Song Stories: Queen: Somebody to Love
'Somebody to Love' is one of the most emotionally charged songs in the bands catalogue. A love letter to gospel and in particular Aretha Franklin. Released in 1976 as part of their album A Day at the Races, this ballad captures the loneliness, longing, and vulnerability that Freddie Mercury often expressed so beautifully through his music.
The song was written by Freddie Mercury at a piano, and features three of the band singing on the record. Using vocal layering techniques the band managed to create the sound of a choir using only three singers Mercury, Brian May and Roger Taylor. John Deacon did not sing backing vocals on the album recording but would aid the band when singing live.
It was the first single from 'A Day at the Races' and sees Freddie searching and asking questions for both the lack of love experienced in his life, and the role and existence of God. The song is one of the bands most heartfelt songs, and see's a real emotive vocal delivery from Freddie Mercury. Although the gospel influence is definitely present, it also stays true to the bands guitar driven style and features a notable guitar solo by May.
The song features a build-up of tension throughout its three-minute runtime, starting soft and introspective before erupting into full-throttle emotion in the chorus. This gradual crescendo mirrors the feeling of longing reaching a breaking point, where the desperation for companionship and love is finally given voice.
Queen recorded the song using the same meticulous approach they had used on previous album 'A Night at the Opera'. They began to use the studio to it's extreme. Freddie’s multi-tracked vocals were a significant part of the song’s sonic texture. He sang multiple harmonies himself, overdubbing his voice several times to create a choral effect that gives the song a sense of grandeur. This was a complex process, but Queen’s dedication to getting it just right paid off in a big way. The final result was a song that sounded like it was being sung by a group of people, all expressing the same emotional longing.
Another notable aspect of the recording was the band’s decision to include a real piano in the mix. Freddie played the piano himself, and the presence of this instrument added an intimate feel to the track, as if the song were being performed live in a small room.
The song was an instant hit for Queen it went to No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart and No. 13 on the US Billboard Hot 100. It was also included on the bands 'Greatest Hits' album which was released in 1981. Queen played 'Somebody to Love' live from 1977 to 1985, and a live performance of the song is featured on the album 'Queen Rock Montreal', 'Queen on Fire – Live at the Bowl'. In addition to these live performances, there were collaboration tributes to "Somebody to Love" after Mercury's death in 1991. The song was performed live on 20 April 1992 during the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert, with George Michael on lead vocals.
Stepping into Freddie’s shoes was no easy feat, but George Michael brought his own distinctive vocal style and emotional depth to the performance. His powerful, soulful delivery of the song brought the house down and became one of the most talked-about moments of the entire concert. Michael’s ability to channel the emotional vulnerability of the song, while honoring Freddie’s own unique interpretation, showed just how universal the song’s themes were and how deeply it had resonated with so many artists and fans.
The song is still one of the bands most notable hits. It alongside 'Bohemian Rhapsody' is regarded as their best work of the 1970s. It is a song that saw Queen embrace their influences but also create something unique to them.
It's testament to the bands brilliant musical ability and songwriting ability.
Thank you for reading
Jack