Freddie Mercury's Musical Preferences: A Tale of Piano and Wurlitzer
The legendary frontman of Queen, Freddie Mercury, was known for his exceptional vocal range and musical prowess. However, his preferences when it came to instruments were quite particular, especially when it came to the piano and the Wurlitzer electric piano.
Mercury's piano skills were impeccable, and he often used his classical training to enhance the band's sound. He was a master of both delicate tinkles and powerful chords, making the piano an integral part of his performances. But when it came to the Wurlitzer, Mercury had strong opinions.
In an interview with BBC 1 in 1977, Mercury expressed his disdain for the Wurlitzer electric piano, calling it 'tinny and horrible.' He preferred the grandeur of a grand piano, stating, 'Why play those things when you’ve got a lovely superb grand piano?'
John Deacon, a fellow band member, had a different view. He insisted that the Wurlitzer was essential to a new song he had written. Mercury, being the musical director, suggested Deacon play the instrument himself. Deacon explained, 'Freddie didn’t like the electric piano, so I took it home and I started to learn on the electric piano and basically that’s the song that came out.'
This led to an interesting outcome. Deacon's learning on the Wurlitzer shaped the song's sound, and it became the instrument of choice for that particular track. Mercury's preference for the grand piano was evident during live performances of 'You’re My Best Friend,' where he took control of the keyboard line and played it on his preferred instrument.
As the 1980s progressed, Mercury began to phase out his piano playing during live shows, often singing without the instrument to engage with the audience. The song 'You’re My Best Friend' was eventually dropped from the band's setlists after the 1980 tour, only to return after Mercury's untimely death.
This story highlights the unique musical preferences of Freddie Mercury and how they influenced the band's sound and performances. It's a fascinating insight into the creative process of one of rock's greatest frontmen.
