Queen, Somebody To Love - A Classical Musician’s First Listen and Reaction

#queen #greddiemercury #johndeacon #rogertaylor #brianmay
Not a cry to BE loved, but rather, expressing the deep desire TO love. And what a great song! In fact, you will see that this listening experience further deepened my appreciation for Queen’s abilities as a band, as musicians, and as performers.
Here’s the link to the original song by Queen:
• Queen - Somebody To Lo...
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Amy Shafer, LRSM, FRSM, RYC, is a classical harpist, pianist, and music teacher, Director of Piano Studies and Assistant Director of Harp Studies for The Harp School, Inc., holds multiple degrees in harp and piano performance and teaching, and is active as a solo and collaborative performer. With nearly two decades of teaching experience, she teaches privately, presents masterclasses and coaching sessions, and has performed and taught in Europe and USA.
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Credits: Music written and performed by Queen
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[@bc2752]

You are the best review channel I have seen on KZbin.?Thank you and please keep going.

[@clbcreations]

Agreed. There are others who try and end up looking like they're playing a part and are not genuine. Amy is truly genuine, honest and knowledgeable. This is why i am hooked on her videos. thank you Amy :)

[@bettybaby63]

lol holy cannoli the length of this reaction & I’m here for it. I know you don’t necessarily do it, but live of this song is a must.

[@bushchat28d]

I'd agree but you should check out "The Charismatic Voice" which is similar but from the perspective of an opera singer :-)

[@bc2752]

I got into watching reactions due to vin and sori because they are Uber Christian reactions to “death metal “ she knows her musicality

[@sitnhere]

@@bushchat28d I follow her also.......she is one of my other favorites. My musical training is zilch, but my love for music and understanding is great.

[@blcksbth]

this song, live in montreal 1981, absolutely fantastic

[@StevePayne-h7g]

Nearly 200 songs by Queen , not a bad one among them. They are the background music to my life and nobody that I've never even met , have had a such i big effect on me. Ive thoroughly enjoyed your analysis and joy in discovering Queen all these years later. Thank you

[@jimcarter2092]

Yes! I can agree with that, no bad songs Even love "hot space" it was different in Ways but still quality and they were a great part of my life also, and a learning experience as a musician, I really enjoy Her reactions and personal analysis From her knowledge of music. 😊

[@petrared100]

After so much negativity, ignorance and bias against Queen over the years by ill-informed, pompous critics , I'm so glad a musician with the pedigree and insight that Amy possesses is showcasing their unbelievably rich, exotic and wonderful music. Know any critics music? Thought not....

[@letsgomets002]

Punk music...is the response to Queen ,other progressive rock ,...which got away from pure Rock n Roll

[@potterwalker4823]

We could play the music but never had a singer to fill it out, so it became rehearsal fun.Never heard any musician denegrate Queen.🎼🎼🎼

[@secondroad11]

Robert Palmer and Crissie Hynde come to mind.

[@happypuppy-i4k]

I love hearing why people don't like something. You need to listen to people who don't like what you like. "Know any critics music?". Amy Shafer is a critic and I don't know any of her music. You aren't saying anything with that question.

[@SajidWaikhom]

Never seen anyone badmouthing Queen’

[@davecostello560]

I do hope Brian, Roger and John get told by someone to watch this analysis. It will give them a true sense of their legacy, and how a deep respect and appreciation for Queen's music will only continue to grow and grow as the years pass.

[@69Mucci]

I think Freddie would have been really moved to hear all of her thoughts on his music.

[@justmeonly986]

​@@69MucciI'm missing Freddie so much

[@jamesrasmussen7036]

Come for the reaction … Stay for the master class in music composition ❤❤❤

[@jaernihiltheus7817]

Queen is nothing if not pure joy

[@Esopusfloater]

Your enthusiasm is infectious; I bet your students have such fun!!!

[@paulrichardson5892]

i love the way queen always interweave and layer the choral elements of their music. magic. always magic.

[@Mrvictorfernandes]

If only we had more conservatory music teachers that could showcase and embrace this type of music with such open minded passion and quirky curiosity without possessing any fixed favoritism or bias. Ms. Shafer's balance of contextual understanding in her musical analysis - mixed with her wide-eyed, almost child-like wonder at the music itself - warms my insides and fills my eyes with happy tears... Godspeed, Amy and Vlad...

[@Jude_196]

I ECHO your remark, MrVictor!! GREAT REACTION, AMY & VLAD!! HUGS from Texas!!❤❤❤

[@SamLovesMovies25]

For me, this really is one of the most incredible songs EVER made

[@michavandam]

3:29 Hi Amy, you wonder why the press talks about "gimmicks" when they discuss Queen. Well, you've got to know that the music critics hated Queen back then! They were into very simple Punk music and other very repetetive Rock. Queen was too theatrical for the critics, they didn't find Queen 'cool'. They prefered 'street credibility' over compositions. It was often more or less grudgingly that they admitted that Queen's music had musical sophistication and substance to it. Fortunately the public decided otherwise, and made sure that Queen became superstars.

[@G-MAN1958]

Best Queen song ever!🏆

[@carlgroves8072]

The call and response is almost pentecostal; the response is supporting the singer/speech-giver by providing him with the mental strength to continue the emotional journey that is the sermon!

[@michaeldance6879]

Freddie was just such a brilliant composer

[@joyceharkin3641]

His piano playing is fabulous too but nobody ever seems to mention it!

[@billkirchgassner4996]

I didn't think that I would have an hour+ to view this, but it was worth the time.

[@5ilver42]

This song has a pushing and pulling within it musically that just feel like this sound is breathing - in and out - it has a life of it's own!

[@SirWussiePants]

You are 100% correct. Yes, Queen can be flamboyant, campy, and a touch silly (and they can truly rock in the classic sense) but that is Freddy just being Freddy. He was all of those things and he is never truly "playing a part" the way an actor may do. Everything came straight from the heart. There were times I thought the Beatles were silly for the sake of being silly. I never once felt that with Queen. I do hope you get to '39!

[@79BlackRose]

Have you listened to (and seen the video for) I'm Going Slightly Mad. That is the quintessential silly song and video.

[@ZENOBlAmusic]

@@79BlackRose It may appear that way but there was actually a darker story behind it. Freddie created the song, because one of the warnings or side effects from the Aids medication was forgetfulness and psychiatric problems. Freddie was really afraid of these side effects, so he created this more humorous song to deal with this issue, luckily it wasn't a problem for him. But the song is actually making light of a very dark situation, Freddie often took this type of approach to darker themes.

[@79BlackRose]

@@ZENOBlAmusic It is still a silly song and video.

[@iris67si]

Freddie... ❤

[@incamoran9532]

Here's something you might have missed in the live performance. The second time Freddie gets up from the piano, the lead guitarist plays a sustained note then leaves the stage. He's having some issue with his guitar. Freddie watches him leave not knowing why and has to improv till he's back, hence the audience participation. Freddie hears a few notes isolated notes from Brian - in keeping with the tune they're playing - and looks over to see Brian. Brian must give him a nod or something because Freddie immediately starts into the 10 x 'find me somebody to love' and Brian was back at the mic in time for his backing vocal. None of whatever happened detracted from the performance, even though Freddie had to unexpectedly wing it with 'I didn't see this coming" going through his mind - but I doubt whether anyone in the audience even noticed, and most who watch the live vid don't notice. I'm going to suggest another which other people might have already suggested, or which Vlad might have lined up on your list of 50. (I only found you tonight so haven't seen everything you've done.) I'm suggesting you watch Queen at the Live Aid concert in 1985 and then watch Fil on the Wings of Pegasus channel explain exactly why their performance was as it was. Btw, I know nothing about classical music but I'm loving that you're exploring Queen and you are most interesting to listen to, with your background in classical training. All the best :)

[@JK-ld8cd]

Imagine coming out with this gem right after Bohemian Rhapsody.....

[@1carusjohn32]

There are plenty of famous rock bands that can make a lot of noise, but having had the privilege of seeing Queen live many times I don't know of any 4 piece that can make an absolute orchestrated rhythmatic wall of sound that makes some sort of musical sense as well as they can live... just amazing what 4 people can do. No wonder they are considered probably the best live band ever.

[@wmason1961]

I saw them live twice. The only band that might challenge them for that title would be Rush.

[@1carusjohn32]

@@wmason1961 fair comment, but I think queen have it on the amount of diversity in their music. Always moving.. but not always good!

[@dis7817]

@@1carusjohn32 All Queens music is good! Of course this is subjective. I'm fascinated how many genres they delved into - not afraid to try anything

[@babyfacemichael1]

Well... that was just awesome, thank you Amy and a big BIG , thank you to Vlad for including the live version , a wonderful decision. It wasn`t just Vlad who was excited in anticipation. The song didn`t disappoint Amy , and the reaction didn`t disappoint us ! oh no , not at all.

[@jonathanmaybury5698]

I want to share my admiration for the band Queen, who I consider to be one of the most incredibly talented bands of all time. In my opinion, their versatility, uniqueness, and ability to play together in perfect harmony are second only to The Beatles. I believe that each member's contribution to the music is invaluable and helps propel the song forward, like perpetual motion. I particularly want to give a shout-out to John Deacon, the bassist, for his outstanding work in every song, including taking the lead in some parts, which often goes unrecognized. He is a true musical genius, just like the other band members, Freddie, Brian, and Roger. It is remarkable how every band member contributes to the momentum and keeps the song moving in the right direction. This particular song is my favourite, and it holds a lot of personal meaning for me.

[@bushchat28d]

So cool to see a classical musician utterly engrossed in the music of Queen. I had a smile on my face for the whole reaction, just awesome. I would love to see Brian, Roger and John watching your reaction Amy as I'm sure they too would have similar smiles. Well done and belated congratulations on your 100k subs milestone too :-)

[@michelhuvier7502]

. . . you have an intuition beyond the ordinary!

[@grahamokeefe9406]

There's a live version where he holds the note on "me" ("anybody find meeeeeeeeeeeeee....) for an unreasonably long time.

[@nonsuch]

Myself being an old recording/mixing engineer... it still blows me away to this day at how good the backing vocals are for the way they've recorded it. Freddie, Roger, and Brian just stood around 1 microphone, which is very hard to do, rather than recording each voice separately. Of course, they layered it many times to make it sound big and full but, their pitch is fantastic. Anytime I have a clients that want to record vocals like that, it rarely turns out how they're expecting it to. Inevitably, there's always at least one person that's out of key each pass to ruin the take. I just end up recording some of them separately and building it up from there. Queen are consummate professionals.

[@nonsuch]

​@@stacer1962 Back then, you only had 24 tracks. You did as much as you could live so you didn't have the bounce the tape as much. Freddie would always do many overdubs on his own but, groups would definitely stand around one mic often for a couple of takes if they were trying to get a choir sound out of 3-4 guys. The slight pitch variation is what makes it sound big.

[@jimcarter2092]

Yes queen backing vocals were amazing, and addition the fact each Member individually sang each note of a chord then combined it to have 3 Different voices for each note. I was always fascinated with that technique 😊

[@kendallneason3645]

Fascinating! Such talent!

[@vaughnnewman8903]

He was amazing- person, voice, performer and soul. He was gone much too soon.

[@GreatestFrontman]

Still painful… he was gone way too soon 😔💛

[@DonnaleaSpencer]

first, I want to let you know that yours is the best analysis of the song that I've heard. Yep, Freddie was accused of gimmicky or camp song writing, etc, but you know, many of his closest friends remind us that Freddie was camp when he was comfortable around them. So, he was being himself. Also, listening to Somebody To Love studio version (or watching the Official Video Version, which is the same recording) is the best way to get the introduction to the song. To hear it how Freddie planned it, rich with vocal harmonies and multi-layers. Then my next favorite is watching the version you did. While, of course in concert, Queen didn't play recordings or backup so they could not give you the multi-layer harmonies, what they did give you was straight-up knock you out of your seat performance! Freddie gets the crowd going with audience participation. Rather than hand-claps, they use drum beat and bass slaps. It's live live live. No clicks. No auto-tune. Glad you experienced both versions.

[@GuimaraesDreamers]

I'm so excited that she also saw the show in Montreal, so icing on the cake!

[@YourBeingParanoid]

Roger om Drums and vocals live is unreal when they played this live - drives the song so well and takes over the lead chorus at the end with voice reversals with Freddie - outstanding !

[@AliT0555]

So very glad you also saw the live Montreal version. Your comment about how tight and competent the band members are live on stage. Notice when Freddie gets up from the piano the second time and walks toward the front of the stage to interact with the audience, he looks back and you can briefly see Brian May walking to the back of the stage. Brian is going to repair a broken guitar string. Freddie leads Roger and John in an improvised segment to cover for Brian’s absence. The shot expands and you see John slapping the bass and you see Freddie look to the back of the stage, sees that Brian has completed his repairs and continues with the song and you see Brian come back into the shot. The band was so well rehearsed and so tight that they “communicated” with each other with little looks and was able to follow Freddie’s lead seamlessly.

[@BobbyGeneric145]

Watch The Who live... Keith moon takes cues from Pete Townsends swinging of the guitar neck and foot stomps.

[@Inverse_to_Chaos]

I think that happened in Milton Keynes during Dragon Attack. Normally, Brian May begins his solo immediately after the second verse is finished. At the Bowl, since a string on his Red Special snapped by that point in the song, he gave Deacon and Taylor an extra bar while he grabbed a replica of his guitar to resume playing. It sounds so natural that one in the crowd would fail to notice, especially since the studio recording also includes the brief break in the melody.

[@AliT0555]

@@Inverse_to_Chaos Yes, that was another incident. John was able to briefly replicate his bass solo that was on the studio version. They were so well in tune with each other that they were easily able to cover for each other.

[@SealedKiller]

Brian didn't break a string there. He is still using his red special and there's no way anyone can change a string in 10 seconds. As much as I love Queen, you're noticing things that didn't happen.

[@willchannelle4874]

Great reaction, im glad you mentioned the bass, John Deacon is such a melodic player he's up there with the best

[@stigotmarbjelland6819]

That live-performance from Canada must be one of the greatest ever! Freddie is the greatest ever, and Queen!!! I love your channel!!!

[@SpeedyVV]

Now my life is complete!

[@lindieb5278]

Freddie really loved Aretha Franklin, Brian May said 'I think he wanted to BE Aretha!' This song is in hommage to her. As everyone will say...Please, even if it's in your own time, watch the Montreal 1981 live version of this, and to get a further comparison, Milton Keynes 1982. This perfectly exemplifies how Queen never treated a song quite the same in each concert, and very rarely as it originally sounded in the studio. Thank you

[@peterwilks4391]

Montreal. I agree, but then Freddie live is always better. More... lived in? Some singers are only complete with an audience.

[@strqrt70]

Yes. The live version from Montreal is Freddie knocking it out of the park. It’s a must watch.

[@matt80535]

Watch to the end

[@Quotenwagnerianer]

Yeah, clearly someone commented without watching the entire video. ;)@@matt80535

[@lindieb5278]

​@@matt80535Yep, I posted the comment before the video came out, not thinking that the live bit would be included! So glad it was!

[@carlgroves8072]

Have you noticed the quality of the work Brian and Freddie contribute to each others compositions? This shows huge mutual respect!!

[@kendallneason3645]

I agree. The way Brian’s guitar emulates Freddie’s voice at times is underestimated brilliance. Freddie’s vocals are unmatched but Brian manages to continue his melodies with clever guitar solos.

[@stefan_becker]

This is an incredible song! One of the very best ones that Queen ever recorded.

[@chergui77]

Queen's music + Freddie Mercury's voice = PASSION ❤

[@heartoftherose]

This reaction video/music lesson picked up more than 1,000 views while I was watching it.

[@raymondstephan6234]

At 8:06 that strange high note that we can think is Brian's guitare is actualy Roger's voice doing a high "yeaaaah".

[@iziahgile5071]

Mercury's voice range was INCREDIBLE.

[@Hermmes]

The experience of facing something genuine has no substitute. To feel the inner true of another self through his art is as hard to explain as it is easy to experience.

[@howardstory1391]

FM had one of the best voices of his generation

[@BarleyC]

Thank you for this wonderful reaction, and a big thank-you to Vlad for arranging the surprise live version reaction! I had a sneaking suspicion that might happen! :) These Queen reactions have really made the weekends more enjoyable!

[@waewaepouwhare320]

I love how accomplished musicians describe a piece of music like a chef describing every flavour of a delicious meal no one else can taste or an architect describing a building no one else can envisage without drawing a picture!

[@andrewfischer8564]

ive been making this prayer since 76. still waiting

[@marcduhamel-guitar1985]

Playing an instrument well on your own is something. Playing well together with another musician is something else. Bands like Queen have musicianship on another level, and yes, that definitely shines through in the live clip.

[@tootsmcdunno5244]

I can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate your appreciation of this song! Not only does it offer a sort of validation for my deep love of Queen (not that I feel the need for that validation), but your analysis has given me an entirely new layer of appreciation for the song.

[@YourBeingParanoid]

Queen were always able to make their song so personal to the listener.

[@notanotherenigma7759]

Hi. Have you ever seen the movie Lord Of The Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings. There is a scene where Gandolf arrives and Bilbo says "Your late". Gandolf replies "A wizard is never late, or early, he arrives precisely when he means to." Queen are like that. No, there are no gimmicks. Everything is precisely where it needs to be. The call and response, sometimes the response comes before the call. They are Queen, they can do that, they make their own rules. Thank you for acknowledging John Deacon, his bass work is always brilliant. Oh, and the drum on this track is spectacular, as is the guitar! I think you might enjoy The Millionaires Walt, from the same album. There is even a little bit where Freddie speaks in a faux German accent!! And the bass on that track is beyond excellent! Edited, this is the first time I have watched you, and I just checked and found you have already done Millionaires Waltz, I'm going to watch that now!!!

[@altabox1]

Freddie's favourite Queen song. He said Somebody To Love is better created song than the Bohemian Rhapsody.

[@michaeltudyk8660]

That's like saying nothing at all.

[@fchepe8045]

56:10 if I could like this video twice, this is where ❤. A gift within a gift ! Thank you both 🙏🏾🙌🏾🎉

[@MartijnVos]

The thing I love most about this song is the constantly changing interaction between Freddie and the choir. They alternate constantly, but every time in a slightly different way. Different rhythms, sometimes call & response, sometimes emphasising, sometimes interrupting, sometimes the choir announces what the solo is going to sing, sometimes they follow him. Sometimes the solo has the lead, sometimes the choir. It keeps changing and keeps getting more and more interesting. And that live performance! Roger Taylor pulling the choir entirely on his own much of the time (sometimes with Brian May, but let's be honest, Roger did most of the work there). Roger is in my opinion the most underrated singer in rock. He s fantastic, great range, and I think he actually has a more stable, reliable voice than Freddie, though not quite that magical edge or the soul that Freddie has.

[@elbeto1975]

Nailed it! A music to be played on all eras. I really miss Freddy. Life took him too early.

[@trishlarocca]

One of my absolute favorite reactions from you. When you put your hand on your chin and just smiled. Lost in the joy and wonder of Freddy and Queen. He definitely found somebody to love in all of us loving him and his legacy. Your reaction was priceless. Thank you for all you do!

[@trishlarocca]

He did take us to church in this one. Lol

[@samsignorelli]

Even more than Bohemian Rhapsody, this song showcases Queen's incredible absolutely to craft spectacular chords.

[@marianclough8577]

Starting with the Official recording (this one) is great!! Then go to the live one in Montreal in 1981 as a follow up will please you. Every time Freddie does a concert, he sings the songs differently and the two concerts, one in Montreal and the other at Milton Keynes in 1982 are just amazing. I love watching your reactions.

[@i8granola]

Thank you Vlad for having her watch the live version also! It's one thing to make greatness on a studio track that you can do all this cool layering and retakes. It's another thing to bring it live and get the whole crowd invested. Just like going to church on Sunday!

[@itsjustmeMaryAnn]

Your explanation od Freddie’s passion and “all in” way of performing was so on point. Some are uncomfortable with it. Me…. My heart explodes with every listen ( especially live performances ). Thank you for going on this journey.

[@maryvallas772]

You very much understand Freddy already. That IS just genuinely him! He all by himself is the very definition of dynamic, and then when you add the dynamics of his amazing band mates, it is quite a lot! Quite a lot of awesome!

[@dianecourtney2724]

Don’t know how many Queen fans think of this as their favorite Queen song but I have since I first fell in love with it… and Queen and especially Freddie. Like others I keep a Top Five Queen Songs in my mind ( heart ) This song is ALWAYS number one no matter how the other 4 might change. Not sure you know this was also Freddie’s favorite song of all the songs he wrote. He had good taste 😂

[@AlineDo]

For me too. Always nr 1.

[@kendallneason3645]

I tried to do a top 10 Queen line up. I ended up with 86 songs. So much brilliance I couldn’t narrow the list. 😂❤

[@ant4307]

I could listen to her talk all day. ❤ I bet she's a fantastic music teacher.

[@joecunningham_mpls]

The gospel-religious, suitable for a church aspect of the song is perfect not just because of it’s basic sound, but also because it is, in essence, a prayer.

[@janetschulman8998]

Freddie really was always looking for that one special somebody to love. Living in a boarding school thousands of miles from his parents affecting him for the rest of his life. Yes, this is his real feelings

[@rhondapease8516]

Queen - White Queen, A Night at the Odeon - Hammersmith 1975 ❤

[@j.k.1963]

There was only one Freddie Mercury. He lived his nickname through his music with all of his passion and emotion. He must have been a very contagious person to work with. His energy fed the other bandmembers and the four of them together even rose above his sizzling energy. The sum of their parts multiplied the outcome. Mathematical this is impossible. So may we call it magic? But true magic, not the trickery by a magician, but magic that goes beyond the powers of man. It seems as if they were inspired by Freddie, and then their combined inspiration again fed them all as well. An explosion of artistry as a result. The same effect occurred when Freddie met and worked with montserrat Caballé. The utter inspiration we can witness, is so far out there. I am glad how you presented Freddie at the start of the song hitting this one note, that triggered an outpoor of emotion, so well presented within the production, arrangement of this song. It all came together here. This is why this particulair Queen song is so magical to me. Again, magic as in 'not from this world'.

[@AlineDo]

Yes, he sure was and is an inspiration. I’d like to add though that there was already magic between Brian and Roger, you can tell by listening to Smile. What a band, what talents!

[@andreakormosnekacso4804]

I was eagerly waiting for this reaction, the studio version, and thank you for the amazing surprise at the end, watching to the brilliant live performance. 😍 Freddie was a passionate guy, he was full of emotions, feelings, and he was able to set them into music, sadness, happiness, anger or the desire to love, to be loved.

[@simonk7937]

Another track that does require listening to the studio version and watching the live version, definitely Montreal .. 👌

[@shepchester3567]

Regarding his live performance. I have seen close to a dozen and each one is unique, Particularly the first minute, it just adds another layer to Freddie's immense musical talent! My favourite version is 1982 MK Bowel

[@stephanietichborne7970]

Since Amy is concentrating upon listening with her expert ear and knowledge, then at least listening to the Montreal version is well worth the experience. Freddie's performance in front of an audience always seemed to add "thousands of volts of electricity" . So Amy, I do enjoy your reactions and insights; I am not the only one who would love to see you react to the Montreal Somebody to Love, either listening, or even better watching this wonderful performance. The studio version that you are about to release your comments on is great of course.

[@stephencolbertcheese7354]

im so glad she listend 2 the studio version 1st tho

[@GuimaraesDreamers]

Live in Montreal this song sounds unique

[@Quotenwagnerianer]

And the next one who should insert their foot into their mouth and eat their words, because they are eager to jump onto videos and commenting without watching them first. If you had done that, you would not have written this comment...

[@Canucklehead557]

Absolutely. The live in Montreal 1981 version is outstanding.

[@GuimaraesDreamers]

She was able to almost guess what the official video for this song looks like, Freddie on the piano playing the opening note before starting to sing, I love this video with images from the studio

[@caroline___]

Thanks Amy and Vlad!

[@timothyjones6323]

I’m pleased to hear this was Freddie Mercury’s favorite Queen song, because it is mine, too. A perfect Queen song.

[@murrayspiffy2815]

Freddie Mercury and Queen are sort of like Cinderella. Under appreciated in the 70's - and found their full glory as the rest of civilization caught up to their 20 years ahead of them time. Now - 30 years after Queen became popular - the whole world recognizes Freddie as the greatest Rock Singer of all time - and perhaps the greatest showman ever. Freddie is simply an - ALL TIME - personality in the long-long history of the world.

[@my_stash]

Growing up as a huge rock fan, been a witness through the evolution of punk, hardcore and metal, savoured every genre and subgenre of rock music from the late 80's to the 2010's, and im proud to say my love for it all started with a single Queen record that my dad used to have.. and that vould be the first record i would play from cover to cover..

[@altabox1]

It was almost 70 minutes but I enjoyed every second. Thank You!

Hey! This time, my address is for Vlad. Thank you, man. I love you. Discovering, like Amy does, Somebody To Love by Queen without that live version would be blasphemy. As I said earlier here in comments, I believe that absolutely every song by Queen was created with the stage in mind, even if twisted and worked for the studio recordings. I wish you all the best. Cheers!

[@douglasg.9271]

I think this song is one of, if not the most beautiful rock songs ever written.

[@stuartbailey3217]

I do hope Freddy watched this wherever he is. He would definitely enjoy your response to his music!

[@ericwilliams1031]

This song can make me tear up it's so great. Its like a beautiful stream of consciousness. So glad you've heard it now. Drummer Roger Taylor is the high voice in the mix. Guitarist Brian May is an astrophysicist and built his famous guitar with his dad with wood from an old fireplace. Such unique tone.

[@w.geoffreyspaulding6588]

I’ve been watching Amy for over a year now…and I honestly cannot recall: have you watched other live performances? Of Queen? Of Floyd? Of Zeppelin? Of Rush? All these (and many others) are rife with “goosebump moments” live…when the music and the performance transcends time and you find yourself just watching, totally in the moment, with your jaw open. If you have already done so, perhaps someone can point me in the direction of those reactions so I can rewatch them. If not, then I HOPE that Vlad will do more of this format where you listen, analyze and then watch a live clip. This was, dare I say it, a PERFECT REACTION! I was grinning from ear to ear. 😁

[@kendallneason3645]

Amy does watch Freddie Mercury and Monserrat Caballe sing their duet album Barcelona. Check it out. It’s fascinating and Amy is so joyful in her reaction!

[@bettybaby63]

Glad you recognized John Deacon’s contribution. I always love watching them perform live, John always seemed to be right behind Freddie when he was at the piano. I know you’ve done love of my life, and their performance from this show is outstanding. They rework it into an acoustic arrangement. Just Brian, his 12 string & Freddie, perfection.

[@acfiv1421]

The album version is excellent, but be sure to check out the Live in Montreal version from 1981 - absolutely fantastic, and showcases Freddie's mastery of the stage and Roger Taylor's excellent backing vocals.

[@dianecourtney2724]

And Live in Milton Keynes 💛

[@mori1bund]

She did actually in this video, around 56:38

[@TheSmittenman]

Try watching the whole video lmao

[@Albert_Val]

Absolutely!

[@Quotenwagnerianer]

Next time watch the video before commenting. ;)

[@bc2752]

The live performance from Montreal is one of my favorite live performances ever!

[@PaulCole-71]

It would be great if you could set up an interview with Brian May - he's very humble, intellectual and my guess is he'd love your analysis, knowledge and enthusiasm.

[@bluebell3720]

But he does get quite confused

[@AlineDo]

Yes, it would be great if you can dive further in all Sir Brian May’s achievements, musically and so much more.

[@Suzismymom]

Note to self, wait until the entire video is over before commenting. Watching you watch Queen live is ❤ chefs kiss ❤ Thank you Vlad, what a wonderful surprise!!!! 😊

[@josho3448]

i like when she makes that face when something makes you happy.

[@fernandopaiva6964]

I've been watching all of kinds Queen song reactions but yours is unique. Congrats!! Already waiting for more ...

[@jeffkellyb7712]

Changes in tempo and volume (dynamics) are not gimmicks, they are music!

[@marvalstith2749]

For several years have lovingly immersed my emotions in this precious musical jewell of Queen written by Freddie Mercury. Me only a music lover (all genres) and with only minimum understanding of the mechanics of music making, I enjoy your learned perspective to the music I love. And WOW, wonderful watching you absorb Queen's live performance. As Roger, Freddie John and Brian came to a boisterously united end, me smiling, my mind asked, "Now are you out of church?" Such a wonderful Sunday evening with you. Thanks much!

[@jca111]

It's so wonderful seeing you have the same emotions I did when I was 12-13 years old discovering this music. I'm 53 now and Queen have been in my life emotionally ever since then. Seen them live with and without Freddie many times. I've even met Brian and Roger... Both lovely to their fans.

[@PedroLopez-db1ku]

Me too, I am still additive to their music, since 1975, and I am now 61

[@LeeKennison]

Excellent reaction and breakdown Amy. I'm glad you enjoyed it so much, your enthusiasm really showed. Vlad must be very happy that you liked it so much. I was thrilled you included this particular live performance at the end. I was hoping you would be able to see this particular one in order to see Freddie's on stage presence, along with the rest of the band and how cohesive and talented they are.

[@wmason1961]

Watching your face as you heard this before you stopped the first time was was a joy. Your smile showed real appreciation for the. Music I grew up with.

[@billsanderson1442]

This is my favourite Queen song. I often use this to demonstrate 'urgent pianissimo' leading into the crescendo. Thanks for your insights.

[@MichelleSanGiorgio]

His voice is full of yearning...🥺

[@sitnhere]

You are blooming like a flower in Springtime, my dear.......literally gushing and overflowing with color and brightness.

[@drmauriciodiaz]

It’s a joy to see the effect this Queen masterpiece had on you. WONDERFUL analysis. Thank you!

[@rivory495]

I love how you explain music. Queen is truly a one of a kind of pure skill and Freddied mega voice and personality. Thank you for reviewing Queen.