Member-only story

"Somebody to Love": A Rock and Roll Memoir by Queen Guitarist Brian May

Fernando Bell

·14k Followers· Follow

Published in Somebody To Love?: A Rock And Roll Memoir

6 min read · 2 weeks before

1.7k View Claps

89 Respond

Save

Listen

Somebody to Love?: A Rock-and-Roll Memoir

by Grace Slick

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2316 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	386 pages

Brian May's autobiography, "Somebody to Love," is a candid and insightful look at his life and career. The book is full of anecdotes and stories about May's early days in music, his struggles with mental health, and his experiences with Queen.

May was born in Hampton, England, in 1947. He began playing guitar at an early age and formed his first band, Smile, in 1968. Smile eventually evolved into Queen, and May became one of the most successful guitarists in rock history.

In "Somebody to Love," May opens up about his struggles with depression and anxiety. He also discusses his relationship with Freddie Mercury, Queen's lead singer. Mercury died of AIDS in 1991, and May has said that his death was one of the most difficult experiences of his life.

Despite the challenges he has faced, May has remained a positive and creative force in the music world. He continues to tour and record with Queen, and he has also released several solo albums.

"Somebody to Love" is a must-read for any fan of Queen or rock music in general. May's writing is honest, engaging, and often funny. The book is a testament to his talent, his resilience, and his love of music.

Early Life and Influences

Brian May was born in Hampton, England, on July 19, 1947. His father, Harold, was an electrical engineer, and his mother, Ruth, was a housewife. May has two older sisters, Karen and Christine.

May's interest in music began at an early age. He was inspired by the rock and roll music of the 1950s, and he began playing guitar at the age of 11. May's early influences included Hank Marvin of the Shadows and Brian Jones of the Rolling Stones.

Smile and Queen

In 1968, May formed a band called Smile with singer Tim Staffell and drummer Roger Taylor. Smile played a handful of gigs, but they never released any recordings. In 1970, Staffell left the band, and May and Taylor recruited Freddie Mercury as their new lead singer.

With Mercury on vocals, Queen quickly became one of the most popular bands in the world. The band's self-titled debut album was released in 1973, and it featured the hit singles "Keep Yourself Alive" and "Liar." Queen went on to release a string of successful albums, including "A Night at the Opera" (1975),"A Day at the Races" (1976),and "News of the World" (1977).

Struggles with Mental Health

Throughout his career, May has struggled with depression and anxiety. In "Somebody to Love," he opens up about his mental health issues and how they have affected his life.

May first began experiencing symptoms of depression in his early twenties. He felt overwhelmed by feelings of sadness and worthlessness. May also struggled with anxiety, which often made it difficult for him to perform live.

May has sought professional help for his mental health issues, and he has found that therapy and medication have been helpful. He has also found solace in music, which he says has helped him to cope with his depression and anxiety.

Relationship with Freddie Mercury

Brian May and Freddie Mercury were close friends and musical collaborators for over two decades. May has said that Mercury was one of the most talented and charismatic performers he has ever met.

May was devastated by Mercury's death in 1991. He has said that Mercury's death was one of the most difficult experiences of his life.

Legacy

Brian May is one of the most successful and respected guitarists in rock history. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the UK Music Hall of Fame. May continues to tour and record with Queen, and he has also released several solo albums.

May's legacy is not only his music, but also his work as a mental health advocate. He has spoken out about his own struggles with depression and anxiety, and he has helped to raise awareness of these issues.

Brian May is a true rock and roll icon. He is a talented musician, a gifted songwriter, and a compassionate human being. His autobiography, "Somebody to Love," is a must-read for any fan of music or rock and roll.

Somebody to Love?: A Rock-and-Roll Memoir

by Grace Slick

4.4 out of 5