The Recording Of “White Queen” Where Brian Used A Coin Instead Of A Guitar Pick

April 2, 2025

In a small, dimly lit recording studio in London, the air buzzed with excitement and anticipation. It was the summer of 1974, and Queen was about to capture something truly magical. The band was working on their second album, “Queen II,” and as they prepared to record “White Queen,” a song filled with haunting beauty and raw emotion, a minor disaster struck. Brian May, the band’s brilliant guitarist, realized he had forgotten his guitar pick. Panic flickered across his face, but only for a moment. Knowing he had to improvise, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a simple coin. It wasn’t just any coin, but a shiny 50 pence piece, and in that moment, Brian made a decision that would transform the recording of this iconic song forever.

As Brian sat down and began to play, something extraordinary happened. The tone that emerged from his guitar, the Red Special, was unlike anything anyone had ever heard before. The coin glided across the strings, creating a sound that was both bright and warm, with a unique resonance that added depth to the music. The other band members, Freddie Mercury, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon, paused their discussions and listened intently. They could feel the energy in the room shift; this was more than a simple recording session—it was a moment of inspiration. The song, which spoke of longing and heartache, seemed to come to life in a way that perfectly matched the emotional weight of the lyrics.

As the session continued, Brian’s ingenuity with the coin transformed their approach to the music. Every strum and pluck of the strings echoed with a sincerity that touched everyone in the room. Freddie, with his powerful voice, beautifully complemented the ethereal sounds flowing from Brian’s guitar. Together, they crafted a piece that captured the essence of vulnerability and strength, resonating with deeper meanings about love and loss. The energy was electric, and Brian felt a surge of confidence. He had faced down a small crisis with creativity and passion, and it showcased the essence of who he was as an artist.

When “White Queen” was finally finished, it became one of the standout tracks on “Queen II.” The song not only showcased the band’s musical talents but also became a symbol of their resilience. Brian’s decision to use a coin had led to a new technique that people would talk about for years. This little moment of inspiration helped Queen grow into a force of nature in the music industry, capturing the hearts of millions around the world. The band continued to push boundaries, and Brian, who had almost let a forgotten pick derail him, ended up creating something extraordinary.

Looking back, Brian often reflected on that day in the studio. It taught him an invaluable lesson about creativity and adaptability. Instead of feeling defeated by an unexpected setback, he learned to embrace the moment and turn it into something beautiful. The coin wasn’t just a makeshift solution; it became a reminder that sometimes, the most magical moments in life come from our willingness to think outside the box. It was a testament to the passion they all shared for music, a passion that propelled them to create powerful, lasting art even when faced with challenges.

As Queen soared to international fame, songs like “White Queen” became timeless classics, influencing countless artists and musicians across generations. For Brian May, it was a reminder that every moment of hardship can lead to something remarkable, and the music they created together became a beacon of hope and inspiration, shining bright for anyone who dared to dream.