"Somebody to Love" is a song by the British rock band Queen, written by the lead singer/pianist Freddie Mercury. It debuted on the band's 1976 album A Day at the Races and was also featured on their compilation album Greatest Hits. The song offers listeners something similar to that of Queen's earlier hit "Bohemian Rhapsody" with its complex harmonies and guitar solos; however instead of mimicking an English choir, the band turned to a gospel choir. It reached #2 in the UK and #13 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US. This song made it clear to fans that "Queen could swing as hard as it could rock, by channeling the spirit of gospel music." Written by Mercury at the piano, "Somebody to Love" is a soul-searching piece that questions God's role in a life without love. Through voice layering techniques, Queen was able to create the soulful sound of a 100 voice choir, with that of only three voices: Mercury, Brian May and Roger Taylor. John Deacon did not sing on the album's track. Mercury's fascination and admiration for Aretha Franklin was a major influence for the creation of this song. Queen played "Somebody to Love" live between 1977-85, and a live performance of the song is recorded on the album Queen Rock Montreal. In addition to these live performances, there has been collaboration on tributes to "Somebody to Love" after Mercury's death in 1991. The song was played live on 20 April 1992, during The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert, with George Michael on lead vocals. Since its release in 1976, the song has appeared in a number of television shows, such as American Idol, The X Factor, Glee and Gossip Girl, as well as movies, including Happy Feet and Ella Enchanted. Additionally, it has been covered by many artists.
Tags: Rock