The Queen Fanthology Guide

The Queen Fanthology
Craig Piper
Last Update: 15th February 2014
Foreword
So, youre a big fan of Queen? Got all the albums and maybe all the singles, too? Think youve got everything? Think again Over their long history, Queen have released many different versions of their material; remixes, edits, remakes, Bsides, collaborations, mistakes, there are literally hundreds of variations to the songs you will find on Queens albums. Add in a healthy dose of unreleased songs that have surfaced over the years, and you have A LOT of material to listen to and collect. Ive listened to and collected Queen for many years, and ever since I started these variations and versions have fascinated me. While several other guides to Queens material exist, I was always frustrated that none of them were definitive. That is where this guide comes in. It aims to list and describe every variation and version of every Queen track, no matter how small the difference. From songs that never made it to the album, to the most minor of edits, youll find it all here. In this guide, each album has its own chapter (along with additional chapters on pre-Queen bands, collaborations and live tracks), and each chapter follows the same format: A guide to the album background, including a track listing and key facts about when and where it was recorded, and who produced and engineered the album. This section will also include information on the original release dates, release formats and catalogue numbers. A list of album remasters, including who remastered the album, where it was remastered and release details of the remaster. Details of the album versions of each song, including the author and track time, to allow comparison to the different versions. A comprehensive list of each of the song versions, including track time and a description of what makes that version different. A list of releases (where applicable) that feature that song version.
There is a lot of information contained in this guide, so before you get stuck in I recommend you read the following few pages to help you get the most out of it. This will give you all the background needed to understand whats in the guide.
Using this guide

Whats in and whats out:
This guide aims to list all song versions where there is any variation (however minor) to the standard album version. This includes both officially released and unreleased studio material, as well as officially released live material. There is, however, one exception to this rule. Over the years Queen have released several official documentaries, which feature a lot of songs in their soundtracks. Many of these songs are just short clips of the album versions, and to keep this guide focused on what really matters, the music, the decision was taken not to include these short clips. Documentary tracks are only listed where there has been some form of remixing from the album version.
Releases:
Along with each song version, youll find a list of releases that that features that version. It would be near impossible to list every release, so the following approach has been adopted: Only releases from the three major Queen territories of the UK, US and Japan are listed, unless the song version in question doesnt feature on releases from those counties, or there is some other good reason for including other territories Some releases have also been issued a multitude of times over many years and in a variety of packages (for example, Greatest Hits). In these cases it wasnt always possible to list every single issue and reissue, but I have tried to list as many as possible. The list of releases is focused on vinyl and CDs, generally Ive only listed cassette sources when there is no vinyl or CD equivalent. Video sources of tracks are also included (e.g. DVDs, Laser Discs and videos), but generally only when there is no equivalent audio source.
For a lot of the releases mentioned youll also find an indication of its rarity, including which releases might be easier to find when a song features on more than one. This is obviously quite subjective and should only be taken as a suggestion; collecting Queen has never been an exact science.
Unreleased Material:
To the delight of many fans, and the frustration of the band, a large catalogue of unreleased material has found its way into the hands of collectors. Some of this material circulates freely amongst the community of Queen fans, whilst some is exceptionally rare and in the hands of only a few people. To make it absolutely clear what material is available and what is not, youll see a status attached to every listing of unreleased material. The categories are: Shared: The track definitely exists and it has been freely shared amongst Queen fans, so anyone should be able to get hold of it. Uncirculated: The track definitely exists and it is in the hands of collectors, but it has not been shared freely and may be difficult to get hold of. Not Recorded: A status relating to fan club convention tracks. We know it was played at the convention, but no recording has come to light. In The Vaults: The track has been confirmed to exist by an official source, but it has never leaked to collecting circles. Advert: The track has been advertised for sale/trade, but hasnt been heard by anyone. Related mainly to some acetate discs. Rumour: Gossip, innuendo, wind ups; they are all here. This material may exist, or it may not.
These statuses have been included on listings that relate to recordings from acetate discs as well, as although there is a physical product, they have never been widely released and exist only in exceptionally limited numbers. If you are new to Queen collecting and youd like to get hold of the shared material then your first port of call should be Queenzone, the most popular Queen internet forum.
Repeated Information:
Its worth mentioning that youll see certain bits of information repeated throughout the guide. This is particularly true of the releases segments. For example, all the De Lane Lea demos come from the same release, and so for each of the five demos the same description of the release was included. While that might get a tad boring if you are reading the whole document, there is a reason for it. This guide is put together in such a way to allow people to dip in and out, so its necessary to repeat certain things.
Beware Fakes!
Over time, many fake Queen tracks have come to light. Sometimes this has been unintentional, but at other times its been a deliberate ploy to deceive fans. In each album chapter the most common fakes are listed, but so many circulate it would be impossible to keep track of them all. Some fakes are so poor you can spot them easily, while others have clearly had a lot of effort put into them. Fake tracks, however, generally fall into these categories: Fan mixes: Many Queen fans turn their talents to remixing songs, made all the more easier these days by the huge collection of computer game stems available. Most share their work freely, but in some cases people have mistaken (deliberately or otherwise) these fan mixes for demos or rarities. 5.1 Mixes: Queen have released several DVDs in 5.1 Surround Sound, and if you have just a little PC knowledge you can separate out the different tracks and listen to each individually. Fun to do, but sometimes these separated 5.1 mixes have been passed off as rarities. Stereo Mixes: Back in the days before 5.1 Surround Sound people only had stereo effects to play with. Many bootlegs contain tracks with just the left or right channel present, and try to pass these off as demos. Official releases: Sometimes the more obscure official releases are passed off as demos. Check this guide and youll know for sure whats official and whats not! New creations: Some people go to the lengths of recording new music to create a fake track, sometimes combining it with genuine samples. Some of it is rather good, but its not worth anything at all. Wind Ups: The vast majority of Queen fans are good people, but some like to wind us all up with tales of unreleased tracks that are nothing more than fantasy.
If you are ever offered any Queen rarities in a trade, make sure you know what you are getting first, and always ask for a sample!
Help!
If you have any information to add to this guide, or if you spot a mistake that needs to be corrected, then please get in touch by emailing jam_monkey@hotmail.com
Queen
Queen recorded their first album before they even had a record deal. In 1972, Queen signed with production company Trident, who agreed to produce an album and then look for a record deal with a major label. The lack of a record deal meant the band was forced to record in down time, when no other acts wanted the studio. This haphazard recording and mixing process caused problems, leaving the band dissatisfied with many elements of the recording. In 1973 Queen finally secured a record deal with EMI in the UK, and later Elektra in the US and Japan. A few months later their first album, which would have been called Top Fax, Pix and Info had Roger Taylor had his way, was released. The sleeve notes of this first album throw up a couple of anomalies; John Deacon was persuaded to change his name to Deacon John by Freddie and Roger, who thought it sounded more interesting that way. This album was also one of two where Roger Taylor chose to use his middle name, Meddows. The album spawned two singles; Keep Yourself Alive, released in many countries around the world, and Liar, released only in the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Neither made any impression on the charts. Tracks: 1) Keep Yourself Alive (May) 2) Doing All Right (May/Staffell) 3) Great King Rat (Mercury) 4) My Fairy King (Mercury) 5) Liar (Mercury) 6) The Night Comes Down* (May) 7) Modern Times Rock N Roll (Taylor) 8) Son And Daughter (May) 9) Jesus (Mercury) 10) Seven Seas of Rhye (Mercury) Freddie Mercury (Vocals, piano) Brian May (Guitars, piano, vocals) Deacon John (Bass guitar) Roger Meddows-Taylor (Percussion, vocals)
Personnel:
Guest personnel: John Anthony (Additional vocals on Modern Times Rock n Roll) Produced by: John Anthony, Roy Thomas Baker and Queen
(*The Night Comes Down produced by Queen and recorded by Louie Austin)
Engineered by: Roy Thomas Baker, Mike Stone, Ted Sharpe and Dave Henschel Recorded at: Release date: Trident Studios, London, UK; January 1972-January 1973 (*The Night Comes Down recorded at De Lane Lea, London, UK; September-December 1971) 13th July 1973 (UK) 4th September 1973 (USA) 25th March 1974 (Japan)
Release details:
Release Queen Description 1973 UK 12 Album 1973 US 12 Album 1973 Japanese 12 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: EMC 3006 Elektra: EKS 75064 Elektra: P-8427-E Notes
Remasters
Early CD Issues:
Release Queen Description 1986 UK CD5 Album 1987 Japanese CD5 Album 1990 Japanese CD5 Album 1992 UK CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: CDP 7 46204 2 Toshiba-EMI: CP32-5376 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-6551 Parlophone: UK-CD-FA 3040 Notes
Supermasters series Reissue
1991 Remaster: Remastered by Eddy Schreyer at Future Disc Systems, Hollywood, USA
Release Queen Description 1991 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61064-2 Notes
Bonus Tracks:
1) Mad The Swine 2) Keep Yourself Alive (Long Lost Re-take) 3) Liar (John Luongo & Gary Hellman Remix)
Release Queen Description Label/Catalogue No. 1994 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: CDPCSD 139 1994 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-8271 Notes
1998 Remaster: Remasters by Peter Mew at Abbey Road Studios, London, UK

Release Miniatures Volume I The Crown Jewels Queen Description 1998 UK CD5 Box Set 1998 US CD5 Box Set Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 4984072 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains four albums Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains eight albums Card sleeve vinyl replica
Hollywood Records: HR622002 BK01 1998 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-65101
2001 Remaster: Remastered by Peter Mew at Abbey Road Studios, London, UK

Release Queen Description 2001 Japanese CD5 Album 2004 Japanese CD5 Album 2005 Japanese CD5 Album 2007 Japanese CD5 Album 2008 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba EMI: TOCP-65841 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67341 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53441 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53441 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67341 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replica Reissue Card sleeve vinyl replica reissue. Additional OBI
2011 Remaster: Remastered by Bob Ludwig at Gateway Mastering Studios, Portland, USA
Release Queen Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 387 6 Island: 276 387 9 Hollywood Records: D001364002 Hollywood Records: D001363902 Island: UICY-15009 Island: UICY-75011 Island: UIGY-9510 Island: UICY-75412 Island: UICY-75427 Notes 1 CD edition 2 CD edition 1 CD edition 2 CD edition 1 CD edition 2 CD edition Super Audio CD. 1 CD only Reissue. 1 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
Bonus Tracks*: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6)
Keep Yourself Alive (De Lane Lea Demo) The Night Comes Down (De Lane Lea Demo) Great King Rat (De Lane Lea Demo) Jesus (De Lane Lea Demo) Liar (De Lane Lea Demo) Mad The Swine
*Bonus tracks only on 2 CD editions
Bonus Videos*: 1) Son And Daughter (Live at The Hammersmith Odeon, London, UK 24/12/1975) 2) Liar (Live at The Rainbow Theatre, London, UK 19/11/1974) 3) Keep Yourself Alive (Promo Video)
* Bonus videos released on iTunes only
Keep Yourself Alive

Written by: Brian May Album Version Time: 3:47
De Lane Lea Demo (3:51)

Queens first outing into the studio came at De Lane Lea, London in 1971. The band had been asked to help test the equipment in the brand new studio, and in return they could record a demo tape for free, with this track being one of five recorded with engineer Louie Austin. This recording of Keep Yourself Alive has the same basic structure as the album version, but with some notable differences; the introduction is on an acoustic guitar and there are several lyrical changes. This, and the other four tracks, are a fascinating document into the bands early history. Where to find it: The De Lane Lea demos were bootlegged for many years before finally receiving an official release as bonus tracks on the 2011 remaster of the eponymous Queen album, as well a US promo release. The studio tapes from these sessions were long since lost or destroyed, so all the tracks come from an acetate disc in Brian Mays personal collection, and this track starts with the sound of the needle being placed onto the disc.
Release Queen Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 387 9 Hollywood Records: D001363902 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75011 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75427 2011 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Records: BVPR003382 Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue 2 CD edition
Radio Sampler First Wave
Early Version (3:51)

Somewhere between the De Lea Demo and the finished album version, Queen recorded this version of Keep Yourself Alive. The acoustic guitar remains, but other elements of the track have clearly been developed a little further and the lyrics are closer to, although not the same as, the album version. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) This track was a discovered on a 12 acetate of the eponymous Queen album in 2011. Only one copy has ever surfaced and is in the hands of a private collector, but a digital copy of this track has leaked and is freely available. All the remaining tracks on the acetate are identical to the finished album, which would indicate that Keep Yourself Alive was the last track finished for these sessions.
Release Queen Description ???UK 12 Acetate Label/Catalogue No. Notes Trident Studios acetate
Withdrawn Promo Mix (3:49)

This very rare mix is almost identical to the album version, with only some slight changes to the guitar levels, particularly at the end of the track. Why this mix ended up being changed for the album is anyones guess. Where to find it: This mix came to light in 2011, on a withdrawn demo copy of the Keep Yourself Alive single. The regular demo copy is dated 6/7/73, whereas this mix comes from an earlier copy dated 15/6/73. All copies of this early record were supposed to have been destroyed, but an EMI employee saved between 15-20 copies and, many years later, sold them to several collectors. If you own this one you are very lucky indeed.
Release Keep Yourself Alive Description 1973 UK 7 Promo Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 2036 Notes Withdrawn. Dated 15/6/73.
BBC Session 1 (3:48)

All of the BBC Session 1 tracks use the album backing tracks (with some remixing), combined with new vocal takes, so this is very similar to the album recording. Recorded at Langham One Studio, London, on 5th February 1973. Where to find it: Queen recorded six sessions for the BBC, the first and third of which were released in 1989 in the UK and Japan (and later in 1995 in the US). Although, unusually for Queen, it has never been remastered or re-released, the CD is still fairly easy to pick up cheaply, but the LP will cost you a little more.
Release At The Beeb Description 1989 UK CD5 Album 1989 UK 12 Album 1989 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Band Of Joy: BOJCD001 Band Of Joy: BOJLP001 Toshiba-EMI: TECP-25525 Notes
BBC Session 1 - Hollywood Records Release (3:48)

Six years after the release of At The Beeb, the American market finally got the recordings from these sessions in the form of At The BBC. Unfortunately, after waiting all that time, Hollywood Records managed to reverse the stereo channels of the entire album. Where to find it: The CD release of At The BBC is still in print and easy to get hold of cheaply. More collectable (and expensive) is the promo picture disc. This track is also available on a rather rare US promo CD issued to promote the 1998 Crown Jewels remasters.
Release At The BBC Description 1995 US CD5 Album 1995 US 12 Promo Keep Yourself Alive 1998 US CD5 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-62005-2 Hollywood Records: ED 62005 Hollywood Records: PRCD 11032-2 Notes
Picture disc

Recorded in Langham One Studio, London, on 25th July 1973, this track again uses the album backing (with some remixing) and a new vocal take with some lyrical changes. Very similar to the Session 1 recording. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) The four unreleased BBC sessions were bootlegged for a number of years, generally in poor quality. However, in 2010 a generous collector shared high quality recordings of all these sessions from master tapes in his collection.
US Single Version (3:32)

Keep Yourself Alive was edited for the US re-release in 1975. The edit is a simple early fade, losing the last 20 seconds or so. Where to find it: This version was released as a single in 1975, and also featured as a double A-side to the Spun Gold reissue of Another One Bites The Dust). The 1975 single also contains unique versions of Lily Of The Valley and God Save The Queen, representing a 3 for 1 bargain for collectors. If you are very lucky (and have some deep pockets) it is also available on the original Elektra CD release of Greatest Hits.
Release Keep Yourself Alive Another One Bites The Dust/ Keep Yourself Alive Greatest Hits Description 1975 US 7 Single 1981 US 7 Single 1981 US 12 Album 1984 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: E-45268 Elektra: E-45106 Elektra: 5E-564 Elektra: 5E-564-2 Notes Spun Gold release
Long Lost Re-take (4:05)

In 1975, Queen re-recorded Keep Yourself Alive for a proposed single release in the US, although in the end that take was not used and the same single version from 1973 was reissued. Although this track retains the overall structure of the familiar album cut, it is a completely different take with many different touches both musically and vocally.
Where to find it:

This track finally got a widespread release in 1991, when it appeared on the Hollywood Records remaster on the eponymous Queen album, and twenty years later on the 2011 remaster of A Night At The Opera, as well as some promo releases. Notably, it appears on an exceptionally rare acetate, along with an edit of the same track.
Release Keep Yourself Alive Queen Keep Yourself Alive A Night At The Opera Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61064-2 1998 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Records: PRCD 11032-2 2011 UK CD5 Album Island 2011 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: D001364902 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75017 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75433 2011 UK 7 Single Island: LC1846 2765780 2011 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Records: BVPR003382 Description 1975 UK 7 Acetate 1991 US CD5 Album Notes Master Room acetate
2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Record Store Day release
Stormtroopers In Stilettos Radio Sampler First Wave
Long Lost Re-take Edit (3:29)

A very simple edit of this re-recording of Keep Yourself Alive. Only around 35 seconds of material is lost, achieved by a slightly shortened opening and an early fade. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) This one only appears on an exceptionally rare, perhaps unique, acetate disc. However, the collector who owns the disc freely shared a copy of the recording so Queen fans everywhere can enjoy it.
Release Keep Yourself Alive Description 1975 UK 7 Acetate Label/Catalogue No. Notes Master Room acetate
Video Version (3:43)

Queen recorded two videos for Keep Yourself Alive, although only the second has ever been released. The audio for the video fades out three to four seconds before the album version. Where to find it: The second video for Keep Yourself Alive has been released as a bonus track on Box Of Flix and Greatest Flix I&II, and has also found its way on to the US video release of Classic Queen. All of these products are now deleted, so the easiest way to find this one would be either Greatest Video Hits 1 or the iTunes deluxe edition of Queen.
Release Box Of Flix Description 1991 UK VHS Video 1992 Japanese VHS Video 1992 US VHS Video 1997 UK Laser Disc Video 1997 UK DVD Video 2002 UK DVD Video 2002 US DVD Video 2002 Japanese DVD Video 2005 Japanese DVD Video 2006 Japanese DVD Video Queen 2011 Internet Download Label/Catalogue No. PMI: MVB 9913243 Toshiba-EMI: TOVW-3132/3 Hollywood Records: HR-69001-3 Pioneer: PMLPD 01171 Queen Films: QDVD001 Parlophone: 492 9449 Hollywood Records: 7 20616 90119 4 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3057/58 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 3241/42 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 92054/55 Notes
Classic Queen Greatest Flix I&II Greatest Video Hits 1
Reissue Reissue iTunes deluxe album
Karaoke Version 1 (3:36)

A karaoke instrumental version, retaining the backing vocals. For some reason the track fades out earlier than the album version, and the stereo channels have been reversed. Where to find it: The bands only official karaoke album was released in Japan in 1998, and then re-released (with additional tracks) in 2004. Both releases are rather rare and quite costly if you are able to find them.
Release Greatest Karaoke Hits Description Label/Catalogue No. 1998 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-65061-62 2004 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67422-23 Notes

The DVD version of this track fades in much later than the album version, cutting off most of the guitar intro. It also fades out early in the same way as Karaoke Version 1. Where to find it: The DVD of Greatest Karaoke Hits features a number of edits, presumably to allow 35 tracks to fit onto one disc, and just like the CD release its getting rather hard to get hold of at a reasonable price.
Release Greatest Karaoke Hits Description 2004 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. TOBW-3174 Notes
Karaoke Vocal Version (3:20)

The Greatest Karaoke Hits DVD allows you play all karaoke tracks with the vocals restored, creating the same edit as Karaoke Version 2 but with Freddie back where he belongs. Where to find it: The DVD of Greatest Karaoke Hits features a number of edits, presumably to allow 35 tracks to fit onto one disc, and just like the CD release its getting rather hard to get hold of at a reasonable price.
Computer Game Stems (3:40)

This version from Rock Band 3 has some minor remixing. There is some additional percussion at the start of the track to count down to the guitar opening, and the fade out at the end has been removed. Separation: Kick/Snare/Room/Bass/Guitar/Additional Guitar/Vocals Where to find it: This track can be downloaded to play on Rock Band 3. The separated stems ripped from the game circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
Release Rock Band 3 Description 2010 Download Label/Catalogue No. Electronic Arts Notes
Doing All Right

Written by: Brian May & Tim Staffell Album Version Time: 4:09

This version uses a remixed version of the album backing track with a new vocal recording, featuring Roger Taylor singing the final verse. Recorded at Langham One Studio, London, on 5th February 1973. Where to find it: Queen recorded six sessions for the BBC, the first and third of which were released in 1989 in the UK and Japan (and later in 1995 in the US). Although, unusually for Queen, it has never been remastered or re-released, the CD is still fairly easy to pick up cheaply, but the LP will cost you a little more.
BBC Session 1 Hollywood Records Release (4:10)

Exactly the same as the regular BBC Session 1 recording, just with the stereo channels reversed. Where to find it: The CD release of At The BBC is still in print and easy to get hold of cheaply. More collectable (and expensive) is the promo picture disc. This track was also released as a B-side to the second Let Me Live CD single in the UK.
Release At The BBC Description 1995 US CD5 Album 1995 US 12 Promo Let Me Live 1996 UK CD5 Single Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-62005-2 Hollywood Records: ED 62005 Parlophone: CDQUEEN24 Notes
Picture disc Part 2 single
Champions Of The World Version (1:06)

The piano introduction is played and then repeated once in this version, before going into the regular album version. It fades outs early around the line Where will I be this time tomorrow. As this version features in a documentary there is some commentary over part of the music, with Roger Taylor taking about the bands popularity in Japan. Where to find it: Both the video and laser disc of Champions of the World are now deleted, but copies are inexpensive and should not prove too hard to track down.
Release Champions of the World Description 1995 UK Laser Disc Video 1995 UK VHS Video 1995 US VHS Video 1995 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1995 Japanese VHS Video Label/Catalogue No. Pioneer: PLMPB 01141 PMI: MVD 4915053 Hollywood Records: HR-69003-3 Toshiba-EMI: TOLW-3224/5 Toshiba-EMI: TOVW-3224 Notes
Great King Rat

Written by: Freddie Mercury Album Version Time: 5:42

The second of the De Lane Lea demo tracks. This raw take is similar in structure to the album version, but very clearly a very different recording. Where to find it: The De Lane Lea demos were bootlegged for many years before finally receiving an official release as bonus tracks on the 2011 remaster of the eponymous Queen album. The studio tapes from these sessions were long since lost or destroyed, so all the tracks come from an acetate disc in Brian Mays personal collection, with the surface noise adding to the raw feel of the track.
Release Queen Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 387 9 Hollywood Records: D001363902 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75011 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75427 Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue 2 CD edition

Recorded at Langham One Studio, London, on 3rd December 1973 for Queens third BBC session. This is a completely new recording of the track, featuring some different guitar and far fewer backing vocals. Where to find it: Queen recorded six sessions for the BBC, the first and third of which were released in 1989 in the UK and Japan (and later in 1995 in the US). Although, unusually for Queen, it has never been remastered or re-released, the CD is still fairly easy to pick up cheaply, but the LP will cost you a little more.

Exactly the same as the regular BBC Session 3 recording, just with the stereo channels reversed. The slight difference in track time compared to At The Beeb is due to a shorter silence between tracks. Where to find it: The CD release of At The BBC is still in print and easy to get hold of cheaply. More collectable (and expensive) is the promo picture disc.
Release At The BBC Description 1995 US CD5 Album 1995 US 12 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-62005-2 Hollywood Records: ED 62005 Notes
Picture disc
Alternative Mix (5:42)

The 1991 and 1994 remasters on the eponymous Queen album used an inferior recording source of Great King Rat, as the original master tapes were in very bad condition. This resulted in this alternative mix, which has some different stereo effects, most clearly noticed in the guitar intro, where the left channel is silent. Where to find it: Only available on the 1991 and 1994 remasters of the first album, as the subsequent remasters in 1998, 2001 and 2011 fixed the problem.
Release Queen Description 1991 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61064-2 1994 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: CDPCSD 139 1994 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-8721 Notes
Take One: Convention Recording (3:39)

This first take of Great King Rat starts with Freddie counting in to ten. It is a very under developed take, and features a lot of ad-libbed vocals. The song continues until up to the acoustic section, where Freddie then counts out. Where to find it: 2004 UK Convention: Unreleased (Not Recorded). We know this take was played at the 2004 UK Convention, but there is no known recording of it. 2004 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). There are at least two different recordings of this track from the 2004 Dutch Convention, and one of those has been freely shared.
Take Four: Convention Recording (6:29)

By the time we reach this take four recording, the song is a good deal more developed, with lyrics much closer to the album version. There are some additional guitar parts in various places on this version. Where to find it: 2005 UK Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). This convention session was recorded in full, but most of the tracks from it have not been shared. 2005 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). At 3:30 this recording is shorter than the UK version, as Greg Brooks cut it off halfway through due to time constraints. It has been widely shared.
My Fairy King

As with all the first BBC Session tracks, this recording uses the album backing with newly recorded vocals. Recorded at Langham One Studio, London, on 5th February 1973. Where to find it: Queen recorded six sessions for the BBC, the first and third of which were released in 1989 in the UK and Japan (and later in 1995 in the US). Although, unusually for Queen, it has never been remastered or re-released, the CD is still fairly easy to pick up cheaply, but the LP will cost you a little more.
BBC Session 1 - Hollywood Release (4:06)

Exactly the same as the regular BBC Session 1 recording, just with the stereo channels reversed. Where to find it: The CD release of At The BBC is still in print and easy to get hold of cheaply. More collectable (and expensive) is the promo picture disc. This track was also released as a B-side to the second Let Me Live CD single in the UK.
BBC Session 1 - Acetate Version (3:35)

This acetate of My Fairy King contains the BBC Session 1 take, but faded in later than usual, cutting off the first 16 seconds or so. The rest of the track plays normally. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) Only one copy of this acetate has ever surfaced, and is in the hands of a private collector. The edit it contains has never been publically shared.
Release My Fairy King Description 1973 UK 7 Acetate Label/Catalogue No. Notes Emidisc acetate
Liar

The De Lane Lea demo of this track, while basically the same as the album cut, is considerably longer. It features many extra guitar parts and has a raw edge to the sound. Where to find it: The De Lane Lea demos were bootlegged for many years before finally receiving an official release as bonus tracks on the 2011 remaster of the eponymous Queen album, as well as a US promo release. The studio tapes from these sessions were long since lost or destroyed, so all the tracks come from an acetate disc in Brian Mays personal collection, with the surface noise adding to the raw feel of the track.
Release Queen Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 387 9 Hollywood Records: D001363902 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75011 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75427 2011 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Records: BVPR003382 Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue 2 CD edition

The band have, once again, used a remixed form of the album backing track with a newly recorded vocal track. The remixing brings forward a number of guitar parts which arent obvious on the album, as well as the organ at the end. Recorded at Langham One Studio, London, on 5th February 1973. Where to find it: Queen recorded six sessions for the BBC, the first and third of which were released in 1989 in the UK and Japan (and later in 1995 in the US). Although, unusually for Queen, it has never been remastered or re-released, the CD is still fairly easy to pick up cheaply, but the LP will cost you a little more.

Exactly the same as the regular BBC Session 1 recording, just with the stereo channels reversed. The slight difference in track time compared to At The Beeb is due to a shorter silence between tracks. Where to find it: The CD release of At The BBC is still in print and easy to get hold of cheaply. More collectable (and expensive) is the promo picture disc. This track was also released as a B-side to the second Let Me Live CD single in the UK.
BBC Session 1 - Acetate Version (5:09)

This acetate discs contains an edit of the BBC Session 1 take. The guitar introduction to the song has been cut, and it fades in just before the vocals start. The first 1:20 of material is lost, but the rest of the track plays normally. Interestingly, the advert for this acetate claimed it contained an edit lasting 3:36. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) Only one known copy of this acetate has ever surfaced and is in the hands of a private collector. The edit it contains has never been publically shared.
Release Liar Description 1973 UK 7 Acetate Label/Catalogue No. Notes Emidisc acetate

This BBC Session 2 take used the same remixed backing track as Session 1 with a brand new vocal recording. Slightly different to Session 1, there are a couple of moments when you expect the backing vocals to kick in but they never come, exposing some instrumental parts youve never really heard before. Recorded at Langham One Studio, London, on 25th July 1973 Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) The four unreleased BBC sessions were bootlegged for a number of years, generally in poor quality However, in 2010 a generous collector shared high quality recordings of all these sessions from master tapes in his collection.

The follow up single to Keep Yourself Alive in the US, this track was heavily edited, losing more than half the material from the album version. Several huge sections have been lifted, leaving what is left sounding rather disjointed and clumsy. Where to find it: The original single release of Liar has become rather rare and expensive. More affordable is the Spun Gold reissue of Killer Queen, which features this edit as a double A-side.
Release Liar Killer Queen/Liar Description 1974 US 7 Single 1976 US 7 Single Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: EK-45884 Elektra: E-45080 Notes Spun Gold release
John Luongo & Gary Hellman Remix (6:26)

John Luongo and Gary Hellman have stayed faithful to the original recording, adding some additional percussion and various sound effects, while keeping the track basically intact. Where to find it: Hollywood Records commissioned a number of remixes to add to the 1991 remasters as bonus tracks. The 1991 remasters are now deleted and have been succeeded by the 2011 remasters, but having been in circulation for twenty years you should have no trouble getting hold of this edition of Queens first album.
Release Queen Description 1991 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61064-2 Notes
The Eye Version (1:26)

A simple edit of the first 1 minutes of the album version, ending in a fade. Where to find it: Found on disc one of the game: The Arena Domain. The UK version features this track twice. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
Release The Eye Description Label/Catalogue No. 1998 UK CDROM PC Game Electronic Arts: DDE05501101S 1998 Japanese CDROM PC Toshiba-EMI: Game TORM-7040-44 1998 French CDROM PC Electronic Arts: Game DDF05501101S 1998 German CDROM PC Electronic Arts: Game DDG05501101S 1998 Spanish CDROM PC Electronic Arts: Game DDS05501101S Notes
The Night Comes Down


When listening to this De Lane Lea track for the first time you may think you have heard it somewhere else before, and youd be right! According to the liner notes in the 2011 remaster of Queens first album, the band felt their original recording could not be improved upon and decided to keep this demo on the album. Another version of the tale is that they were very unhappy with the recordings produced by Roy Thomas Baker, which seems the more likely explanation. It is well documented the band hated the drum sound from these sessions. The album version was remixed from the original De Lane Lea tapes, so you will spot some differences. The lead vocal in particular is far more prominent in this mix. Where to find it: The De Lane Lea demos were bootlegged for many years before finally receiving an official release as bonus tracks on the 2011 remaster of the eponymous Queen album. The studio tapes from these sessions were long since lost or destroyed, so all the tracks come from an acetate disc in Brian Mays personal collection, with the surface noise adding to the raw feel of the track.

A straight edit of the guitar introduction to this track. It fades in after the opening drum beats and cuts out just before the electric guitar starts. Where to find it: Found of disc one of the game: The Arena Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
Modern Times Rock N Roll

Written by: Roger Taylor Album Version Time: 1:48

A new recording of Roger Taylors sole writing contribution to the first album. It is similar to the album cut, but with two exceptions; halfway through the track someone pops up saying Its not that Im bright, just happy go lucky; and there is a new guitar and drum section to close the track. Recorded at Langham One Studio, London, on 3rd December 1973 Where to find it: Queen recorded six sessions for the BBC, the first and third of which were released in 1989 in the UK and Japan (and later in 1995 in the US). Although, unusually for Queen, it has never been remastered or re-released, the CD is still fairly easy to pick up cheaply, but the LP will cost you a little more.

Exactly the same as the regular BBC Session 3 recording, just with the stereo channels reversed. The slight difference in track compared to At The Beeb is due to a shorter silence between tracks. Where to find it: The CD release of At The BBC is still in print and easy to get hold of cheaply. More collectable (and expensive) is the promo picture disc.
Picture disc

The band recorded a slower and more deliberate take of this track for their 4th BBC Session. It features some new guitar work, and Freddie pops up at the end of the track to sing backing vocals. Recorded at Langham One Studio, London, on 3rd April 1974. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) The four unreleased BBC sessions were bootlegged for a number of years, generally in poor quality. However, in 2010 a generous collector shared high quality recordings of all these sessions from master tapes in his collection.

An almost complete instrumental version of this track, except for around half a beat that has been cut off the start. Where to find it: Found on disc one of the game: The Arena Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
Son And Daughter

Australian Single Version (3:12)

The Australian single has been edited to omit the line "The world expects a man to buckle down and shovel shit. The line is lifted straight out and is a rather jarring and obvious cut. Clearly the Australian public was more sensitive to bad language than the rest of the world. Who knew? Where to find it: All the original singles of Keep Yourself Alive are now rare and collectable, and this is no exception.
Release Keep Yourself Alive Description 1973 Australian 7 Single Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: EKM 45863 Notes

A new recording of Son and Daughter from bands recording at Langham One Studio, London, on 25th July 1973. This take is much longer than the album version and features some of the guitar solo that would eventually end up on Brighton Rock. The verse containing The world expects a man is repeated, but Freddie gets around the swearing by singing Shovel shhh and Shovel it respectively. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) The four unreleased BBC sessions were bootlegged for a number of years, generally in poor quality. However, in 2010 a generous collector shared high quality recordings of all these sessions from master tapes in his collection.

Similar in style to Session 2, this new recording features an even longer guitar solo by Brian, again using elements of Brighton Rock. Freddie once again replaces shovel shit with shovel it. Where to find it: Queen recorded six sessions for the BBC, the first and third of which were released in 1989 in the UK and Japan (and later in 1995 in the US). Although, unusually for Queen, it has never been remastered or re-released, the CD is still fairly easy to pick up cheaply, but the LP will cost you a little more.

Exactly the same as the regular BBC Session 3 recording, just with the stereo channels reversed. Where to find it: The CD release of At The BBC is still in print and easy to get hold of cheaply. More collectable (and expensive) is the promo picture disc.
Picture disc
Jesus

This demo is over one minute longer than the album version, due to a slightly slower tempo and a longer guitar solo. A much heavier feel than the album take. Where to find it: The De Lane Lea demos were bootlegged for many years before finally receiving an official release as bonus tracks on the 2011 remaster of the eponymous Queen album. The studio tapes from these sessions were long since lost or destroyed, so all the tracks come from an acetate disc in Brian Mays personal collection, with the surface noise adding to the raw feel of the track.
Seven Seas Of Rhye

Mad The Swine

Written by: Freddie Mercury Non-album track
Non-album Track (3:22)

Another Freddie track with a heavy religious/biblical influence, Mad The Swine was supposed to appear on the eponymous Queen album between Great King Rat and My Fairy King, but was cut as the band were not happy with the production. Eighteen years later it was remixed by David Richards, who cleaned up the drum sound, allowing it to finally see the light of day as a bonus track. Where to find it: Released on the 1991 and 2011 remasters of Queens first album, as well as a bonus track on the Headlong single, no one should have any trouble getting this track into their collection. Several bootlegs claim to have the original version, but dont be fooled; they merely contain this version of the track.
Release Queen Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61064-2 2011 UK CD5 Album Island: 276 387 9 2011 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: D001363902 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75011 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75427 1991 UK CD5 Single Parlophone: CD QUEEN 18 1991 UK 12 Single Parlophone: 12 QUEEN 18 1991 UK 12 Single Parlophone: 12 PDQUEEN 18 1991 Japanese CD5 Single Toshiba-EMI: TOCP 6801 Description 1991 US CD5 Album Notes
2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue 2 CD edition
Headlong
Picture disc
Hangman
Written by: Freddie Mercury & Brian May Non-album track

A staple of Queens early live shows, a studio version of this heavy track was rumoured to exist for many years, but the band always denied it. In 2004 it emerged that, in spite of all the denials, Queen did record it. It is rumoured this track was begun when Freddie Mercury was in Wreckage, but no one knows for sure. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) A solitary 10 acetate of Hangman is known to exist, but it is in the hands of a private collector with no possibility of a release. Its fair to say that when it comes to Hangman, those who speak dont know, and those that know, dont speak.
Release Hangman Description ??? UK 10 Acetate Label/Catalogue No. Notes Trident Studios acetate
Rock N Roll Medley

Written by: Unknown Non-album track
Non-album Track (???)

Queens early live shows were often closed with a rock n roll medley, so it makes sense that the band recorded some of these songs in the studio. We dont know exactly what songs make up the medley, but frequently performed at the time was Jailhouse Rock, Stupid Cupid, Bama Lama Bama Loo and Big Spender. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) One copy of a 10 acetate is known to exist in the hands of a private collector. At the time No-One But You was released there were discussions about putting this track on the B-side; bringing the first and last Queen recordings together. Sadly, nothing came of it.
Release Rock N Roll Description ??? UK 10 Acetate Label/Catalogue No. Notes Trident Studios acetate
Silver Salmon
Written by: Tim Staffell Unreleased track
Take Four: Unreleased Track (3:10)

Another track whose existence was denied for many years by the band, Silver Salmon was written by Tim Staffell and is another one of his science fiction themed songs about a crashed spaceship; Like a silver salmon, she falls, metal burning. This recording is Take 4, and starts with Freddie talking in the studio. There is a good deal of debate among Queen fans on exactly when this track was recorded, with some saying that the sound of the drums and the strength of Freddies vocals point more towards the News Of The World sessions. Others counter that it is highly unlikely the band would have recorded a Tim Staffell track for their sixth album. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) Silver Salmon is unreleased, but a copy of the recording is easy to get hold of. Some poor quality versions that circulate cut off Freddie talking.
Take Four: Convention Recording (3:05)

The same Take 4 recording has been played at both the UK and Dutch conventions, the only difference being that Freddie talking in the studio has been cut. Where to find it: 2000 UK Convention: Unreleased (Shared). The majority of this convention session was recorded and has been shared. 2004 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). The convention session was recorded in full, but the Silver Salmon recording remains private.
Polar Bear
Written by: Brian May Unreleased track
Take Two: Unreleased Track (4:31)

Originally recorded by Smile, this is Queens attempt at Brians composition. This recording opens with an argument between Brian and Roger over tempo, Roger commenting that the song is creeping. Freddie changes some of the lyrics from the Smile version. Yet again, although rumours of this track persisted for years there were official denials from the band it ever existed. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) Polar Bear is unreleased, but copies circulate freely amongst Queen fans. Some versions that circulate cut off the studio banter, but all come from the same recording.
Studio Jam
Written by: Unknown Unreleased track
Convention Recording (2:08)

A short studio jam from the band featuring some ad-libbed vocals from Freddie. This jam has circulated under the name Feelings, or Feeling Feeling but probably does not have an official name; Greg Brooks merely describing it as a minute of ad-libbing. Its a very rough jam that some have speculated is an early version of Feelings Feelings (see The News of the World section for more on that track), probably due to some lyrical similarities. Where to find it: 2000 UK Convention: Unreleased (Shared). Played immediately prior to Silver Salmon at the 2000 UK Convention, a recording of this session exists and this track is in circulation. 2004 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). A very short 00:06 edit of the end of the track, this was played immediately prior to Silver Salmon at the 2004 Dutch Convention, but remains in private hands.
Mastering Differences
One of the CD releases of Queen has some mastering differences, with the track breaks between songs coming at different points. These variations have not been listed above as there is no musical difference to the standard CD versions, and it is only when listening to these tracks in isolation you would spot any difference, but the details are presented here none the less: The 1994 CD remaster release (Parlophone: CDPCSD 139) has an incorrect track break between Great King Rat and My Fairy King. This results in the first note of My Fairy King being played at the end of Great King Rat.
The Rumour Mill

For the most part, this guide presents what we know about the music of Queen, but here we can also delve into rumour and innuendo. Keep Yourself Alive was recorded several times according to Brian May. It is possible further alternative versions exist in the vaults. The Night Comes Down may have been recorded by the band during these sessions, although they ended up using the De Lane Lea tape. The following tracks began life (or are rumoured to have begun life) before the formation of the band. Its possible a version of these tracks were recorded for these sessions: Father To Son See What A Fool Ive Been Stone Cold Crazy
Queen II
After a gap of only a few months, Queen re-entered the studio to begin work on a new album. This time they were given proper access and no longer had to record in down time. The band made full use of the opportunity, pushing the boundaries of the recording process and creating vast, multi-layered guitar and vocal harmonies. Recorded in just one month, Queen II achieved the studio sound the band had been dreaming of. In keeping with the production values of the album, Over The Top was considered a title, but eventually the band settled on the Led Zeppelin-esque Queen II, which according to John Deacon, Sounds very boring doesn't it, but we couldn't find a title we all agreed on. While the album title may not have been to his taste, John did get his own way when it came to his name. This time it was printed the right way around, and Deacon John was no more. Seven Seas of Rhye, the only single from Queen II, provided the band with their first hit. After criticism that Keep Yourself Alive never really gets going, the band decided to put everything into the first ten seconds giving the song its high energy opening. Despite mixed reviews, Queen II provided the band with a big hit that defined the sound for a career that was about to take off. Tracks: 1) Procession (May) 2) Father To Son (May) 3) White Queen (As It Began) (May) 4) Some Day One Day (May) 5) The Loser In The End (Taylor) 6) Ogre Battle (Mercury) 7) The Fairy Fellers Master Stroke (Mercury) 8) Nevermore (Mercury) 9) The March Of The Black Queen (Mercury) 10) Funny How Love Is (Mercury) 11) Seven Seas Of Rhye (Mercury) Freddie Mercury (Vocals, piano, harpsichord) Brian May (Guitars, piano, vocals, bells) John Deacon (Bass guitar, acoustic guitar) Roger Meddows-Taylor (Percussion, vocals)
Personnel:
Guest personnel: Roy Thomas Baker (Virtuoso castanets on The Fairy Fellers Master-Stroke) Produced by: Roy Thomas Baker, Robin Geoffrey Cable and Queen
Engineered by: Mike Stone Recorded at: Release date: Trident Studios, London, UK; August 1973 8th March 1974 (UK) 9th April 1974 (USA) 25th June 1974 (Japan)
Release details:
Release Queen II Description 1974 UK 12 Album 1974 US 12 Album 1974 Japanese 12 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: EMA 767 Elektra: EKS 75082 Elektra: P-8456-E Notes
Remasters
Early CD Issues:
Release Queen II Description 1986 UK CD5 Album 1987 Japanese CD5 Album 1991 Japanese CD5 Album 1992 UK CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: CDP 7 46205 2 Toshiba-EMI: CP32-5377 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-6575 Parlophone: UK-CD-FA 3099 Notes
Supermasters series Reissue
Release Queen II Description 1991 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61232-2 Notes
Bonus Tracks:
1) See What A Fool Ive Been 2) Ogre Battle (Nicholas Sansano Remix) 3) Seven Seas Of Rhye (Freddy Bastone Remix 1)
1994 Remaster: Remastered by Kevin Metcalfe, assisted by Crispin Murray, at Townhouse Studios, London, UK
Release Queen II Description Label/Catalogue No. 1994 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: CDPCSD 140 1994 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-8272 Notes

Release Miniatures Volume I The Crown Jewels Queen II Description 1998 UK CD5 Box Set 1998 US CD5 Box Set Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 4984072 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains four albums Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains eight albums Card sleeve vinyl replica
Hollywood Records: HR622002 BK01 1998 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-65102

Release Queen II Description 2001 Japanese CD5 Album 2004 Japanese CD5 Album 2005 Japanese CD5 Album 2007 Japanese CD5 Album 2008 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba EMI: TOCP-65842 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67342 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53442 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53442 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67342 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replica Reissue Card sleeve vinyl replica reissue. Additional OBI
Release Queen II Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2013 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 388 8 Island: 276 425 0 Hollywood Records: D001364302 Hollywood Records: D001364202 Island: UICY-15010 Island: UICY-75013 Island: UIGY-9511 Island: UICY-75413 Island: UICY-75429 Island: UICY-40040 Notes 1 CD edition 2 CD edition 1 CD edition 2 CD edition 1 CD edition 2 CD edition Super Audio CD. 1 CD only Reissue. 1 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition Card sleeve vinyl replica. Platinum CD. 1 CD only Card sleeve vinyl replica. 1 CD only
2013 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-76026
Bonus Tracks*: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5)
See What A Fool Ive Been (BBC Session 2 Remix 2011) White Queen (As It Began) (Live at The Hammersmith Odeon, London, UK 24/12/1975) Seven Seas Of Rhye (Instrumental Mix 2011) Nevermore (BBC Session 4) See What A Fool Ive Been (B-side Version)
Bonus Videos*: 1) White Queen (As It Began) (Live at The Rainbow Theatre, London, UK 19/11/1974) 2) Seven Seas Of Rhye (Live at Wembley Stadium, London, UK 12/07/1986) 3) Ogre Battle (Live at The Hammersmith Odeon, London, UK 24/12/1975)
Procession
Concert Intro Version (1:22)

Prior to release on Queen II, Procession started life as a recorded introduction to Queens live shows, debuting at the Golders Green Hippodrome, London, on 13th September 1973,at a show they recorded for a BBC radio broadcast. This early take is very similar to the album, but a lot more basic, with fewer layers of guitar. The running time is extended by an extra nine seconds of drum beats at the start of the track. Where to find it: Studio Recording: Unreleased (In The Vaults). No trace of the studio recording has ever surfaced in collecting circles, so it is likely to be buried in the depths of the Queen vaults. That said, we know a number of early tapes have been damaged or gone missing entirely, so it may no longer exist. Live Version: Unreleased (Shared). Procession would continue as a concert introduction until 1975, although this early version was only played a few times before being replaced with the album version. A few recordings of 1973 shows featuring this version exist, with the best being the Golders Green show on 13th September. It freely circulates amongst Queen fans.

Almost identical to the album version, this track fades out just before the segue into Father To Son Where to find it: Found on disc two of the game: The Works Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
Father To Son
Acetate Version (???)

An 8 acetate of Father To Son was sold in 2006, and the sale listing mentioned it was an alternative version. According to the owner, this was merely an early fade, which makes sense as on the album this track segues with White Queen (As It Began). No further details are known. Where to find it: Unreleased (Rumour) Only one copy of this acetate has ever surfaced and is in the hands of a private collector. The owner did come forward to provide a description of the track, but as no one has ever heard it this is classified as a rumour.
Release Father To Son Description 1973 UK 8 Acetate Label/Catalogue No. Notes Emidisc acetate
White Queen (As It Began)

Brian May Home Recording (???)

It has long been rumoured that an early home recording of this song exists. Brian is thought to have written the song in 1969, and although Tim Staffell has stated that Smile did not record it, a home recording might exist. Where to find it: Unreleased (Rumour) Despite the rumours, no copy has ever surfaced and no official confirmation of the existence of this track has ever been given. If you own a copy of this you are presumably either Brian May or the luckiest Queen collector in the world.
Single Version (4:34)

The album version of White Queen (As It Began) has a minor segue from Father To Son, which this version removes. Only some faint drum beats from Father To Son can be heard on the album version, so it would be easy not to spot the difference. Where to find it: This track was originally featured on Queens First EP, released in 1977. That single was later re-released in 1988 on CD3 format in the UK and Japan, and as a special Record Store Day release in the US from 2009. Today, the easiest way to get hold of this would be on the Singles Collection 1 box set, which features a few other song versions, making it reasonably good value to a collector.
Release Queens First EP Description 1977 UK 7 Single 1988 UK CD3 Single 1988 Japanese CD3 Single 2009 US CD5 Single 1991 Japanese CD3 Box 2008 UK CD5 Box 2008 Japanese CD5 Box Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 2121 Parlophone: QUECD5 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2255 Hollywood Records: D000383302 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2251-62 Parlophone: 50999 243358 2 9 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70681 Notes
Record Store Day release
CD Single Box Singles Collection 1

Recorded at Langham One Studio, London, on 3rd April 1974, this new recording is more similar in style to the live versions of this song than the album, featuring a lot more piano. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) The four unreleased BBC sessions were bootlegged for a number of years, generally in poor quality. However, in 2010 a generous collector shared high quality recordings of all these sessions from master tapes in his collection.
BBC Session 4: Convention Recording (4:45)

The BBC Session 4 version of White Queen (As It Began) was played at the 2001 UK Convention. It is mentioned only for the sake of completeness, as it should be identical to the BBC recording already described. Where to find it: 2001 UK Convention: Unreleased (Not Recorded). We know this take was played at the 2001 UK Convention, but there is no known recording of it.
East German Version (4:12)

This version is a simple edit of the song, cutting the guitar intro and beginning with the lead vocals. The rest of track is identical to the album cut. Where to find it: Only found on a rather obscure East German compilation called Queen (not to be confused with the first album). Despite being little known, copies come up for sale fairly regularly at a reasonable price. There are two different sleeve versions (one featuring the Queen crest, the other a band picture) but the music is the same on both.
Release Queen Description 1982 East German 12 Album Label/Catalogue No. Amiga: 8 55 787 Notes Two different sleeves
Some Day One Day

The Loser In The End

Ogre Battle

This is a brand new recording of Ogre Battle from the third BBC session. While largely the same as the album take, differences include an alternative (and longer) guitar introduction and a difference vocal sound from Freddie. Recorded at Langham One Studio, London, on 3rd December 1973. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) This complete version of this track has never had an official release, as the original BBC tapes of the introduction section were damaged. Poor quality bootlegs of the introduction have surfaced and Queen fans have pieced these together with the edited official release (see below) to create a complete version. These hybrid mixes have been freely shared.
BBC Session 3 Edit (3:57)

As mentioned above, this version of Ogre Battle loses around 1:20 of the introduction due to the original tapes becoming damaged. The track opens up when the main guitar part comes in and then continues as normal. Where to find it: Queen recorded six sessions for the BBC, the first and third of which were released in 1989 in the UK and Japan (and later in 1995 in the US). Although, unusually for Queen, it has never been remastered or re-released, the CD is still fairly easy to pick up cheaply, but the LP will cost you a little more.
BBC Session 3 Edit - Hollywood Records Release (3:57)

Exactly the same as the regular BBC Session 3 recording, just with the stereo channels reversed. Where to find it: The CD release of At The BBC is still in print and easy to get hold of cheaply. More collectable (and expensive) is the promo picture disc.
Picture disc
BBC Session 3 - Acetate Version 1 (3:04)

An Ogre Battle acetate containing an edit of the BBC Session 3 recording is known to exist. The edit is simply a late fade in just before the lead vocals (cutting around 18 seconds), and an early fade out just after the lead vocals finish (cutting around 35 seconds). Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) Only one known copy of this acetate has ever surfaced and is in the hands of a private collector. The edit it contains has never been publically shared.
Release Ogre Battle Description 1973 UK 7 Acetate Label/Catalogue No. Notes Trident Studio acetate
BBC Session 3 - Acetate Version 2 (3:42)

This version has the same late fade as the first acetate version, but then plays through the rest of the track normally, retaining the full ending. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) Only one known copy of this acetate has ever surfaced and is in the hands of a private collector. The edit it contains has never been publically shared.
Release Ogre Battle Description 1973 UK 7 Acetate Label/Catalogue No. Notes Emidisc acetate
Best 16 Version (4:06)

On the album, Ogre Battle segues with The Fairy Fellers Masters-Stroke. This compilation version gets around that by simply fading out at the end. You can just hear the first click of The Fairy Fellers Masters-Stroke before it fades completely. Where to find it: This unique edit is only contained on a very rare and obscure 1976 completion album from Japan, which contains tracks from the first four Queen albums. Very few cassette copies have come up for sale (although there may also be vinyl copies), and very few Queen fans seem to have heard of it, as it isnt listed in any discography.
Release Best 16 Description 1976 Japanese Cassette Album 1978 Japanese Cassette Album Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: PKG-3001 Elektra: YLA1016E Notes
Reissue
Nicholas Sansano Remix (3:29)

Producer Nicholas Sansano has stayed fairly faithful to the album take, keeping the song structure and vocals intact while adding a lot of new guitar and drum parts, along with some other effects. Where to find it: Hollywood Records commissioned a number of remixes to add to the 1991 remasters as bonus tracks. The 1991 remasters are now deleted and have been succeeded by the 2011 remasters, but having been in circulation for twenty years you should have no trouble getting hold of this edition of Queen II.
Deep Cuts Version (3:14)

This is a complete stand-alone version of Ogre Battle which removes the segue to The Fairy Fellers Masters-Stroke. Where to find it: This track is found on the first of the three Deep Cuts compilations, released to coincide with 2011 album remasters.
Release Deep Cuts Volume One (1973-1976) Description Label/Catalogue No. 2011 UK CD5 Album Island: 276 542-4 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-15014 Notes
The Fairy Fellers Master-Stroke

Nevermore

A new recording for Queens fourth BBC session, this cut is very similar to the album version, until the end, when some heavy guitar and drums come in. Recorded at Langham One Studio, London, on 3rd April 1974. Where to find it: Most of the fourth BBC session remains unreleased, but this track was included as a bonus on the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of Queen II.
Release Queen II Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 425 0 Hollywood Records: D001364202 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75013 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75429 Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
BBC Session 4: Convention Recording (1:29)

The BBC Session 4 version of Nevermore was played at the 2001 UK Convention. It is mentioned only for the sake of completeness, as it should be identical to the BBC recording already described. Where to find it: 2001 UK Convention: Unreleased (Not Recorded). We know this take was played at the 2001 UK Convention, but there is no known recording of it.
Takes Three and Four: Convention Recording (2:36)

An interesting recording from the 2005 Convention, consisting of the piano and bass backing track. Freddie and John play most of the way through one take, until that breaks down. After a few seconds they begin again and this time get the whole way through, although it is unknown if it is this take that ends up on the album. Where to find it: 2005 UK Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). This convention session was recorded in full, but most of the tracks from it have not been shared. 2005 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). A shorter 1:40 recording from the Dutch Convention, as the incomplete take heard at the UK Convention is cut. There are at least two recordings of this track, and one of those has been widely shared.
Instrumental Extract (0:51)

A short instrumental extract from this track, appearing in a documentary. Most of the track has an interview with Freddie over-dubbed, speaking about his upbringing. Where to find it: From the same team behind Days Of Our Lives, this 2012 documentary focuses on the solo career of Freddie Mercury, and has been released widely on Blu-ray and DVD.
Release Freddie Mercury: The Great Pretender Description 2012 UK Blu-ray Video 2012 UK DVD Video 2012 US Blu-ray Video 2012 US DVD Video 2012 Japanese Blu-ray Video 2012 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Eagle Vision: ERBRD5163 Eagle Vision: EREDV949 Eagle Vision: EVB334269 Eagle Vision: EV305589 Columbia Music Ent: VQXD-10037 Columbia Music Ent: VQBD-10108 Notes
The March Of The Black Queen


The band clearly didnt fancy the prospect of re-recording Freddies epic song when it came to their fourth BBC session, and the album version was used. This is musically identical to the familiar Queen II version, just with a fade out as the track segues into the beginning of Funny How Love Is. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) The four unreleased BBC sessions were bootlegged for a number of years, generally in poor quality. However, in 2010 a generous collector shared high quality recordings of all these sessions from master tapes in his collection.
Deep Cuts Version (6:39)

This version completely removes the segue to Funny How Love Is to create a stand-alone version, slightly extending the run time as the final ahhh is heard on its own for the first time. Where to find it: This track is found on the first of the three Deep Cuts compilations, released to coincide with 2011 album remasters.
Release Deep Cuts Volume One (1973-1976) Description Label/Catalogue No. 2011 UK CD5 Album Island: 276 542-4 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-15014 Notes
Takes Three-Five: Convention Recording (5:49)

This convention recording provides a fascinating insight into the recording of Queen II, as we hear three incomplete takes of The March Of The Black Queen, consisting of the piano, bass and drums backing track. Takes 3 and 4 breakdown rather quickly, while Take 5 gets most of the way through the track. It would take the band another two days to achieve the master recording. Where to find it: 2005 UK Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). This convention session was recorded in full, but most of the tracks from it have not been shared. 2005 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). The Dutch Convention recording, while musically identical, has a slightly longer runtime of 6:43 as it contains Greg Brooks commentary about the track. There are at least two recordings of this track, and one of those has been widely shared.
Funny How Love Is

Cassette Version (???)

Early editions of the Queen II cassette are rumoured to contain a stand-alone mix of this track, without the segue from The March Of The Black Queen. It is unknown how similar this might be to Japan CD3 Version listed below, as the track has never surfaced. Where to find it: This one can supposedly only be found on the first press of the Queen II cassette from 1974. Some collectors have spent years searching but never found it, so you are very fortunate indeed if you have a copy.
Release Queen II Description 1974 UK Cassette Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: TC-EMA 767 Notes First press only
UK CD3 Version (3:14)

A rather odd mix from a UK CD3 Single, the track starts with the last section of The March Of The Black Queen (Forget you sing-alongs and you lullabies etc.) and then continues into the album version as normal. Where to find it: A series of twelve CD3 singles were released in 1988 in the UK. This song features on first of them, Seven Seas Of Rhye. Each of these singles can be found quite easily and for a reasonable price, but buying the whole set of twelve is going to cost you. This error was also present on the 1986 CD release of Queen II (See Mastering Differences below)
Release Queen II Seven Seas Of Rhye Description 1986 UK CD5 Album 1988 UK CD3 Single Label/Catalogue No. CDP 7 46204 2 Parlophone: QUECD1 Notes
Japanese CD3 Version (2:51)

A complete stand-alone mix of this song, completely removing the vocals from The March Of The Black Queen which segues into Funny How Love Is on the album. Where to find it: From the first of a series of twelve CD3 singles released in the Japan in 1988, these can get quite expensive to buy. If you are interested in collecting all twelve there is a box set from 1991 which should prove cheaper than buying each one individually.
Release Seven Seas Of Rhye CD Single Box Description 1988 Japanese CD3 Single 1991 Japanese CD3 Box Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2251 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2251-62 Notes
Digital Master Sampler Version (2:51)

This version fades in as the last couple of notes of The March Of The Black Queen are being played and then proceeds into the album version as normal. Where to find it: Only found on the Digital Master Sampler promo CD, issued to promote the 1993/94 remasters. This CD is rather rare, especially as a manufacturing defect means that most copies will no longer play. Unfortunately, there was an unforeseen chemical reaction between the disc and the packaging, so if you are buying a copy make sure you get one that works!
Release Digital Master Sampler Description 1994 UK CD5 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: CD DIG 1 Notes
Takes Three-Five: Convention Recording (3:45)

Another insight into the recording process of Queen II that was played at the convention. This is the bands early attempts to find the backing track, featuring drums, bass piano and acoustic guitar. The first two takes break down after only a few seconds, while the last makes it almost the whole way through the track. Where to find it: 2005 UK Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). This convention session was recorded in full, but most of the tracks from it have not been shared. 2005 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). The Dutch Convention was treated to a slightly extended 4:16 version of this recording. The music is the same, but it features more of Freddie talking in the studio. There are at least two recordings of this track, and one of those has been widely shared.
Seven Seas Of Rhye

Withdrawn Promo Version (???)

The Queen biography, As It Began, tells the story of this withdrawn mix. According to the book, Trident distributed ten white label copies of this track to Radio One, only for Freddie to later realise that it was the wrong mix. The next day all but two copies were retrieved and replaced with the correct mix. It is unknown how different this mix was to the familiar album version. Where to find it: The two remaining copies of this white label are, if they have survived, likely to be buried in the depths of the BBC, making this track next to impossible to get hold of.
Release Seven Seas Of Rhye Description 1974 UK 7 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Notes White label
Top Of The Pops Version (2:20)

Queens first performance on Top Of The Pops came in early 1974, when they were asked to fill a last minute space on the show. They duly appeared, but due to a BBC strike their performance was filmed in a weather studio! The backing track used for the mimed performance seems to have been remixed slightly, particularly on the vocals. The track has also been edited, coming in on the first guitar chord and fading out around 20 seconds early. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) Due to the BBC policy of wiping tapes, this performance was thought lost for many years. Although some copies do survive and have been shared, they are in appalling quality. A high quality recording was discovered in 2011, but has yet to see a full release.
Freddy Bastone Remix 1 (6:35)

The first of two long dance remixes from producer Freddy Bastone, which more than doubles the running time of the track. While the vocals remain reasonably intact, most of the instrumentation has been replaced. Samples from White Man, Crazy Little Thing Called Love and Mustapha have been added. Where to find it: Hollywood Records commissioned a number of remixes to add to the 1991 remasters as bonus tracks. The 1991 remasters are now deleted and have been succeeded by the 2011 remasters, but having been in circulation for twenty years you should have no trouble getting hold of this edition of Queen II.
Freddy Bastone Remix 2 (6:20)

The second remix from Freddy Bastone is similar to the first, with the same overall structure and sound, but many of the song elements have been moved or changed. Most notably this version opens with a sample from God Save The Queen, and the ending of the song is also different to the remix found on Queen II. Where to find it: Only found on the mega rare CDR promo The Unauthorised Club Record.
Release The Unauthorized Club Record Description 1999 US CDR Promo Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: PRCD-61292-2 Notes
Greatest Hits Video Version (2:45)

A very slight edit of this track, fading out a couple of seconds early and cutting off the last part of the I Do Like To Be Beside The Seaside chorus. Where to find it: In 1992, Hollywood Records released two Queen compilations, Classic Queen and Greatest Hits, both with accompanying videos. This edition of Greatest Hits is entirely separate from the more famous 1981 release, and has a different track listing.
Release Greatest Hits Description 1992 US VHS Video Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-40144-3 Notes
Greatest Video Hits 1 Version (2:22)

Another edit of Seven Seas Of Rhye, the piano intro has been cut and the track starts with the first guitar chord. There is also an early fade. Where to find it: This version was featured over in the gallery section of Greatest Video Hits 1, the first in a planned series of three video compilations (although, after waiting since 2003, the third has yet to emerge).
Release Greatest Video Hits 1 Version Description 2002 UK DVD Video 2002 US DVD Video 2002 Japanese DVD Video 2005 Japanese DVD Video 2006 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 492 9449 Hollywood Records: 7 20616 90119 4 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3057/58 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 3241/42 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 92054/55 Notes
Reissue Reissue
Instrumental Remix 2011 (2:22)

As the name suggests, this is a full instrumental remix of Seven Seas Of Rhye and starts with Freddie counting in. The Seaside chorus isnt present in this version, so we get to hear the original instrumental ending for the first time. Where to find it: This one was included as a bonus on the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of Queen II, as well as US promo CD.
Release Queen II Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 425 0 Hollywood Records: D001364202 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75013 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75429 2011 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Records: BVPR003382 Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
Days Of Our Lives Bonus Video Version (2:26)

A simple edit, fading out around 20 seconds early and cutting most of the Seaside chorus. Where to find it: The Days Of Our Lives documentary was commissioned to coincide with Queens fortieth anniversary in 2011 and originally broadcast in the UK by the BBC. They have since been released on both Blu-ray and DVD with a variety of bonus features, including this video.
Release Days Of Our Lives Description 2011 UK Blu-ray Video 2011 US DVD Video 2012 US Blu-ray Video 2012 US DVD Video 2011 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Notes Universal: 060252788548 Universal: 0602527885131 Eagle Vision: EV304009 Eagle Vision: EVB334079 Universal: UIBY-15008/9

These stems from Rock Band 3 have a minor edit, with the last few seconds of the Seaside chorus being cut. Separation: Kick/Kit/Overhead/Bass/Guitar/Additional Guitar & Backing Vocals/Piano/Vocals Where to find it: The track can be downloaded to play on Rock Band 3. The separated stems ripped from the game circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
See What A Fool Ive Been

Written by: Brian May Non-album track

Queens first non-album B-side was written by Brian May (inspired by Thats How I Feel by Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee) in the late 1960s and featured in the live repertoire of Smile and Queen. This blues song features a camped-up spoof vocal from Freddie with many humorous touches. Where to find it: Originally released on the B-side of Seven Seas Of Rhye, it has since be re-released numerous times, so there really is no reason not to have this. Most easily found on the 2011 remaster of Queen II (2 CD edition only).
Release Seven Seas Of Rhye Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 2121 Elektra: EK 45891 Parlophone: QUECD1 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2251 EMI: QB1 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2251-62 1991 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: HR-61232-2 2011 UK CD5 Album Island: 276 425 0 2011 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: D001364202 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75013 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75429 2008 UK CD5 Box Parlophone: 50999 243358 2 9 2008 Japanese CD5 Box Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70681 Description 1974 UK 7 Single 1974 US 7 Single 1988 UK CD3 Single 1988 Japanese CD3 Single 1985 UK 12 Box 1991 Japanese CD3 Box Notes
The Complete Works CD Single Box Queen II
2 CD Edition 2 CD Edition 2 CD Edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
Singles Collection 1

Recorded in Langham One Studio, London, on 25th July 1973, this version predates the more familiar B-side version. The music is very similar to the B-side, but Freddie delivers a far more serious vocal take with a number of lyrical changes from the B-side version. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) The four unreleased BBC sessions were bootlegged for a number of years, generally in poor quality. However, in 2010 a generous collector shared high quality recordings of all these sessions from master tapes in his collection.
BBC Session 2 Remix 2011(4:22)

The familiar BBC recording was remixed for inclusion on the 2011 remaster of Queen II as a bonus track. The recording has really been cleaned up and sounds much clearer and vibrant than before, with an alternative vocal take being used on the second verse. Where to find it: This one was included as a bonus on the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of Queen II, as well as a US promo CD.
Release Queen II Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 425 0 Hollywood Records: D001364202 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75013 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75429 2011 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Records: BVPR003382 Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
Some CD releases of Queen II have some mastering differences, with the track breaks between segued songs coming at different points. These variations have not been listed above as there is no musical difference to the standard CD versions and it is only when listening to these tracks in isolation you would spot any difference, but the details are presented here none the less: The 1986 UK CD release (EMI: CDP 7 46205 2) has a different track break between The March Of The Black Queen and Funny How Love Is. The 1991 US remaster (Hollywood Records: HR-61232-2) has a different track break between The Fairy Fellers Master-Stroke and Nevermore.
The Rumour Mill

For the most part, this guide presents what we know about the music of Queen, but here we can also delve into rumour and innuendo. Rumours of the following tracks have circulated among Queen fans for years, but are most likely to be fakes: Nevermore (Electric Piano Version): The most likely source of this rumour is a copy of Nevermore that had degraded so badly someone believed it was an electric piano being played. Fly By Night, Surrender To The City and Deep Ridge: These names for unreleased tracks from the Queen II sessions have been offered by fans, but with no evidence whatsoever to back them up. The following tracks began life (or are rumoured to have begun life) around this time. Its possible a version of these tracks were recorded for these sessions: Brighton Rock The Prophets Song
Sheer Heart Attack

After the moderate success of their first two albums Queen were about to make the commercial breakthrough they had been dreaming of with their third album, but it was going to be a very difficult birth. In January 1974, Brian May contracted gangrene, and just a few months later he was struck down with hepatitis while on a US tour. In July, with Brian still recovering in hospital, the band decided to start recording. Brian joined them two months later, only to suffer a third misfortune when he developed a duodenal ulcer. Despite these problems, work on the album progressed, with the band using four studios over the three month recording period. The album was named after a Roger Taylor composition, but strangely that track would have to wait until 1977s News Of The World to be released. Sheer Heart Attack also featured the first Queen track written by John Deacon, a short, up-tempo ballad called Misfire. The album was released to generally positive reviews, but more importantly gave the band their first big commercial success, supported by two singles (Killer Queen and Now Im Here) and a tour of the UK, Europe, the US and Japan. It was on that tour of Japan that the bands bad luck continued, with Freddie suffering from throat nodules; but it was also their first encounter with Queen mania, as they played to their adoring Japanese fans. Queen finally had the success they had always craved, but the turmoil was to continue as their relationship with their management company, Trident, was rapidly breaking down Tracks: 1) Brighton Rock (May) 2) Killer Queen (Mercury) 3) Tenement Funster (Taylor) 4) Flick Of The Wrist (Mercury) 5) Lily Of The Valley (Mercury) 6) Now Im Here (May) 7) In The Lap Of The Gods (Mercury) 8) Stone Cold Crazy(May, Mercury, Taylor, Deacon) 9) Dear Friends (May) 10) Misfire (Deacon) 11) Bring Back That Leroy Brown (Mercury) 12) She Makes Me (Stormtrooper In Stilettoes) (May) 13) In The Laps Of The GodsRevisited (Mercury) Roger Taylor (Drums, vocals, percussion, screams) Freddie Mercury (Vocals, piano, jangle piano, vocal extravaganzas) John Deacon (Bass guitar, double bass, acoustic guitar, almost all guitars on Misfire) Brian May (Guitars, vocals, piano, genuine George Formby ukulele-banjo, guitar orchestrations) Roy Thomas Baker and Queen
Personnel:
Produced by:
Engineered by: Mike Stone Recorded at: Trident Studios, London, UK; AIR Studios, London, UK; Wessex Studios, London, UK; Rockfield Studios, Monmouth, UK; July-September 1974 Release date: 8th November 1974 (UK) 12th November 1974 (USA) 21st December 1974 (Japan)
Release details:
Release Sheer Heart Attack Description 1974 UK 12 Album 1974 US 12 Album 1974 Japanese 12 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: EMC 3061 Elektra: 7E-1026 Elektra: P-8516-E Notes
Remasters
Early CD Issues:
Release Sheer Heart Attack Description 1986 UK CD5 Album 1987 Japanese CD5 Album 1992 UK CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: CDP 7 46206 2 Toshiba-EMI: CP32-5378 Parlophone: CDP 7 46206 2 Notes
Reissue
1991 Remaster: Remastered by Kevin Metcalfe at Townhouse Studios, London, UK

Release Sheer Heart Attack Description 1991 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61036-2 Notes
Bonus Tracks:
1) Stone Cold Crazy (Michael Wagener Remix)
Release Sheer Heart Attack Description Label/Catalogue No. 1993 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: CDPCSD 129 1994 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-8273 Notes

Release Miniatures Volume I The Crown Jewels Sheer Heart Attack Description 1998 UK CD5 Box Set 1998 US CD5 Box Set Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 4984072 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains four albums Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains eight albums Card sleeve vinyl replica
Hollywood Records: HR622002 BK01 1998 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP 65103

Release Sheer Heart Attack Description 2001 Japanese CD5 Album 2004 Japanese CD5 Album 2005 Japanese CD5 Album 2007 Japanese CD5 Album 2008 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba EMI: TOCP-65843 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67343 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53443 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53443 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67343 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replica Reissue Card sleeve vinyl replica reissue. Additional OBI
Release Sheer Heart Attack Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 440 9 Island: 276 441 1 Hollywood Records: D001364602 Hollywood Records: D001364502 Island: UICY-15011 Island: UICY-75015 Island: UIGY-9512 Island: UICY-75414 Island: UICY-75431 Notes 1 CD edition 2 CD edition 1 CD edition 2 CD edition 1 CD edition 2 CD edition Super Audio CD. 1 CD only Reissue. 1 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
Bonus Tracks*: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5)
Now Im Here (Live at The Hammersmith Odeon, London, UK 24/12/1975) Flick Of The Wrist (BBC Session 5) Tenement Funster (BBC Session 5) Bring Back That Leroy Brown (A Cappella Mix 2011) In The Lap Of The GodsRevisited (Live at Wembley Stadium, London, UK 12/07/1986)
Bonus Videos*: 1) Killer Queen (Top Of The Pops, 1974) 2) Stone Cold Crazy (Live at The Rainbow Theatre, London, UK 19/11/1974) 3) Now Im Here (Live at The Forum, Montreal, Canada 25/11/1981)
Brighton Rock
Carnival Midway Brighton Rock Intro (1:23)

This isnt a Queen recording, but it is Queen related, and included here to be complete. The funfair introduction of Brighton Rock comes from a track called Carnival Midway on an Elektra sound effects album. On the Sheer Heart Attack album only about the first 30 seconds is audible, whereas the complete version carries on for over a minute. Where to find it: This recording was released on Authentic Sound Effects Volume 1 in both the UK and US. Many years later it was also included in a repackaged CD, Authentic Sound Effects Volume 3.
Release Authentic Sound Effects Volume 1 Description 1964 UK 12 Album 1964 US 12 Album 1987 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Pye Golden Guinea: GSGL1 0143 Elektra: EKS 7251 Elektra: 9 60733-2 Notes Non-Queen recording
Authentic Sound Effects Volume 3
Live At Wembley Intro Version (1:33)

A simple edit of Brighton Rock that was used as an introduction to the Queen At Wembley video, played over timelapse footage of the stage being built. The instrumental section that immediately follows the vocals on the album was simply lifted straight out, only adding fades to the start and end of this section of the track. Where to find it: Queen At Wembley (Later reissued as Live At Wembley 86) is now deleted and has been succeeded by the more complete Live At Wembley Stadium releases of 2003 and 2011. That said, it was a popular release and shouldnt be expensive to buy, although the laser disc will cost a little more than the video.
Release Queen At Wembley Description 1990 UK VHS Video 1990 Japanese VHS Video 1990 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1998 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1997 UK Laser Disc Video 1992 US VHS Video Label/Catalogue No. PMI: MVP 99 1259 3 Toshiba-EMI: TOVW-3086 Toshiba-EMI: TOLW-3086 Toshiba-EMI: TOLW-3277 Pioneer: PLMPB 01161 Hollywood Records: HR-40142-3 Notes
Reissue
Live At Wembley 86

A very short edit of the Carnival Midway section of the song. Where to find it: Found on disc four of the game: The Innuendo Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
The Eye In Game Version (0:57)

A short edit of the Carnival Midway section of the track, similar to The Eye Version mentioned above, but repeating several times. One of the game characters is overdubbed giving instructions to the player and there are also some sound effects present. Where to find it: In addition to the large number of standard audio tracks contained on The Eye CDs, there are a small number of additional tracks found only in the computer files. With a little computer knowledge it is possible to copy this audio to your PC. You first have to get hold of a copy of the game however, and all versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
Brighton Fuck: Convention Recording (4:00)

An early take of Brighton Rock, at this stage named Brighton Fuck. The structure of the song and most of the instrumentation is similar to the album cut, but it is missing the funfair intro and some of the guitar solo. The vocals are clearly at an early stage, and Freddie is left improvising for most of the song. Where to find it: 2004 UK Convention: Unreleased (Not Recorded). We know this track was played at the 2004 UK Convention, but there is no known recording of it. 2004 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). There are at least two recordings of this track from the Dutch Convention, and one of those has been widely shared.
24 Track Recording (5:26)

Now this is a very interesting release indeed! A complete 24 track separation of the song, allowing the listener to hear all the drums, bass, guitar and vocals separated out for the first time. The track is missing the funfair intro, but perhaps the greatest joy for Queen fans comes at the end, when we are treated to a little studio chat: Brian: How was that? Roger: Yeah, that was alright. Brian: Near? Freddie: Lets just Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) Five Queen multi-tracks have surfaced, with Brighton Rock being one of the four that have been publically shared. Anyone with access to Google should be able to find this. Quite how these tracks surfaced in the first place is a mystery, but most Queen fans are just glad they did!
Killer Queen

Like a number of tracks on this video, Killer Queen has been slightly edited to reduce the run time with an early fade, losing around nine seconds. Where to find it: In 1992, Hollywood Records released two Queen compilations, Classic Queen and Greatest Hits, both with accompanying videos. This edition of Greatest Hits is entirely separate from the more famous 1981 release and has a different track listing.
Video CD Version (2:55)

The first couple of finger clicks have been lopped of this version, and there is also a slight early fade which cuts around two seconds of the song. Where to find it: Only to be found on the video CD of Greatest Flix I&II. A number of videos on this release were edited down from the other Greatest Flix releases, presumably to allow all the tracks to fit on this disc. This release is quite rare and may not be easy to buy.
Release Greatest Flix I&II Description 1994 UK Video CD Label/Catalogue No. PMI: PMCD 4912712 Notes
DVD Video Version (3:03)

There is a very small difference on this version of Killer Queen that would be almost impossible to spot without a stopwatch. It plays slightly too slowly, resulting in the running time increasing by three seconds. Where to find it: Greatest Video Hits 1 was the first in a planned series of three video compilations (although, after waiting since 2003, the third has yet to emerge). A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus materials of the original releases. This version also appears on the Jewels DVD, released in Japan alongside the Jewels CD compilation in 2004.
Release Greatest Video Hits 1 Version Description 2002 UK DVD Video 2002 US DVD Video 2002 Japanese DVD Video 2005 Japanese DVD Video 2006 Japanese DVD Video Jewels Greatest Video Hits 2004 Japanese DVD Video 2012 US DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 492 9449 Hollywood Records: 7 20616 90119 4 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3057/58 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 3241/42 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 92054/55 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3165 Eagle Vision: EV305569 Notes
Reissue Reissue
Greatest Video Hits 1 Sound Effect (0:03)

A rather compressed edit of Killer Queen, consisting of a mere snippet of chimes from the song. Where to find it: You can hear this one on the song select screen of the Greatest Video Hits 1 DVD. As you select each song a title screen appears, accompanied by a very brief snippet from the track. A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Release Greatest Video Hits 1 Description 2002 UK DVD Video 2002 US DVD Video 2002 Japanese DVD Video 2005 Japanese DVD Video 2006 Japanese DVD Video Greatest Video Hits 2012 US DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 492 9449 Hollywood Records: 7 20616 90119 4 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3057/58 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 3241/42 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 92054/55 Eagle Vision: EV305569 Notes
Reissue Reissue

Another early fade edit of Killer Queen, this time chopping off almost all of the guitar outro. Where to find it: The Days Of Our Lives documentary was commissioned to coincide with Queens fortieth anniversary in 2011 and originally broadcast in the UK by the BBC. It has since been released on both Blu-ray and DVD with a variety of bonus features, including this video.

Another complete 24 track separation that has somehow made it out of the Queen vaults. The track is extended slightly by additional material present at the start and end of the track. At the start we have Freddie counting in with the piano starting up, only to stop again a few seconds later. The track then proceeds as normal, but with a few words from the boys right at the end of the tape: Freddie: What? Roger: What was it like, Roy? Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) Five Queen multi-tracks have surfaced, and Killer Queen, along with three others (Brighton Rock, Bohemian Rhapsody and Get Down Make Love), has been shared publically and is easy to come across online.
Computer Game Stems

There are two slightly different versions of stems for Killer Queen, featuring slightly different separations of tracks. The first version has slightly different finger clicks at the start and an abrupt early fade at the end of the song. There is also an edited ending to the second version, but with less cut out. Separation 1: Kick/Snare/Cymbals/Bass/Guitar/Piano and Additional Instruments/Vocals (3:04) Separation 2: Kick/Snare/Cymbals/Toms/Bass/Guitar and Piano/Additional Guitar and Piano/Vocals (3:02) Where to find it: Killer Queen is a downloadable track on both the Rock Band and Guitar Hero game series. Be warned however, other games in the Guitar Hero series contain this track, but it is merely a cover version. The separated stems ripped from the games circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
Release Rock Band Rock Band 3 Guitar Hero 5 Description 2009 Download 2010 Download 2010 Download Label/Catalogue No. Electronic Arts Electronic Arts Activision Notes
Tenement Funster

Tenement Funster is the first number in a three track segue on the Sheer Heart Attack album, so when it was released as a single a different treatment was required. In this case the piano introduction to Flick Of The Wrist is retained and faded out at the end of the track. Where to find it: This track was originally featured on Queens First EP, released in 1977. That single was later re-released in 1988 on CD3 format in the UK and as a special Record Store Day release in the US from 2009. Today, the easiest way to get hold of this would be on the Singles Collection 1 box set, which features a few other song versions, making it reasonably good value to a collector.
Release Queens First EP Description 1977 UK 7 Single 1988 UK CD3 Single 2009 US CD5 Single 2008 UK CD5 Box 2008 Japanese CD5 Box Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 2121 Parlophone: QUECD5 Hollywood Records: D000383302 Parlophone: 50999 243358 2 9 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70681 Notes
Record Store Day release
Japanese CD3 Version (2:58)

A completely standalone version of the track with the Flick Of The Wrist intro edited out completely. This version is the only way to enjoy this track entirely on its own. Where to find it: This version can be found on the 1988 Japanese CD3 release of Queens First EP, which was later released as a box set with all twelve CD3 singles. Both versions are now rare and collectable, and likely to cost a reasonable amount to get hold of.
Release Queens First EP CD Single Box Description 1988 Japanese CD3 Single 1991 Japanese CD3 Box Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2255 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2251-62 Notes

Like all the BBC Session 5 recordings, this track uses the album backing with a new vocal take by Roger. Its quite similar to the album, except the last Young and youre crazy, which is screamed by Roger on the album, is missing on this take. Recorded at Maida Vale Studio 4, London, on 16th October 1974. Where to find it: After appearing on bootlegs for many years (usually in poor quality) this track finally got an official release on the 2CD editions of Sheer Heart Attack released in 2011.
Release Sheer Heart Attack Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 441 1 Hollywood Records: D001364502 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75015 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75431 Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition

An early instrumental take of Tenement Funster, quite similar to the album backing track, ending with a brief slice of piano from Flick Of The Wrist. Where to find it: 2004 UK Convention: Unreleased (Not Recorded). We know this track was played at the 2004 UK Convention, but there is no known recording of it. 2004 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). The recording of this track has been freely shared.

This Rock Band 3 version of Tenement Funster is virtually identical to the album take, with the addition of some percussion at the start to count in. Separation: Kick/Snare/Room/Bass/Guitar/Additional Guitar/Piano/Vocals Where to find it: The track can be downloaded to play on Rock Band 3. The separated stems ripped from the game circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
Flick Of The Wrist


Flick Of The Wrist sits in the middle of a segue with Tenement Funster and Lily Of The Valley on the Sheer Heart Attack album. This has resulted in a number of different edits for appearances on singles and compilations. The best known and easiest to find of these is the standard single version released in the UK and Japan. A section of the piano introduction has been cut at the start of the track and the tail end of Tenement Funster has been removed. The end of the track is free of the opening bars of Lily Of The Valley, ending with a drawn out guitar note. Where to find it: Flick Of The Wrist was actually a double A-side single in 1974, although it got virtually no attention compared to the other track, Killer Queen. Many years later it was released on CD in Japan as part of a series of twelve CD3 singles. Today, it is most easily found on the Singles Collection 1 box set.
Release Killer Queen Description 1974 UK 7 Single 1974 Japanese 7 Single 1988 Japanese CD3 Single 1991 Japanese CD3 Box 2008 UK CD5 Box 2008 Japanese CD5 Box Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 2229 Elektra: P-103E Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2252 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2251-62 Parlophone: 50999 243358 2 9 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70681 Notes
CD Single Box Singles Collection 1
Dutch Single Version (3:22)

A complete standalone version of Flick Of The Wrist that includes the full piano introduction missing from the standard single version. Where to find it: This one was only released in the Netherlands on the Killer Queen single. This single comes up for sale fairly regularly, but generally attracts a lot of interest, so it wont be cheap.
Release Killer Queen Description 1974 Dutch 7 Single Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 5C 006-96 060 Notes

Once again the US was given a rather butchered edit of a Queen track (see Liar), with almost all of the piano and guitar intro cut; the track starts abruptly a few seconds before the vocals begin. No effort has been made at the end of the track either, it simply fades out as the piano introduction to Lily Of The Valley starts. Where to find it: Only ever released on the US Killer Queen single. All early US Queen singles are now quite rare and collectable.
Release Killer Queen Description 1974 US 7 Single Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: E-45226 Notes

Recorded at Maida Vale Studio 4, London, on 16th October 1974, this is the full standalone album take with a new vocal track and some additional guitar work from Brian. The new guitar solo is quite a departure from the album version. Where to find it: After appearing on bootlegs for many years (usually in poor quality) this track finally got an official release on the 2CD editions of Sheer Heart Attack released in 2011.
Best 16 Version (3:11)

Yet another variation on the start of this track! This time the track starts with the first guitar note and then proceeds normally before seguing into Lily Of The Valley, which is the next track on this compilation album. Where to find it: This unique edit is only contained on a very rare and obscure 1976 compilation album from Japan, which contains tracks from the first four Queen albums. Very few cassette copies have come up for sale (although there may also be vinyl copies), and very few Queen fans seem to have heard of it, as it isnt listed in any discography.
Release Best 16 Description 1976 Japanese Cassette Album 1978 Japanese Cassette Album Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: PKG-3001 Elektra: YLA1016E Notes
Reissue

This final variation of Flick Of The Wrist is the victim of a rather lazy editing job. The track starts with the piano intro, but the last chord of Tenement Funster hasnt been edited out. It fades out with the last Baby youve been had line, before the segue to Lily Of The Valley. Where to find it: Only found on the UK CD3 single of Killer Queen, one of a series of twelve CD3 singles were released in 1988 in the UK. Each of these singles can be found quite easily and for a reasonable price.
Release Killer Queen Description 1988 UK CD3 Single Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: QUECD2 Notes

An instrumental/backing vocals take which is very similar to the album, only missing the final Baby youve been had. Where to find it: 2004 UK Convention: Unreleased (Not Recorded). We know this track was played at the 2004 UK Convention, but there is no known recording of it. 2004 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). There is a complete recording of this convention session, but only a limited number of tracks have been shared. Unfortunately, this isnt one of them.
Lily Of The Valley


With the last track in the segue, the final guitar chord of Flick Of The Wrist has been edited out, but the first few bars of the Lily Of The Valley piano intro have gone as well, shortening the runtime slightly. Where to find it: Released on the B-Side of Now Im Here in 1974, but most easily found (and in CD quality) on the Singles Collection 1 box set. The Singles Collection 1 contains several other song versions, making it reasonably good value to a collector.
Release Killer Queen Singles Collection 1 Description 1974 UK 7 Single 1974 Japanese 7 Single 2008 UK CD5 Box 2008 Japanese CD5 Box Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 2256 Elektra: P-1377E Parlophone: 50999 243358 2 9 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70681 Notes

A complete standalone edit of this track with the full piano introduction present. Where to find it: Released on the 1975 reissue of Keep Yourself Alive in the US. Both other tracks on that single, Keep Yourself Alive and God Save The Queen, are also different versions to the album, so despite it being rather rare and expensive its well worth tracking down.
Release Keep Yourself Alive Description 1975 US 7 Single Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: E-45268 Notes

This version starts with the tail end of the rumble from In The Lap Of The GodsRevisited (The preceeding track on the CD) and then fades in over the Baby youve been had line from Flick Of The Wrist. The rest of the track is the same as on the album. Where to find it: Only found on the Digital Master Sampler promo CD, issued to promote the 1993/94 remasters. This CD is rather rare, especially as a manufacturing defect means that most copies will no longer play. Unfortunately, there was an unforeseen chemical reaction between the disc and the packaging, so if you are buying a copy make sure you get one that works!
Now Im Here
Reel To Reel Version (4:17)

Now, this is interesting! This version plays exactly the same as the album version, but with the addition of Mike Stone saying Lets have some rock and roll! right before the guitar starts up. This increases the audible running time of the track by about two seconds. The fact that this dialogue overlaps the guitar suggests it was deliberately placed there, but later cut. This version of events is backed up by Neil Kernon, a Trident tape operator at the time. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) This version can only be found on a mega-rare reel to reel tape of Sheer Heart Attack that was auctioned in 2012. The tape only contains some of the album tracks, but this is one of two unique versions from it (see In The Lap Of The GodsRevisited). Digital copies of this track are only in the hands of a very few lucky collectors.
Release Sheer Heart Attack Description 1974 Reel To Reel Tape Label/Catalogue No. Notes

This BBC take is the standard album backing track (with some remixing) and a new vocal take from Freddie. Very similar to the album version, apart from some echoing effects added to the vocals. Recorded at Maida Vale Studio 4, London, on 16th October 1974. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) The four unreleased BBC sessions were bootlegged for a number of years, generally in poor quality. However, in 2010 a generous collector shared high quality recordings of all these sessions from master tapes in his collection.

A simple early fade, editing out part of the guitar outro just after the Go, go, go little queenie line. Where to find it: In 1992, Hollywood Records released two Queen compilations, Classic Queen and Greatest Hits, both with accompanying videos. This edition of Greatest Hits is entirely separate from the more famous 1981 release, and has a different track listing.
Queen Rocks Video Version (3:59)

Another early fade, virtually identical to the Greatest Hits Video Version, but retaining just a fraction more of the track. Where to find it: Queen Rocks is a compilation album, released in 1997, with an accompanying video release released in 1998. The video features several more unique track versions, so it is well worth finding, but it is also becoming increasing rare and expensive (particularly the Japanese laser disc).
Release Queen Rocks Description 1998 UK VHS Video 1998 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1998 Japanese VHS Video Label/Catalogue No. Queen Films: QD010001QP Toshiba-EMI: TOLW-3292 Toshiba-EMI: TOVW-3292 Notes

These stems have some additional percussion at the start to count the track in. The fade out has been cut, and the track comes to a very abrupt end around 25 seconds before the album version. Some outro vocals have been lost. Separation: Kick/Snare/Cymbals and Additional Drums/Bass/Guitar/Additional Guitar Piano and Guitar Effects/Vocals Where to find it: Now Im Here is a playable track on the Rock Band game series. The separated stems ripped from the games circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
In The Lap Of The Gods

1991 Remaster Error (3:20)

In 1991, Queen signed a new US record deal with Hollywood Records, who proceeded to remaster and re-release Queens back catalogue of albums. Unfortunately, several errors were made in the remastering process, and this is the first of them. If you listen very carefully, youll notice that at the start of the track some of the backing vocals have been edited out, resulting in a slightly reduced run time. The error occurs around 20 seconds into the song. Where to find it: Like most of the remaster errors made by Hollywood Records, this one was fixed quickly, meaning only the early longbox pressings have it. Even if you can find the longbox release, there is no way to tell if the CD youre buying has the error until you listen to it.
Release Sheer Heart Attack Description 1991 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61036-2 Notes Early longbox pressings only
Stone Cold Crazy

Written by: Brian May, Freddie Mercury, Roger Taylor and John Deacon Album Version Time: 2:16

Another BBC take that uses the album backing track combined with a new vocal take, resulting in a sound thats not very different from the album. Recorded at Maida Vale Studio 4, London, on 16th October 1974. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) The four unreleased BBC sessions were bootlegged for a number of years, generally in poor quality. However, in 2010 a generous collector shared high quality recordings of all these sessions from master tapes in his collection.
Michael Wagner Remix 1 (2:16)

Another of Hollywood Records bonus remixes released with the 1991 remasters, this one sticks very closely to the album version, but with a heavier sound. The drums are more prominent and there are some vocal effects added. The track closes with a brief sound of laughter, which is the easiest way to distinguish this version from the second Michael Wagner remix (see below). Where to find it: This remix was released as a bonus track on earlier pressings of the 1991 remaster of Sheer Heart Attack, before being substituted for the second remix. It can also be found on the soundtrack to US movie Encino Man (released under the title California Man in the UK). The soundtrack album is a lot cheaper and easier to find.
Release Sheer Heart Attack California Man Encino Man Encino Man Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61036-2 1992 UK CD5 Album Hollywood Records: HWDCD26 1992 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: HR-61330-2 1992 Japanese CD5 Album Hollywood Records: PCCY-00362 Description 1991 US CD5 Album Notes Early pressings only Various artists Various artists Various artists
Michael Wagner Remix 2 (2:14)

Very similar to the first Michael Wagner remix, but the drums and vocals have been toned down. This makes the track sound closer to the album version. The laughter heard at the end of the first remix has been removed. Where to find it: Released on later pressings of the 1991 remaster of Sheer Heart Attack and also the three track Stone Cold Crazy promo CD from Hollywood Records. Although the promo CD is quite rare and costly, it also contains the Trent Reznor remix of Stone Cold Crazy (see below) and is well worth finding.
Release Sheer Heart Attack Stone Cold Crazy Description 1991 US CD5 Album 1992 US CD5 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61036-2 Hollywood Records: PRCD-10193-2 Notes Later pressings
Trent Reznor Remix (3:52)

A very heavy industrial remix from Trent Reznor of the Nine Inch Nails. Reznor doesnt alter the structure of the track greatly, but it is extended by well over a minute with the addition of several heavy instrumental sections. Several pieces of dialogue from the mastertapes are added, with Freddie ending the remix by saying That shouldve been a good a take. Where to find it: Available on three US promo CDs, all of which are rare and collectable. The first is the Stone Cold Crazy promo CD which also contains one of the Michael Wagner remixes (see above); while the second is the various artists promo album Freakshow, which also contains a remix of Another One Bites The Dust. If youre exceptionally lucky you might have the mega-rare CDR promos Basic Queen Bootlegs or The Unauthorised Club Record, two unreleased albums of Queen remixes, most of which are unique to those releases.
Release Stone Cold Crazy Freakshow Basic Queen Bootlegs The Unauthorised Club Record Description 1992 US CD5 Promo 1992 US CD5 Promo 1999 US CDR Promo 1999 US CDR Promo Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: PRCD-10193-2 Hollywood Records: PRCD-10190-2 Hollywood Records: PRCD-61287-2 PRCD-61292-2 Notes
Various artists

On this video Freddie introduces the song by saying Stone Cold Crazy! over the opening bars. This introduction has been lifted from a live show and added to the album take, with the rest of the track proceeding as normal. Where to find it: Queen Rocks is a compilation album, released in 1997, with an accompanying video release released in 1998. The video features several more unique track versions, so it is well worth finding, but it is also becoming increasing rare and expensive (particularly the Japanese laser disc).
24 Track Recording
One of five multi-tracks to emerge into collecting circles along with Brighton Rock, Killer Queen, Bohemian Rhapsody and Get Down Make Love. No other information is known. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) While we know this multi-track is in the hands of collectors, whoever has it is keeping it very close to their chest, as nothing has ever emerged. All we do have is some fan mixes on YouTube that have used this multi-track.

This set of stems is exactly the same as the album version, just separated out into the different instruments. Separation: Kick/Snare/Cymbals/Additional Drums/Bass/Guitar/Vocals/Additional Instruments Where to find it: Stone Cold Crazy is a playable track on both the Rock Band and Guitar Hero game series. The separated stems ripped from the games circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
Release Guitar Hero: Metallica Rock Band 3 Description 2009 Video Game 2011 Download Label/Catalogue No. Activision Electronic Arts Notes
Dear Friends
Misfire
Written by: John Deacon Album Version Time: 1:49
Bring Back That Leroy Brown


A straight edit of the first few seconds of this track; nothing more, nothing less. Where to find it: Found on disc three of the game: The Theatre Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
A Capella Mix 2011 (2:18)

An A Capella mix designed to show off Freddies multi-layered vocals. Brief snippets of instrumentation do sneak in here and there, but for the most part this is a Mercury tour de force. Where to find it: This new mix was added as a bonus track to the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of Sheer Heart Attack.
She Makes Me (Stormtrooper In Stilettoes)

In The Lap Of The GodsRevisited


On the album cut of this track the music ends at around 3:28 and is followed by a load explosion/crash. This version doesnt have the explosion/crash, and the band carry on playing for a several more seconds. The track ends with a bit of dialogue from Roy Thomas Baker in the control room. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) This version can only be found on a mega-rare reel to reel tape of Sheer Heart Attack that was auctioned in 2012. The tape only contains some of the album tracks, but this is one of two unique versions from it (see Now Im Here). Digital copies of this track are only in the hands of a very few lucky collectors.

Almost the same as the album version, except that the last few seconds of the rumble at the end of the track have been cut off, and play as part of the next track (Lily Of The Valley, see above). Where to find it: Only found on the Digital Master Sampler promo CD, issued to promote the 1993/94 remasters. This CD is rather rare, especially as a manufacturing defect means that most copies will no longer play. Unfortunately, there was an unforeseen chemical reaction between the disc and the packaging, so if you are buying a copy make sure you get one that works!

A short edit lifted out of the middle section of this track, starting with the line, I can see what you want me to be and continuing through the chorus. The backing track fades out slightly earlier than the vocals, creating a brief a cappella effect. Where to find it: Found on disc one of the game: The Arena Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.

This recording features a backing track with piano, bass and drums which is very similar to the album. There are some additional pieces of piano at the end. Where to find it: 2004 UK Convention: Unreleased (Not Recorded). We know this track was played at the 2004 UK Convention, but there is no known recording of it. 2004 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). There are at least two recordings of this track from the Dutch Convention, and one of those has been widely shared.
One of the CD releases of Sheer Heart Attack has some mastering differences, with the track breaks between segued songs coming at different points. These variations have not been listed above as there is no musical difference to the standard CD versions and it is only when listening to these tracks in isolation you would spot any difference, but the details are presented here none the less: The 1993 CD remaster (Parlophone: CDPCSD 129) has a different track break between Flick Of The Wrist and Lily Of The Valley.
The Rumour Mill

For the most part, this guide presents what we know about the music of Queen, but here we can also delve into rumour and innuendo. Killer Queen (Acetate Version): For many years there have been rumours of a different version of Killer Queen on an acetate. It is supposed to contain an extended section of finger clicks at the start, although no copy of this version has ever surfaced. With the emergence of the 24 track we can now see that there is no extended section of finger clicks on the master tape. Given this, it is highly unlikely this acetate version exists. The following track began life around this time. Its possible a version of this track was recorded for these sessions: Sheer Heart Attack
A Night At The Opera

Queens first three albums had been made under a contract with their production company, Trident, who subsequently sold the album on to the record companies to distribute. By 1975 this situation was becoming increasingly dissatisfying for the band, who felt their meagre salaries, just 60 per week, werent adequate reward for their success, especially when their manager had just bought a Rolls Royce. Determined to move on, they approached Elton Johns manager, John Reid, whose advice was, You go away and make the best record you can make and Ill take care of the business. John Reid promptly negotiated the band out of the contract with Trident, but the situation had led to the band being heavily in debt. As Brian said many years later, We were at a really crucial point; we might have had to break up if that album didnt do well. This adversity sparked a very creative period, as they continued to push the boundaries of studio recording into new territory, particularly with the epics Bohemian Rhapsody and The Prophets Song, aided by their long term producer Roy Thomas Baker. Freddie would also vent his continuing disgust with their previous management in his venomous attack, Death On Two Legs. The album, named after a Marx Brothers movie, was a critical and commercial success, giving the band their first number one single, Bohemian Rhapsody, and album. It was also supported by John Deacons first single, Youre My Best Friend, and a major UK and US tour. Queen had finally hit the big time with an album, and a very special song, that continues to endure decades later. Tracks: 1) Death On Two Legs (Dedicated to (Mercury) 2) Lazing On A Sunday Afternoon (Mercury) 3) Im In Love With My Car (Taylor) 4) Youre My Best Friend (Deacon) 5) 39 (May) 6) Sweet Lady (May) 7) Seaside Rendezvous (Mercury) 8) The Prophets Song (May) 9) Love Of My Life (Mercury) 10) Good Company (May) 11) Bohemian Rhapsody (Mercury) 12) God Save The Queen (Trad. Arr. May) Freddie Mercury (Vocals, vocals, Bechstein Debauchery and more vocals) Brian May (Guitars and orchestral backdrops) Roger Taylor (Percussion) John Deacon (Electric bass) Roy Thomas Baker and Queen
Personnel:
Produced by:
Engineered by: Mike Stone (Additional engineering by Gary Lyons) Recorded at: Sarm East Studios, London, UK; Olympic Studios, London, UK; Rockfield Studios, Monmouth, UK; Scorpio Studios, London UK; Lansdowne Studios, London, UK; Roundhouse Studios, London, UK; August-November 1975 Release date: 21st November 1975 (UK) 2nd December 1975 (USA) 21st December 1975 (Japan)
Release details:
Release A Night At The Opera Description 1975 UK 12 Album 1975 US 12 Album 1975 Japanese 12 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: EMTC 103 Elektra: 7E-1053 Elektra: P-10075-E Notes
Remasters
Early CD Issues:
Release A Night At The Opera Description 1986 UK CD5 Album 1987 Japanese CD5 Album 1992 UK CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: CDP 7 46207 2 Toshiba-EMI: CP32-5379 Parlophone: CDP 7 46207 2 Notes
Reissue
1991 Remaster: Remastered by Stephen Marcussen at Precision Mastering, Hollywood, USA

Release A Night At The Opera Description 1991 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61065-2 Notes
Bonus Tracks:
1) Im In Love With My Car (Mike Shipley Remix) 2) Youre My Best Friend (Matt Wallace Remix)
Release A Night At The Opera Description Label/Catalogue No. 1993 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: CDPCDS 130 1994 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-8274 Notes

Release Miniatures Volume I The Crown Jewels A Night At The Opera Description 1998 UK CD5 Box Set 1998 US CD5 Box Set Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 4984072 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains four albums Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains eight albums Card sleeve vinyl replica

Release A Night At The Opera Description 2001 Japanese CD5 Album 2004 Japanese CD5 Album 2005 Japanese CD5 Album 2007 Japanese CD5 Album 2008 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba EMI: TOCP-65844 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67344 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53444 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53444 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67344 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replica Reissue Card sleeve vinyl replica reissue. Additional OBI
2002 5.1 Surround Sound Mix: 5.1 mix produced by Roy Thomas Baker and Brian May. 5.1 mix by Elliot Scheiner at Capitol Records Studios, Hollywood, USA & The Dog House, Los Angeles, USA
Release A Night At The Opera Description 2002 UK DVD-A Album 2002 US DVD-A Album Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 7243 539830 9 3 Hollywood Records: 69286-01091-9-3 Notes
2005 Remaster: Remastered by Bob Ludwig at Gateway Mastering Studios, Portland, USA 2005 5.1 Surround Sound Mix: 5.1 mix produced by Roy Thomas Baker and Brian May. 5.1 mix by Elliot Scheiner at Capitol Records Studios, Hollywood, USA & The Dog House, Los Angeles, USA God Save The Queen 5.1 Mix produced by Brian May and Justin Shirley-Smith. 5.1 mix by Kris Fredriksson at British Grove Studios, London, UK
Release A Night At The Opera Description 2005 UK CD & DVD Album 2005 US CD & DVD Album 2005 Japanese CD & DVD Album Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 00943 3 38457 2 5 Hollywood Records: 2061-62575-2 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67844 Notes
Release A Night At The Opera Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2013 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 442 2 Island: 276 442 4 Hollywood Records: D001364902 Hollywood Records: D001364802 Island: UICY-15012 Island: UICY-75017 Island: UIGY-9513 Island: UICY-75415 Island: UICY-75433 Island: UICY-40006 Notes 1 CD edition 2 CD edition 1 CD edition 2 CD edition 1 CD edition 2 CD edition Super Audio CD. 1 CD only Reissue. 1 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition Card sleeve vinyl replica. Platinum CD. 1 CD only Card sleeve vinyl replica. 1 CD only Album only, no bonus material Album only, no bonus material
2013 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75767 2013 UK Blu-ray Album 2013 Japanese Blu-ray Album Island: 00602537327713 Island: PROT-4004
Bonus Tracks*: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6)
Keep Yourself Alive (Long-Lost Retake, June 1975) Bohemian Rhapsody (Operatic Section A Cappella Mix 2011) Youre My Best Friend (Backing Track Mix 2011) Im In Love With My Car (Guitar & Vocal Mix 2011) 39 (Live at Earls Court, London, UK - 07/06/1977) Love Of My Life (Multiple shows, Live Killers tour - 1979)
Bonus Videos*: 1) Bohemian Rhapsody (Promo Video) 2) Seaside Rendezvous (Promo Video) 3) Love Of My Life (Live at The Bowl, Milton Keynes, UK 05/06/1982)
Death On Two Legs (Dedicated to

The Eye Version 1 (0:39)

A short edit of the opening part of the song, ending abruptly after the scream. Where to find it: Found on disc five of the game: The Final Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
The Eye Version 2 (3:07)

The second version of Death On Two Legs from The Eye picks up where the first left off, with an instrumental take (with backing vocals) of the remainder of the track. Where to find it: Found on disc five of the game: The Final Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
The Eye In Game Version 1 (0:14)

A very brief edit of part of the guitar introduction to the song, with the addition of a hiss sound effect from one of the games characters. Where to find it: In addition to the large number of standard audio tracks contained on The Eye CDs, there are a small number of additional tracks found only in the computer files. With a little computer knowledge, it is possible to copy this audio to your PC. You first have to get hold of a copy of the game however, and all versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
The Eye In Game Version 2 (0:16)

Another version that uses part of the guitar introduction, in this case the last few seconds leading up to the scream. There are a number of pieces of dialogue from the game overdubbed. This is the track that is played when the game character, Dubroc, dies. Where to find it: In addition to the large number of standard audio tracks contained on The Eye CDs, there are a small number of additional tracks found only in the computer files. With a little computer knowledge, it is possible to copy this audio to your PC. You first have to get hold of a copy of the game however, and all versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
The Art Of Queen The Eye Version (0:40)

This version features a short edit of the piano and guitar introduction to the track. It includes several sound effects from the game, as well as samples of Mother Love and Freddies sing along from Live At Wembley Stadium. Where to find it: The Art Of Queen is a book detailing the making of the game, along with a bonus CDROM containing several videos. A number of unique edits of Queen songs are present on the CDROM, and with a little PC knowledge it is possible to copy the audio tracks. The book, unlike the game itself, is still relatively easy to come by.
Release The Art Of Queen The Eye Description 1998 UK Book & CDROM 1998 US Book & CDROM Label/Catalogue No. Notes Boxtree: 0-7522-0376-2 Smithmark: 0-7651-9126-1
DVD-Audio Sound Effect (0:01)

A very brief slice of guitar from the track, lasting slightly less than one second. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus, including very short edits of each individual song on the lyrics menu.
30th Anniversary DVD Menu Version (0:38)

This version consists of the opening piano bars of the track, but with a difference! Whereas on the album the opening piano fades out after around 20 seconds, this versions keeps going for a lot longer. There is also no fade in of the piano as on the album. Whether this is a remixed version of the album take or an alternative take is unknown. Where to find it: To celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the album a new deluxe edition was released. It featured a newly remastered CD and a 5.1 surround sound mix DVD. The title menu of the DVD features this mix.
Release A Night At The Opera Description 2005 UK CD & DVD Album 2005 US CD & DVD Album 2005 Japanese CD & DVD Album Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 00943 3 38457 2 5 Hollywood Records: 2061-62575-2 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67844 Notes

These stems are exactly the same as the album version, just separated out the into various individual parts. Separation: Kick/Snare/Room/Bass/Guitar/Vocals/Piano/Additional Guitar and Effects Where to find it: Death On Two Legs is a downloadable track for Rock Band 3. The separated stems ripped from the games circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
Lazing On A Sunday Afternoon

Magic Years Version (1:37)

This version from the Magic Years documentary extends the running time by around thirty seconds, and is played over footage around the bands 1986 show in Budapest, Hungary. At three points there are brief breaks in the music to feature people talking about the show (in Czech, English and Hungarian respectively), and at the end of the track the guitar solo is repeated. There is some narration over parts of the track. Where to find it: Magic Years is a series of three documentaries first released in 1987, charting the band from its early days to the conclusion of the Magic Tour, with this track featuring on volume three. It has been released on both VHS and laser disc. The various VHS releases shouldnt be too much trouble to track down, but the lasers discs are much rarer, and consequently more expensive to get hold of.
Release Magic Years Volume Three Description 1987 UK VHS Video 1987 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1987 Japanese VHS Video 1998 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1987 UK VHS Video 1992 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1992 Japanese VHS Video 1999 UK VHS Video 1992 US Laser Disc Video Label/Catalogue No. PMI: MVP 99 1156 2 Toshiba-EMI: L050-1114 Toshiba-EMI: TT50-1226H1 Toshiba-EMI: TOLW-3274 PMI: MVP 99 1157 2 Toshiba-EMI: TOVW-3127/9 Toshiba-EMI: TOVW-3127/9 PMI: ??? Pioneer: PA-91-348 Notes
Reissue
Magic Years The Complete Set
Reissue
Magic Years

Hollywood Records famously made several errors on their 1991 remasters, and this track is one of them. Its almost identical to the album version, but with the backing vocals, There he goes again, cut out of the mix. Where to find it: Only featured on cassette promo copies of A Night At The Opera from 1991, which are very rare and difficult to find.
Release A Night At The Opera Description 1991 US Promo Cassette Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: ??? Notes

This DVD menu sound effect is simply the last couple of guitar notes that finish the track. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus, including very short edits of each individual song on the lyrics menu.
Im In Love With My Car


The single version of Im In Love With My Car is largely the same as the album version, but with two key differences. At the start of the track some engine sounds have been added before the song starts. At the end of the track the engine sounds and guitar coda have been cut, and the track ends in a fade out. The fade out is longer on the single version, allowing you to hear some material that is not present on the album. Where to find it: This single version has been released many times on different formats and should be very easy to pick up cheaply. It was originally released as a B-side to the worldwide hit, Bohemian Rhapsody, which some years later was released in Japan on the CD3 format (The UK CD3 features the standard album version). Most easily found on CD on either the Singles Collection 1 box set, or the 2004 US release of Greatest Hits, which includes this mix as a bonus track.
Release Bohemian Rhapsody Description 1975 UK 7 Single 1975 US 7 Single 1975 Japanese 7 Single 1988 Japanese CD3 Single 1991 Japanese CD3 Box 2004 US CD5 Album 2004 US CD5 Album Singles Collection 1 2008 UK CD5 Box 2008 Japanese CD5 Box Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 2375 Elektra: E45297 Elektra: P1430E Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2253 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2251-62 Hollywood Records: 2061-62465-2 Hollywood Records: 2061-62475-2 Parlophone: 50999 243358 2 9 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70681 Notes
CD Single Box Greatest Hits: We Will Rock You Edition
Includes bonus DVD
Mike Shipley Remix (3:28)

This remix is one of number released by Hollywood Records as bonus tracks to their 1991 album remasters. Mike Shipley has not deviated too far from the album take in this remix, adding some extra backing vocals at the start and an extended outro. Where to find it: Most easily found on the 1991 US release of A Night At The Opera, which although now replaced with the 2011 remaster is still quite common. Also found on Queen Rocks: Volume Three, a US promo CD not to be confused with the 1997 compilation album. This album also comes in a very rare box set of all four Rocks promo albums.
Release A Night At The Opera Queen Rocks: Volume Three Rocks Box Description 1991 US CD Album 1991 US CD Promo 1991 US CD Promo Box Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61065-2 Hollywood Records: PRCD-8297-2 Hollywood Records: ROCKS BOX Notes
Queen Rocks Version (3:11)

Essentially, this mix is a hybrid of the single and album versions. The engine noises at the start of the single version are present on this mix; whereas the ending includes the engines noises and guitar of the album version. Where to find it: Only found on the 1997 compilation album Queen Rocks, unsurprisingly a collection of Queens heaviest rockers. Dont confuse it with a set of four US promo albums from 1991, also called Queen Rocks.
Release Queen Rocks Description 1997 UK CD5 Album 1997 UK 12 Album 1997 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 823 0912 Parlophone: 823 0911 Hollywood Records: HR-62132-2 1997 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-50357 Notes Two different sleeves Two different sleeves
DVD-Audio Menu Version (0:50)

This DVD menu mix is an instrumental edit of Im In Love With My Car. The section of the track used is from around two minutes into the album version. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus.

A short snippet of the last few seconds of engine noises from the album version. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus, including very short edits of each individual song on the lyrics menu.
Guitar & Vocal Mix 2011 (3:20)

As the name suggests, this is a new mix consisting only of guitars and vocals, with all other instruments removed entirely. This version includes an extra twelve seconds of guitar work at the end of the track that isnt present on the album take, before finishing with the familiar guitar coda (minus the engine noises). Where to find it: Released as a bonus track on the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of A Night At The Opera, as well as a US CD issued to promote the first batch of remastered albums.
Release A Night At The Opera Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 442 4 Hollywood Records: D001364802 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75017 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75433 2011 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Records: BVPR003382 Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition

Exactly the same as the album version, with the small addition of some cymbals to count the track in. Separation: Kick/Snare/Room/Bass/Guitar/Piano/Vocals/Additional Instruments and Sound Effects Where to find it: The track can be downloaded to play on Rock Band 3. The separated stems ripped from the game circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
Youre My Best Friend

Matt Wallace Remix (2:52)

Matt Wallace has stuck very close to the album version with his remix. The main changes are a different sound to the drums and vocals, as well as a more prominent bass line in places. Where to find it: Most easily found on the 1991 US release of A Night At The Opera, which although now replaced with the 2011 remaster is still quite common. Also found on the Queen Rocks: Volume Three, a US promo CD not to be confused with the 1997 compilation album. This album also comes in a very rare box set of all four Rocks promo albums.
Release A Night At The Opera Queen Rocks: Volume Three Rocks Box Description 1991 US CD Album 1991 US CD Promo 1991 US CD Promo Box Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61065-2 Hollywood Records: PRCD-8297-2 Hollywood Records: ROCKS BOX Notes

This version opens with a fade in, which cuts off the first couple of electric piano notes. Around two seconds of material is also lost at the end of the track by an early fade. Where to find it: Only to be found on the video CD of Greatest Flix I&II. A number of videos on this release were edited down from the other Greatest Flix releases, presumably to allow all the tracks to fit on this disc. This release is quite rare and may not be easy to buy.
Karaoke Version (2:53)

Exactly the same as the album version, but with the lead vocal removed. Backing vocals remain. Where to find it: Found on the Japanese release Greatest Karaoke Hits, which is available on CD and DVD. All versions of this release are now quite hard to find, and expensive when they do turn up for sale.
Release Greatest Karaoke Hits Description 1998 Japanese CD Album 2004 Japanese CD Album 2004 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba-EMI TOCP-65061-62 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67422-23 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3174 Notes

A brief slice of bass guitar, which has been isolated from the rest of the track. Where to find it: You can hear this one on the song select screen of the Greatest Video Hits 1 DVD. As you select each song a title screen appears, accompanied by a very brief snippet from the track. A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue

Very simply, this sound effect is first three seconds of the electric piano introduction. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus, including very short edits of each individual song on the lyrics menu.
Making Of DVD Menu Version (0:32)

A straight edit of Your My Best Friend, starting at the beginning of the track and ending with a fade out. Where to find it: The Making Of A Night At The Opera was a 2005 documentary in the Classic Albums series shown on TV and then released on DVD. The DVD release contains extra footage not seen on TV, and the DVD menus are accompanied by various edits of album tracks. In the UK a copy of the DVD along with the 2005 DVD-A album is available.
Release The Making Of A Night At The Opera Description 2005 UK DVD Video 2005 UK DVD Video/ DVD-A Album 2006 US DVD Video 2006 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Eagle Vision: EREDV546 Eagle Vision: EREDV579 Eagle Vision: EV301619 Eagle Vision: VABG-1198 Notes 2 DVD edition
Backing Track Mix 2011 (3:20)

This mix is almost identical to the Karaoke Version, with the addition of a little studio chat at the beginning and end of the track. Where to find it: Released as a bonus track on the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of A Night At The Opera.
Release A Night At The Opera Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 442 4 Hollywood Records: D001364802 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75017 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75433 Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
Days Of Our Lives DVD Menu Version(0:39)

An edit of the Backing Track/Karaoke versions, taken from around one minute into the track. It plays for around twenty seconds, before repeating and then fading out. Where to find it: The Days Of Our Lives documentary was commissioned to coincide with Queens fortieth anniversary in 2011 and originally broadcast in the UK by the BBC. It has since been released on both Blu-ray and DVD with a variety of bonus features. Please note, however, that this track is only present on the DVD release, not the Blu-ray.
Release Days Of Our Lives Description 2011 US DVD Video 2012 US DVD Video 2011 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Notes Universal: 0602527885131 Eagle Vision: EV304009 Universal: UIBY-15008/9

There is no musical difference between these stems and the album version, just the separation of tracks. Separation: Kick/Drums/Bass/Guitar/Electric Piano/Vocals Where to find it: The track can be downloaded to play on Rock Band 3. The separated stems ripped from the game circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
39

A short edit consisting of the final few guitar chords of the song. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus, including very short edits of each individual song on the lyrics menu.

A straight edit of 39, starting about one and a half minutes into the song and fading in and out. Where to find it: The Making Of A Night At The Opera was a 2005 documentary in the Classic Albums series shown on TV and then released on DVD. The DVD release contains extra footage not seen on TV, and the DVD menus are accompanied by various edits of album tracks. In the UK a copy of the DVD along with the 2005 DVD-A album is available.
Live In The Studio (2:47)

An acoustic performance from Brian May of his sci-fi skiffle track, performing the track solo with just a guitar. Brians voice is not in the best of shape, and he struggles to hit some of the notes. Where to find it: The Making Of A Night At The Opera was a 2005 documentary in the Classic Albums series shown on TV and then released on DVD. The DVD release contains extra footage not seen on TV and is available in the UK with a copy of the 2005 DVD-A album.
Sweet Lady

This reel to reel recording does not have the fade out present on the album cut, so several more seconds of material of the band playing can be heard, before the track comes to abrupt end. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) This version can only be found on a mega-rare reel to reel tape of A Night At The Opera that was auctioned in 2012. The tape only contains some of the album tracks, and this is the only track that differs from the album. Digital copies of this track are only in the hands of a very few lucky collectors.
Release A Night At The Opera Description 1975 Reel To Reel Tape Label/Catalogue No. Notes

A simple edit of the first minute of the track. An echo effect has been added to the end of the edit, but it is otherwise musically identical to the album take. Where to find it: Found on disc two of the game: The Works Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.

Another instrumental edit on this DVD, consisting of the final one and half minutes of Sweet Lady, with no vocals at all. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus.

A brief burst of the first few guitar chords of the song. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus, including very short edits of each individual song on the lyrics menu.
Seaside Rendezvous
Magic Years Version (0:40)

The Magic Years documentary contains a rather neat edit of Seaside Rendezvous. The track starts as normal and plays through the first verse, before skipping right to the end of the track and playing the final few vocals. Where to find it: Magic Years is a series of three documentaries first released in 1987, charting the band from its early days to the conclusion of the Magic Tour, with this track featuring on volume three. It has been released on both VHS and laser disc. The various VHS releases shouldnt be too much trouble to track down, but the lasers discs are much rarer, and consequently more expensive to get hold of.
Release Magic Years Volume Two Description 1987 UK VHS Video 1987 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1987 Japanese VHS Video 1998 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1987 UK VHS Video 1992 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1992 Japanese VHS Video 1999 UK VHS Video 1992 US Laser Disc Video Label/Catalogue No. PMI: MVP 99 1155 2 Toshiba-EMI: L050-1113 Toshiba-EMI: TT50-1225H1 Toshiba-EMI: TOLW-3273 PMI: MVP 99 1157 2 Toshiba-EMI: TOVW-3127/9 Toshiba-EMI: TOVW-3127/9 PMI: ??? Pioneer: PA-91-348 Notes
Reissue
Magic Years The Complete Set
Reissue
Magic Years

A short edit of the vocal brass and woodwind section of the song. The vocals that would ordinarily overlap the end of this segment have been edited out, so its purely instrumental. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus.

This sound effect is actually an instrumental edit. This segment is played when Freddie sings the line Sea Side Rendezvous in the chorus. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus, including very short edits of each individual song on the lyrics menu.
The Prophets Song

Early Mix (???)

Brian Mays epic work was inspired by a vivid dream he had whilst recovering from an illness. The incredibly complex arrangements in the song pushed the deadline for finishing the mix to the wire, so much so that the final version wasnt finished in time for a press and record company playback. According to Roger Taylor, Brian Cobbled together a tape to play to people at a preview, and that tape was subsequently stolen by DJ Kenny Everett, who then played the track on the radio (much to Brians dismay). Its unknown how different this mix was to the album version, or even how long it was. Where to find it: Unreleased (In The Vaults) No sign of this track has ever emerged in Queen collecting circles. While its possible someone might have recorded Kenny Everetts broadcast of the mix, it would seem a remote possibility that any recording still exists nearly four decades later.
DVD-Audio Version (8:31)

The longest song in the Queen catalogue (excluding the ambient Track 13 from Made In Heaven) was extended even further for the DVD-Audio release. An extra fifteen seconds of wind noise has been added to the start of the track. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. Please note that this version is only present of the 2002 release, and not on the 2005 30th Anniversary Edition (which also contains a 5.1 mix).

This menu edit from the DVD-Audio consists of a guitar chord, followed by the start of the People can you hear me vocal section. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus.

This sound effect is merely the final notes of electric guitar in the song, played prior to the acoustic bridge to Love Of My Life. All other instruments have been removed, and the guitar is faded out. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus, including very short edits of each individual song on the lyrics menu.
Love Of My Life

Just a short snippet of the harp introduction, leading up to the first vocal in the song. Where to find it: Found on disc four of the game: The Innuendo Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.

Another harp sound effect from Love Of My Life, this time from the final few seconds of the track. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus, including very short edits of each individual song on the lyrics menu.
Jewells II Version (3:36)

On the album, Love Of My Life has a minor segue with The Prophets Song, so for its standalone appearance on a compilation album a very slight fade was added at the start. Its an exceptionally small difference, and very easy to miss most of the time. Where to find it: Jewels II is a Japanese only compilation released in 2005, and is also available in a package with the original Jewels compilation, as well as a 2013 reissue. The album shouldnt be too hard to get hold of, but be warned that Japanese CDs are a little more expensive to buy.
Release Jewels II Jewels I & II Description 2005 Japanese CD5 Album 2013 Japanese CD5 Album 2005 Japanese CD5 Box Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67530 Island: UICY-15270 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67795-96 Notes Reissue
Hybrid Duet Version (3:53)

This mix combines Brian May playing the song acoustically in the studio (at the same time as 39 see above) with Queens performance from Live At Wembley Stadium, creating a virtual duet between Brian and Freddie. Where to find it: The Making Of A Night At The Opera was a 2005 documentary in the Classic Albums series shown on TV and then released on DVD. The DVD release contains extra footage not seen on TV and is available in the UK with a copy of the 2005 DVD-A album.
Good Company
DVD-Audio Menu Version 1 (0:26)

A brief edit of the track, starting with the ukulele solo and ending in a fade. The vocals normally present here, I hardly noticed Sally. have been removed, creating a mini instrumental. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus.
DVD-Audio Menu Version 2 (0:05)

A short version of Good Company, consisting only on the first five seconds of the song. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus.

Simply the wavy guitar notes from the end of the track. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus, including very short edits of each individual song on the lyrics menu.
Days Of Our Lives DVD Menu Version (0:39)

This edit consists of the jazz band section of the song. It plays for around thirty seconds before partially repeating. Where to find it: The Days Of Our Lives documentary was commissioned to coincide with Queens fortieth anniversary in 2011 and originally broadcast in the UK by the BBC. It has since been released on both Blu-ray and DVD with a variety of bonus features. Please note, however, that this track is only present on the DVD release, not the blu-ray.
Bohemian Rhapsody

The album take of Bohemian Rhapsody has a minor cross fade with God Save The Queen. The single version removes that cross fade, extending the running time of the track by about one second. Where to find it: Released on many formats over many years, there really is no excuse not to own this one.
Release Bohemian Rhapsody Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 2375 Elektra: E45297 Elektra: P1430E Elektra: E-45083 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2253 Parlophone: QUEEN20 Parlophone: CDQUEEN20 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-7259 EMI: EMTV 30 Elektra: 5E-564 Elektra: P-6480E Elektra: 5E-546-2 EMI: CDP 7 46033 2 Elektra: 38-XP-94 Elektra: 32XD-329 Toshiba-EMI: CP32-5381 Parlophone: CDPCSD 141 Toshiba-EMI: CP32-5381 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP 65861 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-54461 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-54461 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53605 Island: 2761039 Island: UICY-15001 Island: UICY-75410 Island: UIGY-9532 WEA: OP 1539 NU 3210 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2251-62 1991 US CD Promo Hollywood Records: PRCD-8297-2 1992 US 7 Single Hollywood Records: 7-64794 1992 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: HR-61311-2 1992 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: CDQTEL 0001 1999 UK CD Single Parlophone: CDQUEEN 28 1999 UK 7 Single Parlophone: QUEENPD 28 2000 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-65455 2004 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67318 2013 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-15269 2004 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: 2061-62465-2 2004 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: 2061-62475-2 2006 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: 2061 62606-2 2007 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: D000049500 Description 1975 UK 7 Single 1975 US 7 Single 1975 Japanese 7 Single 1977 US 7 Single 1988 Japanese CD3 Single 1991 UK CD5 Single 1991 UK 7 Single 1992 Japanese CD5 Single 1981 UK 12 Album 1981 US 12 Album 1981 Japanese 12 Album 1984 US CD5 Album 1984 UK CD5 Album 1984 Japanese CD5 Album 1985 Japanese CD5 Album 1987 Japanese CD5 Album 1994 UK CD5 Album 1994 Japanese CD5 Album 2001 Japanese CD5 Album 2005 Japanese CD5 Album 2007 Japanese CD5 Album 2007 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2013 Japanese CD5 Album 1984 US 12 Album 1991 Japanese CD3 Box Notes
Spun Gold release
Greatest Hits
Super Audio CD
15 Of The Best CD Single Box Queen Rocks: Volume Three The Show Must Go On Classic Queen The 12 Collection Under Pressure In Vision Jewels Greatest Hits: We Will Rock You Edition
Part of Box Of Tricks set Picture disc
Reissue
Includes bonus DVD
Stone Cold Classics The A-Z Of Queen Volume 1
In Vision 2008 Singles Collection 1
Absolute Greatest
Radio Sampler First Wave Icon
Hollywood Records: D000049500 2008 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70480 2008 UK CD5 Box Parlophone: 50999 243358 2 9 2008 Japanese CD5 Box Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70681 2009 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: 6866422 2009 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: 6866432 2009 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: 3091952 2009 UK CD5 Box Parlophone: No catalogue number 2009 UK 12 Album Parlophone: LP6866441 2009 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: D000512802 2009 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70810 2010 UK CD5 Box Parlophone: 50999 909215 2 0 2010 Japanese CD5 Box Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70931 2011 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Records: BVPR003382 2013 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: D001890802
2007 US CD5 Album
Includes bonus DVD
1 CD edition 2 CD edition Book edition

For the A Night At The Opera tour the band replaced their taped Procession concert introduction with a version of Bohemian Rhapsody. This track starts off with the sound of an orchestra warming up, before an announcement, Ladies and gentlemen, A Night At The Opera A brief roar of cymbals leads into the opera section of the song. Interestingly, Freddie sings the line, I see a little silhouetto of a man' live, but the rest of the opera section is from a tape, before the band come in live as the rock section of the track starts. Where to find it: Studio Recording: Unreleased (In The Vaults). No trace of the studio recording has ever surfaced in collecting circles, so it is likely to be buried in the depths of the Queen vaults. Live Version: Unreleased (Shared). This introduction would be used from 1975-1976. Multiple recordings of concerts using this track exist, but the best comes from the show at Music Hall, Boston, on 3rd January 1976.
Promo Version (3:30)

Bohemian Rhapsody is famous for being a very long single that was still very successful. Although an edit was never released in 1975 (despite reports of John Deacon making an edit for the single release), it was cut down a few years later in France. No reliable details have ever surfaced, although we know the track length is 3:30 from the label. Its likely that the opera section and parts of the introduction have been cut, but until a genuine recording surfaces we just dont know. Where to find it: Only found on an exceptionally rare French 7 promo. This does not come up for sale very often, and when it does it sells for big money. Beware of the many internet downloads that claim to be this edit, no genuine copy has ever come to light.
Release Bohemian Rhapsody Description 1978 French 7 Promo Label/Catalogue No. EMI: SP-621 Notes
Greatest Flix Intro Version (0:14)

A simple edit used to introduce the Greatest Flix video, consisting of a straight edit of the first few seconds of the track. Most of the songs on Greatest Flix are segued together, so the first two finger clicks from Killer Queen (the next song on the video) can be heard at the end of this snippet. Where to find it: Available on Greatest Flix, Queens ground-breaking collection of videos released to accompany Greatest Hits. Although now succeeded by the Greatest Video Hits series of DVDs, this should still be easy to get hold of on VHS. As ever though, the laser discs will be harder to find.
Release Greatest Flix Description 1981 UK Laser Disc Video: 1981 UK VHS Video 1981 US VHS Video 1982 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1982 Japanese VHS Video 1988 Japanese VHS Video 1990 US Laser Disc Video 1992 UK VHS Video 1992 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1998 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1991 UK VHS Video 1992 Japanese VHS Video 1997 UK Laser Disc Video 1997 UK DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 6133-70 EMI: TVD9005042 Thorn-EMI: TVC 1047 Pioneer: MP063-25EM Warner: 34004 Toshiba-EMI: WK048-3014H Pioneer: PA-82-026 PMI: MVP 99 1011 2 Toshiba-EMI: TOLW-3130 Toshiba-EMI: TOLW-3270 PMI: MVB 9913243 Toshiba-EMI: TOVW-3132/3 Pioneer: PMLPD 01171 Queen Films: QDVD001 Notes
Reissue
Reissue Reissue Reissue
Box Of Flix
Greatest Flix I&II

A simple mastering error here, the wavy guitar notes from the end of Good Company are included at the start of the song, extending the running time for a few extra seconds. Where to find it: This error was originally made on the 1986 CD release of A Night At The Opera, and later replicated on the CD3 single release of Bohemian Rhapsody in 1988. While not common, these releases do come up for sale regularly and arent too expensive.
Release A Night At The Opera Bohemian Rhapsody Description 1986 UK CD5 Album 1988 UK CD3 Single Label/Catalogue No. EMI: CDP 7 46207 2 Parlophone: QUECD3 Notes
Classic Queen Video Version (6:01)

The 1992 movie Waynes World contained a famous scene using Bohemian Rhapsody. To cash in on the exposure, clips of the movie were used in an alternative promo video of the song, with short clips of film dialogue included at the start and the end of the track. Were not worthy, were not worthy Where to find it: Classic Queen was a US compilation released in place of Greatest Hits II. The accompanying video, although long since deleted, is still fairly easy to pick up from US retailers.
Release Classic Queen Description 1992 US VHS Video Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-69001-3 Notes
Freddie Mercury Tribute Insert (2:01)

During the Freddie Mercury tribute concert several video inserts were prepared to play to the crowd while the road crew reset the stage between acts. The first of the six inserts features a short edit of Bohemian Rhapsody. It starts normally with the introduction, but just when you expect the first verse to come in it cuts to the opera section. After the opera section is finished there are two explosions and the track ends. Where to find it: The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert was originally released in an edited form on both VHS and laser disc, and features the inserts throughout the concert footage. For the tenth anniversary of the concert a more heavily edited DVD was released, featuring just the Queen section of the concert, with the inserts included as a bonus feature. In 2013, a third issue of the concert was released on Blu-ray and DVD, and this features the same footage as the original VHS and laser discs.
Release The Freddie Mercury Tribute Description 1997 UK Laser Disc Video 1992 UK VHS Video 1993 US Laser Disc Video 1993 US VHS Video 1992 Japanese VHS Video 1992 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1995 Japanese Laser Disc Video 2002 UK DVD Video 2002 US DVD Video 2002 Japanese DVD Video 2013 UK Blu-ray Video 2013 UK DVD Video 2013 US Blu-ray Video 2013 US DVD Video 2013 Japanese Blu-ray Video 2013 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Pioneer: PLMPD 01151 PMI: MVB 4910623 Hollywood Records: 1780AS Hollywood Records: 1780 Videoarts: VAVJ-338/9 Videoarts: VAVJ-3338 Videoarts: VALZ-2113 Parlophone: 7243 4 92869 9 3 Capitol: 72434-90162-9-3 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3050/3051 Eagle Vision: ERSBD3007 Eagle Vision: EREDV988 Eagle Vision: EVSBD309939 Eagle Vision: EV306289 Columbia Music Ent: VQXD-10061 Columbia Music Ent: VQBD-10145 Notes
The Freddie Mercury Tribute Vol. 1
Reissue
The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert

Almost identical to the album version, there is just a slightly early fade out which shortens the final note on the gong. Where to find it: Only to be found on the video CD of Greatest Flix I&II. A number of videos on this release were edited down from the other Greatest Flix releases, presumably to allow all the tracks to fit on this disc. This release is quite rare and may not be easy to buy.
Tribute DVD Menu Version (2:01)

Simply the first two lines of the song, lifted straight out of the album version. Where to find it: For the tenth anniversary of the Freddie Mercury concert an edited DVD was released, featuring just the Queen section of the concert. A number of DVD extras were included, and as ever the various menu screens were accompanied by various pieces of audio.
Release The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert Description 2002 UK DVD Video 2002 US DVD Video 2002 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 7243 4 92869 9 3 Capitol: 72434-90162-9-3 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3050/3051 Notes

This karaoke version opens with a click track and the proceeds as normal, with the lead vocal removed. Where to find it: Found on the Japanese release Greatest Karaoke Hits, which is available on CD and DVD. All versions of this release are now quite hard to find, and expensive when they do turn up for sale.

Exactly the same as the Greatest Karaoke Hits release, except there is no click track on this version. Where to find it: This track was originally made available on a Japanese single release of Bohemian Rhapsody. This single is now rather collectable, so perhaps Artist Karaoke Series release would be easier to find. The Artist Karaoke Series release comes from a collection of US releases from various artists. Queen featured in 2007, but despite being labelled Volume 1, no Volume 2 has yet emerged.
Release Bohemian Rhapsody Artist Karaoke Series: Queen Volume 1 Description 2000 Japanese CD3 Single 2007 US CD Album Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-2560 Buena Vista: D000068802 Notes

One of the Magnificos from the opera section, isolated from the rest of the song. Where to find it: You can hear this one on the song select screen of the Greatest Video Hits 1 DVD. As you select each song a title screen appears, accompanied by a very brief snippet from the track. A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue

An instrumental edit of the last section of the song, with the Anywhere the wind blows line edited out. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus.

A brief snippet of piano, bass and drums from the opera section of the song, with the vocals removed. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus, including very short edits of each individual song on the lyrics menu.

A straight edit of part of the second verse, ending with a fade. Where to find it: The Making Of A Night At The Opera was a 2005 documentary in the Classic Albums series shown on TV and then released on DVD. The DVD release contains extra footage not seen on TV, and the DVD menus are accompanied by various edits of album tracks. In the UK a copy of the DVD along with the 2005 DVD-A album is available.
Operatic Section A Cappella Mix 2011 (1:04)

As the name suggests, this is the opera section of the track with all the instruments removed, allowing the listener to enjoy all the complex vocal work from Freddie, Brian and Roger. Where to find it: Released as a bonus track on the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of A Night At The Opera, as well as a US CD issued to promote the first batch of remastered albums.
Release A Night At The Opera Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 442 4 Hollywood Records: D001364802 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75017 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75433 2011 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Records: BVPR003382 Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
Days Of Our Lives DVD Menu Version (0:39)

This can best be described as an edit of the Operatic Section A Cappella Mix 2011. Its starts from the Little stiletto of a man line, and proceeds normally for around twenty five seconds, before partially repeating and ending very abruptly. Where to find it: The Days Of Our Lives documentary was commissioned to coincide with Queens fortieth anniversary in 2011 and originally broadcast in the UK by the BBC. It has since been released on both Blu-ray and DVD with a variety of bonus features. Please note, however, that this track is only present on the DVD release, not the Blu-ray.
Olympics Version (00:51)

A remix of the opening few lines of the track, up to and including Look up to the skies and see. There are a few seconds of silence between each line, and various echoes and other sound effects have been added, before ending in a fade. Where to find it: This excerpt was played at the closing ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games in London (At which Brian and Roger also played a short live set). The studio version (as opposed to the live recording) was later released on the album A Symphony Of British Music.
Release A Symphony Of British Music Description 2012 UK CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Universal: 5340326 Notes

Another 24 track recording, this time giving Queen fans the chance to see just how Freddies magnum opus was put together. This tracks starts with Freddie counting in and ends with a resigned Oh, fuck it. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) Five Queen multi-tracks have surfaced, with Bohemian Rhapsody being one of the four that have been publically shared. Anyone with access to Google should be able to find this. Quite how these tracks surfaced in the first place is a mystery, but most Queen fans are just glad they did!
Computer Game Stems

There are two slightly different sets of stems for Bohemian Rhapsody. Both present the full version of the track, but the second set has a cymbal count in at the start. Separation 1: Kick/Snare/Cymbals/Bass/Guitar and Piano/Vocal and Additional Instruments (6:00) Separation 2: Kick/Snare/Drums and Cymbals/Bass/Guitar/Piano/Vocals/Additional Instruments (6:11) Where to find it: Bohemian Rhapsody is a playable track on both the Rock Band and Guitar Hero game series. The separated stems ripped from the games circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
Release Guitar Hero: Warriors Of Rock Rock Band 3 Description 2010 Video Game 2010 Video Game Label/Catalogue No. Activision Electronic Arts Notes
God Save The Queen

Written by: Trad. Arr. Brian May Album Version Time: 1:15
Piano Demo (1:50)

God Save The Queen was originally recorded to close the bands live shows. In this recording Brian is laying down a piano demo to guide his later guitar work, but unfortunately doesnt seem to be able to get it quite right. At one point he is heard to say, I cant get anywhere near the notes, to which Mike Stone replies, Yes, we noticed. This recording was presented many years later on DVD, and Brians commentary can be heard over parts of the track, describing it as, A joke at my expense. Where to find it: The Making Of A Night At The Opera was a 2005 documentary in the Classic Albums series shown on TV and then released on DVD. The DVD release contains extra footage not seen on TV, including this demo recording. In the UK a copy of the DVD along with the 2005 DVD-A album is available.

The opening drum roll of this version of God Save The Queen is at full volume, rather than the fade in used on the album version. Where to find it: Released on the 1975 reissue of Keep Yourself Alive in the US. Both other tracks on that single, Keep Yourself Alive and Lily Of The Valley, are also different versions to the album, so despite it being rather rare and expensive its well worth tracking down.
Release Keep Yourself Alive Description 1975 US 7 Single Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: E-45268 Notes
Tribute DVD Menu Version (0:05)

A very brief segment of the track, consisting of the final few drum rolls. Where to find it: For the tenth anniversary of the Freddie Mercury concert an edited DVD was released, featuring just the Queen section of the concert. A number of DVD extras were included, and as ever the various menu screens were accompanied by various pieces of audio.
Release The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert Description 2002 UK DVD Video 2002 US DVD Video 2002 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 7243 4 92869 9 3 Capitol: 72434-90162-9-3 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3050/3051 Notes

A brief snippet, consisting of just the final drum roll of the song. Where to find it: A Night At The Opera is one of two Queen albums, along with The Game, to be released in 5.1 surround sound. This 2002 release features a number of additional edits of the album tracks on the various disc menus, including very short edits of each individual song on the lyrics menu.
DVD Intro Version (0:27)

This version starts with the open drum roll before jumping straight to the guitar outro and final drum rolls. Where to find it: Greatest Video Hits 1 and 2 are collections of Queen videos given a mainstream DVD release for the first time. This version of God Save The Queen opens both discs. Despite years of waiting, no third volume has yet emerged, to the disappointment of many fans. A 2012 US release packaged both volumes together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Release Greatest Video Hits 1 Description 2002 UK DVD Video 2002 US DVD Video 2002 Japanese DVD Video 2005 Japanese DVD Video 2006 Japanese DVD Video Greatest Videos Hits 2 2003 UK DVD Video 2003 US DVD Video 2003 Japanese DVD Video 2005 Japanese DVD Video 2006 Japanese DVD Video Greatest Video Hits 2012 US DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 492 9449 Hollywood Records: 7 20616 90119 4 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3057/58 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 3241/42 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 92054/55 Parlophone: 490 9839 Hollywood Records: 160017 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3128/29 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 3243/44 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 92056/57 Eagle Vision: EV305569 Notes
Reissue Reissue
Reissue Reissue
One of the CD releases of A Night At The Opera has some mastering differences, with the track breaks between songs coming at different points. These variations have not been explicitly listed above as there is no musical difference to the standard CD versions and it is only when listening to these tracks in isolation you would spot any difference, but the details are presented here none the less: The 1986 CD release (EMI: CDP 7 46207 2) has a different track break between Good Company and Bohemian Rhapsody.
The Rumour Mill

For the most part, this guide presents what we know about the music of Queen, but here we can also delve into rumour and innuendo. The following track began life (or was rumoured to have begun life) around this time. Its possible a version of this track was recorded for these sessions: We Are The Champions
A Day At The Races

Fresh from the success of A Night At The Opera, and finally making money after getting out of their Trident contracts, the band were high on confidence, so much so they felt the time was right to self-produce an album. Roy Thomas Baker had worked with Queen since their first album, but the band felt they had learned enough about the studio to work on their own (with the help of their trusted engineer, Mike Stone). Out on their own for the first time the band pursued some new ideas, such as creating a full gospel choir (Somebody To Love) and even recording in Japanese (Teo Torriatte), while maintaining their highly polished sound, which was everything as complex as the preceding album. The albums title was, once again, taken from a Marx Brothers movie, and spawned several single releases; Somebody To Love, Tie Your Mother Down and Queens First EP (featuring Good Old-Fashioned Lover Boy). There was also a US release of Long Away, and Teo Torriatte in Japan. Prior to the albums release the band put on a huge free show in Londons Hyde Park, to thank their loyal fans, and a few new songs were previewed at that show. Early in 1977 the band promoted the album with a huge North American tour, followed by a somewhat smaller UK and European tour. The album reviews were not as positive as before. Punk music was beginning to sweep the UK and a section of the music press began to attack Queen, and other bands, as no longer relevant. But it didnt matter; the album was a huge success, giving the band their second number one album in a row. Tracks: 1) Tie Your Mother Down (May) 2) You Take My Breath Away (Mercury) 3) Long Away (May) 4) The Millionaire Waltz (Mercury) 5) You And I (Deacon) 6) Somebody To Love (Mercury) 7) White Man (May) 8) Good Old-Fashioned Lover Boy (Mercury) 9) Drowse (Taylor) 10) Teo Torriatte (Let Us Cling Together) (May) Freddie Mercury (Vocal, piano, choir meister, tantrums) Brian May (Guitar, vocal, leader of the orchestra) Roger Taylor (Drums, percussion, pandemonium) John Deacon (Fender bass) Queen
Personnel:
Produced by:
Engineered by: Mike Stone Recorded at: Release date: The Manor Studio, Oxfordshire, UK; Wessex Studios, London, UK; Sarm East Studios, London, UK; July-November 1976 10th December 1976 (UK) 18th December 1976 (USA) 9th January 1977 (Japan)
Release details:
Release A Day At The Races Description 1976 UK 12 Album 1976 US 12 Album 1976 Japanese 12 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: EMTC 104 Elektra: 6E-101 Elektra: P-10300-E Notes
Remasters
Early CD Issues:
Release A Day At The Races Description 1986 UK CD5 Album 1987 Japanese CD5 Album 1992 UK CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: CDP 7 46208 2 Toshiba-EMI: CP32-5313 Parlophone: CDP 7 46208 2 Notes
Reissue
1991 Remaster: Remastered by Kevin Metcalfe, at Townhouse Studios, London, UK

Release A Day At The Races Description 1991 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61035-2 Notes
Bonus Tracks:
1) Tie Your Mother Down (Matt Wallace Remix) 2) Somebody To Love (Randy Badazz Remix)
Release A Day At The Races Description Label/Catalogue No. 1993 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: CDPCSD 131 1994 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-8275 Notes

Release Miniatures Volume II The Crown Jewels A Day At The Races Description 1998 UK CD5 Box Set 1998 US CD5 Box Set Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 4984082 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains four albums Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains eight albums Card sleeve vinyl replica

Release A Day At The Races Description 2001 Japanese CD5 Album 2004 Japanese CD5 Album 2005 Japanese CD5 Album 2007 Japanese CD5 Album 2008 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba EMI: TOCP-65845 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67345 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53445 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53445 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67345 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replica Reissue Card sleeve vinyl replica reissue. Additional OBI
Release A Day At The Races Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 441 7 Island: 276 441 6 Hollywood Records: D001365202 Hollywood Records: D001365102 Island: UICY-15013 Island: UICY-75019 Island: UIGY-9514 Island: UICY-75416 Island: UICY-75435 Notes 1 CD edition 2 CD edition 1 CD edition 2 CD edition 1 CD edition 2 CD edition Super Audio CD. 1 CD only Reissue. 1 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
Bonus Tracks*: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5)
Tie Your Mother Down (Backing Track Mix 2011) Somebody To Love (Live at The Bowl, Milton Keynes, UK 05/06/1982) You Take My Breath Away (Live in Hyde Park, London, UK 18/09/1976) Good Old-Fashioned Lover Boy (Top Of The Pops, July 1977) (Mono) Teo Torriatte (Let Us Cling Together) (HD Mix)
Bonus Videos*: 1) You Take My Breath Away (Live at Earls Court, London, UK 07/06/1977) 2) Tie Your Mother Down (Live at The Bowl, Milton Keynes, UK 05/06/1982) 3) Somebody To Love (Promo Video)
Tie Your Mother Down


A reel to reel recording of Tie Your Mother Down is known to exist, although only a short sample has ever emerged. The sample is of the final two minutes of the song, and while the instrumentation s almost identical there are some different outro vocals. Some of Freddies vocals are missing, and Brian and Roger pop in singing for brief moments. The increased running time is, according to the owner, due to both the album intro and outro being present on the tape. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) This version can only be found on a mega-rare (perhaps unique) reel to reel tape of A Day At The Races, which contains five tracks from that album.
Release A Day At The Races Description 1976 Reel To Reel Tape Label/Catalogue No. Notes

The album A Day At The Races opens with an guitar introduction lasting just over a minute, before going straight into Tie Your Mother Down. The single version merely cuts out that introduction. Where to find it: Tie Your Mother Down was released as a single in 1977, but was not particularly successful and therefore not included on Greatest Hits. It has been included on various other compilations and single releases however, and is perhaps most easily found on Classic Queen or Queen Rocks.
Release Tie Your Mother Down Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 2593 Elektra: E45385 Elektra: P-193 E WEA: OP 1539 NU 3210 Parlophone: QECD4 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2254 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2251-62 1990 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Records: PRCD-8263-2 1992 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: HR-61311-2 1997 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: 823 0912 1997 UK 12 Album Parlophone: 823 0911 1997 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: HR-62132-2 1997 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-50357 2006 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: 2061 62606-2 2008 UK CD5 Box Parlophone: 50999 243358 2 9 2008 Japanese CD5 Box Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70681 Description 1977 UK 7 Single 1977 US 7 Single 1977 Japanese 7 Single 1984 US 12 Album 1988 UK CD3 Single 1988 Japanese CD3 Single 1991 Japanese CD3 Box Notes
15 Of The Best Somebody To Love CD Single Box Queen Rocks: Volume One Classic Queen Queen Rocks
Two different sleeves Two different sleeves
Stone Cold Classics Singles Collection 1
Greatest Flix Version (3:33)

The video version of Tie Your Mother Down has an edit at the beginning of the track, cutting out the opening guitar chords and starting when the drums and bass come in. A second or so from the end of the track there is also a very brief guitar chord that is not present on the single or album, which sticks out a little because it is played so much louder than the rest of the track. Where to find it: Available on Greatest Flix, Queens ground-breaking collection of videos released to accompany Greatest Hits. Although now succeeded by the Greatest Video Hits series of DVDs, this should still be easy to get hold of on VHS. As ever though, the laser discs will be harder to find.
Reissue
Box Of Flix
Greatest Flix I&II
Matt Wallace Remix (2:52)

Rather like his remix of Youre My Best Friend, Matt Wallace has not strayed too far from the original song. There are some effects added to Freddies vocals, and in places the guitar has been removed. Where to find it: Found on the 1991 US release of A Day At The Races, which although now replaced with the 2011 remaster is still quite common and easy to find.
Release A Day At The Race Description 1991 US CD Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61035-2 Notes

This version is almost identical to the one found on Greatest Flix, but here there is an early fade which cuts 1-2 seconds off the end of the track. Where to find it: Only to be found on the video CD of Greatest Flix I&II. A number of videos on this release were edited down from the other Greatest Flix releases, presumably to allow all the tracks to fit on this disc. This release is quite rare and may not be easy to buy.
Trent Reznor Remix (4:44)

Trent Reznor has once again added his industrial sound to a Queen track (see Stone Cold Crazy). Much of the guitar has been removed, and new bass and drums added. Where to find it: Seemingly only found on the mega rare CDR promo The Unauthorised Club Record. However, copies of this track do circulate on the internet.

A straight edit of the first forty seconds of the album intro, ending with a fade. Where to find it: Found on disc two of the game: The Works Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.

This video version is musically identical to the single version, but it plays slightly too fast, cutting several seconds off the running time. Where to find it: Greatest Video Hits 1 was the first in a planned series of three video compilations (although, after waiting since 2003, the third has yet to emerge). A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Release Greatest Video Hits 1 Description 2002 UK DVD Video 2002 US DVD Video 2002 Japanese DVD Video 2005 Japanese DVD Video 2006 Japanese DVD Video Greatest Video Hits 2012 US DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 492 9449 Hollywood Records: 160017 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3057/58 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 3241/42 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 92054/55 Eagle Vision: EV305569 Notes
Reissue Reissue

Simply a few guitar notes from the song, isolated from the rest of the instrumentation. Where to find it: You can hear this one on the song select screen of the Greatest Video Hits 1 DVD. As you select each song a title screen appears, accompanied by a very brief snippet from the track. A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue

A karaoke instrumental of the single version, retaining the backing vocals. Where to find it: This version was first released on Greatest Karaoke Hits in 1998, and then re-released in2004. Both of these releases are quite hard to find now, and may cost you if you do. Much more easily found on Artist Karaoke Series: Queen Volume 1, however this release contains many fewer tracks.
Release Greatest Karaoke Hits Description Label/Catalogue No. 1998 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-65061-62 2004 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67422-23 2007 US CD Album Buena Vista: D000068802 Notes
Artist Karaoke Series: Queen Volume 1

The DVD version of this track edits the beginning of the track, cutting out the opening guitar chords and starting when the drums and bass come in. Where to find it: The DVD of Greatest Karaoke Hits features a number of edits, presumably to allow 35 tracks to fit onto one disc, and just like the CD release its getting rather hard to get hold of at a reasonable price.

The Greatest Karaoke Hits DVD allows you play all karaoke tracks with the vocals restored, creating the same edit as Karaoke Version 2 but with Freddie back where he belongs. Where to find it: The DVD of Greatest Karaoke Hits features a number of edits, presumably to allow 35 tracks to fit onto one disc, and just like the CD release its getting rather hard to get hold of at a reasonable price.

An edit of the album introduction, starting with the opening gong, but then going straight into the ascending guitar notes, which repeat for a while before fading out. Where to find it: Found only on the Japanese video compilation Jewels, released in conjunction with the album of the same name. Its not too hard to find, but like most Japanese releases it is more expensive than you might think.
Release Jewels Description 2004 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3165 Notes
Air Guitar Version (4:00)

This track opens with a short sample of We Will Rock You, consisting of a few stomp stomp claps and a brief burst of guitar from the solo, before proceeding into Tie Your Mother Down. Where to find it: Originally released on the various artists compilation The Best Air Guitar Album In The World... Ever!, the first in a series of albums compiled by Brian May. It was later released in Japan on the Queen compilation Jewells II, which is also available as a package with the original Jewels.
Release The Best Air Guitar Album In The World... Ever! Jewels II Jewels I & II Description 2001 UK CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Virgin: VTDCD416 Notes Various artists
2005 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67530 2013 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-15270 2005 Japanese CD5 Box Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67795-96
Reissue
Backing Track Mix 2011 (3:48)

This mix is very much the same as the karaoke versions, with the addition of a count in at the start of the track and Freddie saying thank you at the end. Where to find it: Released as a bonus track on the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of A Day At The Races.
Release A Day At The Races Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 441 6 Hollywood Records: D001365102 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75019 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75435 Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition

An early version of this track, including a guide vocal from Brian. The backing track is quite similar to the finished product, but does feature some alternative lead guitar. Where to find it: 2006 UK Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). This convention session was recorded in full, but none of the tracks from it have been shared. 2006 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). An almost complete recording of this convention session exists (just missing part of one track) and has been shared widely.

These stems are exactly the same as the album version, with the addition of a cymbal count at the start. Separation: Kick/Snare/Room/Bass/Guitar/Vocals/Piano/Additional Instruments and Backing Vocals Where to find it: Tie Your Mother Down is a downloadable track for Rock Band. The separated stems ripped from the games circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
Release Rock Band Description 2009 Download Label/Catalogue No. Electronic Arts Notes
You Take My Breath Away


Just like Tie Your Mother Down, only a short sample of this track has ever emerged. It contains some alternative backing vocals that never made it onto the final album version. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) This version can only be found on a mega-rare (perhaps unique) reel to reel tape of A Day At The Races, which contains five tracks from that album.

This track is the same as the album version, with the exception that the vocal coda has been cut off completely. This results in the track being twenty five seconds shorter. Where to find it: Only found on the Digital Master Sampler promo CD, issued to promote the 1993/94 remasters. This CD is rather rare, especially as a manufacturing defect means that most copies will no longer play. Unfortunately, there was an unforeseen chemical reaction between the disc and the packaging, so if you are buying a copy make sure you get one that works!

A piano instrumental version of this track, with all vocals and other instruments cut. This is an almost complete take, but it ends abruptly, cutting the last forty seconds or so of piano present on the album version. Where to find it: Found on disc two of the game: The Works Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
Convention Recording (???)

Supposedly this is a piano and vocals take of this song, but until a copy surfaces we wont know for sure. Where to find it: 2004 UK Convention: Unreleased (Not Recorded). We know this track was played at the 2004 UK Convention, but there is no known recording of it.
Long Away

This recording features an instrumental of Long Away, which is similar (if not identical) to the album backing track. It is a lot shorter than the finished album version due to an early fade. Where to find it: 2005 UK Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). This convention session was recorded in full, but most of the tracks from it have not been shared.

Another set of stems where the individual parts of the track have been separated. This is musically identical to the album version, just with the addition of a cymbal count in. Separation: Kick/Room/Bass/Guitar/Vocals/Additional Instruments Where to find it: Long Away is a downloadable track for Rock Band 3. The separated stems ripped from the game circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
The Millionaire Waltz

You And I

A mostly instrumental track, although there are some backing vocals present. Unlike the album version, this track doesnt fade out, so there is some extra material present right at the end of the song. The fans at the convention can be heard singing along at one point. Where to find it: 2005 UK Convention: Unreleased (Shared). This is one of only two tracks from this session that has been shared.
Somebody To Love
Randy Badazz Remix (5:00)

This remix has kept the structure of the song in place, added various affects to the vocals and piano, and a different drum sound. Where to find it: Found on the 1991 US release of A Day At The Races, which although now replaced with the 2011 remaster is still quite common and easy to find.
Release A Day At The Race Description 1991 US CD Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61035-2 Notes

Only a very minor change here; the very last piano note of the song has been cut. About as minor a difference as you can get. Where to find it: In 1992, Hollywood Records released two Queen compilations, Classic Queen and Greatest Hits, both with accompanying videos. This edition of Greatest Hits is entirely separate from the more famous 1981 release, and has a different track listing.

The video version features a crowd cheering at the end of the track, to go along with the visuals of Queens famous Hyde Park concert. The very first piano note of the track, played before the vocal introduction, has been cut. Where to find it: Greatest Video Hits 1 was the first in a planned series of three video compilations (although, after waiting since 2003, the third has yet to emerge). A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue

Very simply, this is a few piano notes being played, isolated from the rest of the track. Where to find it: You can hear this one on the song select screen of the Greatest Video Hits 1 DVD. As you select each song a title screen appears, accompanied by a very brief snippet from the track. A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue

This karaoke version opens with a click track before the vocals start (the opening piano note has been cut), before proceeding through the rest of the song (with the lead vocals obviously removed). A slight fade has been added to the end of track, so while the final piano notes are present, they are not as easy to hear. Where to find it: This version was first released on Greatest Karaoke Hits in 1998, and the re-released in 2004. Both these releases are quite hard to find now, and may cost you if you do.
Release Greatest Karaoke Hits Description Label/Catalogue No. 1998 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-65061-62 2004 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67422-23 Notes

Identical to the first karaoke version, with the exception of an earlier fade. Where to find it: The DVD of Greatest Karaoke Hits features a number of edits, presumably to allow 35 tracks to fit onto one disc, and just like the CD release its getting rather hard to get hold of at a reasonable price.

The Greatest Karaoke Hits DVD allows you play all karaoke tracks with the vocals restored. The click track has been removed, but the early fade remains. The opening piano note is missing too. Where to find it: The DVD of Greatest Karaoke Hits features a number of edits, presumably to allow 35 tracks to fit onto one disc, and just like the CD release its getting rather hard to get hold of at a reasonable price.
Jewels Video Version (5:03)

This video version features the same crowd cheering found on Greatest Video Hits 1, the only difference being that the very first piano note has been retained at the start of the track. Where to find it: Found on the Japanese video compilation Jewels, released in conjunction with the album of the same name. Its not too hard to find, but like most Japanese releases, it is more expensive than you might think. Also released as a bonus video to the iTunes release of A Day At The Races.
Release Jewels A Day At The Races Description 2004 Japanese DVD Video 2011 Internet Download Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3165 Notes iTunes Deluxe Album

Exactly the same as the album version, except that the very first piano note of the song has been cut. Where to find it: The Days Of Our Lives documentary was commissioned to coincide with Queens fortieth anniversary in 2011 and originally broadcast in the UK by the BBC. It has since been released on both Blu-ray and DVD with a variety of bonus features, including this video.
Vocal Outtake 1: Convention Recording (0:59)

This outtake from the recording of Somebody To Love features an alternative bridge, with a different vocal arrangement not present on the album. Where to find it: 2004 UK Convention: Unreleased (Not Recorded). We know this track was played at the 2004 UK Convention, but there is no known recording of it. 2004 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). There are at least two recordings of this track from the Dutch Convention, and one of those has been widely shared.
Vocal Outtake 2: Convention Recording (0:15)

Another unused vocal section from the song, featuring an alternative working of the Can anybody find me line. Where to find it: 2004 UK Convention: Unreleased (Not Recorded). We know this track was played at the 2004 UK Convention, but there is no known recording of it. 2004 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). There are at least two recordings of this track from the Dutch Convention, and one of those has been widely shared.
Takes Two-Six: Convention Recording (3:51)

This recording features Freddie, John and Rogers attempt to record the backing track. Unfortunately Freddie is having some problems getting it right, and the first few takes break down after a few seconds. The sixth take makes it most of the way through the song, before another mistake. Freddie is heard to say Sorry, I completely lost it there. Where to find it: 2006 UK Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). This convention session was recorded in full, but none of the tracks from it have been shared. This recording is slightly shorter than the Dutch version at 3:35. This is due to the fact that several property of Queen Productions have been edited out. The music is unaffected, however. 2006 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). An almost complete recording of this convention session exists (just missing part of one track) and has been shared widely.
Computer Game Stems

There are two sets of stems for Somebody To Love. Both are musically identical, but have slightly different separations. They start with a cymbal count in, and end with a slightly early fade, cutting off the final piano note. Separation 1: Kick/Snare/Room/Bass/Guitar/Piano/Vocals/Backing Vocals (5:04) Separation 2: Kick/Snare/Cymbals/Bass/Guitar and Piano/Vocals/Additional Instruments and Backing Vocals (4:59) Where to find it: Somebody To Love is a playable track on both the Rock Band and Guitar Hero game series. The separated stems ripped from the games circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
Release Rock Band Guitar Hero 5 Rock Band 3 Description 2009 Download 2010 Download 2010 Download Label/Catalogue No. Electronic Arts Activision Electronic Arts Notes
White Man
Good Old-Fashioned Lover Boy


Queen re-recorded this song for their appearance on Top Of The Pops in June 1977. This version is more up-tempo than the album take, and has a re-worked guitar solo from Brian. Roger Taylor sings the backing vocals originally handled by Mike Stone. The track ends with clapping from the Top Of The Pops audience. Where to find it: This version was originally released as a bonus track on Greatest Video Hits 1, before getting a CD on the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of A Day At The Races and a US promo CD. All recordings are in mono.
Release Greatest Video Hits 1 Description 2002 UK DVD Video 2002 US DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 492 9449 Hollywood Records: 7 20616 90119 4 2002 Japanese DVD Video Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3057/58 2005 Japanese DVD Video Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 3241/42 2006 Japanese DVD Video Toshiba-EMI: TOBW 92054/55 2011 UK CD5 Album Island: 276 441 6 2011 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: D001365102 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75019 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75435 2011 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Records: BVPR003382 Notes
Reissue Reissue 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
A Day At The Races
Drowse
Teo Torriatte (Let Us Cling Together)


Just like Tie Your Mother Down and You Take My Breath Away, only a short sample of this track has ever emerged. The sample is from the end of the track and contains some alternative backing vocals that sound less layered than the final album version. The album outro is also missing so the final note of the song is heard in full. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) This version can only be found on a mega-rare (perhaps unique) reel to reel tape of A Day At The Races, which contains five tracks from that album.

Teo Torriatte is the last track on the album, and is followed with an outro very similar to the album intro. Most of the outro is cut from the single version by an early fade, reducing the running time by nearly a minute. Where to find it: Teo Torriatte was, perhaps unsurprisingly, released as a single in Japan in 1977, and also included on the 1981 release of Greatest Hits. These releases come up for sale fairly regularly, but tend to be quite expensive.
Release Teo Torriatte (Let Us Cling Together) Greatest Hits Description 1977 Japanese 7 Single 1981 Japanese 12 Album Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: 9-157E Elektra: P-6480E Notes
2001 Japanese Remaster (5:05)

Virtually the same as the single version, the outro just fades out at a slightly later point. Where to find it: Included as a bonus track on the 2001 Japanese remaster of Greatest Hits (as well as the 2005 and 2007 releases), released as part of a series of remasters of all Queens studio and live albums. Be careful if you are buying this one, there are numerous re-releases of Greatest Hits released in Japan, so you need to make sure you are getting the right one.
Release Greatest Hits Description 2001 Japanese CD5 Album 2005 Japanese CD5 Album 2007 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-65861 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-54461 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-54461 Notes
Reissue
High Definition Mix 2005 (5:52)

In 2005 Brian May remixed this track, written nearly thirty years earlier. Brian felt that his vision for the sound of the track was limited by the equipment available at the time, so he used this remix to bring the song closer to his original intention. The structure of the song is identical, but the sound is far brighter and clearer than before, bringing out many background elements previously buried in the mix. The full album outro is included. Where to find it: Found on the Japanese compilations Jewels II and In Vision 2008, and also on a 2005 single release of We Will Rock You. Jewels II is also available in a package with the original Jewels.
Release Jewels II Jewels I & II We Will Rock You In Vision 2008 Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67530 Island: UICY-15270 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67795-96 2005 Japanese CD5 Single TOCP-40178 2008 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70480 Description 2005 Japanese CD5 Album 2013 Japanese CD5 Album 2005 Japanese CD5 Box Notes Reissue
High Definition Mix 2005 Edit 1 (4:44)

This edit of Teo Torriatte removes the album outro. The final note of the track ends in a fade. Where to find it: Only available on the Teo Torriatte promo CD, released in conjunction with Jewells II. This CD is quite rare and collectable, so may not be easy to buy.
Release Teo Torriatte Description Label/Catalogue No. 2005 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: PCD-3071 Notes
High Definition Mix 2005 Edit 2 (4:47)

Almost identical to the first edit of this track. The final note of the song is not faded out in this version, which extends the running time of the track by a couple of seconds. Where to find it: Released as a bonus track on the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of A Day At The Races.
Release A Day At The Races Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 276 441 6 Hollywood Records: D001365102 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75019 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75435 Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
High Definition Mix 2005 Video Version (5:30)

This video version retains most of the album outro, fading out about twenty seconds early. A cheering crowd has been added over the outro, matching with the visuals of several Japanese concerts. Where to find it: Found on the Days Of Our Lives documentary release from Japan. The Japanese edition featured an extra disc with a number of bonus features not available elsewhere.
Release Days Of Our Lives Description 2011 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Universal: UIBY-15008/9 Notes
2011 Japanese Remaster (5:07)

Another slightly different fade out of this track, this version fades out in-between the single version and the 2001 remaster. An increased amount of silence on the track makes it run longer than the 2001 version. Where to find it: Included as a bonus track on the Japanese release of the 2011 remaster of Greatest Hits (as well as the 2012 reissue), and on Super Audio CD in 2013.
Release Greatest Hits Description 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2013 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: UICY-15001 Island: UICY-75410 Island: UIGY-9532 Notes Reissue Super Audio CD
One of the CD releases of A Day At The Race has some mastering differences, with the track breaks between songs coming at different points. These variations have not been explicitly listed above as there is no musical difference to the standard CD versions and it is only when listening to these tracks in isolation you would spot any difference, but the details are presented here none the less: Early pressings of the 1986 CD release (EMI: CDP 7 46208 2) has a track break between the album introduction and Tie Your Mother Down. All pressings of the 1986 CD release (EMI: CDP 7 46208 2) have a different track break between You Take My Breath Away and Long Away.
The Rumour Mill

For the most part, this guide presents what we know about the music of Queen, but here we can also delve into rumour and innuendo. Rumours of the following tracks have circulated among Queen fans: Woe: Apparently this is an unreleased track from these sessions, mentioned in an interview with Brian May. Its possible this could be an alternative name for a released track, or an unreleased recording. We just dont know at this point. Tie Your Mother Down (Rocks Remix): The Fan Club magazine initially announced that the Queen Rocks compilation would have a remixed version of this track. In the end the album just had the single version, so maybe the Fan Club was mistaken, or maybe the remix was pulled.
News Of The World

Punk music had been around in the UK since the early 1970s, and by 1977 had really hit the big time. The music press had begun to attack the dinosaur bands of the past as no longer relevant. Queen, with five albums under their belts, were changing too. In the words of Brian May: A Night At The Opera and A Day At The Races had been so complex and so layered that we said we want to do a quick one and see what comes out. Self-producing their album for the second (and final) time, and once again assisted by Mike Stone, Queen deliberately gave themselves less time in the studio in the hope of creating a rawer sound. There was also a change in the song writing balance of the group. Roger Taylor and John Deacon had contributed just eight songs between them to the first five albums, but this time pitched in with two songs each. All these changes resulted in an album with an eclectic mix of styles; including punk, latin, blues, hard rock and slow ballads. News Of The World did, however, contain two of Queens most enduring anthems: We Will Rock You and We Are The Champions, both inspired by the audience participation at the bands live shows. The album was supported by the release of We Are The Champions and Spread Your Wings as UK singles, and Its Late in the US and Japan, but perhaps the biggest impact came from the B-side of Champions, We Will Rock You. Mistaken as the A-side in France, it was number one for twelve weeks. Tours of the US in late 1977 and Europe in 1978 also followed to support the album. Reviews were once again mixed, and sales in the UK did not live up to the success of the previous two albums, however the album did land at number three in the US charts, Queens biggest success up to that point. Tracks: 1) We Will Rock You (May) 2) We Are The Champions (Mercury) 3) Sheer Heart Attack (Taylor) 4) All Dead All Dead (May) 5) Spread Your Wings (Deacon) 6) Fight From The Inside (Taylor) 7) Get Down Make Love (Mercury) 8) Sleeping On The Sidewalk (May) 9) Who Needs You (Deacon) 10) Its Late (May) 11) My Melancholy Blues (Mercury) John Deacon (Bass guitar) Brian May (Guitar, backing vocals) Freddie Mercury (Vocals, piano) Roger Taylor (Drums, backing vocals) Queen assisted by Mike Stone
Personnel:
Produced by:
Engineered by: Mike Stone Recorded at: Release date: Basing Street Studios, London, UK; Wessex Studios, London, UK; July-September 1977 28th October 1977 (UK) 1st November 1977 (USA) 25th November 1977 (Japan)
Release details:
Release News Of The World Description 1977 UK 12 Album 1977 US 12 Album 1977 Japanese 12 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: EMA 784 Elektra:6E-1121 Elektra: P-10430-E Notes
Remasters
Early CD Issues:
Release News Of The World Description 1983 US CD5 Album 1986 Japanese CD5 Album 1986 UK CD5 Album 1987 Japanese CD5 Album 1992 UK CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: 112-2 Elektra: 32-XD-409 EMI: CDP 7 46209 2 Toshiba-EMI: CP32-5314 Parlophone: CDP 7 46209 2 Notes
Reissue
1991 Remaster: Remastered by Kevin Metcalfe, at Townhouse Studios, London, UK

Release News Of The World Description 1991 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61037-2 Notes
Bonus Tracks:
1) We Will Rock You (Ruined By Rick Rubin)
Release News Of The World Description Label/Catalogue No. 1993 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: CDPCSD 132 1994 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-8276 Notes

Release Miniatures Volume II The Crown Jewels News Of The World Description 1998 UK CD5 Box Set 1998 US CD5 Box Set Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 4984082 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains four albums Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains eight albums Card sleeve vinyl replica

Release News Of The World Description 2001 Japanese CD5 Album 2004 Japanese CD5 Album 2005 Japanese CD5 Album 2007 Japanese CD5 Album 2008 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba EMI: TOCP-65846 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67346 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53446 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53446 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67346 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replica Reissue Card sleeve vinyl replica reissue. Additional OBI
Release News Of The World Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2013 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 277 174 7 Island: 277 174 8 Hollywood Records: D001410102 Island: UICY-15070 Island: UICY-75045 Island: UIGY-9515 Island: UICY-75417 Island: UICY-75437 Island: UICY-40014 Notes 1 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 1 CD edition 2 CD edition Super Audio CD. 1 CD only Reissue. 1 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition Card sleeve vinyl replica. Platinum CD. 1 CD only Card sleeve vinyl replica. 1 CD only
2013 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75889
Bonus Tracks*: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5)
Feelings Feelings (Take 10, July 1977) Spread Your Wings (BBC Session 6) My Melancholy Blues (BBC Session 6) Sheer Heart Attack (Live at Pavillon de Paris, Paris, France 28/02/1979) We Will Rock You (Fast) (Live at Seibu Lions Stadium, Tokyo, Japan 03/11/1982)
Bonus Videos*: 1) My Melancholy Blues (Live at The Summit, Houston, USA 11/12/1977) 2) Sheer Heart Attack (Live at Hammersmith Odeon, London, UK 26/12/1979) 3) We Will Rock You (Queen Rocks Promo Video)
We Will Rock You

Acetate Version (1:45)

A simple edit of the album take, achieved by the track starting with the first line of vocals and fading out during the guitar solo. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) Only found on very rare one-sided acetate, the recording of which is in the hands of collectors, but not widely circulated.
Release We Will Rock You Description 1977 UK 7 Acetate Label/Catalogue No. Notes Emdisc acetate

During the News Of The World tour the band opened their concerts with a taped backing track of We Will Rock You. This version starts with around thirty seconds of stomp stomp claps before the chorus vocals come in. Freddie would then sing one verse of the song live, before Brian played the guitar solo live. This track was used to open live concerts until 1979 Where to find it: Studio Recording: Unreleased (In The Vaults). No trace of the studio recording has ever surfaced in collecting circles, so it is likely to be buried in the depths of the Queen vaults. Live Version: Unreleased (Shared). Numerous unofficial recordings of concerts from this time exist and should be easy to get hold of.

Recorded on 28th October 1977 at Maida Vale 4 Studio, London, We Will Rock You is the first of four tracks from the sixth and final BBC session. This re-recording is a hybrid of the slow and fast versions of the track. The first verse and guitar solo are played in the slow style of the album version, before the last two verses are played fast, like the live versions of this track. Although frequently played live, this is the only known studio recording of the fast version. Between the two sections of the track there is a reading from Siddartha, by Herman Hesse. This reading was on the tape the band used at the BBC studios, and the band decided to include it in the track. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) The four unreleased BBC sessions were bootlegged for a number of years, generally in poor quality. However, in 2010 a generous collector shared high quality recordings of all these sessions from master tapes in his collection.
BBC Session 6 Edit (2:45)

A simple edit of just the fast section of the BBC recording. Where to find it: This edit is found on a CD given away with the UK newspaper The Sun in 2002, which was issued to promote We Will Rock You: The Musical. With a little patience you should be able get your hands on this one.
Release We Will Rock You Description 2002 UK CD5 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Spin Music: SUNW005 Notes Given away with 'The Sun' newspaper
Ruined By Rick Rubin (5:02)

This remix was one of a number commissioned as a bonus track for the 1991 remasters released by Hollywood Records. The remix starts with the sound of a needle being placed on vinyl before briefly playing the album version and then going into the remixed portion of the track. The remix adds a large number of effects and samples, but perhaps the most interesting bit is the guitar solo, which features newly recorded drums and bass from Chad and Flea of Red Hot Chili Peppers fame. Guitar samples from Tie Your Mother Down and Gimme the Prize are used in a greatly extended solo at the end of the track. Where to find it: Originally released on the 1991 remaster of News Of The World, and as a US single, this track has subsequently found its way on to a few more single and promo releases. The French promo CD also contains an edit of this track (see below for details).
Release News Of The World We Will Rock You and We Are The Champions We Will Rock You No One But You Description 1991 US CD5 Album: 1991 US CD Single 1997 French CD5 Promo 1998 UK CD5 Single 1998 UK 7 Single 1998 Japanese CD5 Single 1999 US CDR Promo 2010 UK CD5 Box 2010 Japanese CD5 Box Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61037-2 Hollywood Basic: HB-66573-2 Parlophone: SPCD 2227 Parlophone: CDQUEEN27 Parlophone: QUEEN PD27 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-40075 Hollywood Records: PRCD-61287-2 Parlophone: 50999 909215 2 0 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70931 Notes
Picture disc
Basic Queen Bootlegs Singles Collection 4
Ruined By Rick Rubin Vinyl Version (4:59)

A slightly different mix of this track was included on the vinyl release. The needle effect has been cut and some of the other samples and effects are different. All these differences are subtle however, so it will take a close listen to spot them. Where to find it: Only released on a 12 promo in the US, which also contains several other mixes by Rick Rubin (see below for details). This record this reasonably rare, so might prove expensive to buy.
Release We Will Rock You and We Are The Champions Description 1991 US 12 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Basic: ED-5529 Notes
Ruined By Rick Rubin Basic Beats Sampler Version (5:10)

Another slight variation on the original remix. This time the needle effect has been restored, but other parts of the track have been mixed differently. Again, all the changes are subtle and it takes a close listen to spot any difference. Where to find it: This track can only be found on a various artists CD issued to promote the Hollywood Basic label. Although quite rare, it also contains an exclusive remix of Another One Bites The Dust so is worth getting hold of.
Release Basic Beats Sampler Description 1992 US CD5 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Basic: HB-61286-2 Notes Various artists
Ruined By Rick Rubin Video Edit (1:59)

Played over the credits on the Greatest Hits video compilation (not to be confused with Greatest Flix), this is a straight edit of the middle part of the track, fading out just before Chad and Flea come in. Where to find it: In 1992, Hollywood Records released two Queen compilations, Classic Queen and Greatest Hits, both with accompanying videos. This edition of Greatest Hits is entirely separate from the more famous 1981 release and has a different track listing.
Ruined By Rick Rubin Promo Edit (2:27)

A tight edit of the track, cutting more than half of the running time, this version is lifted straight out of the main version. The first twenty seconds are cut and it fades out early into the guitar section of the track. Where to find it: This edit only appears on a French promo CD that also contains the full version of the track. The CD isnt common, but neither is it mega rare, so you shouldnt have to pay through the nose for it.
Release We Will Rock You Description 1997 French CD5 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: SPCD 2227 Notes
Rick Rubin Ruined Instrumental (2:12)

This is the first of six remixes of the original Rick Rubin remix. In this case its an instrumental of the section of the track containing the three verses and choruses, including the album guitar solo but cutting out the extended solo from the original remix. Where to find it: Available on both the CD single and 12 promo release from the US. The CD single is much easier to find, but the 12 contains more mixes, so if you want them all youll have to find the vinyl release.
Release We Will Rock You and We Are The Champions Description 1991 US CD5 Single 1991 US 12 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Basic: HB-66573-2 Hollywood Basic: ED-5529 Notes
Rick Rubin Effects Instrumental (2:08)

Very similar to the Ruined Instrumental, this track uses some different effects and contains some very short vocal samples. Again, the album guitar solo is present. Where to find it: Only released on a 12 promo in the US, which also contains several other mixes by Rick Rubin. This record is reasonably rare, so might prove expensive to buy.
Rick Rubin Clap A Cappella (1:57)

This remix contains all the album version lyrics with a remixed backing track. The guitar solo has been replaced with more rhythm effects and samples. Where to find it: Only released on a 12 promo in the US, which also contains several other mixes by Rick Rubin. This record is reasonably rare, so might prove expensive to buy.
Rick Rubin Big Beat A Cappella (1:56)

Very similar to the Clap A Cappella remix, this version once again retains all the vocals but has a new backing track. The guitar solo is missing and is replaced by an extended backing track. Where to find it: Available on both the CD single and 12 promo release from the US. The CD single is much easier to find, but the 12 contains more mixes, so if you want them all youll have to find the vinyl release.
Rick Rubin Effects A Cappella (1:22)

Essentially this is the album vocals with various echoes and other effects added. You can hear the backing track in some places, but it is very faint. The guitar solo is cut out altogether. Where to find it: Only released on a 12 promo in the US, which also contains several other mixes by Rick Rubin. This record is reasonably rare, so might prove expensive to buy.
Rick Rubin Zulu Scratch A Cappella (1:25)

Very similar to the Effects A Cappella, consisting of mainly vocals with some different effects added. The album backing track is briefly played in parts and the guitar solo is cut completely. Where to find it: Available on both the CD single and 12 promo release from the US. The CD single is much easier to find, but the 12 contains more mixes, so if you want them youll have to find the vinyl release.

During the Freddie Mercury tribute concert several video inserts were prepared to play to the crowd while the road crew reset the stage between acts, and one of the tracks featured is this very brief edit, consisting of just one line of the chorus over the usual stomp-stomp-clap backing track. Where to find it: The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert was originally released in an edited form on both VHS and laser disc, and features the inserts throughout the concert footage. For the tenth anniversary of the concert a more heavily edited DVD was released, featuring just the Queen section of the concert, with the inserts included as a bonus feature. In 2013, a third issue of the concert was released on Blu-ray and DVD, and this features the same footage as the original VHS and laser discs.
Reissue
Greatest Hits Video Intro Version (0:10)

Played over the start of the Greatest Hits video compilation (not to be confused with Greatest Flix), this is almost identical to the Freddie Mercury Tribute Insert, again featuring one line of the chorus, but including one extra stomp-stomp-clap. Where to find it: In 1992, Hollywood Records released two Queen compilations, Classic Queen and Greatest Hits, both with accompanying videos. This edition of Greatest Hits is entirely separate from the more famous 1981 release and has a different track listing.

Exactly the same as the album version but with lead vocals removed. Backing vocals remain. Where to find it: Found on the Japanese release Greatest Karaoke Hits, which is available on CD and DVD, as well as the Artist Karaoke Series release and a Japanese single. Greatest Karaoke Hits is expensive, but does contain more than thirty tracks.
Release Greatest Karaoke Hits Description 1998 Japanese CD Album 2004 Japanese CD Album 2004 Japanese DVD Video We Will Rock You Artist Karaoke Series: Queen Volume 1 2005 Japanese CD5 Single 2007 US CD Album Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba-EMI TOCP-65061-62 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67422-23 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3174 TOCP-40178 Buena Vista: D000068802 Notes
Queens Day! Intro Version (0:27)

This version starts with a brief burst of synthesizer followed by the familiar stomp-stomp-clap backing. A lick of the guitar solo and one line of the chorus is also included. Where to find it: In 2002, Brian and Roger, appearing as Queen, played a short set in Amsterdam to celebrate Queens Day (in honour of the Dutch monarch, not the band). A CD-ROM containing an edited video of the set was released as a promo in the Netherlands and is the only release to contain this version, which plays as an introduction to the CD-ROM.
Release Queens Day! Description Label/Catalogue No. 2002 Dutch CD-ROM Video Heinken: SP 929182F Notes

Consisting only of a brief snippet of guitar feedback, isolated from the rest of the track. Where to find it: You can hear this one on the song select screen of the Greatest Video Hits 1 DVD. As you select each song a title screen appears, accompanied by a very brief snippet from the track. A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue
A Knights Tale Version (2:15)

A remix of We Will Rock You plays over the opening of the A Knights Tale movie. The song proceeds as normal through the three verses, but then the second verse repeats, followed by the usual guitar solo. Various sound effects from the movie are played over the track. Where to find it: A Knights Tale has been released multiple times on both DVD and Blu-ray format around the world. Please note that the soundtrack album contains the regular album version of this song.
Release A Knights Tale Description 2002 UK DVD Video 2004 UK DVD Video 2006 UK Blu-Ray Video 2006 UK DVD Video 2001 US DVD Video 2005 US DVD Video 2006 US Blu-ray Video 2006 Japanese Blu-ray Video 2006 Japanese DVD Video 2008 Japanese DVD Video 2009 Japanese Blu-ray Video 2010 Japanese Blu-ray Video 2010 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Sony Pictures: ??? Columbia Tristar: CDR 31828 Sony Pictures: SBR 31828 Sony Pictures: ??? Sony Pictures: ??? Sony Pictures: ??? Sony Pictures: ??? Sony Pictures: BRS-31828 Notes Reissue
Extended cut Extended cut
Sony Pictures: TSUC-31828 Sony Pictures: OPF-31828 Reissue Sony Pictures: BLA-31828 Reissue Sony Pictures: BLU-31828 Sony Pictures: OPL-31828 Reissue Reissue

Again, this is very similar to other intro versions, consisting of the backing track and one line of the chorus. Where to find it: This version plays as the introduction to the 2003 issue of Live At Wembley Stadium (since replaced with the 2011 issue) as well as On Fire: Live At The Bowl and the Japanese video compilation, Jewels. In 2013 as US DVD box set was released which contained On Fire: Live At The Bowl.
Release Live At Wembley Stadium Description 2003 UK DVD Video 2003 US DVD Video 2003 Japanese DVD Video 2005 Japanese DVD Video 2006 Japanese DVD Video On Fire Live At The Bowl 2004 UK DVD Video 2004 US DVD Video 2004 Japanese DVD Video 2006 Japanese DVD Video 2013 US DVD Video 2004 Japanese DVD Video 2013 US DVD Box Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 490 4719 Hollywood Records: HR-720616 24 009 5 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3120/21 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3245/46 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-92058/59 Parlophone: 455 1879 Hollywood Records: 2061-62490-9 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3185/86 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-92060/61 Eagle Vision: EV306069 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3165 Eagle Vision: EV306549 Notes
Reissue Reissue
Reissue Reissue
Jewels Live At Wembley Stadium Queen On Fire: Live At The Bowl Rock Montreal Live In Rio
Music Factory Mastermix (5:58)

A dance mix of We Will Rock You that adds a lot of extra percussion and instrumentation to the track. The vocals are sped up and there are several new instrumental sections as well as various (non-Queen) samples. Where to find it: Only available through the DJ subscription service Music Factory. It was released on both vinyl and CD formats.
Release Music Factory Mastermix Issue 53 Music Factory Mastermix Issue 62 Description 1990 UK 12 DJ Album 1991 UK CD5 DJ Album Label/Catalogue No. Music Factory: MFMM53 Music Factory: MFMM CD 62 Notes Various artists Various artists
Dakeyne Remix (4:40)

A rather heavy dance mix from DJ Paul Dakeyne that adds a new backing track to the song. The vocals are sped up and there are new instrumental sections between the verses. Also contains samples from Bohemian Rhapsody. Where to find it: This track was originally available on from Disco Mix Club (DMC) DJ subscription service in 1991. Released on vinyl at that time, it has subsequently been released on CD twice by DMC. If you are very lucky, or very rich, you can also find on the mega-rare CDR promo The Unauthorised Club Record.
Release January 91 Two The Unauthorised Club Record Commercial Collection 320 Classic Remixes Volume One Description 1991 UK 12 DJ Album 1999 US CDR Promo 2009 UK CD5 DJ Album 2009 UK CD5 DJ Album Label/Catalogue No. DMC: 96/2 PRCD-61292-2 DMC: 320 DMC: CR1 Notes Various artists Various artists Various artists

Exactly the same as the album version but with the addition of a few extra stomps which act as a count in for the track. Separation: Stomps/Claps/Guitar/Vocals Where to find it: We Will Rock You is a playable track on the Rock Band game series. The separated stems ripped from the games circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
Release Lego Rock Band Rock Band 3 Description 2009 Video Game 2010 Download Label/Catalogue No. MTV Games Electronic Arts Notes
Robot Rock vs. We Will Rock You (2:57)

A mash up of We Will Rock You and Robot Rock by Daft Punk. The vocals play a lot faster than the album version and the track uses a number of vocal loops from both tracks. Where to find it: Robot Rock vs. We Will Rock You is a playable track on the DJ Hero console game. The music ripped from the game circulates freely amongst the Queen community.
Release DJ Hero Description 2009 Video Game Label/Catalogue No. Activision Notes
We Are The Champions


We Are The Champions was released as a single in October 1977, and when the song was featured on Top Of The Pops an alternative promo video was used. The audio for the promo video was also slightly different, as at various points the crowd can be heard clapping along, and there is also some different guitar work from Brian towards the end of the track. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) There has been no official release of this version, although copies of the broadcast (and its subsequent repeats) do exist and are in free circulation amongst Queen fans.
Ruined By Rick Rubin (3:27)

As well as producing several remixes of We Will Rock You, Rick Rubin also turned his hand to We Are The Champions. The structure of the song is basically the same, with the additional of a new percussion track to parts of the song. The guitars are more prominent in the mix, and Rick has added Freddie singing of the world onto the final line. Where to find it: Available on both the CD single and 12 promo release from the US (as well as the mega rare Basic Queen Bootlegs release). The CD single is much easier to find, but the 12 contains more mixes, so if you want them all youll have to find the vinyl release.
Release We Will Rock You and We Are The Champions Basic Queen Bootlegs Description 1991 US CD5 Single 1991 US 12 Promo 1999 US CDR Promo Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Basic: HB-66573-2 Hollywood Basic: ED-5529 Hollywood Records: PRCD-61287-2 Notes
Gulf War Version (3:10)

To commemorate the end of the first Gulf War in 1991 the US military created a special mix of We Are The Champions with excerpts from President George H.W. Bushs victory speech included over the top of the standard album version. The track ends with an unidentified man saying Its great to be back. Where to find it: The CD of this mix was sent out to military personal involved in the war, and it turns up for sale quite regularly.
Release We Are The Champions Description 1991 US CD5 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: PRCD-8347-2 Notes

An (almost) complete karaoke version with the lead vocals removed, this version opens with a click track and retains the backing vocals. The track fades out two seconds earlier than the album take. Where to find it: Found on the Japanese release Greatest Karaoke Hits, which is available on CD and DVD. All versions of this release are now quite hard to find, and expensive when they do turn up for sale.

Exactly the same as the Greatest Karaoke Hits release, except there is no click track on this version. Where to find it: Found on the Artist Karaoke Series release from the US.
Release Artist Karaoke Series: Queen Volume 1 Description 2007 US CD Album Label/Catalogue No. Buena Vista: D000068802 Notes

The Greatest Karaoke Hits DVD allows you play all karaoke tracks with the vocals restored, creating the same edit as the karaoke versions but with Freddie back where he belongs. There is no click track on this one. Where to find it: The DVD of Greatest Karaoke Hits features a number of edits, presumably to allow 35 tracks to fit onto one disc, and just like the CD release its getting rather hard to get hold of at a reasonable price.

A brief section of the backing vocals, isolated from the rest of the track. Where to find it: You can hear this one on the song select screen of the Greatest Video Hits 1 DVD. As you select each song a title screen appears, accompanied by a very brief snippet from the track. A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue
Live In The Studio Extract 1 (1:43)

In 1977 Bob Harris recorded a documentary about Queen. It was never completed, but many years later in 2011 some of the footage was used for the Days Of Our Lives documentary, which includes Queen in the studio recording We Are The Champions. It is highly likely that this session was staged for the documentary, but none the less is a rare insight into Queens studio work. Days Of Our Lives includes two excerpts from this session, the first of which focuses on Freddie recording a vocal track. It cuts from Freddie recording vocals to Freddie and Mike Stone in the control room to a Top Of The Pops performance. 2011 interviews with Brian and Roger play over the top of the music. Where to find it: The Days Of Our Lives documentary was commissioned to coincide with Queens fortieth anniversary in 2011 and originally broadcast in the UK by the BBC. It has since been released on both Blu-ray and DVD.
Live In The Studio Extract 2 (1:17)

The second excerpt from Bob Harris footage shows the band recording a backing track. It is purely instrumental and quite similar to the album take, although with much more prominent guitar work. Again, comments from Brian, Roger and Paul Gambaccini play over the top. Where to find it: The Days Of Our Lives documentary was commissioned to coincide with Queens fortieth anniversary in 2011 and originally broadcast in the UK by the BBC. It has since been released on both Blu-ray and DVD.
Live In The Studio Bonus Video Version (3:11)

As a bonus feature for the release of Days Of Our Lives the various bits of footage from the recording session were combined into a complete video for We Are The Champions. The video cuts between Freddie recording vocals to Freddie and Mike Stone in the control room to the whole band recording the backing track. At the end of the recording Roger is heard to remark Ooh, lets open a bottle of wine. Where to find it: The Days Of Our Lives documentary was commissioned to coincide with Queens fortieth anniversary in 2011 and originally broadcast in the UK by the BBC. It has since been released on both Blu-ray and DVD with a variety of bonus features, including this video.
Computer Game Stems

There are three slightly different sets of stems for We Are The Champions. All three contain the full studio version of the track, but each has a different separation of instruments. The first and third versions have additional percussion at the start of the track to act as a count in, but this is missing from the second version. Separation 1: Kick/Snare/Cymbals and Additional Drums/Bass/Guitar/Additional Guitar/Piano/Vocals (3.05) Separation 2: Kick/Snare/Cymbals/Additional Drums/Bass/Guitar/Piano/Vocals (3:01) Separation 3: Kick/Snare/Cymbals and Additional Drums/Bass/Guitar/Vocals/Piano and Backing Vocals (3:04) Where to find it: We Are The Champions is a playable track on both the Rock Band and Guitar Hero game series. The separated stems ripped from the games circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
Release Lego Rock Band Guitar Hero IV Rock Band 3 Description 2009 Video Game 2009 Download 2010 Download Label/Catalogue No. MTV Games Activision Electronic Arts Notes
Sheer Heart Attack


A reel to reel recording of Sheer Heart Attack is known to exist, although only a short sample has ever emerged. The recording contains a few different ideas and touches that never made it onto the album. Some echo effects have been added to Freddies vocals, and some of the familiar guitar overdubs are missing. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) This version can only be found on a mega-rare (perhaps unique) reel to reel tape of Sheer Heart Attack.

There has been a small cut made to this track. Around 15 seconds of the guitar solo (or more accurately a lot of shrieking noises) has been edited out. Where to find it: Queen Rocks is a compilation album, released in 1997, with an accompanying video release released in 1998. The video features several more unique track versions, so it is well worth finding, but it is also becoming increasing rare and expensive (particularly the Japanese laser disc).
All Dead All Dead


This recording features an instrumental of All Dead All Dead, which is very similar (if not identical) to the album backing track. After the main song is finished there is a short piano piece which never made it on to the album, although it is unknown if this is a coda to All Dead All Dead, or an unrelated track. Where to find it: 2005 UK Convention: Unreleased (Shared). This is one of only two tracks from this session that has been shared.
Spread Your Wings


Just like Sheer Heart Attack, only a short sample of this track has ever emerged. It contains some additional lead guitar during the chorus that never made it onto the final album. Further details of the track are unknown, but given the shorter running time of the recording we can surmise that there will be further differences. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) This version can only be found on a mega-rare (perhaps unique) reel to reel tape containing three tracks from News Of The World.
Release Who Needs You-All Dead All DeadSpread Your Wings Description 1977 Reel To Reel Tape Label/Catalogue No. Notes
Test Pressing Version (4:34)

This version appears to be an early mix of the John Deacon composition. The main difference can be heard towards the end of the track when Freddie is ad-libbing. There are some additional vocals after the familiar Come on honey, fly with me line. Some of the guitar work in the song also sounds as if it has been mixed differently. Where to find it: Only found on a three track test pressing of News Of The World (We Will Rock You and We Are The Champions are the other tracks). It is rumoured that only 50 copies of the pressing were made. What can be said for certain is that it rarely comes up for sale, and it costs big money when it does.
Release News Of The World Description 1977 UK 12 Test Pressing Label/Catalogue No. Notes Three tracks

The single of Spread Your Wings had a slight early fade, cutting off around seven seconds worth of material. This is actually one of four versions of Spread Your Wings where the only difference to the album is an early fade. The single version loses the least amount of material of the four (see below for details of the other three). Where to find it: Available on the UK single release of Spread Your Wings. Both the picture sleeve and the label make no mention of this edit.
Release Spread Your Wings Description 1978 UK 7 Single Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 2757 Notes

The second of the four tracks from the sixth and final BBC session, this recording is a little heavier and more upbeat that the album take, as well as nearly a minute longer. The track closes with an up-tempo guitar and piano section which is similar to the live performances during the News Of The World tour. Many fans consider this recording to be superior to the album take. Recorded on 28th October 1977 at Maida Vale 4 Studio, London. Where to find it: After appearing on bootlegs for many years (usually in poor quality) this track finally got an official release on the 2CD editions of News Of The World released in 2011. Also available on a US promo CD.
Release News Of The World Label/Catalogue No. Island: 277 174 8 Hollywood Records: D001410102 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75045 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75437 2011 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Record: BVPR003622 Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
Radio Sampler Second Wave

The second of the four early fades of Spread Your Wings, and by far the most brutal, with over 30 seconds of material cut from the end of the track. Where to find it: Available on Greatest Flix, Queens ground-breaking collection of videos released to accompany Greatest Hits. Although now succeeded by the Greatest Video Hits series of DVDs, this should still be easy to get hold of on VHS. As ever though, the laser discs will be harder to find.
Reissue
Box Of Flix
Greatest Flix I&II

Spread Your Wings is one of very few Queen tracks without backing vocals, therefore this karaoke recording is actually an instrumental, although some of Freddies vocals can be heard faintly at two points in the track, which also fades out several seconds early. Where to find it: Found on the Japanese release Greatest Karaoke Hits, which is available on CD and DVD. All versions of this release are now quite hard to find, and expensive when they do turn up for sale.

This is the third Spread Your Wings early fade. The Greatest Karaoke Hits DVD allows you play all karaoke tracks with the vocals restored, creating the same early fade as Karaoke Version but with Freddie back where he belongs. The run time of the track is increased by a few seconds of silence at the start. Where to find it: The DVD of Greatest Karaoke Hits features a number of edits, presumably to allow 35 tracks to fit onto one disc, and just like the CD release its getting rather hard to get hold of at a reasonable price.

The fourth and final early fade of Spread Your Wings, this is almost the same as the Karaoke Vocal Version, but this track retains an extra two seconds of material. Where to find it: Greatest Video Hits 1 was the first in a planned series of three video compilations (although, after waiting since 2003, the third has yet to emerge). A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue

Simply a few notes of acoustic guitar, in isolation from the rest of the track. Where to find it: You can hear this one on the song select screen of the Greatest Video Hits 1 DVD. As you select each song a title screen appears, accompanied by a very brief snippet from the track. A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue
Fight From The Inside


A complete instrumental, with all vocals and backing vocals removed. Where to find it: Found on disc one of the game: The Arena Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
Convention Recording (???)

This convention recording is supposed to be an alternative mix of the album cut with a different vocal take, but as a copy has never come to light we just dont know for sure. Where to find it: 2004 UK Convention: Unreleased (Not Recorded). We know this take was played at the 2004 UK Convention, but there is no known recording of it.
Get Down, Make Love


Another complete instrumental of the album take, with all vocals and backing vocals removed. Where to find it: Found on disc two of the game: The Works Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
Freddy Bastone Remix (4:26)

Freddy Bastone has remixed a number of Queen tracks, and this is in a similar style to his other efforts. The vocals have been left largely intact but almost all the instrumentation has been replaced. The drum pattern from More Of That Jazz is used (along with some guitar samples), as well as samples from We Will Rock You, The Prophets Song and The Show Must Go On. Where to find it: Only found on the mega rare CDR promo The Unauthorised Club Record.

Another leak from Queens master tapes, this time its a 22 track recording rather than the more usual 24. It starts with a count in and ends with laughter and Freddie commenting, Well, that wasnt bad. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) Five Queen multi-tracks have surfaced, with Get Down Make Love being one of the four that have been publically shared. Anyone with access to Google should be able to find this.
Sleeping On The Sidewalk

Who Needs You

Its Late
Acetate Version (???)

An acetate disc of this song has been advertised on the website of a major collectable record store but a copy has never surfaced. According to the description of the disc, it plays the last segment of Its Late followed by the album version of My Melancholy Blues. Non-Queen material is also on the disc. Where to find it: Unreleased (Advert) Only one copy of this disc has ever been advertised and it may never turn up for sale again. No recording from the acetate has ever surfaced. According to the advert this acetate was once in the personal collection of Freddie Mercury.
Release Its Late/My Melancholy Blues Description 1977 UK 10 Acetate Label/Catalogue No. Notes

Recorded on 28th October 1977 at Maida Vale 4 Studio, London, during the bands sixth and final BBC session. For the most part this new recording stays close to the album version, that is until the second half of the track. The guitar solo and the third verse have been replaced with a new section inspired by Get Down Make Love. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) The four unreleased BBC sessions were bootlegged for a number of years, generally in poor quality. However, in 2010 a generous collector shared high quality recordings of all these sessions from master tapes in his collection.

Its Late was released as a single in both the US and Japan. It was a very long track for a single (even longer than Bohemian Rhapsody), so an edit was made. Two hefty sections of the track have been lifted, with the second verse and guitar solo falling victim to the cut. Where to find it: Available on the US promo and Japanese single of Its Late, both of which arent easy to get hold of. Please note that the US single plays the regular album version.
Release Its Late Description 1978 US 7 Promo 1978 Japanese 7 Single Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: E-45478 Elektra: P 271E Notes

Another error from Hollywood Records for the 1991 remaster of News Of The World. The first few guitar chords have been cut off, reducing the run time of the track by a few seconds. Where to find it: Like most of the remaster errors made by Hollywood Records this one was fixed quickly, meaning only the early longbox pressings have it. Even if you can find the longbox issue there is no way to tell if the CD youre buying has the error until you listen to it.
Release News Of The World Description 1991 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61037-2 Notes Early longbox pressings only

Another substantial edit of this track, with a whopping 2 minutes being lifted straight out of the middle, cutting the guitar solo and third verse completely. Where to find it: Queen Rocks is a compilation album, released in 1997, with an accompanying video release released in 1998. The video features several more unique track versions, so it is well worth finding, but it is also becoming increasing rare and expensive (particularly the Japanese laser disc).

This track from The Eye contains only the second verse of Its Late. An effect has been added to the fade in and the vocals are also altered slightly. Where to find it: Found on disc two of the game: The Works Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
My Melancholy Blues

The final track from BBC Session 6 isnt too much of a departure from the album take. The piano introduction is a little shorter, and unlike the album version Brian is present playing guitar. The track ends with Freddie laughing. Recorded on 28th October 1977 at Maida Vale 4 Studio, London. Where to find it: After appearing on bootlegs for many years (usually in poor quality) this track finally got an official release on the 2CD editions of News Of The World released in 2011.
Release News Of The World Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 277 174 8 Hollywood Records: D001410102 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75045 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75437 Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition

During the Freddie Mercury tribute concert several video inserts were prepared to play to the crowd while the road crew reset the stage between acts. The second of six inserts features a straight edit of the beginning of the song, fading out a little over a minute later. Where to find it: The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert was originally released in an edited form on both VHS and laser disc, and features the inserts throughout the concert footage. For the tenth anniversary of the concert a more heavily edited DVD was released, featuring just the Queen section of the concert, with the inserts included as a bonus feature. In 2013, a third issue of the concert was released on Blu-ray and DVD, and this features the same footage as the original VHS and laser discs.
Reissue
Tribute Documentary Version (1:18)

This version plays over the end credits of a short documentary about the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert. The first few bars have been cut, but it then proceeds as normal until an early fade after the line cloudy and overcast. Where to find it: For the tenth anniversary of the Freddie Mercury concert an edited DVD was released, featuring just the Queen section of the concert. A number of DVD extras were added to the disc, including this documentary. A more complete version of the concert was issued on DVD and Blu-ray in 2013.
Release The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert Description 2002 UK DVD Video 2002 US DVD Video 2002 Japanese DVD Video 2013 UK Blu-ray Video 2013 UK DVD Video 2013 US Blu-ray Video 2013 US DVD Video 2013 Japanese Blu-ray Video 2013 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 7243 4 92869 9 3 Capitol: 72434-90162-9-3 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3050/3051 Eagle Vision: ERSBD3007 Eagle Vision: EREDV988 Eagle Vision: EVSBD309939 Eagle Vision: EV306289 Columbia Music Ent: VQXD-10061 Columbia Music Ent: VQBD-10145 Notes
Feelings Feelings
Written by: Brian May Non-album track
Take Nine: Unreleased Track (1:57)

This song is a short, upbeat rocker from Brian May. Its a rather simple track that seems to fit in with the record a quick one ethos of the album. Freddie mumbles his lyrics at a few points. Where to find it: Unreleased (Shared) This take of Feelings Feelings is unreleased, but it should be easy to get hold of a copy of the recording.
Take Nine: Convention Recording (2:03)

The same Take 9 recording has been played at both the UK and Dutch convention. The introduction to the track is a little longer due to someone saying number nine, number nine in the studio; presumably because this is take 9, but perhaps also as a reference to The Beatles track Revolution 9. Where to find it: 2000 UK Convention: Unreleased (Shared). The majority of this convention session was recorded and has been shared. 2004 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). The convention session was recorded in full, but Feelings Feelings remains private.
Take 10 (1:55)
Take 10 is, for the most part, similar to Take Nine. Its a little bit more polished, and there have been some small changes to the lyrics, which Freddie delivers flawlessly this time. Where to find it: This track finally got an official release on the 2CD editions of News Of The World released in 2011. Also available on a US promo CD.
Release News Of The World Label/Catalogue No. Island: 277 174 8 Hollywood Records: D001410102 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75045 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75437 2011 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Record: BVPR003622 Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
The Rumour Mill

For the most part, this guide presents what we know about the music of Queen, but here we can also delve into rumour and innuendo. Rumours of the following tracks have circulated among Queen fans for years: Batteries Not Included: Long rumoured to be a John Deacon track from these sessions, no trace of this song has ever emerged, and theres been no official confirmation of its existence. Spread Your Wings and Get Down Make Love (Trent Reznor Remixes): We know that Trent Reznor remixed Stone Cold Crazy and Tie Your Mother Down, but its also been rumoured he remixed these two songs from News Of The World. Again, nothing has ever emerged so for now they remain a mystery, however Reznors band, Nine Inch Nails, did cover Get Down Make Love in 1990, which may explain the rumour. We Are The Champions (Highlander): Some bootlegs feature a brief instrumental track that is supposed to be an experiment for the Highlander soundtrack, although it sounds more like a very bad cover version. This track is highly unlikely to be genuine.
Jazz
By 1978 Queen had six albums under their belt and had achieved success in the UK, Europe, the US and Japan. That success had brought financial rewards, which in turn led to a new problem: paying tax. In the late 1970s the personal tax rates in the UK were very high, so to avoid seeing their new-found wealth swallowed up, the band were advised to spend a year outside of the UK. So Queen decamped to Switzerland, and later France, to record their seventh album. After self-producing their last two albums, Queen decided to invite their long-time producer Roy Thomas Baker back to make a fifth (and final) album with them. Jazz was also the first Queen album not to be engineered by Mike Stone. The album was launched in New Orleans, with a party that has since passed into legend for its extravagance and excess. The party may have been a success, but the reviews were dire. Music journalists, who had long since derided Queen, did not hold back. The band themselves seemed to agree; John Deacon said some years later, This is an album I dislike, and Roger Taylor was apparently disappointed with his own compositions. The album was supported with the release of a double A-side single of Bicycle Race and Fat Bottomed Girls, which was followed up with Dont Stop Me Now. The US had an additional single release of Jealousy. A 1978 tour of the US was followed by a 1979 tour of Europe and Japan, but not the UK. Despite the bands own feelings towards the album, and the caustic reviews, it was a moderate success, reaching number two in the UK and number six in the US. Tracks: 1) Mustapha (Mercury) 2) Fat Bottomed Girls (May) 3) Jealousy (Mercury) 4) Bicycle Race (Mercury) 5) If You Cant Beat Them (Deacon) 6) Let Me Entertain You (Mercury) 7) Dead On Time (May) 8) In Only Seven Days (Deacon) 9) Dreamers Ball (May) 10) Fun It (Taylor) 11) Leaving Home Aint Easy (May) 12) Dont Stop Me Now (Mercury) 13) More Of That Jazz (Taylor) Freddie Mercury (Vocals, piano) Brian May (Guitar, vocals) Roger Taylor (Percussion, vocals) John Deacon (Bass guitar) Queen and Roy Thomas Baker
Personnel:
Produced by:
Engineered by: Geoff Workman (Additional engineering by John Etchells) Recorded at: Release date: Superbear Studios, Nice, France; Mountain Studios, Montreux, Switzerland; July-October 1978 10th November 1978 (UK) 14th November 1978 (USA) 25th November 1978 (Japan)
Release details:
Release Jazz Description 1978 UK 12 Album 1978 US 12 Album 1978 Japanese 12 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: EMA 788 Elektra: 6E-166 Elektra: P-10601-E Notes
Remasters
Early CD Issues:
Release Jazz Description 1986 UK CD5 Album 1987 Japanese CD5 Album 1992 UK CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: CDP 7 46210 2 Toshiba-EMI: CP32-5315 Parlophone: CDP 7 46210 2 Notes
Reissue
Release Jazz Description 1991 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61062-2 Notes
Bonus Tracks:
1) Fat Bottomed Girls (Brian Malouf Remix) 2) Bicycle Race (Junior Vasquez Remix)
Release Jazz Description Label/Catalogue No. 1994 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: CDPCSD 133 1994 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-8277 Notes

Release Miniatures Volume II The Crown Jewels Jazz Description 1998 UK CD5 Box Set 1998 US CD5 Box Set Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 4984082 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains four albums Card sleeve vinyl replicas; contains eight albums Card sleeve vinyl replica

Release Jazz Description 2001 Japanese CD5 Album 2004 Japanese CD5 Album 2005 Japanese CD5 Album 2007 Japanese CD5 Album 2008 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba EMI: TOCP-65847 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67347 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53447 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53447 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67347 Notes Card sleeve vinyl replica Reissue Card sleeve vinyl replica reissue. Additional OBI
Release Jazz Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 277 176 7 Island: 277 176 8 Hollywood Records: D001410402 Island: UICY-15015 Island: UICY-75047 Island: UIGY-9516 Island: UICY-75418 Island: UICY-75439 Notes 1 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 1 CD edition 2 CD edition Super Audio CD. 1 CD only Reissue. 1 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
Bonus Tracks*: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5)
Fat Bottomed Girls (Single Version) Bicycle Race (Instrumental) Dont Stop Me Now (With Long-Lost Guitars) Let Me Entertain You (Live at Montreal Forum, Montreal, Canada 24-25/11/1981) Dreamers Ball (Early Acoustic Take, August 1978)
Bonus Videos*: 1) Bicycle Race (Alternative Promo Video) 2) Fat Bottomed Girls (Live at The Bowl, Milton Keynes, UK 05/06/1982) 3) Let Me Entertain You (Live at Nippon Budokan, Tokyo, Japan 25/04/1979)
Mustapha

A straight edit of the opening part of the track, containing Freddies a cappella vocals. Where to find it: Found on disc two of the game: The Works Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
Fat Bottomed Girls


Fat Bottomed Girls was edited for the single release. Two instrumental sections have been cut and there is an early fade in place of the album close. Where to find it: This version has had a very wide release over the years, and will most easily be found on Greatest Hits or the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of Jazz.
Release Bicycle Race/Fat Bottomed Girls Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 2870 Elektra: E-45541 Elektra: P-350E EMI: EMTV 30 Elektra: 5E-564 Elektra: P-6480E Elektra: 5E-546-2 EMI: CDP 7 46033 2 Elektra: 38-XP-94 Elektra: 32XD-329 Toshiba-EMI: CP32-5381 Parlophone: CDPCSD 141 Toshiba-EMI: CP32-5381 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP 65861 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-54461 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-54461 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53605 Island: 2761039 Island: UICY-15001 Island: UICY-75410 Island: UIGY-9532 Parlophone: QUECD6 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2256 Toshiba-EMI: TODP-2251-62 2004 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: 2061-62465-2 2004 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: 2061-62475-2 2006 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: 2061 62606-2 2007 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: D000049500 2007 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: D000049500 2008 UK CD5 Box Parlophone: 50999 243358 2 9 2008 Japanese CD5 Box Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70681 2011 UK CD5 Album Island: 277 176 8 2011 US CD5 Album Hollywood Records: D001410402 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75047 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75439 Description 1978 UK 7 Single 1978 US 7 Single 1978 Japanese 7 Single 1981 UK 12 Album 1981 US 12 Album 1981 Japanese 12 Album 1984 US CD5 Album 1984 UK CD5 Album 1984 Japanese CD5 Album 1985 Japanese CD5 Album 1987 Japanese CD5 Album 1994 UK CD5 Album 1994 Japanese CD5 Album 2001 Japanese CD5 Album 2005 Japanese CD5 Album 2007 Japanese CD5 Album 2007 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2013 Japanese CD5 Album 1988 UK CD3 Single 1988 Japanese CD3 Single 1991 Japanese CD3 Box Notes
Greatest Hits
Super Audio CD
We Are The Champions CD Single Box Greatest Hits: We Will Rock You Edition
Includes bonus DVD
Stone Cold Classics The A-Z Of Queen Volume 1
` Includes bonus DVD
Jazz
2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition

In 2012 a 12 acetate of Fat Bottomed Girls was sold on eBay. The label of the disc claimed it held a 7:19 alternative version of the song, but as the disc remains in private hands there is no confirmation of this. Where to find it: Unreleased (Advert) Only found on a very rare one-sided acetate. Whoever owns this disc has not come forward with a description of the track, so we simply dont know what it contains.
Release Fat Bottomed Girls Description 1978 UK 12 Acetate Label/Catalogue No. Notes EMI acetate
US Promo Version (6:05)

A rather interesting find on a 12 promo. The A-side plays the single version of Fat Bottomed Girls most of the way through, before switching very suddenly to Bicycle Race. The final ten seconds or so of Fat Bottomed Girls is lost. The B-side plays the same tracks in reverse order (see Bicycle Race below). Where to find it: Only found on a rather rare 12 promo from the US. These do not come up for sale very often.
Release Fat Bottomed Girls and Bicycle Race Description 1978 US 12 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: AS-11401 Notes

The video for Fat Bottomed Girls uses the single version of the track, but it edited still further with an early fade, losing several seconds off the run time. Where to find it: Available on Greatest Flix, Queens ground-breaking collection of videos released to accompany Greatest Hits. Although now succeeded by the Greatest Video Hits series of DVDs, this should still be easy to get hold of on VHS. As ever though, the laser discs will be harder to find.
Reissue
Box Of Flix
Greatest Flix I&II
Brian Malouf Remix (4:24)

Brian Malouf has remixed a number of Queen tracks, and as always has stayed true to the original recording. Various effects have been added to the drums, guitars and vocals, but most important are some previously unheard vocals from Freddie in the outro of the track. Where to find it: This one was included on the 1991 remaster of Jazz, released in the US. Although now succeeded by the 2011 remasters, it should prove no trouble to buy cheaply.
Release Jazz Description 1991 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61062-2 Notes

This video version is essentially the single version of the track, with one crucial difference: Just as the track is coming to a close, the ending from the album version has been tacked on. Where to find it: In 1992, Hollywood Records released two Queen compilations, Classic Queen and Greatest Hits, both with accompanying videos. This edition of Greatest Hits is entirely separate from the more famous 1981 release and has a different track listing.

In 1993 and 1994, Queen released another set of remasters. Proving that it isnt just Hollywood Records that make mistakes, this version has a loud pop around five seconds into the track. Where to find it: Found on the Digital Master Series remaster of Jazz from 1994, released in the UK and Japan. It is also present on the 1997 compilation album Queen Rocks, unsurprisingly a collection of Queens heaviest rockers. Dont confuse it with a set of four US promo albums from 1991, also called Queen Rocks.
Release Jazz Queen Rocks Description 1994 UK CD5 Album 1994 Japanese CD Album 1997 UK CD5 Album 1997 UK 12 Album 1997 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: CDPCSD 133 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-8277 Parlophone: 823 0912 Parlophone: 823 0911 Hollywood Records: HR-62132-2 1997 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-50357 Notes
Two different sleeves Two different sleeves

This version of Fat Bottomed Girls is fades in at the start of the song, making the first word quite hard to hear. At the end of the track there is also an early fade, cutting off a couple more seconds than the Greatest Flix Video Version. Where to find it: Only to be found on the video CD of Greatest Flix I&II. A number of videos on this release were edited down from the other Greatest Flix releases, presumably to allow all the tracks to fit on this disc. This release is quite rare and may not be easy to buy.

A karaoke version of this song, based on the single version, with lead vocals removed but retaining backing vocals. There is a click track at the start and a slight early fade, cutting around ten seconds of material. Where to find it: Found on the Japanese release Greatest Karaoke Hits, which is available on CD and DVD. All versions of this release are now quite hard to find, and expensive when they do turn up for sale.

The Greatest Karaoke Hits DVD allows you to play all karaoke tracks with the vocals restored, creating the same edit as the karaoke versions but with Freddie back where he belongs. There is no click track on this one, and the run time of the track is increased by a few seconds of silence at the start. Where to find it: The DVD of Greatest Karaoke Hits features a number of edits, presumably to allow 35 tracks to fit onto one disc, and just like the CD release its getting rather hard to get hold of at a reasonable price.

The video for Queen Rocks used the same audio as the Greatest Hits Video Version. The only (very small) difference is that the pop from the 1994 remaster is present. Where to find it: Queen Rocks is a compilation album, released in 1997, with an accompanying video release released in 1998. The video features several more unique track versions, so it is well worth finding, but it is also becoming increasing rare and expensive (particularly the Japanese laser disc).
Organised Konfusion Remix (4:01)

This rap remix uses a different vocal take from Freddie, along with an almost entirely new backing track. New rap sections have been added to the song, along with samples from We Will Rock You. Where to find it: Found only on a mega-rare CDR promo from the US. This CDR contains ten remixes of Queen tracks, six of which are unique to this release. However, digital copies of this track do circulate freely.
Release Basic Queen Bootlegs Description 1999 US CDR Promo Label/Catalogue No. Notes Hollywood Records: PRCD61287-2

Essentially, this is a hybrid between the album and single versions. The two instrumental sections lifted from the single version have also been cut here, but the full album outro has been retained. Where to find it: Greatest Video Hits 1 was the first in a planned series of three video compilations (although, after waiting since 2003, the third has yet to emerge). A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue

Just Freddie singing Ooh yeah, isolated from the rest of the track. Where to find it: You can hear this one on the song select screen of the Greatest Video Hits 1 DVD. As you select each song a title screen appears, accompanied by a very brief snippet from the track. A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue
Wembley Documentary Version (0:52)

A short edit from a documentary on Queens 1986 performances at Wembley Stadium. The vocal introduction is played through, before the track cuts right to the end of the album take. Where to find it: This version was played on the short documentary A Beautiful Day, contained on the 2003 release of Live At Wembley Stadium on DVD. This version has since been replaced with the 2011 release, but it is still easy to buy.
Release Live At Wembley Stadium Description 2003 UK DVD Video 2003 US DVD Video 2003 Japanese DVD Video 2005 Japanese DVD Video 2006 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 490 4719 Hollywood Records: HR-720616 24 009 5 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3120/21 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3245/46 Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-92058/59 Notes
Reissue Reissue
Computer Game Stems

There are two different sets of stems for Fat Bottomed Girls. The first is based on the album version and plays normally. The second is based on the single version. There is some additional percussion at the start to act as a count in, and instead of a fade out the album outro is used. This is similar to the Greatest Hits Video Version, but on this version the album outro is placed slightly earlier in the track, losing a few additional seconds of material. Separation 1: Kick/Snare/Cymbals/Additional Drums/Bass/Guitar/Vocals/Additional Instruments (4:21) Separation 2: Kick/Snare, Cymbals and Additional Drums/Bass/Guitar/Vocals/Additional Instruments (3:19) Where to find it: Fat Bottomed Girls is a playable track on both the Rock Band and Guitar Hero game series. The separated stems ripped from the games circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
Release Rock Band Guitar Hero IV Description 2009 Download 2009 Download Label/Catalogue No. MTV Games Activision Notes
Jealousy
2011 Remaster Version (3:15)

The original release of Jealousy, and all subsequent remasters, were missing the bass drum. According to the liner notes for Deep Cuts 2, this was an accidental omission, so for the 2011 remasters the bass drum was reinstated and released for the first time. Where to find it: Found on the 2011 remaster of Jazz and also the Deep Cuts 2 compilation.
Release Jazz Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2012 Japanese CD5 Album 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 277 176 7 Island: 277 176 8 Hollywood Records: D001410402 Island: UICY-15015 Island: UICY-75047 Island: UIGY-9516 Island: UICY-75418 Island: UICY-75439 Island: 277 178 2 Island: UICY-15075 Notes 1 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 1 CD edition 2 CD edition Super Audio CD. 1 CD only Reissue. 1 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
Deep Cuts 2 (1977-1982)

A piano, bass and drums backing track that sounds very similar to the final version. Most interesting is an additional section of the song that remained unused on Jealousy, but would eventually find its way onto Play The Game. Where to find it: 2005 UK Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). This convention session was recorded in full, but most of the tracks from it have not been shared. 2005 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). There are at least two recordings of this convention, and one of those has been freely shared.
Bicycle Race
US Promo Version (6:13)

The B-side on this 12 promo plays almost all of Bicycle Race, but a couple of seconds before the end of the track it switches abruptly to the single version of Fat Bottomed Girls. The A-side plays the same tracks in reverse order (see Fat Bottomed Girls above). Where to find it: Only found on a rather rare 12 promo from the US. These do not come up for sale very often.
Release Fat Bottomed Girls and Bicycle Race Description 1978 US 12 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: AS-11401 Notes
Columbian Extended Version (4:58)

A rather odd mix from Columbia; the track plays normally for the first two minutes (up to the bell ringing) and then starts again, playing all the way through to the end. Where to find it: You can find this mix on the 12 single of Crazy Little Thing Called Love from Columbia, which is available on multiple different coloured vinyls. The yellow vinyl seems to be the most common, but even that is rare and expensive. Any of the other colours will cost very serious money indeed.
Release Crazy Little Thing Called Love Description Label/Catalogue No. 1979 Columbian 12 Single EMI: 446-1032 Notes Multiple coloured vinyls
Junior Vasquez Remix (4:57)

This is another dance remix from Hollywood Records. While the vocals are largely intact, the backing track has been almost completely replaced, with just a few guitar samples surviving. New rhythm and piano tracks have been added, along with various other effects. The song has been extended by the addition of new instrumental sections. Where to find it: This one included on the 1991 remaster of Jazz as a bonus track. Although now succeeded by the 2011 remasters it should prove no trouble to buy cheaply. Also found on the mega-promo The Unauthorised Club Record.
Release Jazz The Unauthorised Club Record Description 1991 US CD5 Album 1999 US CDR Promo Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61062-2 Hollywood Records: PRCD-61292-2 Notes

There is an abrupt early fade at the end of this version of Bicycle Race, cutting of Freddie singing where I like. Where to find it: Only to be found on the video CD of Greatest Flix I&II. A number of videos on this release were edited down from the other Greatest Flix releases, presumably to allow all the tracks to fit on this disc. This release is quite rare and may not be easy to buy.

This karaoke version opens with a click track before playing through the track normally, with the lead vocals removed. Backing vocals are retained. Where to find it: Found on the Japanese release Greatest Karaoke Hits, which is available on CD and DVD. All versions of this release are now quite hard to find, and expensive when they do turn up for sale.

A few ascending guitar notes, isolated from the rest of the track. Where to find it: You can hear this one on the song select screen of the Greatest Video Hits 1 DVD. As you select each song a title screen appears accompanied by a very brief snippet from the track. A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue
Instrumental (3:10)
A complete instrumental, with all lead and backing vocals removed. Freddie counts the track in. Where to find it: Included as a bonus track on the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of Jazz.
Release Jazz Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 277 176 8 Hollywood Records: D001410402 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75047 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75439 Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition

These stems are exactly the same as the album version, just with the tracks separated out. Separation: Kick/Kit/Bass/Guitar/Additional Guitar and Bells/Piano/Vocals Where to find it: Fat Bottomed Girls is a playable track on both the Rock Band and Guitar Hero game series. The separated stems ripped from the games circulate freely amongst the Queen community.
If You Cant Beat Them

Let Me Entertain You


A simple remix, consisting of the opening fifteen seconds of the track looped three times. Where to find it: Found on disc three of the game: The Theatre Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.

This convention recording features an alternative mix of Let Me Entertain You. Its not radically different, but features different vocals and drums. Unlike the album, the track doesnt fade out, instead going into the chorus vocals from We Are The Champions. Where to find it: 2006 UK Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). This convention session was recorded in full, but none of the tracks from it have been shared. 2006 Dutch Convention: Unreleased (Shared). An almost complete recording of this convention session exists (just missing part of one track) and has been shared widely.
Dead On Time
In Only Seven Days

Dreamers Ball
Early Acoustic Take, August 1978 (3:40)

This simple take of Dreamers Ball features just Freddie, Brian and Roger on vocals, acoustic guitar and percussion respectively. The tempo of this track is slightly slower than on the album, and there are no backing vocals or overdubs. Where to find it: Included as a bonus track on the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of Jazz. Also available on a US promo CD.
Release Jazz Label/Catalogue No. Island: 277 176 8 Hollywood Records: D001410402 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75047 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75439 2011 US CD5 Promo Hollywood Record: BVPR003622 Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition
Fun It
Leaving Home Aint Easy

Dont Stop Me Now


There is a fade in at the start of this track which cuts off Freddies opening word, tonight. Where to find it: Only to be found on the video CD of Greatest Flix I&II. A number of videos on this release were edited down from the other Greatest Flix releases, presumably to allow all the tracks to fit on this disc. This release is quite rare and may not be easy to buy.

A karaoke instrumental of the single version, retaining the backing vocals. There is a click track at the start, and the track fades out three seconds early. Where to find it: This version was first released on Greatest Karaoke Hits in 1998, and then re-released in 2004. Both of these releases are quite hard to find now, and may cost you if you do.
Release Greatest Karaoke Hits Description Label/Catalogue No. 1998 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-65061-62 2004 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67422-23 2004 Japanese DVD Video TOBW-3174 Notes

Exactly the same as the Greatest Karaoke Hits release, except there is no click track on this version. The track time is extended by several sections of silence at the start. Where to find it: Found on the Artist Karaoke Series release from the US.
Release Artist Karaoke Series: Queen Volume 1 Description 2007 US CD Album Label/Catalogue No. Buena Vista: D000068802 Notes

The Greatest Karaoke Hits DVD allows you to play all karaoke tracks with the vocals restored, creating the same edit as the Karaoke Version but with Freddie back where he belongs. There are a few seconds of silence at the start of the track, which increases the run time slightly. Where to find it: The DVD of Greatest Karaoke Hits features a number of edits, presumably to allow 35 tracks to fit onto one disc, and just like the CD release its getting rather hard to get hold of at a reasonable price.

Just Freddie shouting Hey, hey,hey!, isolated from the rest of the track. Where to find it: You can hear this one on the song select screen of the Greatest Video Hits 1 DVD. As you select each song a title screen appears, accompanied by a very brief snippet from the track. A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue
Jewels Video Version (3:29)

The video for the Jewels compilation has a slight early fade. Its almost identical to the Karaoke Vocal Version, but retains just a fraction more material. Where to find it: Found only on the Japanese video compilation Jewels, released in conjunction with the album of the same name. Its not too hard to find, but like most Japanese releases it is more expensive than you might think.
Release Jewels Description 2004 Japanese DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Toshiba-EMI: TOBW-3165 Notes
The Alps Version (0:52)

This short edit features material from the opening verse, before switching right to the end of the song. The vocals have been removed from the outro, so only the piano is present. Also includes some dialogue from the film. Where to find it: The Alps is a documentary that tells the story of climber John Harlin, who climbs the North face of the Eiger, a mountain that claimed the life of his father forty years earlier. Brian May recorded a new guitar solo for the soundtrack, and also remixed several Queen tracks.
Release The Alps: Climb Of Your Life Description 2008 UK Blu-ray Video 2008 US Blu-ray Video 2008 US DVD Video Label/Catalogue No. Image Entertainment: ID48880MVBD Image Entertainment: BRDID4880MV Image Entertainment: DVDID4338MV Notes
With Long-Lost Guitars (3:35)

The album take of Dont Stop Me Now is dominated by piano, bass and drums, and only features a short guitar solo. However, the master tapes contain guitar throughout the track that was never used in the final mix. This bonus track restores those guitars, allowing them to be heard for the first time. Also features an alternative guitar solo. Where to find it: Including as a bonus track on the 2CD editions of the 2011 remaster of Jazz.
Release Jazz Description 2011 UK CD5 Album 2011 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Island: 277 176 8 Hollywood Records: D001410402 2011 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75047 2012 Japanese CD5 Album Island: UICY-75439 Notes 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Reissue. 2 CD edition

A piano, bass and drums backing track. All vocals and guitars have been removed. Where to find it: 2006 UK Convention: Unreleased (Uncirculated). This convention session was recorded in full, but none of the tracks from it have been shared.

These stems are exactly the same as the album version, just with the tracks separated out. Separation: Kick/Snare/Percussion/Room/Bass/Guitar/Piano/Vocals/Backing Vocals Where to find it: In 2011 Queen ran a remix competition through the Talenthouse website. The separated stems of Dont Stop Me Now were provided to the entrants and used to remix the track. This track also featured as a download for the Rock Band 3 game.
Release Talenthouse Remix Completion Rock Band 3 Description 2011 Download 2011 Download Label/Catalogue No. Electronic Arts Notes
More Of That Jazz


This remix from The Eye is an instrumental edit of the track, consisting of the famous guitar riffs. It has been looped a number of times, before ending in a fade. Where to find it: Found on disc one of the game: The Arena Domain. All versions of The Eye are now deleted and becoming increasing hard to find, especially in good condition.
The Art Of Queen The Eye Version (0:40)

This version features a short instrumental edit, with various sound effects from the game played over the top. Where to find it: The Art Of Queen is a book detailing the making of the game, along with a bonus CDROM containing several videos. A number of unique edits of Queen songs are present on the CDROM, and with a little PC knowledge it is possible to copy the audio tracks. The book, unlike the game itself, is still relatively easy to come by.
Release The Art Of Queen The Eye Description 1998 UK Book & CDROM 1998 US Book & CDROM Label/Catalogue No. Notes Boxtree: 0-7522-0376-2 Smithmark: 0-7651-9126-1
The Rumour Mill

For the most part, this guide presents what we know about the music of Queen, but here we can also delve into rumour and innuendo: Dont Stop Me Now/Jealousy (Segue): A brief piano track consisting of the final few bars of Dont Stop Me Now, before segueing into Jealousy. The quality of the recording is appalling, probably an attempt to mask the fact that this is a fake. The following track began life (or was rumoured to have begun life) around this time. Its possible a version of this track was recorded for these sessions: Coming Soon
Live Killers
By 1978, Queen had released seven albums in six years, so the band decided to take a temporary break from the studio in 1979 and focus on touring (although four songs that would eventually end up on The Game were recorded in June and July). To fill the gap between studio albums, the band decided to release their first live album. Following their tour of the US in late 1978, Queen played 28 shows in continental Europe between January and March 1978, and 10-15 of these shows were recorded for what would become the Live Killers album. After the tour was complete Queen were meticulous in listening to all the material they recorded, although Brian later lamented the fact that only a few of the concerts were of sufficient quality to be included on the album. To produce the best possible sound, multiple shows were spliced together, with some songs having five or six cuts between different concerts. The album was supported by the single release of Love Of My Life throughout the UK, Europe and Japan, and We Will Rock You in the US and Japan. Neither was successful. The reviews were, once again, mostly negative. The band werent too pleased with the results either, Roger Taylor commenting many years later said, I dont think it turned out anywhere near as well as it could have done, while Brian added, Live Killers is not my favourite album at all. Despite this, the album was a moderate success, landing at number 3 in the UK charts. Tracks: 1) We Will Rock You (May) 2) Let Me Entertain You (Mercury) 3) Death On Two Legs (Dedicated to (Mercury) 4) Killer Queen (Mercury) 5) Bicycle Race (Mercury) 6) Im In Love With My Car (Taylor) 7) Get Down, Make Love (Mercury) 8) Youre My Best Friend (Deacon) 9) Now Im Here (May) 10) Dreamers Ball (May) 11) Love Of My Life (Mercury) 12) 39 (May) 13) Keep Yourself Alive (May) Freddie Mercury John Deacon Roger Taylor Brian May Queen 14) Dont Stop Me Now (Mercury) 15) Spread Your Wings( Deacon) 16) Brighton Rock (May) 17) Bohemian Rhapsody (Mercury) 18) Tie Your Mother Down (May) 19) Sheer Heart Attack (Taylor) 20) We Will Rock You (May) 21) We Are The Champions (Mercury) 22) God Save The Queen (Trad. Arr. May)
Personnel:
Produced by:
Engineered by: John Etchells (Additional engineering by David Richards) Recorded at: Release date: Various dates on the European tour; January-March 1979 22nd June 1979 (UK) 26th June 1979 (USA) 25th June 1979 (Japan)
Release details:
Release Live Killers Description 1978 UK 12 Album 1978 US 12 Album 1978 Japanese 12 Album Label/Catalogue No. EMI: EMSP 330 Elektra: BB-702 Elektra: P-10601-E Notes
Remasters
Early CD Issues:
Release Live Killers Description Label/Catalogue No. 1986 UK CD5 Album EMI: CDS 7 46211 8 1987 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: CP28-5316/17 1992 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: CDS 7 46211 8 Notes
Reissue
Release Live Killers Description 1991 US CD5 Album Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: HR-61066-2 Notes
Release Live Killers Description Label/Catalogue No. 1994 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: CDPCSD 138 1994 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-8282-83 Notes

Release Live Killers Description Label/Catalogue No. 2001 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba EMI: TOCP-65856-57 2003 UK CD5 Album Parlophone: 592 4142 2004 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67461-62 2005 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53456-57 2007 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-53456-57 2008 Japanese CD5 Album Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-67461-62 Notes
Card sleeve vinyl replica
Reissue Card sleeve vinyl replica reissue. Additional OBI
We Will Rock You


Musically, this single version is exactly the same as on the Live Killers album, but the opening thunderclaps have been cut and the track now fades in with some brief crowd noise before going straight into the opening guitar riff. There is also a fade out as the crowd cheers at the end. Where to find it: This track was originally released as a live single in the US and Japan, and later on the B-side to Crazy Little Thing Called Love in the UK. You can also pick this one up in CD quality on the Singles Collection 2 box set, which also contains several other track versions.
Release We Will Rock You Crazy Little Thing Called Love Singles Collection 2 Description 1979 US 7 Single 1979 Japanese 7 Single 1979 UK 7 Single 2009 UK CD5 Box 2009 Japanese CD5 Box Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: E46532 Elektra: P486E EMI: 5001 Parlophone: 50999 965497 2 8 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70771 Notes Live single Live single
Rock You Version (3:18)

This version also cuts out the thunderclaps and fades in with crowd noise. At the end of the track Freddie says, Hello everybody! Feeling good? Are you ready to rock? On the album, this dialogue is included at the start of Let Me Entertain You (which is also the next track on Rock You see below). Where to find it: Rock You is a promotional CD that was given away with The Mail On Sunday newspaper in the UK in 2009. It contains fourteen tracks, ten of which were taken from Live Killers and the remaining four from We Will Rock You: The Musical. It shouldnt be difficult to buy if you dont already have a copy.
Release Rock You Description 2009 UK CD5 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Up Front: UPQUEEN01 Notes Given away with 'The Mail On Sunday' newspaper

Unlike the two versions of this track listed above this version starts with the thunderclap found on the Live Killers album. The only difference to the album version is some additional crowd noise at the end of the track, which finishes with a fade. Where to find it: Only found on a promo CD issued to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Italian Queen fan club, which was limited to 1000 copies and can be difficult to get hold of today. The disc contains five different versions of We Will Rock You, three of which are unique edits, so it is well worth tracking down.
Release We Will Rock You Description 2009 Italian CD5 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 50999 6 07097 2 1 Notes Limited to 1000 copies
Let Me Entertain You


Exactly the same as the Live Killers album, but the whistle right at the start of the track has been cut. The crowd noise also fades out a fraction sooner at the end of the track. Where to find it: This track was originally released on the B-side to the We Will Rock You live single in the US and Japan, and later on the B-side to Save Me in the UK. You can also pick this one up in CD quality on the Singles Collection 2 box set, which also contains several other track versions.
Release We Will Rock You Save Me Singles Collection 2 Description 1979 US 7 Single 1979 Japanese 7 Single 1980 UK 7 Single 2009 UK CD5 Box 2009 Japanese CD5 Box Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: E46532 Elektra: P486E EMI: 5022 Parlophone: 50999 965497 2 8 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70771 Notes Live single Live single

On the Live Killers album this track starts with Freddie talking to the audience, but on the Rock You release most of this dialogue was played on the preceding track (We Will Rock You see above). Therefore this version starts with Freddie saying, Are you ready to Roll? Ok lets do it! Most of the crowd noise at the end of the track has been cut as well. Where to find it: Rock You is a promotional CD that was given away with The Mail On Sunday newspaper in the UK in 2009. It contains fourteen tracks, ten of which were taken from Live Killers and the remaining four from We Will Rock You: The Musical. It shouldnt be difficult to buy if you dont already have a copy.
Death On Two Legs (Dedicated To......

Killer Queen

A few notes of the piano introduction have been cut in this version, shortening the track by two seconds. Where to find it: Rock You is a promotional CD that was given away with The Mail On Sunday newspaper in the UK in 2009. It contains fourteen tracks, ten of which were taken from Live Killers and the remaining four from We Will Rock You: The Musical. It shouldnt be difficult to buy if you dont already have a copy.
Bicycle Race

Both Bicycle Race and the following track on Live Killers (Im In Love With My Car) are present on the Rock You promo. The only difference from the album is that the track break between the two songs comes around one second earlier. Where to find it: Rock You is a promotional CD that was given away with The Mail On Sunday newspaper in the UK in 2009. It contains fourteen tracks, ten of which were taken from Live Killers and the remaining four from We Will Rock You: The Musical. It shouldnt be difficult to buy if you dont already have a copy.
Im In Love With My Car


Both Im In Love With My Car and the preceding track on Live Killers (Bicycle Race) are present on the Rock You promo. The only difference from the album is that the track break between the two songs comes around one second earlier. Where to find it: Rock You is a promotional CD that was given away with The Mail On Sunday newspaper in the UK in 2009. It contains fourteen tracks, ten of which were taken from Live Killers and the remaining four from We Will Rock You: The Musical. It shouldnt be difficult to buy if you dont already have a copy.
Get Down, Make Love


Get Down Make Love has around second additional crowd noise at the start of the track, and around two seconds less crowd noise at the end. The music is exactly the same. Where to find it: Rock You is a promotional CD that was given away with The Mail On Sunday newspaper in the UK in 2009. It contains fourteen tracks, ten of which were taken from Live Killers and the remaining four from We Will Rock You: The Musical. It shouldnt be difficult to buy if you dont already have a copy.
Youre My Best Friend

Now Im Here

Freddies dialogue with the audience (You are now going to sing!) has been cut on this version, and it starts with Brians guitar intro. Some crowd noise has also been cut from the end of the track. Where to find it: Rock You is a promotional CD that was given away with The Mail On Sunday newspaper in the UK in 2009. It contains fourteen tracks, ten of which were taken from Live Killers and the remaining four from We Will Rock You: The Musical. It shouldnt be difficult to buy if you dont already have a copy.
Dreamers Ball
Love Of My Life

On the album, Love Of My Life starts with Freddie talking to the audience (The things you have to do for money etc.). Most of that dialogue has been cut off this acetate, and it starts with Wed like everybody to join in At the end of the song there is a few seconds of the crowd cheering before the track fades out. Where to find it: Unreleased (Uncirculated) This track can only be found on a 7 Abbey Road acetate, only one copy of which has ever surfaced.
Release Love Of My Life Description 1979 UK 7 Acetate Label/Catalogue No. Notes Abbey Road acetate

The single version of Love Of My Life retains a little bit more of Freddie talking to the audience than the Acetate Version, and the track starts with This next song has turned into a duet The song then plays as normal, and the track fades out with some crowd noise after Freddie says Thank you. Where to find it: Love Of My Life was released as a live single in the UK and Japan to promote the album. You can also pick this one up in CD quality on the Singles Collection 2 box set, which also contains several other track versions.
Release Love Of My Life Singles Collection 2 Description 1979 UK 7 Single 1979 Japanese 7 Single 2009 UK CD5 Box 2009 Japanese CD5 Box Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 2959 Elektra: P423E Parlophone: 50999 965497 2 8 Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-70771 Notes Live single Live single
Greatest Flix Video Version (3:12)

On this video version, all of Freddies dialogue with the audience has been cut, as well as the first few guitar notes. The track fades out after the music has finished, although you can just about hear Freddie saying Thank you. Where to find it: Available on Greatest Flix, Queens ground-breaking collection of videos released to accompany Greatest Hits. Although now succeeded by the Greatest Video Hits series of DVDs, this should still be easy to get hold of on VHS. As ever though, the laser discs will be harder to find.
Release Greatest Flix Description 1981 UK Laser Disc Video: 1981 UK VHS Video 1981 US VHS Video 1981 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1981 Japanese VHS Video 1988 Japanese VHS Video 1990 US Laser Disc Video 1992 UK VHS Video 1992 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1998 Japanese Laser Disc Video 1991 UK VHS Video 1992 Japanese VHS Video 1997 UK Laser Disc Video Label/Catalogue No. EMI: 6133-70 EMI: TVD9005042 Thorn-EMI: TVC 1047 Pioneer: MP063-25EM Warner: 34004 Toshiba-EMI: WK048-3014H Pioneer: PA-82-026 PMI: MVP 99 1011 2 Toshiba-EMI: TOLW-3130 Toshiba-EMI: TOLW-3270 PMI: MVB 9913243 Toshiba-EMI: TOVW-3132/3 Pioneer: PMLPD 01171 Notes
Reissue
Box Of Flix
Greatest Flix I&II
DVD Error Version (3:12)

The DVD containing this song has a small glitch. It should play the same as the Greatest Flix Video Version, but at around 50 seconds into the track a short section of audio is repeated three times, before the track resumes as normal. Where to find it: This track can only be found on the DVD issue of Greatest Flix I&II, which was originally intended to be given away with Pioneer DVD players. Due to a fault with the players this never happened, so instead the DVDs were given to fan club members. This DVD is not too difficult to buy if you dont already have a copy.
Release Greatest Flix I&II Description 1997 UK DVD Promo Label/Catalogue No. Queen Films: QDVD001 Notes

The second video version of Love Of My Life has a few differences to the first. All of Freddies dialogue is cut at the start of the track, but the full guitar opening is present. At the end of the song there is a few seconds of crowd noise as the track fades out, but Freddie saying Thank you has been edited out for some reason. Where to find it: Greatest Video Hits 1 was the first in a planned series of three video compilations (although, after waiting since 2003, the third has yet to emerge). A 2012 US release packaged both this volume and Greatest Video Hits 2 together, although without the bonus material of the original releases.
Reissue Reissue
39

Musically, this version plays the same as on the album. The only difference is that around thirteen seconds of crowd noise has been cut from the end of the track. Where to find it: Rock You is a promotional CD that was given away with The Mail On Sunday newspaper in the UK in 2009. It contains fourteen tracks, ten of which were taken from Live Killers and the remaining four from We Will Rock You: The Musical. It shouldnt be difficult to buy if you dont already have a copy.
Keep Yourself Alive


This version is almost exactly the same as the album version. The only difference is that this version starts with the percussion, cutting the of a second of crowd noise that is present on the album. A very minor difference indeed. Where to find it: Found on a US promo CD, alongside four other versions of Keep Yourself Alive. This CD was issued to promote the Crown Jewels box set of the first eight studio albums. The CD is quite rare, and may be difficult to get hold of.
Release Keep Yourself Alive Description 1998 US CD5 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Hollywood Records: PRCD 11032-2 Notes

Exactly the same as the album version, except for a slightly shorter fade out at the end of the track. Around four seconds of crowd noise has been cut. Where to find it: Rock You is a promotional CD that was given away with The Mail On Sunday newspaper in the UK in 2009. It contains fourteen tracks, ten of which were taken from Live Killers and the remaining four from We Will Rock You: The Musical. It shouldnt be difficult to buy if you dont already have a copy.
Dont Stop Me Now


The same as the album version, with just a fade added to the crowd noise at the end of the track. Where to find it: Rock You is a promotional CD that was given away with The Mail On Sunday newspaper in the UK in 2009. It contains fourteen tracks, ten of which were taken from Live Killers and the remaining four from We Will Rock You: The Musical. It shouldnt be difficult to buy if you dont already have a copy.
Spread Your Wings


This version from a single B-side is very much the same as on the album, with the only differences being a fade in and out added to the start and end of the song. Where to find it: Released only on the B-side to the US and Japanese single releases of Crazy Little Thing Called Love.
Release Crazy Little Thing Called Love Description 1979 US 7 Single 1980 Japanese 7 Single Label/Catalogue No. Elektra: E46579 Elektra: P529E Notes
Brighton Rock

The 2001 remaster had a slightly different treatment for the gap between Brighton Rock and Bohemian Rhapsody. On most versions of Live Killers, the crowd noise at the end of Brighton Rock fades out completely before Bohemian Rhapsody fades in with the crowd chanting. On the 2001 remaster the fade out/in has been removed, and at the end of Brighton Rock we can hear the crowd chanting usually found at the start of Bohemian Rhapsody. This results in around thirteen seconds of run time being lost over the two tracks. Where to find it: The 2001 remaster of Live Killers has been released in both the UK and Japan.
Bohemian Rhapsody

Instead of starting with a fade in and the crowd chanting, this version cuts straight to Freddie singing the introduction to Mustapha. The rest of the track plays normally. Where to find it: The 2001 remaster of Live Killers has been released in both the UK and Japan.
Tie Your Mother Down

Sheer Heart Attack

We Will Rock You


The only difference to the album version is some additional crowd noise at the end of the track, ending in a fade. Where to find it: Only found on a promo CD issued to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Italian Queen fan club, which was limited to 1000 copies and can be difficult to get hold of today. The disc contains five different versions of We Will Rock You, three of which are unique edits, so it is well worth tracking down.
Release We Will Rock You Description 2009 Italian CD5 Promo Label/Catalogue No. Parlophone: 50999 6 07097 2 1 Notes Limited to 1000 copies
We Are The Champions

God Save The Queen

Written by: Trad. Arr. Brian May Album Version Time: 1:33
Two of the CD releases of Live Killers have some mastering differences, with the track breaks between songs coming at different points. These variations have not been listed above as there is no musical difference to the standard CD versions, and it is only when listening to these tracks in isolation you would spot any difference, but the details are presented here none the less: The 1986 CD release (EMI: CDS 7 46211 8) has a different track break between We Will Rock You and Let Me Entertain You, between Dreamers Ball and Love Of My Life, and also between Spread Your Wings and Brighton Rock. The 2001 CD remaster release (Toshiba-EMI: TOCP-65856-57) has a different track break between We Will Rock You and Let Me Entertain You.
Live Killers Analysis

For an excellent analysis of how the Live Killers album was put together I recommend you visit the queenlive.ca website.

The Queen Fanthology Guide

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Supermasters series Reissue

1998 Remaster: Remasters by Peter Mew at Abbey Road Studios, London, UK

2001 Remaster: Remastered by Peter Mew at Abbey Road Studios, London, UK

*Bonus tracks only on 2 CD editions

Keep Yourself Alive

De Lane Lea Demo (3:51)

Radio Sampler First Wave

Early Version (3:51)

Withdrawn Promo Mix (3:49)

BBC Session 1 (3:48)

BBC Session 1 - Hollywood Records Release (3:48)

BBC Session 2 (3:50)

US Single Version (3:32)

Long Lost Re-take (4:05)

Where to find it:

2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition 2 CD edition Record Store Day release

Stormtroopers In Stilettos Radio Sampler First Wave

Long Lost Re-take Edit (3:29)

Video Version (3:43)

Classic Queen Greatest Flix I&II Greatest Video Hits 1

Reissue Reissue iTunes deluxe album

Karaoke Version 1 (3:36)

Karaoke Version 2 (3:20)

Karaoke Vocal Version (3:20)

Computer Game Stems (3:40)

Doing All Right

BBC Session 1 (4:10)

BBC Session 1 Hollywood Records Release (4:10)

Picture disc Part 2 single

Champions Of The World Version (1:06)

Great King Rat

De Lane Lea Demo (6:09)

BBC Session 3 (5:59)

BBC Session 3 - Hollywood Records Release (5:56)

Alternative Mix (5:42)

Take One: Convention Recording (3:39)

Take Four: Convention Recording (6:29)

BBC Session 1 (4:06)

BBC Session 1 - Hollywood Release (4:06)

Picture disc Part 2 single

BBC Session 1 - Acetate Version (3:35)

De Lane Lea Demo (7:54)

Radio Sampler First Wave

BBC Session 1 (6:30)

BBC Session 1 - Hollywood Records Release (6:28)

Picture disc Part 2 single

BBC Session 1 - Acetate Version (5:09)

BBC Session 2 (6:31)

US Single Version (3:00)

John Luongo & Gary Hellman Remix (6:26)

The Eye Version (1:26)

The Night Comes Down

De Lane Lea Demo (4:24)

The Eye Version (0:47)

Modern Times Rock N Roll

BBC Session 3 (2:00)

BBC Session 3 - Hollywood Records Release (1:59)

BBC Session 4 (2:43)

The Eye Version (1:43)

Son And Daughter