The Engineer Who Caught Freddie Humming “Lazing On A Sunday Afternoon” Between Takes

April 2, 2025

Freddie Mercury was known for his powerful voice and charismatic stage presence, but on that particular day in the recording studio, he was simply Freddie—the artist, the dreamer, the man who loved music. It was the late 1970s, a time when Queen was soaring in popularity, yet Freddie had his own battles to face. As the engineer, I spent my days surrounded by the incredible sounds of rock and roll, capturing the magic as it unfolded. But what caught me off guard one afternoon was not the pulsating beats or electric guitar riffs, but rather a soft, whimsical tune drifting through the air: Freddie humming “Lazing on a Sunday Afternoon.”

It was a break between takes, and the studio was filled with laughter and chatter. While other musicians scrolled through their phones or flipped through magazines, Freddie leaned back in his chair, his eyes closed, lost in a world of his own creation. The melody floated over the sound of clattering equipment and rustling papers, a gentle reminder of simpler times. I paused, caught in the moment, feeling as if I had stumbled into a rare glimpse of an artist at their most vulnerable. It was clear that even amidst the pressures of fame, Freddie found joy in music’s simplest forms.

As he hummed, the weight of the world seemed to lift from his shoulders. I could see it in his expression, the way his face softened, and how a slight smile played on his lips. It was a reminder to all of us that music was not just a means of performance, but a form of escape, a way to recharge. I could feel a mix of admiration and inspiration flooding through me as I watched this icon embrace his creative spirit. In that moment, it was evident that Freddie was as much a fan of music as we all were, captivated by its power and its ability to transport us to different realms.

When the recording resumed, I could feel the energy in the room shift. Freddie infused each note with a renewed passion, his voice soaring to heights that seemed almost otherworldly. It was as if his little humming session had unlocked a deeper well of creativity. That day, the song took a life of its own. It would later become a cherished part of Queen’s musical legacy, but more importantly, it reminded us all of the importance of finding joy in our craft, no matter what challenges we face.

Reflecting on that experience, I realized it taught me something profound about resilience. Freddie faced criticism and the pressures that come with fame, yet he never lost sight of what truly mattered—the love for his art. This was a man who could bring entire stadiums to their feet but also found solace in the gentler moments of creativity. His ability to balance these contrasting elements is what made him legendary.

Years later, as I listen to Queen’s music, I can still hear that soft, playful humming in my mind. It serves as a beautiful reminder that even the most successful artists have moments of pure vulnerability, and it’s in those moments that true artistry shines. Freddie’s passion and resilience inspired countless people, and his legacy continues to teach us that no matter where we are in our journeys, finding joy in our passions can lead to extraordinary outcomes.