About This Footage
The footage of Brian May and Kerry Ellis performing "Somebody to Love" at Montreux 2013 is a rare gem, offering a glimpse into the creative partnership between two musical legends. At the time of filming, May was still a member of Queen, although he had been exploring solo projects with his new collaborator, Kerry Ellis. This live performance showcases their unique chemistry and highlights the enduring appeal of Freddie Mercury's timeless classic.
The song itself is a staple of Queen's repertoire, originally recorded by Jefferson Airplane in 1967. Rolling Stone magazine ranked it No. 274 on their list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, cementing its status as a rock 'n' roll anthem. May and Ellis's rendition brings a fresh perspective to the song, with Ellis's soaring vocals adding a new dimension to the classic arrangement.
What makes this footage significant is that it captures May in transition, still deeply rooted in Queen's legacy while beginning to forge his own path with Kerry Ellis. Their collaboration would go on to yield the critically acclaimed album "Golden Days," which was released shortly after this live performance. The album marked a new chapter in May's career, one that emphasized his songwriting talents and his ability to craft memorable melodies.
Watching this footage, viewers will be struck by the effortless ease with which May and Ellis navigate the song's intricate arrangements. Their performance is a testament to their musical chemistry, with each player feeding off the other's energy. It's also notable for its production quality, capturing the raw emotion of a live performance while maintaining a level of polish that's characteristic of Queen's iconic recordings.
This clip is part of May's larger body of work outside of Queen, which he has been actively promoting through his official YouTube channel. The "Brian Talks" series, in particular, offers a fascinating glimpse into May's interests and passions beyond music, including stereoscopy, astronomy, and animal welfare advocacy. By sharing this footage, May is giving fans a rare insight into the creative process that drives him, one that extends far beyond his work with Queen.
As viewers watch May and Ellis deliver "Somebody to Love" at Montreux 2013, they'll be reminded of the enduring power of rock music to transcend time and generations. This performance is a testament to the timeless appeal of Freddie Mercury's songwriting, which continues to inspire new interpretations and reinterpretations. In this moment, May and Ellis are not just paying tribute to a classic – they're forging their own path, one that will leave an indelible mark on the music world for years to come.
The image that lingers long after the performance is over is of Brian May's guitar work, his fingers dancing across the fretboard with a precision and flair that's both mesmerizing and humbling. It's a reminder that even in the most iconic performances, there lies a depth of emotion and musicianship that continues to inspire and awe audiences today.
Curated from public records and music databases.
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