The Painting John Deacon Made Of Freddie — Never Shown To The Public

April 1, 2025

In the heart of London, tucked away in a quiet studio filled with the remnants of rock history, John Deacon found himself grappling with a wave of emotions. The legendary bass player of Queen was not just a musician; he was a friend, a collaborator, and a brother to the late Freddie Mercury. After Freddie’s untimely passing in 1991, John felt an overwhelming need to channel his grief and love into something tangible. And so, he picked up a brush and began to paint. The canvas became a vessel for his feelings, filled with colors that spoke of joy, sadness, and an unbreakable bond.

As the days turned into weeks, John poured himself into this painting, capturing Freddie’s essence in every stroke. He remembered the laughter they shared during late-night songwriting sessions, the powerful performances that left audiences breathless, and the intimate moments that defined their friendship. The painting depicted Freddie as he had often appeared on stage: vibrant and larger than life, with a smile that could light up the darkest of rooms. John used colors that danced across the canvas, reflecting Freddie’s flamboyant spirit and the love he had for music. Each hue told a different story, a cherished memory frozen in time.

Despite the joy of creation, John battled with inner turmoil. He had always been the quieter member of Queen, preferring to let Freddie’s voice shine. Now, with Freddie gone, John felt a heavy responsibility weighing on his shoulders. He wondered if the world would still want to hear his songs or remember the magic they created together. But in the solitude of his studio, as the paintbrush glided across the canvas, he found a sense of purpose. Each stroke was a reminder that Freddie’s legacy lived on, not just through their music, but through the emotions that it stirred in countless hearts.

When John finally stepped back to gaze at the finished painting, he was struck by a surge of emotion. The painting, a personal tribute to Freddie, became a symbol of resilience—a testament that even in loss, beauty can emerge. Yet, despite this powerful creation, John chose not to share it with the public. He felt it was too personal, too intimate of a reflection of his friendship with Freddie to be displayed for the world to see. Instead, he kept it as a cherished secret, a private reminder of their shared dreams and the love that transcended beyond the stage.

Years later, as he continued to navigate life without Freddie, John found strength through the music they created together. He often revisited the painting, using it as inspiration for his own healing. It reminded him that even in the depths of sorrow, creativity could flourish, and passion could ignite new paths. Though he stepped away from the spotlight, the impact of their music remained a guiding light in his life.

John Deacon’s painting, never revealed to the public, became a canvas of hope. It showed that while life may take unexpected turns, the connections we share and the art we create can carry us forward. In the end, it wasn’t just a painting of Freddie; it was a masterpiece of life, love, and resilience woven through the brushstrokes of a man who refused to let go of what truly mattered.