Few bands embodied the pure excess of the ’70s like Queen. Embracing the exaggerated pomp of prog rock and heavy metal, the British quartet delved deeply into camp, creating a huge, operatic sound with layered guitars and overdubbed vocals. Freddie Mercury brought an extravagant sense of camp to the band, pushing them toward kitschy humor and pseudo-classical arrangements, as epitomized on their best-known song, “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Mercury was one of the most charismatic front men in rock history. Through his legendary theatrical performances, Queen became one of the most popular bands in the world in the mid-’70s; in England, they remained second only to the Beatles in popularity. In 2005, Queen was revived. Paul Rodgers joined Brian May and Roger Taylor for some live shows, one of which was documented on 2005’s Return of the Champions, a double disc on the Hollywood label. Queen is currently playing with American Idol winner Adam Lambert. Simply, Queen still rules! They are the champions!
