6
Breakthru (The Now Edit) 3:36
Appears on: US
Breakthru promo CD
This version loses the multitracked intro and instead starts at the word
"Now." From that point on, it is the same as the album version.
Breakthru (The Almost Now Edit) 3:47
Appears on: US
Breakthru promo CD
This version starts off with the multitracked intro, but after the lyrics
"when the dawn light wakes up" it goes right into the Now Edit version.
Breakthru (12" Version) 5:44
Appears on: UK
Breakthru 12" vinyl,
UK Breakthru CD single, 12"
Collection CD, US
Breakthru promo CD
A very good extended mix that starts out very differently from the album
version. Instead of the multitracked intro, this version starts out with
Freddie simply singing "Breakthru... Breakthru...." a few times. There are
some neat stereo sound effects going between the left and right channels.
The rest of the backing track has been remixed as well, with lots of added
percussion.
Breakthru (Greatest Video Hits 2 Surround Mix) 4:25
Appears on: Greatest
Video Hits 2 DVD
A new 96/24 DTS 5.1 surround mix of Breakthru was made for the 2003 Greatest
Video Hits 2 DVD. The new mixes on this DVD were produced by Justin Shriley-Smith.
Engineered by Justin Shirley-Smith and Kris Fredriksson. Pro Tools HD by
Kris Fredriksson. The mixes were done at Sphere Studios, London. A few seconds
of silence are added to the beginning of the track for the video title card
on the DVD.
Breakthru (The Teaser Tape Edit) 1:40
Appears on: The
Teaser Tape
This edit starts right after the first "Now" and continues until just before
the verse that begins with "Your smile...," but instead of fading out, the
last few bars of the track are nicely edited onto the end. As far as promo
sampler edits go, it is not bad.
Breakthru (Work-In-Progress Preview Mix) 1:26
Appears on: 13 Track Preview cassette for Capitol Records
In late 1988, a 13 track cassette was sent by Queen to executives at Capitol
Records in the USA. The cassette served as a preview to their new, as of
yet unnamed album. The cassette had excerpts of work-in-progress song versions
to satisfy the curiosities of Capitol Records. Five of those tracks have
leaked freely amongst traders (Scandal, Too Much Love Will Kill You, The
Invisible Man, I Want It All, and The Miracle). The tape is currently owned
by Queen collector John S. Stuart. Breakthru from this tape sounds like
an edit of the final performance featured on the album.
Breakthru (Rough Mix) 4:06
Appears on: Capitol
Records "Rough Mixes" cassette tape
In early 1989, Queen sent Capitol Records an 11 track cassette tape with
full-length rough mixes of the proposed tracklisting for The Miracle. The
rough mix of Breakthru features the same performance that appears on the
final album version. Any differences between the two are strictly in the
mix of the song (instrumental volume levels, stereo effects, etc).
Breakthru (Karaoke Version) 4:12
Appears on: Greatest
Karaoke Hits
The Karaoke Version of Breakthru is a full instrumental of the album version.
The opening a capella vocals from Freddie are retained. Begins with a click
track.
Breakthru (Instrumental Demo)
Appears on: Unreleased
This track premiered at the 16th International Fan Club Convention in Prestatyn.
This 1988 demo has a faster tempo and a heavier pounding drumbeat.
Breakthru (The eYe Version) 2:05
Appears on: Queen:
The eYe
From the Electronic Arts videogame, Queen: The eYe. This version is an instrumental
edit of the album version, from 2:06 onwards, beginning with a fade-in.
Rain Must Fall
Rain Must Fall (Album Version) 4:22
Appears on: The
Miracle, Track 7
Rain Must Fall (The Teaser Tape Edit) 1:50
Appears on: The
Teaser Tape
This edit starts abruptly in the middle of the intro, continues until just
before the drum/percussion solo, then jumps to the finale music, fading
out quickly.
Rain Must Fall (Work-In-Progress Preview Mix) 1:41
Appears on: 13 Track Preview cassette for Capitol Records
In late 1988, a 13 track cassette was sent by Queen to executives at Capitol
Records in the USA. The cassette served as a preview to their new, as of
yet unnamed album. The cassette had excerpts of work-in-progress song versions
to satisfy the curiosities of Capitol Records. Five of those tracks have
leaked freely amongst traders (Scandal, Too Much Love Will Kill You, The
Invisible Man, I Want It All, and The Miracle). The tape is currently owned
by Queen collector John S. Stuart. This is more or less an edit of the final
performance that appeared on the album.
Rain Must Fall (Rough Mix) 4:23
Appears on: Capitol
Records "Rough Mixes" cassette tape
In early 1989, Queen sent Capitol Records an 11 track cassette tape with
full-length rough mixes of the proposed tracklisting for The Miracle. The
rough mix of Rain Must Fall features the same performance that appears on
the final album version. Any differences between the two are strictly in
the mix of the song (instrumental volume levels, stereo effects, etc).
Rain Must Fall (8 Vocal Takes)
Appears on: Unreleased
This track premiered at the 2006 Dutch Fan Club Convention. From The Miracle
sessions, 1988.
Scandal
Scandal (Album Version) 4:42
Appears on: The
Miracle, Track 8
Scandal (12" Version) 6:37
Appears on: UK
Scandal 12" vinyl, UK
Scandal CD single, The
Miracle Hollywood Remaster (1991)
Like all of the other Miracle extended versions, this one is very good.
A bit heavier in terms of percussion and guitar in comparison to the album
version. There are some great instrumental parts in here, but it is a bit
too long though.
Scandal (Greatest Video Hits 2 Surround Mix) 4:45
Appears on: Greatest
Video Hits 2 DVD
A new 96/24 DTS 5.1 surround mix of Scandal was made for the 2003 Greatest
Video Hits 2 DVD. The new mixes on this DVD were produced by Justin Shriley-Smith.
Engineered by Justin Shirley-Smith and Kris Fredriksson. Pro Tools HD by
Kris Fredriksson. The mixes were done at Sphere Studios, London. A few seconds
of silence are added to the beginning of the track for the video title card
on the DVD.
Scandal (The Teaser Tape Edit) 1:59
Appears on: The
Teaser Tape
Starting partway through the intro, this edit continues until the guitar
solo, over which it fades out. It does the job.
Scandal (Work-In-Progress Preview Mix) 1:44
Appears on: 13 Track Preview cassette for Capitol Records
In late 1988, a 13 track cassette was sent by Queen to executives at Capitol
Records in the USA. The cassette served as a preview to their new, as of
yet unnamed album. The cassette had excerpts of work-in-progress song versions
to satisfy the curiosities of Capitol Records. Five of those tracks have
leaked freely amongst traders (Scandal, Too Much Love Will Kill You, The
Invisible Man, I Want It All, and The Miracle). The tape is currently owned
by Queen collector John S. Stuart. Just as with the other preview snippets,
this one is a bit rough. This one has an early vocal track by Freddie that
was redone for the final version. Brian's guitar solo is slightly different
than the final version.
Scandal (Rough Mix) 4:33
Appears on: Capitol
Records "Rough Mixes" cassette tape
In early 1989, Queen sent Capitol Records an 11 track cassette tape with
full-length rough mixes of the proposed tracklisting for The Miracle. The
rough mix of Scandal is very similar to the final mix of the song, however
the intro is more abrupt and does not fade-in like the album version. The
album version has a line at approximately 3:39, "yes you're on and
on and on again", that is missing from this rough mix. The performance
appears to be the same one used in the final album version.
My Baby Does Me
My Baby Does Me (Album Version)
3:23
Appears on: The
Miracle, Track 9
My Baby Does Me (The Teaser Tape Edit) 1:43
Appears on: The
Teaser Tape
The intro of the song is trimmed down a lot, though the first verse lyrics
remain, then the edit picks up in the third verse and continues into the
end of the song with an early fade out. Also not a bad sampler edit, for
what it is trying to do.
My Baby Does Me (Work-In-Progress Preview Mix) 1:44
Appears on: 13 Track Preview cassette for Capitol Records
In late 1988, a 13 track cassette was sent by Queen to executives at Capitol
Records in the USA. The cassette served as a preview to their new, as of
yet unnamed album. The cassette had excerpts of work-in-progress song versions
to satisfy the curiosities of Capitol Records. Five of those tracks have
leaked freely amongst traders (Scandal, Too Much Love Will Kill You, The
Invisible Man, I Want It All, and The Miracle). The tape is currently owned
by Queen collector John S. Stuart. The backing track from this version seems
to be the one used on the final album. The vocal take may be different in
a few places, but is still very similar to the final version.
My Baby Does Me (Rough Mix) 3:24
Appears on: Capitol
Records "Rough Mixes" cassette tape
In early 1989, Queen sent Capitol Records an 11 track cassette tape with
full-length rough mixes of the proposed tracklisting for The Miracle. The
rough mix of My Baby Does Me features the same performance that appears
on the final album version. Any differences between the two are strictly
in the mix of the song (instrumental volume levels, stereo effects, etc).
My Baby Loves Me (Demo) 3:35
Appears on: Unreleased
The demo version of My Baby Does Me. Not much has changed from the demo
to the final version. The songs backing track is mostly unchanged. Many
of the lyrics are not completed, so some filler is there from Freddie.
Was It All Worth It
Was It All Worth It (Album Version)
5:44
Appears on: The
Miracle, Track 10
Was It All Worth It (The Teaser Tape Edit) 1:56
Appears on: The
Teaser Tape
This starts partway through Freddie's vocal bit, then jumps a few times
through the instrumental intro, then jumps into the "Put down our money..."
verse, then cuts to the last chorus and finally jumps to the finale, before
fading out early. This is a bit more brutal an edit compared the others
on the tape.
Was It All Worth It (Work-In-Progress Preview Mix)
1:31
Appears on: 13 Track Preview cassette for Capitol Records
In late 1988, a 13 track cassette was sent by Queen to executives at Capitol
Records in the USA. The cassette served as a preview to their new, as of
yet unnamed album. The cassette had excerpts of work-in-progress song versions
to satisfy the curiosities of Capitol Records. Five of those tracks have
leaked freely amongst traders (Scandal, Too Much Love Will Kill You, The
Invisible Man, I Want It All, and The Miracle). The tape is currently owned
by Queen collector John S. Stuart. This sounds like it is an edit of the
final album performance.
Was It All Worth It (Rough Mix) 5:48
Appears on: Capitol
Records "Rough Mixes" cassette tape
In early 1989, Queen sent Capitol Records an 11 track cassette tape with
full-length rough mixes of the proposed tracklisting for The Miracle. The
rough mix of Was It All Worth It features the same performance that appears
on the final album version. Any differences between the two are strictly
in the mix of the song (instrumental volume levels, stereo effects, etc).
Was It All Worth It (The eYe Version 1) 0:37
Appears on: Queen:
The eYe
From the Electronic Arts videogame, Queen: The eYe. An instrumental edit
from the first 37 seconds of the album version.
Was It All Worth It (The eYe Version 2) 1:53
Appears on: Queen:
The eYe
From the Electronic Arts videogame, Queen: The eYe. This is a continuation
of an instrumental version of the album version, picking up where The eYe
Version 1 leaves off. The song ends with a guitar note (which would be around
2:24 of the full album version).
Chinese Torture
Hang On In There
Hang On In There 3:46
Appears on: UK
The Miracle CD, US
Capitol Records The Miracle CD, The
Miracle Hollywood Remaster (1991), UK
The Single Collection Volume 3, UK
2011 The Miracle Deluxe CD
A very good CD bonus track and the B-side to I Want It All, Hang On In There
has the feeling of a jam session. It leans towards the heavy side and is
worth getting. Lead vocals by Freddie, and a nice instrumental jam at the
end.
Hang On In There (Single Edit) 3:43
Appears on: I
Want It All 7" vinyl, I
Want It All 12" vinyl, I
Want It All CD single
A little known edit, probably because no one bothered to listen for it.
The entire track is the same as the album version, except for the last few
seconds. The single edit version fades out slightly earlier and is missing
a final guitar chord.
Hang On In There (Work-In-Progress Preview Mix)
1:46
Appears on: 13 Track Preview cassette for Capitol Records
In late 1988, a 13 track cassette was sent by Queen to executives at Capitol
Records in the USA. The cassette served as a preview to their new, as of
yet unnamed album. The cassette had excerpts of work-in-progress song versions
to satisfy the curiosities of Capitol Records. Five of those tracks have
leaked freely amongst traders (Scandal, Too Much Love Will Kill You, The
Invisible Man, I Want It All, and The Miracle). The tape is currently owned
by Queen collector John S. Stuart. The lead vocal sounds slightly different
than the one that appears on the final version.
Hang On In There (Demo) 2:58
Appears on: Unreleased
An instrumental demo with Freddie doing some vocals bits here and there.
A bit rougher and heavier than the proper version, and still interesting
to listen to.
Hang On In There (The eYe Version) 0:57
Appears on: Queen:
The eYe
From the Electronic Arts videogame, Queen: The eYe. The instrumental intro
to the song, repeated twice.
Stealin'
Stealin' 3:58
Appears on: UK
Breakthru 7" vinyl, UK
Breakthru 12" vinyl, UK
Breakthru CD single, UK
The Single Collection Volume 3, UK
2011 The Miracle Deluxe CD
The B-side to Breakthru, Stealin' is another great non-album track from
the Miracle sessions. Freddie is featured on lead vocals this time. The
song has an easygoing tempo, until the end where it becomes insanely fast.
This would have fit well on the album. Judging from the demo, this track
may have stemmed from Freddie.
Stealin' (Demo) 11:43
Appears on: Unreleased
A very long demo version. Starts with some studio banter from Freddie and
then goes into the song. Freddie provides the only vocals and multitracks
himself multiple times throughout the song. Has a few long instrumental
sections, but this is mostly a vocal showcase for Freddie.
Hijack My Heart
Hijack My Heart 4:11
Appears on: UK
The Invisible Man 7" vinyl, UK
The Invisible Man 12" vinyl, UK
The Invisible Man CD single, UK
The Single Collection Volume 3, UK
2011 The Miracle Deluxe CD
The B-side to The Invisible Man, Hijack My Heart stems from Roger Taylor.
Most of the instrumentation and the lead vocals come from Roger as well.
Hard hitting drums, and Roger's electronic-rock sound are throughout the
track. This would have sounded right at home on any one of Roger's solo
efforts.
Hijack My Heart (Demo) 3:25
Appears on: Unreleased
This is one of the more recent demos previewed at the recent Queen conventions.
Again, Roger is on lead vocals. At times the instruments seem to overpower
his vocals, suggesting that this is a guide vocal from Roger. Instrumentally,
the song is basically the same, except there are what sound like maracas
in the background for the entire song, which fairly well (although are mixed
to high in this demo). Brian's guitar is more present and heavier. Lyrics
for the most part are the same, with a few missing pieces here and there.
The ending features a piano outro, which comes as a very big surprise. Very
neat sounding demo, just for the fact it sounds different.
My Life Has Been Saved
My Life Has Been Saved (Original
1989 Version) 3:17
Appears on: UK
Scandal 7" vinyl, UK
Scandal 12" vinyl, UK
Scandal CD single, UK
2011 Made In Heaven Deluxe CD
Stemming from John Deacon, this B-side to Scandal was later reworked into
an album cut for the posthumous Made In Heaven album. This original version
is a bit fuller and heavier, but still sounds similar to the Made In Heaven
version. Freddie's vocals have a slightly processed sound to them. The ending
has some spoken parts by Freddie.
My Life Has Been Saved (Made In Heaven Version)
3:15
Appears on: Made
In Heaven, Track 5
Reworked from the B-side version from 1989 for the Made In Heaven album,
this version features the keyboard much more prominently and has a lighter
sound from the added synth effects. Freddie's vocal track is much clearer,
louder, and doesn't seem to be as processed. It is arguable whether this
version or the original is better. Regardless, the reworking of this song
made it fit in well with the Made In Heaven album
I Guess We're Falling Out
I Guess We're Falling Out (Demo)
2:35
Appears on: Unreleased
This track seems to segue from My Baby Loves Me. A really good start to
an unfinished song. Lead vocals and piano by Freddie. Lyrics are off to
a good start but are unfinished. A shame this couldn't have been completed.
This track segues into the Hang On In There demo.
A New Life Is Born
A New Life Is Born (Demo) 1:22
Appears on: Unreleased
This one certainly is interesting. This track is actually the beginning
chorus part of Breakthru. Right when you expect the "Now!" part, the song
continues into a ballad. Seems to be just Freddie on vocals and piano for
this one. Vocals and lyrics are incomplete, but still are very good and
interesting.
Dog With A Bone
Dog With A Bone (Demo) 4:37
Appears on: Unreleased
A fun jam session song, done in a Muddy Waters style. Lead vocals are shared
by Freddie and Roger. This one seems to be done just for fun, and the energy
certainly comes through.
Dog With A Bone (1988 Fan Club Convention Message)
6:03
Appears on: Unreleased
For the 1988 Queen Convention in the UK, Queen presented a pre-recorded
message. The message was the unreleased track Dog With A Bone with some
recorded messages from the band inserted into the middle of the track. Freddie
sings his part of the message.
Face It Alone
Face It Alone (Full Studio Demo)
5:17
Appears on: Unreleased
Face It Alone is a touching and haunting unfinished song by Queen which
was worked on during The Miracle sessions. This demo starts with some studio
banter from Freddie. Brian's wailing guitar is the foundation of the song.
Freddie's vocal verses overlap each other as they work out the structure
of the song. The final 3 minutes are instrumental (keyboard, drums, and
guitar).
Face It Alone (Instrumental Guitar Demo) 3:58
Appears on: Unreleased
This demo features Brian working out the guitar melody of the song, which
is in line with the Full Studio Demo. The end section features faster, more
frenetic guitar performance.
Face It Alone (Demo Excerpts)
Appears on: Unreleased
This track premired at the 16th International Fan Club Convention in Prestatyn.
Three different excerpts from of the song from The Miracle sessions, Olympic
Studios, November 1988. Freddie Mercury on breathtaking vocals singing about
"Looking after yourself first - you've only one life". Lots of heartfelt
wailing guitar work by Brian May.
All God's People
All God's People (Work-In-Progress
Preview Mix) 1:52
Appears on: 13 Track Preview cassette for Capitol Records
In late 1988, a 13 track cassette was sent by Queen to executives at Capitol
Records in the USA. The cassette served as a preview to their new, as of
yet unnamed album. The cassette had excerpts of work-in-progress song versions
to satisfy the curiosities of Capitol Records. Five of those tracks have
leaked freely amongst traders (Scandal, Too Much Love Will Kill You, The
Invisible Man, I Want It All, and The Miracle). All God's People began life
as a Freddie solo track pre-Barcelona. When Barcelona came along, his current
solo project was discarded in favor of his duet with Montserrat Caballé.
The rumor is that Brian was going to play guitar on this track and Freddie
was going to lend some vocals to Brian's yet to be finished album. As Freddie
and the band became aware of his health, plans changed. All God's People
ended up becoming a Queen track, finally becoming fully realized on the
Innuendo album. This version features some different vocal bits from Freddie
as well as some unique guitar bits from Brian. The backing track doesn't
seem to be very different in this clip.