The Forgotten Queen Track That Brian May Said “Almost Cost Us Our Friendship”

April 1, 2025

In a dimly lit studio in 1977, the air was thick with tension. Queen was in the midst of creating what would become one of their most iconic albums, “A Day at the Races.” Yet, hidden amidst the harmony of the band, there was a growing discord over a track that would later be known as “The March of the Black Queen.” Brian May, the band’s brilliant guitarist, had poured every ounce of his passion into this complex piece. It was a grand musical tapestry woven with rich melodies and intricate harmonies. But as the song took shape, it began to unravel the threads of friendship between him and Freddie Mercury, the flamboyant lead singer who had his own vision for the band’s sound.

Brian felt a deep connection to his work, but Freddie’s bold approach constantly clashed with his ideas. As the two tried to perfect “The March of the Black Queen,” arguments flared and tempers boiled over. What began as a creative clash began to feel personal, threatening to tear apart the very fabric of their friendship. “It almost cost us our friendship,” Brian would later reflect, his voice tinged with nostalgia and relief. The air was electric with creativity, but the stakes felt uncomfortably high. Both men were stubborn, passionate, and fiercely dedicated to their art, but they were also beginning to lose sight of their shared love for music.

In the heat of the moment, it seemed as if the band was on the brink of collapse. Yet, what followed was a turning point fueled by vulnerability and honesty. Instead of letting their differences divide them, Brian and Freddie chose to open up about their fears and aspirations. They shared their visions for the song and let down their defenses, finding common ground in their love for music. This moment of truth reignited the spark that had initially united them, reminding them that they were not just bandmates but friends who shared a dream.

With new energy and newfound respect for each other’s artistry, they dove back into the studio. “The March of the Black Queen” emerged as a masterpiece, a powerful testament to their collaboration and resilience. The track was not just a song; it was a saga of struggle and triumph, embodying the very essence of what Queen represented. The song’s complex structure and haunting lyrics resonated deeply with fans and became a cornerstone of their legacy.

As the years passed, Brian reflected on that tumultuous time, grateful for the lessons learned. It taught him that music was not just about the notes but also about the connections that bind people together. The song that had almost cost them their friendship became a symbol of their strength, a reminder that challenges can become opportunities for growth and deeper understanding. It served as an inspiration not only for Brian and Freddie but for countless musicians who faced their own conflicts in pursuit of their dreams.

In the end, Brian and Freddie’s friendship emerged stronger, transforming the struggles of creation into a celebration of artistic collaboration. They understood that distance can sometimes be bridged through creativity, and that passion, when shared, can overcome even the most significant differences. This resilience illuminated their path, guiding them through the trials of their musical journey, and solidifying “The March of the Black Queen” as not just another track but as a powerful anthem of friendship and unity.