Queen and Adam Lambert may not be touring anytime soon, but Sir Brian May enjoys giving the occasional one-off live performance.
In recent months, he’s teamed up with Benson Boone for a couple of Queen hits at the American star’s concerts.
Having had to postpone his Birmingham show last year, the 23-year-old was back there last night at the Utilita Arena.
Sir Brian joined him once again in a surprise cameo, as the pair performed We Will Rock You and We Are The Champions together, which you can view below.
Wearing a white vest and sporting his trademark tash, Boone was clearly going for the Freddie Mercury look.
Sir Brian had teased the performance last week, sharing on his Instagram, “I’m planning to do a little bit of live playing pretty soon”, but without divulging in what capacity, but of course, we now know.
Posting a clip of the show this morning, the Queen guitarist admitted he still struggles with nerves.
Sir Brian shared: “Whole lotta fun with Benson Boone last night. His show is sensational – I just provided a little icing on the cake. Gotta say pure fun and adrenaline are just one reason I wanna spend my weekend in Birmingham. But there are other reasons. What reasons ?!! 1) It’s a big challenge to step into this massive production and deliver. I like a challenge – even though it makes me nervous – probably BECAUSE it makes me nervous ! 2) The band are incredibly inspiring to play with on stage. Magnificent musicians who play every moment with power and passion. 3) Benson himself is not only an awesome performer but one of the most genuine, thoughtful and generous people I’ve ever met. 4) Likewise the band and crew treat me like one of the Family – it kinda feels like home, backstage with them. Reminds me of our wonderful Queen touring family. And – Yes – of course I miss them. 5) It was a chance for my grandchildren to share a moment and experience what my life has been like.
Sir Brian continued: “6) And this is a big one. I’m not sure how many people realise this, but this show was originally planned to happen about three months ago, and Benson was forced to cancel at the last minute, because of strain to his voice. He was mortified, and promised to come back as soon as he could to make it up to the Birmingham fans. Not only did he fulfil that promise tonight, but he and the whole band and crew came back to the UK just to play this ONE show. It’s hard to imagine how much trouble and expense had to be put into making that happen. Apart from flying all the equipment and personnel back over here, an entire stage and rig had to be custom built for this one night,, and tried and proved and tested to meet all the requirements of this incredibly complex show. I don’t know many performers who would take that hit to fulfil a promise. That, to me, signifies decency and dedication. I was proud to be the extra gift. 7) To be greeted with that ROAR from a Birmingham audience was beyond priceless – I felt that old love – Queen had such great times in Birmingham. Great days ! I feel lucky. Thanks Midlands folks – it was a blast. And thanks Benson, Sus, Brook, Chris and Matt. Love you guys – Bri.”
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