JUST WOW!!! | First Time Reaction to Queen Live Aid

[@yelnikigwawa1845]

Excellent choice for review. This set has been called the greatest set in rock history, and I think it's obvious why. He had 70,000 people in the palm of his hand.

[@HardlinerTheGeek]

Did you forget this was broadcast LIVE on the BBC? How do you think they raised money? I highly recommend watching Bohemian Rhapsody again.

[@Nebulasecura]

1.9 billion tv viewers, PLUS the 70k there in person!

[@Mozza-g2m]

​@@HardlinerTheGeekI've got the whole concert on DVD and the amount of equipment and food Bob, midge and every band involved raised is unbelievable. They made history that day and Queen was a part of it. Even other bands said they stole the show they did one of the most perfect performances of any band that day. 👌

[@Steve_Gee74]

Allegedly David Bowie who did a set straight after Queen on seeing Freddie said "You bastard how am I supposed to follow that?"

[@Nikioko]

And David Bowie was a great performer and entertainer himself.

[@axelbarraganmusic]

Did that REALLY happen? Are you thinking Elton John agte THIS gig????

[@SciFiCatGuy]

He did, though. His performance was almost as powerful. Especially when he did We Can Be Heroes.

[@SciFiCatGuy]

And to think, Freddy's doctor told him not to do the show because he was too week.

[@Davidwv97]

​@@SciFiCatGuy he wasn't too weak at all. He had a sore throat before the show, that's all. Don't believe the movie

[@london63732]

I was there, in the stadium. I never went on to win a Nobel Prize, which was a bit of a disappointment, but I saw Queen live at Live Aid, so I guess my life amounted to something 😊

[@preu82]

I wasn't going to envy your Nobel.. but I do envy you being there and witness this in person 😁

[@chriscostelloe8942]

I think I see you in the crowd.

[@chris-hz2wd]

Someone wins a Nobel, me: that’s cool Someone saw Queen at live aid, me: WHAT!? NO WAY! WHAT WAS IT LIKE?

[@darkhoursofday6250]

Greatest performance of all time... yeah, you can feel proud to be a part of it!

[@suedarling9475]

I'm so jealous!

[@mrk8050]

At the time of Live Aid I was serving in the British Royal Marine Commandos in a refugee camp in Ethiopia. We listened to it on the radio. We were surrounded by the full horror of the Famine, but when Queen came on the radio those poor soles who were there even reacted in a very positive way. I remember that a lot of us Royal Marine Commandos were crying watching some of the children dancing along, I'm teary eyed just remembering. I looked around at men I had fought alongside, who were tough, hardened Royal Marine Commandos who had fought a life and death war against Argentinian's in 82. By the end of Queen's set we were dancing with the children. It went along way to help build their trust in us. The famine is only one of many terrible memories I have from 35 years of active service, and over 3 years hospitalisation. But when I remember the smiles on the children's faces, and their laughter at the terrible way we danced always reminds me that humanity will always find it's way through even the worst of times. I only watched it for the first time last year, my son put it on the TV. A lot of memories came back and a lot of tears. My amazing Wife took me to see Queen at Wembley, U.K., in 1986 two weeks after I got back from Ethiopia as a surprise, we also went to the last Queen concert they ever did. I saw Queen live 8 times in all (my wife only 6 ha ha), they were incredible live. And yes, I am an old fart.

[@Edersfin]

Thankyou for sharing your memories, I remember age 13 watching the film accompanied by the cars, it has never left me. And I’ve strived to be a good person in the world, with the safety and privilege given through where you’re born. I am in awe of your service and a happy memory from that awful situation, your precious. I am well jealous you saw queen live, if I had a time machine I’d be there, as well as fixing the mistakes of the past 🙄😅

[@mrk8050]

@@Edersfin ❤

[@williamdunphe-bh2pu]

From one old fart to another thank you my best concert was Elvis in 1975 my wife and her brother was at live aid in Philadelphia 1985 wild bill

[@josephjuno9555]

I was serving in US Marine Corps at the same Time! Semper Fi!

[@aleksanderfinstad5785]

❤

[@DanielFrost21]

Freddie and Queen stole the show that day. One of the greatest live performances in history.

[@Jon_from_LI]

What do you mean "one of"?

[@seaoc6578]

@@Jon_from_LI I'd say Metallica's performance in Moscow in '91 definitely rivals it

[@AlienNationLiveEvents]

It was a great performance on the day, and Queen always were exceptional. I saw them many times from Wembley to Rio, so a huge Queen fan, and though no U2 fan, it was they that played the most memorable set and actually "stole the show" this day.

[@TheSuperkooz]

THE greatest live performance in history

[@garth56]

@@seaoc6578 Not even close

[@1autocadman]

We miss you Freddie, every day

[@ingobordewick6480]

"And what instrument are you playing?" Freddie: "I'll play the audience, darling."

[@theobserver2267]

A microphone stand in one hand, the audience in the other.

[@nickschnider9191]

Wish I could like this twice

[@TrianglesAndCircles]

So Freddy...awesome perspective.

[@metaluna72]

Another iconic Freddie quote: "Because I'm a musical prostitute my dear" It is such an incredible pity that he is no longer with us.

[@EricZ1982]

@AileenSenpai if your enjoy this Live Aid Performance, You should check out Led Zeppelins Live Aid Reunion Performance too.

[@jermbug83]

Queen were the only band at Live Aid who understood the assignment and played their greatest songs instead of promoting new/unreleased songs

[@MichaelB769]

Mostly. 'Radio Gaga' and 'Hammer To Fall' were, at the time, from their latest album, 'The Works,' as was 'Is This the World We Created?, which Freddie and Brian came out later to perform.

[@AdamJackson-k9c]

Dire Straits, on just before Queen, also basically did a quick greatest hits. Two bands at the top of their game.

[@juu4524]

@@MichaelB769 radio gaga was already a hit before, hammer to fall was really the only not a hit song that was played

[@Nikioko]

@@juu4524 And yet, Hammer to Fall is considered as one of the best Queen songs nowadays.

[@MichaelB769]

@@juu4524 Correct. Someone said they didn't play anything new and I correctly corrected that.

[@elarsh24]

Queen is the only band in the world where every member has written at least three number ones. The whole band is in the Songwriter's Hall of Fame. "Killer Queen" has a "Bohemian Rhapsody" feel.

[@leslieporter9228]

Yes "Killer Queen" is what kicked off their careers! There were great songs before that but none got much attention! Sad we lost Freddie so young, he had so much more to give!

[@Twistypoo]

Check out the Bohemian Rhapsody, Killer Queen, March of the Black Queen medley from the Odeon in 1975.. it’s incredible.

[@jdn645]

I didn't know that, so thanks for sharing. Queen was the truest definition of the word "band."

[@haydendegrow945]

78,000 people, 1 voice to command them all. Freddie Mercury is the true, and ONLY, Rock GOD

[@Isleofskye]

Officially 78,000 lol. I know there was no one behind the stage and on part of the sides but those terraces and seats held 100,000 at the old Wembley and THEN add ALL the audience on the pitch. lol

[@MarkGriffin-h2f]

@@Isleofskye 120k there

[@RoverWaters]

@@Isleofskye stop inflating numbers 80k was maximum that stadium got at concerts

[@Isleofskye]

@@MarkGriffin-h2f Much more like it,my friend.

[@Isleofskye]

@@RoverWaters As I said: " I know there was no one behind the stage and on part of the sides but those terraces and seats held 100,000 at the old Wembley and THEN add ALL the audience on the pitch. "...........logic tells us it was bearer 100K....

[@terpcj]

After this, the next must-see is obviously "Somebody to Love" live Montreal 1981. A big help to Freddie, whose instrument was the audience, was that the audience wasn't watching the show on a six-inch screen, they were watching the actual show -- instead of being detached from it, they were part of it. Queen was great. Queen with an audience was grand.

[@Nathanrichards1370]

​@TE-LE--Official_AileenSenpaiwhat a song to end with

[@mrgraham5521]

"Queen was great, Queen with an audience was grand. " Knowing the true definition of the word grand, that is the best quote I have ever heard about a band. So accurate.

[@glenmartin7978]

Considering he had Throat Nodules and damaged Vocal cords because of an infection in his throat at the time this was recorded and the Doctors advised him not to perform, I think his voice held up really well

[@richardchocolas8800]

Queen's performance is so ICONIC nothing will ever top it

[@filmcrew3531]

Was fourteen when I saw this, I snuck downstairs to watch this at the basement TV. I watched most of LIVEAID and this was the performance that killed me. I am still dead from this. Queen RULES! Love Freddie where ever you are!

[@jeromemilne561]

I tuned in live aid to watch the Black Sabbath reunion with Ozzie. This performance of Queen was the best of all the acts in attendance

[@blindeyedog01]

Same! After Queen we went to the beach. Bowie -- who I also love -- was next. We knew he wouldn't top this. ❤❤

[@CBGB_1977]

Cool thing: Princess Diana and a very young Prince William were there. They are stage right in the balcony area. Diana & Freddie were friends. ❤👑

[@benmason9755]

The two "cops" at the start were Mel Smith and Griff Rhys Jones, a famous comedy double act at the time known as Smith & Jones, who "MC'd" the entire show at Wembley by performing these little skits to introduce each group (as well as giving the roadies time to change out the set-up for each act befrore they took the stage).

[@terryteed1903]

Alas, Smith and Jones.😅

[@phila3884]

They were the perfect intro.

[@terolah]

No-one seems to get that Status Quo -joke though…

[@RoastLambShanks]

@@terolah I think you have to be British and of the right generation, to get the context.

[@Nancy-beepbeep]

@@terolahStatus Quo wasn’t a thing in the States. I have watched a zillion reactions and haven’t seen any one get comment

[@greghaendel6667]

Legend has it that when Queen finished their set, Elton John was backstage and said "You bastards just stole the show!" 🤘

[@NickHunter]

Everyone said that :)

[@shopldt538]

@@NickHunter It was Bowie after Queen

[@chada7094]

The way Freddie had the audience in the palm of his hand and repeating after him. What a performance. The moves, the charisma, the stage presence, you can't teach it. Never be another like him .

[@dave30076]

Especially amazing, as this wasn't a Queen audience. Most were there for the other more current, popular bands. Yet he took them and used the audience as he needed.

[@daveloboda1769]

Bear in mind that Freddie was advised by doctors not to appear that day because of throat problems. He then produced a performance like this, that is how good he was. THE best frontman of any band ever.

[@horstschafer1839]

He got you so emotional, because he said the truth. They were the champions of their time. And for me as an 52 old, they still are and will forever be.

[@bloodymarvelous4790]

Man, you're old. I'm only 50.

[@Raymail-tj4cf]

This is arguably considered the best live Rock Performance of all time.

[@NickHunter]

No one's arguing :)

[@professorbugbear]

I doubt many would honestly argue this. haha

[@andrewspooner8146]

I don't want to argue about it but I'm happy to discuss. Pink Floyd Pulse tour. Whilst not as entertaining in the sense Freddy is in stage the music is majestic and the theatrical lights are amazing. Just throwing that one out there.

[@guifire9747]

@@andrewspooner8146 In terms of stage presence, Robbie Williams in Knebworth is legendary too, but yeah, Queen and Freddie had it all

[@lsaria5998]

For overall atmosphere maybe, but for sheer musical virtuosity nothing I've seen comes close to Alchemy Live.

[@waynecooper4269]

Still to this day THE greatest frontman I’ve ever seen live, nobody commanded an audience quite like Freddie, and I too get emotional every time I watch this

[@libormacat8950]

Robbie Williams can command an audience like that

[@waynecooper4269]

@@libormacat8950 oh dear, best not play with anything sharp

[@guifire9747]

@@waynecooper4269 I mean, he's not wrong, in terms of stage presence and commanding the audience Robbie is one of the best in history, if he's not Freddie, he's not far behind, tho to be fair, Robbie isn't a frontman, he's a solo artist (in his prime at least) so you're still right anyway

[@jhcatering872]

Robbie is just a Freddie imitator. He even takes the mic stand around with him when on stage, which is a signature of freddie

[@guifire9747]

@@jhcatering872 It's more of an hommage than an imitation, both are british, of course Robbie would have been influenced by the greatest frontman to ever lived , But Robbie's doing his own thing most of the time because what he's doing must feat the song, dude won't have the same vibe singing Angels or Let me Entertain You the same way Bohemian Rapsody and We Will Rock You needs different approach And i mean charisma is something that can't be taught, both have it, but imitation Freddie won't give someone charisma

[@vinniedixon1140]

The GOAT 20 mins in rock history by the GOAT band with the GOAT frontman. Enough said. Aileen I cannot recommend highly enough you watch some full Queen concerts, Live in Montral 1981, Live in Milton Keynes 1982 & Live at Wembley 1986 are three of the best you'll ever see. When it comes to their songs there are so many, especially ones that get missed and are so underrated. The best thing to do is start at the beginning and work your way through as you'll get the full extent of their diversity and versatility and the way they evolved through time.

[@kennywilkus1632]

Almost 40 yrs and this performance still gives me goosebumps! U2 was suppose to be the main attraction but Freddie and company stole the show! They came out in basic street clothes as opposed to their normal flashy look. They let the music, and Freddie’s aura, do the talking! If there was one place I would want to go to if time travel was possible. It would be this moment!

[@wilsonwarner6903]

Absolutely

[@philliplewis8006]

Hi Aileen, i would firstly like to say what a great Reactionist you are. I do believe you are one of the best. Secondly what can you say about Freddie and Brian May, Roger Taylor, John Deacon, one of the best bands and superb song writing. Such a shame he lost his life well before his time. Very Kind regards from GB ,England, Birmingham, Peaky Blinders Country.

[@shaunorsler9851]

The crazy little thing called love song he allegedly wrote in 10 minutes while having a bath listening to Elvis...Freddies little Elvis trubute.

[@argantyr5154]

I was about to say, that when he sang Crazy little thing called Love it reminded me of Elvis.

[@juliewaters-sr4kt]

And Brian May plays 3 different guitars on the set.

[@BillKrayer12thMan]

He also wrote "Bicycle Race" in the bathtub whilst looking out the window and seeing the annual naked bicycle race that ran past his flat.{Queen fanatic here in Seattle 😊}

[@BillKrayer12thMan]

​@@juliewaters-sr4kt And that's *Sir* Brian May to you 😁 (he's a Professor of Astrophysics, PhD)

[@andriealinsangao613]

​@@BillKrayer12thManEh, shouldn't it be SIR Dr. Brian May? 😁

[@serpayoung]

The Greatest 20 minutes in Musical History We lost a legend who shared SO much with us. Thank You Freddie

[@neillenet291]

There is actually 1 more song, Brian and Freddie did an acoustic song later in the show in the evening.

[@celtasnake]

Yep. "Is this the world we created?"

[@Nathanrichards1370]

​@@celtasnakeBrian be killing it on stage

[@Arthur.in.the.Fridge]

​@@Nathanrichards1370 I thought he did rather well old thing. 🇬🇧

[@thegeekeasy1]

That man was the best. Can you imagine the sensation of being able to control a crowd like that? It must be addicting.

[@celestialmanrichard8846]

Well said and completely true

[@lashutterbug]

"Everyone there was probably waiting for Queen." Actually, that wasn't a Queen audience, they were there for all of the acts, such as Dire Straits, a reunited Who, Phil Collins, Status Quo, U2, David Bowie, Elton John, Paul McCartney and so much more. Queen was actually at one of the low points in their career at the time, so the fact that they pulled off one of the greatest audience responses of all time is nothing less than miraculous.

[@Nathanrichards1370]

​@TE-LE--Official_AileenSenpai I could watch this over and over again R.I.P Freddie absolute legend

[@diptastik5651]

They were on a mid tour break !!!!

[@inarar5334]

Don't go by the movie. For as much as they recreated what it looked like, they got very little around it right. Just regarding the band itself, they never had a falling out like that. They were a late add to the bill, yes, but they weren't rusty.

[@Panda_man..]

@@inarar5334they certainly weren’t rusty as they had just come off a tour only month or so prior

[@linusromey561]

No one there that day bought a ticket to see Queen. The event was sold out before Queen's participation was announced.

[@MsBananasmel]

There will never be another Freddie. Absolute one off special amazing person.

[@metoo7557]

Also for this concert Queen was a last minute surprise addition. no one who bought tickets, bought them to see Queen cos they didn't know they'd be there. They bought them for the various other announced bands.. But once Queen hit the stands, they were ALL Queen fans.

[@scottclark7309]

Queen left their imprint on the world and will continue to do so for generations to come. R.I.P FREDDIE WE MISS YOU WE HEAR YOU SINGING FROM HEAVEN. GOD BLESS YOU FREDDIE

[@raethdarkflame1292]

Good day to drop this video. April 16, 1974 was the first time Queen performed a live concert in the United States.

[@MichaelB769]

This happened on my 16th birthday; I've never gotten a better present

[@RockyBobbieBuster]

Next you need to watch the green day crowd whilst waiting for green day to appear on stage singing bohemian rhapsody, it's from 2017 and it's in the UK (Sheffield I think)

[@riwl1]

If you haven't reacted to the Queen song " Somebody To Love " yet you should react to the live Performance of that song Live in Montreal 1981 its one of the Best Live Performances of any band ive ever seen.

[@Davey_bfg71]

Fun fact for those not born or even thought of at this time (not me, I was in my mid teens at the time lol) but the now iconic arm stretch and clapping from the crowd during Radio Ga-ga is derived from the official music video for Radio Ga-ga and another fun fact, all the extras in the video were members of the then Queen fan club, the band announced through the media that they needed extras for a video shoot and all who were free to attend were welcome. And remember Live Aid was not a Queen-only gig, in fact by the time Queen took the stage the show had been running about 6-7 hours already. It featured dozens and dozens and dozens of acts AND it was two simultaneous shows, Wembley Stadium London and JFK Stadium, Philadelphia. All to raise awareness and vast sums of money for the crippling FAMINE spreading through Ethiopia, Africa at the time. The first response to this famine as reported by the BBC in the fall of 1984 was for Bob Geldof & Midge Ure to form a SUPERGROUP called Band Aid to record an original song called Do They Know It’s Christmas? They gathered as many of the top British and European artists of the time to record it and thought they might raise perhaps 70-100K from record sales. They actually raised 8 MILLION!! This record was no.1 for about 6 weeks in the UK, In around March of 1985 the USA responded with the charity record We Are The World (top US artists under the name USA FOR AFRICA). Following the success of both records BG & MU then organised the Live Aid concerts. Between the London & Philadelphia shows there were around 200,000 attending and although TV satellites were still in their infancy over 1 billion watched worldwide. It was a pretty big deal at the time! 😊

[@metoo7557]

This is arguably one of the most iconic rock performances ever.

[@jbearclowater]

I don't think there's much argument! This is definitely one of the greatest and most iconic performances of all time.

[@paulsuter5816]

Without a doubt the greatest rock vocalist that has ever lived. No other rock singer can match his technical ability and his energy. Not a single person.

[@Nebulasecura]

Agreed. Even Steve Perry In his prime couldn't hold a candle to the sheer frontmanship and Charisma freddie had. And that's saying something!

[@billiam2631]

The fact that this was in the mid 80s and you can still just feel the excitement and the greatness of this band is just shows how awesome they were !!! Plus you weren't even born yet ❤❤❤ the definition of classic

[@albertspillane2831]

Yes Aileen, he's gone but he lives on through his iconic music 🎶 🎵

[@hibuy100]

Freddie was asked what his favorite instrument was, his reply "the audience, darling, the audience."

[@TheCornishCockney]

Crazy Little Thing Called Love was Queens tribute to Elvis,and Freddie even mimicked him.

[@stern12akachris32]

Live AID was at two locations Wembley and JFK In Phily . A billion people watching on live stream . Most of the Bands had no idea how to play a Stadium crowd and were Average at best . Queen was extremely prepared and put on what I call the Greatest Live performance ever. They owned the stage and they audience

[@brotherkhrayn3525]

Not live stream, just on the tv and on radio

[@uweneudecker5078]

No autotune, just pure talent!

[@auroraeventservicesukltd1059]

@aileensenpai This was the very first concert I ever went to. I was 13 years old and lived 8 miles from Wembley Stadium. I’m now 52 and have been to hundreds of Concerts and festivals and have NEVER experienced anything like Queen at Live Aid ever since. 72,000 people, no phones, all just living in the moment, experiencing the music and the enormity of what we were experiencing. The noise was deafening. Something I’ll never forget.

[@jonathanbradley4821]

One of the greatest live bands giving their greatest performance at the greatest concert ever. We miss you Freddie!

[@CelticSaint]

I was very lucky to see Freddie's last concert with Queen at Knebworth Park, 4th August 1986. It was a wonderful experience.

[@dbradx]

Freddie had a serious flu and was sick as a dog, so sick that the doctor on site recommended that he not perform- but he's Freddie, so he just went out and delivered a performance for the frikking ages. I remember watching this live on TV and being blown away - lots of great performances that day, but none as incredible as this. Great choice, and awesome reaction as always - much love from Canada!

[@NecramoniumVideo]

No, he was not sick that day, he only had a mild throat infection, the doctor advised him for that reason not to sing.

[@GollumHatesNastyChips]

No he had laryngitis… still crazy performance

[@markwilliams7712]

God himself couldn't have stopped Freddie from performing that day.

[@happyninja42]

I think a few of the reasons that Queen, and Freddie were so captivating, is as follows: 1. Freddie, as you said, just has a very charismatic stage persona. He puts it out there and lets his entire body resonate with energy and hype. Which in a big crowd, helps people SEE him and feel engaged, but also it helps to transfer that energy to the crowd. 2. Freddie directly and actively engaged the audience regularly. In the singsong call and response thing he loved to do, which always works. To get the crowd to feel directly connected and engaged with the band always makes the performance that much more enjoyable. Because it shifts the dynamic from a passive, observational experience, to a dynamic, interactive one. And any time you can get a crowd of people to feel engaged with each other, that they are part of a greater whole, in a fun way, it always translates to enjoyment. 3. Their songs are simple, direct, and easy to sing. They are structured in a way that is easy for pretty much anyone to pick up quickly upon first hearing, sing along to without needing any vocal training, and are simply fun and memorable songs. They are, as someone on NPR once said that I found really accurate, an Anthem Band. They play songs that specialize at being played in public, to a large crowd, with the purpose of getting the crowd to sing along. To me, those are the main traits, that have allowed Queen to endure well beyond Freddie's death, and to still be so powerful, that simply just piping their songs over an audience PA before someone else's concert, is enough to make the entire crowd sing in unison to it.

[@rudymorganti7155]

And dont forget,it was not even a Queen concert. Just epic. Thank for the trip on memory lane.💯❤️🤘🇮🇹

[@philipmulcahy7234]

That's something that some reactors miss, this was not a Queen concert but it was Live Aid one of the greatest music events ever and Queen stole the show.

[@MarkL1968]

And a lot of people don’t realize that Freddie was getting over a bout of laryngitis from the week prior to this show. His doctor recommended he not perform to save his voice. So, vocally, he wasn’t at 100% for this performance and still absolutely killed it!

[@rudymorganti7155]

@@MarkL1968 💯💯💯💯

[@Nathanrichards1370]

​@@philipmulcahy7234but queen stole the show nobody stared giving money until they came on I wish I was born then

[@Nathanrichards1370]

​@@MarkL1968true R.I.P Freddie true legend

[@rhapsodyyy18]

REACTION QUEEN SONG, KILLER QUEEN, DON'T STOP ME NOW, BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY, SOMEBODY TO LOVE ❤

[@stevenhaffner3299]

I watched this live on tv. I was 20 years old. Part of the soundtrack of my life.

[@Danno1983]

@stevenhaffer3299 so waz I Gen x Rocked

[@MafuthaOne]

2 things,, Freddie's doctor recommended he not perform but he did for the fans plus the sound level was higher because the sound man worked with Queen in the past and chose to make this performance the best. Also they came back a plated on more song. You missed that.

[@geecee310]

Fun fact: Freddie Mercury hosted a fancy dress party at his house. The instruction to guests was to dress as your favourite person from all time. Freddie appeared to his waiting guests after some time, dressed as…wait for it…Freddie Mercury! 😄

[@dinobravo852]

It was not at his house, but in Munich for the filming of his 39th birthday 😉

[@OperationRedWingsarchive]

​@@dinobravo852I thought that was a black and white dress theme. And it was passed off as a "business expense" lol

[@motleykube]

I watched it live. I love how they closed the show, and had the best part of the show, just over 20 mins of pure great music!

[@americathisweek.6077]

Freddie was actually sick with Flu. And Queen delivered what many experts call the greatest live performance ever. Amazing

[@GollumHatesNastyChips]

No it was laryngitis

[@diptastik5651]

What experts ??????????

[@rexrogers1859]

​@@diptastik5651 Great comment, lil fella!!! I bet you thought that up all by yourself with no help!! Bravo!!

[@papercup2517]

@@rexrogers1859 Hey, it was a fair question! 🙂

[@gvigary1]

The way he paused slightly and took a breath before that final note, you can see the determination to make it absolutely perfect, despite it obviously being a strain. Nailing it when it counts. That's what being a star is all about.

[@catherinedudley-fr3re]

LOVED your reaction. Would love if you did more Queen. I highly recommend Somebody to love live in Montreal 1981 (which is my favorite live video of theirs), and Love of my life live in rio or at Wembley if you want to hear the audience sing back.

[@ukpolska5335]

I was there that day in 1985 when I was 28 years old and we stood not far from the front. Standing there for 12 hours was crazy but the experience was out of this world. Queen just blew it away and everyone was talking about them for weeks after, and I felt so privileged to have seen them plus many more amazing bands that glorious day. 😁

[@skeeterb2006]

I don't know how many times that I've watched that video, but I always laugh when he does the "Call and Response" with the crowd. He really had the incredible ability to command the crowd, young and old. Even today many years after he passed away in 1991, he still has a huge legion of fans loyal to him and Queen. He was an amazing performer that had a charisma that enchanted everyone that watched a Queen performance. Freddy, John Deacon (Bass), Roger Taylor (Drums), and Bryan May (Guitar) really rocked that stage that day.

[@richardchocolas8800]

Live Aid was from both London and Philadelphia over 250,000 saw at the stadiums but it was watched by over 1 billion people via satellite.

[@martinhotze4917]

Phil Collins took the Concorde after his London gig there to play in Philadelphia.

[@RoverWaters]

lol there weren't 1 billion satellite receivers in 1985 stop spreading false information 1.5 billion people was the broadcast reach estimation given by BBC. not actual viewers number

[@jrobertlysaght]

Freddie was the first time I remember losing an artist I loved. And to this day, it is the one that still hurts the worst. What a gift to have lived to experience Queen, and what a terrible loss that we lost Freddie so young.

[@renedavids6154]

One of their best live performances. And Freddy was really a stage animal.

[@jome7382]

You really need to do 'Somebody to love' live in Montreal 81, it will blow your mind. Hopefully swiftly followed by Freddie and Montserrat Cabelle singing Barcelona, Golden boy, How can I go on... Just so wonderful ❤❤❤❤

[@MartinMcMartin]

Elvis was the king, but Freddie was the Queen of rock.

[@Geekgalaxy869]

Fun fact: The song "crazy little thing called love" the lyrics came to Freddy when he was taking a bath proof that inspiration comes in unique places😅, and Freddy whenever he performed it live always He did so by joining Brian on guitar as detractors at the time did not believe that he composed the song on guitar or that he actually played guitar, So like a fuck you with style whenever Fred performed the song he did it playing the guitar And yes the style of the song is inspired by the rockability style that became iconic in the Elvis Presley era.

[@spacebearsven7130]

I remember watching the concert so well! It was simulcast on radio and TV here in Germany (I think it was done this way everywhere in the world). I taped some of the audio on cassette and I was totally blown away by so many bands and singers, BUT Queen stole everybodys show! I wasn't even a fan of Queen (I knew about them and liked some of their songs, but that was about that). After this mini concert, I was, and still am, a fan of this band! What an outstanding performance! You have asked us - and yourself - why you are getting so emotional. The answer is, that this feeling is absolutely normal when you're watching musical greatness like this! I still get chills while watching this and I hope these feelings will never stop! Awesome reaction again, Aileen!

[@joergalbrecht8234]

I also did spend the whole concert in front of the TV. And Queen was the greatest Act. But i was at this time a great fan und this i am still now. i feel so honored that ive seen them live in Mannheim in 1986. it was the greatest live act that i have seen live.

[@Erfedwe]

Correct. The concert was simulcast all over the world. I was glued to the television here in the US.

[@spacebearsven7130]

@@joergalbrecht8234 Unfortunately, I was never able to see them live in person, so I am a little jealous. ;-) Just kidding! That must have been a brilliant experience!

[@Sarahbuildsstepsequencers]

72,000 people were there. 1.9 billion watched on tv!! So much joy, wonder, love and excitement. And we all sat lovingly, watching our beloved Freddie and *QUEEN.*

[@THEREALBONGMAN]

Live Rock n Roll the way it should be...Mercury in concert was him at his absolute Best...He performed like no other. He LOVED his fans...I think maybe you get so emotional cause in realty you know we lost him far too soon...

[@jbearclowater]

This concert always makes me emotional too. No one could control an audience like Freddie Mercury, even decades later through a recording.

[@dazsmith3201]

Freddie had a throat infection that day and doctors advised him not to perform....and he STILL sounds like this!!

[@drewtorr]

That's why he didn't hit the high notes in We Are The Champions... but Roger and Brian were there to help out

[@Q-bazZ]

@@drewtorr Actually, no... He DID hit that tenor high C on a chorus, there...

[@macmcgee5116]

You do hear his voice crack a few times. Especially during Hammer to Fall as well as We are the Champions. But it was always quick and he recovered mahvelously each time.

[@smsxiv-nz6dq]

Throat Infection? Wasn't that within months of hearing he was dying of AIDS?

[@macmcgee5116]

@@smsxiv-nz6dq the timeline from the movie was way different from real life. The Live Aid concert was in 1985, Freddy wasn't diagnosed until 1987. (From what I could find). Although it is said that some symptoms started appearing as early as 1982. So it's possible that the throat infection could have been part of some early symptoms, but they wouldn't have known it at the time.

[@MichaelB769]

There was a little bit more, technically; Freddie and Brian came back out together a few hours later and did one more song, 'Is This the World We Created?' Some videos of the Live Aid performance include it at the end. Definitely worth checking out!

[@IsraelBenitez-ev7mj]

Not only did Freddie have the greatest vocal range of any frontman but he was part opera singer with the huge gravitas of his performances and part stage actor with all the emotions he was conveying on stage...he was a rock front man, opera singer and theatre actor all in one guy

[@FrowningIke]

Ask any other band or artist about the Live Aid concerts, UK & US, who stole the show? It is always unanimous, and it's not Queen. It's Freddie! If not #1, subjectively of course, it's top 3 all day of the greatest ever live performances! A literal icon.

[@russellperrett6828]

Great reaction. I feel emotional every time I watch their live performances. I was lucky enough to be at Knebworth in August 1986 for their last ever tour performance with Freddie. It was an astonishing performance that day too, in front of 140,000 fans. It will live with me forever. Freddie was a force of nature, there will never be another like him. You should react to more of their live stuff, it's an awesome ride. I'd suggest pretty much anything from the Queen Rocks Montreal performance in 1981. "Somebody to love" and "Save Me" are spell-binding performances in particular. Any of their live performances are great though.

[@larryholmes69]

Oh man, what can I say, except this brings back so many incredible memories of what turned out to be one of the best days of my life. I was there in Wembley stadium 6 rows back from the stage, standing next to the girl in the black top on the guys shoulders. When I look at my 32 year old self rockin out with the rest of the crowd, I get goosebumps all over. I've witnessed many great live performances from top bands over the years, but this one by Queen has to be the best ever. Thank you so much for this reaction, now I'm going to sit and watch it all over again.

[@richardkafka5625]

Queen was actually a last minute addition to this. And Freddy was advised by his doctor not to perform due to a throat infection. There will never be another Freddie!

[@cookiemonster1409]

The way Freddie holds the crowd during the notes is so iconic that they used Freddie again during the London Olympics ceremony with Jessie J then performing with Brian and Roger for a Queen medley, even the spectre of Freddie can still hold the crowd, more than 20 years after his passing Truly a once in a lifetime performer and unlikely to be matched

[@artsilva]

It was said that Freddie was battling a flu bug or something on this day yet he still killed it. Iconic performance that day.

[@cherylphillips1361]

I physically cannot watch this without getting emotional. I was 10 years old. Don't forget that the WORLD was watching this live on TV. Including a little girl, in California. Freddie passing was my first heartbreak.

[@martinjrgensen8234]

There are so many stories about this concert, that it is difficult to parse what is legend and what is true. But Queen spent a long time perfecting their set, to maximize what they could do in the time allowed. At this point in time, they weren’t as popular anymore, so they weren’t a mainline act for this concert, but they crushed it so hard, that there was a massive surge in donations, their popularity skyrocketed again. There are numerous anecdotes about the singer following jokingly exclaiming “you bastards, how am I supposed to follow THAT” 😂

[@robertorossi7695]

the 22 minutes that changed the essence of live concerts forever....🥰🥰🥰 if all this doesn't move you it means you don't have a soul.....

[@johanbruinsma8243]

no autotune , no stageshow , no special effects, just pure talent from everyone in the band. Freddy commanded the audience just wearing a pair of jeans and a white shirt . just imagine being backstage and knowing that your going on next.

[@jbearclowater]

According to rumours, before David Bowie went on stage as the next act, he cursed out Freddie saying "How the hell am I supposed to follow that?"

[@tanterliser]

The guitar Brian May plays was made at home with his dad and Brian because they could not afford to buy a new guitar . He still plays it today . He calls it the red special. It is very precious to Brian.

[@The_Keh27]

This is one of those performances where I'd attend if I had access to a time machine. It's always a blast to watch it. Freddie was 100% pure Charisma and talent!

[@ronniedeen3651]

Like all good things, on Freddie we depend. The fact he turned a singing exercise into a crowd interaction is legendary. It's natural to get emotional about Freddie. It's always bittersweet watching him. Such a talent. A light. With the sadness that he's gone from us.

[@Jon_from_LI]

I like how so many people are suggesting that this was definitely "one of" the greatest live performances of any band. 72,000 people tuning to every single word from Freddie's lips. It's not just "one of".

[@bats__]

Theres nothing more amazing than feeling emotionally overwhelmed by music. Its so powerful.

[@jamesmerry6725]

One of, if not THE, greatest performances of all time. I get chills every time I watch it.

[@michaelsandar]

The sheer command over and audience in this video. He was a treasure

[@-M0LE]

The energy from this performance and crowd is so powerful you can feel this through your soul through the screen

[@andreledauphin]

Thank you for your wonderful reaction of Queen . At the end in back stage David Bowie had to go after Queen he told Freddy " bastard what should i do now you stole the show ."

[@Erfedwe]

Bowie did follow Queen on stage (and also had an amazing performance), but it was Elton John who reportedly said this to Freddie Mercury.

[@enigma7791]

So long Freddie...you rocked us that day!

[@ericbatemanrodgers]

I was there that day Queen definitely stole the show ever though Freddie wasn't at his best through having a bad throat

[@markmyers6472]

His doctor warned him to not perform and risk his voice.... this is the result.

[@amoco14]

Freddie Mercury was an incredible Singer Performer, Great band.

[@Nueral]

Loved this our queen reacting to queen amazing reaction

[@BriRog68]

Somebody To Love live Montreal 1981 is mandatory! A phenomenal performance! Ranked as the second greatest live performance with Live Aid still holds the title after 38 years of the greatest live performance in rock history.❤️👑🎸🎤🥁🎹

[@norwaypete]

Every single member wrote a platinum hit and is in the song writers hall of fame, the entire band is so talented

[@meadmaker4525]

To this day, this is the live performance every musician/singer/band on the planet dreams of matching. Not sure anyone's gotten there yet. Close maybe, but this performance might just be untouchable.