The Final Guitar Chord Of “God Save The Queen” That Brian Insisted Be Played Live, Not Sampled

April 2, 2025

In the heart of London, during a steamy summer in 1977, excitement buzzed through the air like an electric current. The streets were alive with the sound of music, laughter, and a sense of rebellion. That year marked Queen’s rise to fame, but they were about to make history in a way that was unforgettable. On the day of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, a royal celebration, the band had been invited to perform “God Save the Queen.” But there was one chord that was particularly special to Brian May, the lead guitarist. It was the final chord of the song, and he insisted it be played live, not sampled, in front of a crowd that included fans and royal dignitaries.

Brian stood backstage, his heart pounding in his chest as he thought about the gravity of the moment. He could feel the anticipation of the crowd pulsing through the walls. His bandmates, Freddie Mercury, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon, were all fired up, ready to unleash their passion on stage. But for Brian, this final chord represented more than just a musical note. It was about standing up for what he believed in and expressing a deep sense of pride and defiance. As the band launched into their performance, he could hardly contain his energy. The excitement grew as they reached the climax of the song.

When they played that last chord, it resonated throughout the venue, a brilliant sound that seemed to echo off the very walls of history. It felt like a declaration, a proud moment for the band and their fans, especially for those who believed in pushing back against authority. The chord lingered in the air, a bold statement of freedom and individuality. As the last note hung in the atmosphere, Brian could feel the effect it had on the audience; people erupted into cheers and applause, some even chanting the band’s name. It was a moment that solidified Queen’s place in music history and showcased their unwavering spirit.

However, this moment of triumph was not without its challenges. After the performance, backlash came from the media and royal supporters, criticizing the band for their boldness. But Brian held his head high, knowing that music was about expressing oneself and connecting with others. The resilience he showed in the face of such criticism only fueled his passion. Instead of shying away from the spotlight, Queen embraced the controversy and it famously cemented their status as a band that wasn’t afraid to speak their minds.

The impact of that final chord was monumental, launching Queen into the stratosphere of rock stardom. Their music continued to inspire countless fans around the world, and the message of that performance resonated more deeply than ever. Brian’s insistence on playing that chord live became a symbol of the band’s commitment to authenticity. They weren’t just entertainers; they were artists fighting for their right to be heard.

Years later, as Brian looked back on that summer day, he felt an overwhelming sense of pride. The journey they took together, with all its struggles and triumphs, had been worth every moment. He knew that music had the power to change hearts and minds, and he was grateful to be a part of a legacy that would inspire generations. That final chord of “God Save the Queen” reminded him that resilience and passion could lead to greatness, and he would carry that lesson with him for the rest of his life.