The Time Queen Used A Gospel Choir — And Ended Up Doing It Better Themselves

April 1, 2025

It was a brisk winter afternoon in 1985 when Queen decided to take their music in a bold new direction. Known for their flamboyant performances and groundbreaking sound, the band was about to embark on a project that would challenge them like never before. They had been invited to record a single for the charity album “The Hits Album,” and this time, they would collaborate with a gospel choir. The idea sparked excitement, but also a hint of apprehension within the band. How could they integrate the power of gospel with their rock style while still remaining true to themselves?

As rehearsals began, the members of Queen, Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon, found themselves surrounded by the soaring voices of the gospel choir. It was a beautiful sight—an explosion of energy and emotion filling the room. The choir offered an atmosphere of warmth, their voices harmonizing in rich layers that brought a new depth to Queen’s music. The band marveled at how the choir infused their song with a soulful spirit, but as the session progressed, they realized something startling. Despite the choir’s incredible talent, the chemistry between them wasn’t quite right. It felt like they were two different worlds colliding instead of blending seamlessly.

Determined to make the song shine, Queen decided to embrace their authenticity. They would take the essence of gospel and make it their own. With Freddie leading the charge, they began to improvise and experiment. He poured his heart into the lyrics, channeling his emotions in a way that moved everyone in the room. The band played around with the arrangement, incorporating gospel-style call-and-response elements while still keeping their signature rock sound. They laughed, they argued, and they found themselves lost in the music, each member contributing their unique flair. It was a relentless creative storm, and from it emerged a powerful synergy that the choir couldn’t quite replicate.

When the final recording emerged, it was nothing short of electrifying. The song, “One Vision,” radiated with raw passion and uplifting energy. The gospel influence was unmistakable, yet it carried the unmistakable theater and dynamic spirit of Queen. The release was met with roaring applause, and audiences around the world felt an undeniable connection to the message of unity and hope found within the song. Critics hailed the track as a defining moment for the band, marking a bold evolution in their music that transcended genres and broke barriers.

Looking back, Freddie Mercury would later reflect on that day as transformative. “One Vision” didn’t just cement Queen’s place in music history; it was a testament to their resilience and unwavering belief in their artistry. By taking a risk to collaborate with the choir and then finding their own voices within that collaboration, Queen discovered new depths in their talent that inspired them to keep pushing boundaries. The song’s impact rippled through their career, reminding everyone that sometimes the best music comes from embracing vulnerability and daring to break the mold.

Years later, when Queen performed “One Vision” in front of thousands of fans, the joy and energy in the air was palpable. The crowd sang along, their voices a sea of unity, proving that music really could bring people together. In that moment, Freddie and the band understood that they had not only paved the way for their own growth but had also lit a fire in the hearts of countless others. The experience with the gospel choir became a cherished story, a reminder that with passion and resilience, great things could be achieved—even when it seemed daunting.