The Brian May Interview

[@chinncannon]

Can you imagine Brian May telling you he watches all your KZbin stuff? We've all been singing your praises for a long time, Rick, but that's gotta be one of the most affirming moments in your life. Couldn't agree with Brian more!

[@davidclements7696]

that's cool stuff there.

[@ioncewasmikey]

You know Rick had to have been *buzzing* when he heard that. Idk how he kept cool after that lol

[@mihailmilev9909]

Fr

[@mihailmilev9909]

Thanks for pointing this out!

[@mihailmilev9909]

@@davidclements7696 yeah true

[@ThunnusAlbacares]

The big thing i like about Rick, he he knows how to shut up. He asks a great question, and then listens to the answer. not talking over the top of the interviewee. Has to be one of the best interviews I've listened too. Thank you very much for this

[@robertmuckle2985]

I agree...one of the best interviews I've experienced. Great one Rick!!

[@WoodyZappa1]

It's so lovely to hear Brian May speak about his music while Rick gives him a broad pasture to roam. The silence between the notes. No parallel to this style of interview.

[@tyr3759]

Couldn't agree more. Haven't watched television in 15 years, and i despise youtube with it's censoring, political bias and ads, but I love Rick's channel.

[@dakotablueskies]

Rick probably does an interview like he produces; lots of curiosity, respect and trust in his artist. It’s real musician to musician. Anyone else blown away when brilliant, thoughtful, techno-obsessed Brian belted out that ballsy Queen sound?

[@frankgradus9474]

Dead right about Rick's remarkable tact, insight, grasp and timing. By the by, imho, this video is doing pretty poorly in number of views as compared to the interviews on Rick's prime channel. It would come into its own if transferred to the prime channel. People just 'miss out' on it and it'll continue to grow veiled in secrecy each day.

[@jimzy29]

I met Brian and John Deacon when I was 12 years old in 1984 outside The Gresham Hotel in Dublin after seeing them in concert. They were both such gentlemen it was amazing. I told Brian I was learning guitar and Brian shook my hand and genuinely said "Nice to meet you Jimmy. The world needs more guitar players" 39 years later I remember that moment so well 💚

[@jimzy29]

@@johnnyappleseed5029 Hi Johnny, sorry just seeing ur message here. Yeah I kinda wish there was photos/videos of the nite I met them, but they signed our tickets, my big sisters denim jacket, program etc, anything anybody handed them. Just such regular guys, it was probably the highlight of my life. August 1984, the year before Live Aid. Pretty awesome 💚

[@jimzy29]

Thanks @@freeherenow52 I totally agree. 2 wonderful examples of genuine, gracious human beings/Rock Legends. The world needs more like them 💚

[@brianstoner2799]

Britishers were raised to be gentlemen. American rockers were not. Glad you had such a once-in-a-lifetime happy experience.

[@ggghhhbbnjjjbb2330]

@@brianstoner2799 I'm a Brit and I resent that! Jk - but not everyone here is mild-mannered and likeable like Brian. From what he's said about the process of building his guitar, he had a fantastic dad who mentored him through the whole thing for over a year. It's pretty rare I think for a father to be so committed to spending time with his kids rather than pleasuring himself in a pub or in front of a TV. I would have loved to have done that as a kid. I hope Brian had dozens of kids of his own and passed it on.

[@ThePancakeJedi]

@@ggghhhbbnjjjbb2330 Sounds like you had an awful childhood. The best advice I can give you, don't become your dad.

[@PlasticAstronaut]

Brian May seems like one of the kindest, most sincere guys walking the earth. Zero “swelled head” or celebrity entitlement. Nice to see.

[@thethirdtime9168]

He replaced ego with that curly hair ;)

[@COIcultist]

Tell us Brian, social arbiter of what reasonable, valid and loving protector of animals, how many times did Queen play Sun City?

[@BuddyNika]

@@COIcultist Just stupid.

[@saeedchogan8754]

There's a saying in Persian; the tree that has the most fruits stays closer to the ground! Dude is one of biggest rockstars who ever walked on earth, made arguably the biggest hit song of the century but still down to earth and warm! Man is the definition of class!

[@donnanaples5214]

Beautifully said I totally agree!

[@amax7321]

So true!!!

[@mooniejohnson]

So true and that's a *brilliant* phrase.

[@beback_]

I've never heard that saying lol

[@saeedchogan8754]

@@beback_ درختی که بارش بیشتر باشه افتاده تره.

[@LarryWestWeinstein]

Rick, I am Leslie West's brother. He passed two years ago and would have been 77 this October 22nd. Les asked Brian to play on one of his last albums called Unusual Suspects. Brian couldn't have been more gracious and generous. I loved this interview.

[@JoeRivermanSongwriter]

Wow. Mountain ruled. God bless you and your brother.

[@jimipalmer5041]

Dude we loved your brother's playing back in the day. I'm gonna go play Nantucket Sleigh Ride right now.💖💖💖

[@babayaga1767]

"we want to name the band meryl streep. we think she'd be honored." classic. RIP

[@Nightwing690]

@@jimipalmer5041 Leslies tone is a benchmark all players want to one day achieve, I bought a Les Paul Jr. just because of his performance of Southbound Train at Woodstock.

[@theyommer]

Larry, it turns out your brother and I share the same birthday. I'm a little younger and as a piano player, the music of Mountain wasn't in my repertoire during my formidable years but that didn't stop me from learning of Leslie's immense talents from listening to him on the Stern show over the years. I hope you and his broader family are frequently reminded of the joy and memories that he gave to countless people.

[@magneto7930]

It was kind of funny when Brian said "Roger Taylor, legendary drummer from Cornwall." That was a long time Queen joke. In the early days when Queen were trying to make a name for themselves, Roger created a poster that said "Legendary Drummer from Cornwall" as part of the advertisement. The other three laughed at that for the rest of their lives!

[@michaleenyproductions4007]

Happy May gives props to Rory,another master.

[@synchromesh]

It's funny because he's actually from Norfolk :)

[@CelticSaint]

@@synchromesh But he attended ´Truro school for Boys´ (Cornwall) and played in a variety of bands whilst in the County, including many ´battle of the bands´ competitions (I know because I saw most of them live). He considered himself a Cornish lad regardless where he was born.

[@spireitexi]

@@CelticSaint There was a guy who lived across the road from me (in Derbyshire) who claimed to have lent Roger his drum kit when he broke his one time. Closest I've come to one of my heroes!

[@robertov7]

😂😂😂

[@mf5202]

I met Dr. May in a completely non-musical related way. He was in an astrophysics conference and I was in a molecular biology meeting on the same site and we just met in the lobby. We spoke about computational applications and he is just amazingly nice, humble and approachable.

[@bazingacurta2567]

I never understood how someone who is so successful in an area chooses to switch paths.

[@mf5202]

@@bazingacurta2567 He was an astrophysicist first. Took up music full time and then came back to science. Brilliant fellow.

[@soupdragon151]

@@mf5202 Aye, he always regretted not finishing his phD in anycase its not a career more a hobby now

[@johndoe1909]

@@soupdragon151 he actually did finish his phd. and he has consulted in the role of scientist for nasa no less.

[@shadow102994]

I would argue that’s cooler than meeting him in a musical setting. There’s a short list of people who are so in gifted in an artistic sense AND in a scientific/mathematical sense as well.

[@bigdogpete43]

My mom was a gospel singer on the radio in the 50s. Queen was the only rock band she enjoyed. She was so appreciative of their talent. She used to sing along with Freddy on the verse of Bohemian Rhapsody. It always reminds me of her and brings a tear to my eye.

[@justinbatt3191]

So she lived the beginning til when.? I'm glad it brings you and your mum happy 🎉

[@johnbaxter9875]

My mom's favorite queen song was tie your mother down. She was born in 1929. Close to 50 years old when I started listening to queen. She liked them all but if you asked her fave she would tell you tie your mother down. Yesterday was her birthday. sure miss that girl.

[@tlevans62]

Can you imagine that Brian May actually watches and enjoys your work and actually says he learns from your videos. The first few comments he made must have you pinching yourself. As I've said many times before, you are one of the most influential Music Teachers and Educators on the Planet. That's truly incredible, and the best thing you've ever done for music and musical education was starting your KZbin Channel. You really are the Professor of Rock and Contemporary Modern Music. Thank You Rick.

[@BennieTarrMusic]

I listen to Queen

[@catherinelynnfraser2001]

Stunning to drop into a conversation of mutual admiration

[@RogerBarraud]

@@catherinelynnfraser2001 Especially merited admiration

[@TheChadPad]

The Professor of Rock. That is awesome

[@Thorsten_Kueppers]

100% agreed on this.

[@odd_job_007]

I love how humble Brian May is. I mean, he has literally influenced millions of people. The impact of his talent is monumental yet he remains souch a nice bloke.

[@dannygray4898]

Yep, and his influence was the late, great Irish guitar master Rory Gallagher. I've seen interviews in which Brian May talks about how he copied Rory.

[@agmvcc]

What a beautiful human being and genius musician!

[@cobowe]

He copied his rig not his playing

[@frenchonion4595]

Is he related to james may ? LOL

[@dannygray4898]

@@frenchonion4595 Judging by hair cuts, yes! LOL

[@daniellarge9784]

Can we all just give some love and respect for the genius and humanity of John Deacon.

[@douglaspate9314]

From me too, L&R

[@oceankayak]

I enjoy watching and listening to John Deacon play. Such a musician and dancer!!!!

[@solarbuduk]

When I was 15 me and my sister won a competition to see Queen at Maine Road stadium in Manchester, and to meet them afterwards. I was learning guitar at the time and I asked Brian if he could give me any advice. He said, “well the only thing I can say is listen to as many different types of music as you possibly can”. Best advice ever.

[@nomdeplume798]

Maine Road where the local kids would keep an eye on your car while the match was on. The canny driver would pay half up front and the other half when you got back to the car. Never a good idea to tell them to sod off. Now a housing estate.

[@michlsilva7752]

@@nomdeplume798 . M.

[@thegernerfam]

👍

[@Innesb]

That Maine Road performance was the first concert I ever went to… I was 18 years old. It was a surprise to me when Freddie started singing Tutti Frutti. I had no idea musicians performed anything other than their own music. How wonderful that you got to meet them.

[@jimzy29]

And lots of Rory Gallagher for sure :-)

[@Marinkorpse]

Brian May is not only fan of your youtube channel but then praises your guitar skills. That must have been a great time for being Rick.

[@bobtimusprime4005]

I was fortunate to meet Dr. May in 1998 a day after seeing him perform at Rockstock '98. He had a signing at a Guitar Center one town away from me. There were hundreds in line. I was part of one of the last groups they let in. I hand him my Gibson Spirit XPL to sign and he says, "whatcha got here?" "Nothing as good as what you have" and he beamed this big smile and signed my guitar. Then he shakes my hand, making full eye contact with me, and thanked me. He. Thanked. Me. I said, "No... thank YOU! If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be playing guitar." He then gave an even bigger smile. It's truly a great thing in life to meet your biggest hero and for them to live up to why they are. One of the greatest moments in my life.

[@roberthussey5552]

Finally someone else who was at that show. I remember when the previous act left I looked around and no one was at the stage. Just walked right up to the front and got to see Brian May perform 5 ft away from me. His second solo album another world had just come out and cozy Powell had very very recently died in a car accident. One moment I remember particularly well is when he said that he's been dusting off a couple of old songs which he hasn't played in a while. And here I am 5 ft away and he bangs out the beginning of fat bottom girls. I too went to guitar center in Lombard the next day but got there at 5 in the morning and was the seventh person in line. Got my picture taken with him had a great talk and he is as genuine as can be. And then I got my white pill box import CD 'too much love will kill you'signed. Great memory and glad to hear someone else shared both experiences. I've been a die-hard queen fan and I've seen Brian a total of 8 times. From the northwest suburbs of Chicago and saw him in 77 80 + 82, his back to the light at the Vic, his rockstock show, with Paul Rodgers at the horizon, and twice with Adam.

[@bobtimusprime4005]

@@roberthussey5552 That's awesome! I too was right up front, about 5-8 feet left of center stage. The previous band was Monster Magnet and we got there with about 2 songs left in their set. Then when they finished, I was shocked how many just walked away and we went right up front. When I first found out Sir Brian was not on the main stage, I was pissed at the disrespect. BUT... was grateful when I got to be that close for the show. It was truly an amazing weekend.

[@trainliker100]

The real legacy in the long run of such musicians is those they teach and inspire. And then those evolve and add their own things and teach others. And so on. The live performances, and even the recordings eventually fade away (although with Queen stuff it will be a longer time than most). What is lasting, is the teaching.

[@rednaxelahcitorfaznebo2830]

Brian May is a genius. He is self taught. He plays guitar by ear. He created great music with the iconic band, Queen. I've been a fan since the 70's!!!

[@genagena127]

Also look up Brian May's interview at Oxford

[@Chatta-Ortega]

Plus he has a PhD in Astrophysics...simply a brilliant man.

[@__uorson]

not to mention he built his own guitar...

[@samuelbarham8483]

He's a self-taught guitarist, but he had some training in classical music as a child -- which counts for a lot more than one might think!

[@thegamersgalaxy2855]

@@samuelbarham8483 Yeah, really. I'd write that's a MAJOR assistance as you're growing into a musician!

[@aliwalkeraudio]

“You’re a phenomenal guitar player” The smile that brought out in you Rick warmed my heart. A beautiful moment.

[@kevincowart362]

Hearing Brian talk about struggling with depression moved me to tears. To know one of the most accomplished humans ever to have lived fought depression and is so honest about it really lifts me up.

[@KennyAce]

Having everything in this world doesn’t stop aging.

[@swingset1969]

Imagine having Brian May tell you he's in awe of your guitar playing. I'd have that on a constant loop. It would be my ringtone. I'd frame it and kiss it when I came home. I'd have t-shirts with that printed on it, and I'd make all my friends wear them. Great interview Rick, and a huge Brian may fan here who will never hear that compliment personally. Lol.

[@johnstevens5890]

;DD

[@Tom-xp7dl]

Brian May is one of the greatest people to sit and listen to. What a guy.

[@TheOGSticks11]

His voice is one of those super relaxing ones. He's very gentle but not shy at all. Then he starts playing that very punchy, bendy shit and you get blown away.

[@RateOfChange]

When Brian May tells you you're good, you know there's nothing else you can achieve in life

[@NoName-to5xl]

You could cure cancer tho.

[@RateOfChange]

@@NoName-to5xl yeah, you could find a cure for cancer, unify relativity and quantum mechanics or perhaps find a viable way to stop climate change. But those are accomplishments more likely to be achieved by a biologist, a physicist, an engineer or a mathematician, not a music producer. So yeah, I think there's nothing else Rick could achieve :)

[@Bob-j9s]

What?

[@fabiopatelli7391]

15 years ago if you wanted the same content you had to stay late at night and watch it on a TV program (IF they would have done that…) full of ads and on a tight time pace so the question would have been always the same. Or you could have bought a dvd. Now, 2021, all these stuffs are free and at a such high intellectual quality level that makes you be thankful to live in this period. Thank you Rick and thanks to the people who support your channel. 🙏🏼

[@aaronrumfelt8111]

You know, Einstein said if he wasn't a physicist he would have been a musician. Well, Brian May is the physicist that became a musician. Such a beautiful permutation of the amount of potential in any human's brain. Imagine the possibilities of every human being having the time to realize every potential they have within themselves

[@mailbox4820]

I have always found musicians (and comedians) to be among the most intelligent entertainers.

[@B0K1T0]

"it's 3AM and I check out what Rick's been doing and an hour later I'm still strolling through your stuff".. well at least I got one thing in common with this legend 🤣

[@Churd84538]

What a genuine and good person Brian May is. He has such a positive vibe. I feel better inside after hearing him speak and obviously playing his music. He is really taken in by Rick and this channel. So cool

[@Zebula77]

Totally agree. I think you can hear it in his playing as well. There's a lot of warmth and humanity in the way he plays.

[@metalguru5226]

He's a great man. " I would much rather be remembered for attempting to change the way we treat our fellow creatures." - Brian May

[@Churd84538]

@Pdpmail I agree 100% I find Rick to be very relatable. He conveys information in such a way, that even a guy like me at 51 with arthritis, who can't play anymore can learn more from him in 3 years than I did all the years playing. It's a real gift to be able to play. It's a bigger one too inspire through teaching. Rick inspires beyond his playing which says a lot.

[@nancyhovermorton7865]

I'd love to be Brians' lovely, lady ,Anita.....

[@hensmom6473]

Brian May is a fabulous guitarist and he has land in Dorset UK where he planted the first of 100,000 trees to create new forests and habitats for birds & nature. THANK YOU Brian May❣️

[@YaoEspirito]

Love that!

[@GutekZ]

Rick is the best ambassador music could ever dream to have. From Joe Shmoe to Brian May, everybody can take something from his analysis. Because his enthusiasm and love for the music is genuine. It comes from the heart. I have followed Rick for a couple years now and I’m immensely proud of him and so happy that all of us have him in our lives. Rick is a love letter to music, personified. Thank you, Rick!

[@dr.juerdotitsgo5119]

Yes! Just wish he had a little more love for reggae, hair metal and electronica, then he will be perfect.

[@dr.juerdotitsgo5119]

Oh, and country music.

[@maryross8903]

Could Brian May be more lovely? Talented? Brilliant? Humble? Great interview Rick! It looks like you have a new best friend!❤️🤘

[@NigelCharlesworth]

I love the fact that Rick can't stop smiling. Clearly enjoys his work!

[@BrazilDan1]

When THE Brian May comes and says: "you are a phenomenal guitar player" (and sounds sincere), that's it man, you've done it! Bask in your glory, Mr. Beato! :)

[@mrsuns10]

Yeah I can’t think of a higher compliment than thag

[@1957DLT]

That old saying: "You should never meet your idol". Brian May and Rick Beato: "Here, hold my beer."

[@fasteddie389]

12:40 Yeah, totally agree.

[@originaljazzminors4326]

Sometime in the mid 1990's I was playing upright electric bass in a trad jazz band in the New Orleans section of Disneyland. The crowd was several layers deep. Mid set, I happened to look over and at the back of the crowd, there stood Brian May! As a huge fan of Queen, I was thrilled. I tried to subtly acknowledge Brian with a head nod and he nodded back and smiled, He stayed for several songs and eventually when I looked over he had left. What a great story I could tell. Suddenly I realized he had come back and raised his head to get my attention. He then smiled and held up the "ok" sign with a smile. Talk about a great moment. Someone I admired liked what we were doing. A year later I was in a rock/blues/funk/swing band at the entrance to Universal Studios Hollywood, when I saw Brian coming in. I couldn't believe my luck. I was also wireless, so I sprinted(while still playing) over and shook his hand and welcomed him to the park. He laughed and said thanks! This interview is fantastic, thanks!

[@loftsound]

47:20. When the guitar turns up… and the full Brain May A chord rings out.. it hits us all in a way we can’t describe- other than the smile on Ricks face. That unstoppable joy when you hear that unmistakable sound that come from one man. That is the power of music that is unique to Rock music in the 20th century. At no other time before then could one man alone produce such a sound. It was about more than writing music. The smile on Ricks face is not from a brilliant musical composition. It’s just from an A chord… Bach himself could not play any one chord that could illicit such joy. That is purely a Rock trait. Truly a miracle to behold in and of itself and Brain May, with Queen, are forever part of that miracle.

[@BrianTCarter]

I agree. The sound alone elicits a feeling

[@beeemm2578]

Rick transforms into a kid again...lol. Just look at his face.

[@seizethemeansproduction]

What a beautiful and completely true comment Rock and roll is positivity Rock and roll means well

[@kevinkiso4579]

Ah ... We all love Brian/Queen, and we know that the Bach comment is superfluous nonsense. Hearing the Red Special thru an AC30 over Zoom or Skype isn't even comparable to standing twenty feet in front of Brian, Freddie, Roger, and John in full flight.

[@joethrelfall6370]

​@@kevinkiso4579with the treble booster of course. normal channel full up and master full up.

[@guitartube5822]

You can feel just how genuine and kind Brian May is, and it’s just awesome.

[@loganirvine3700]

Man, I can't even begin to imagine how it must feel to have an icon such as Brian May tell you that he loves your material and compliment you on your playing capabilities... the biggest congratulations to you Rick. Thank you, as always, for everything you do for us.

[@YaoEspirito]

And I love Rick's face while Brian starts playing classic Queen riffs TO HIM! Like a kid in a candy store. Two brilliant musical minds.

[@BKrieg8]

Brian May seems like the most kind humble guy. Such a beast of a lead guitarist too.

[@MobiusBandwidth]

when Brian May, rock god, easily one of the five most important guitarists ever, and noted Astrophysicist, tells you he's learned something from YOU, uh, there's really no up to go. congrats Rick, the "beat-o" goes on Beato. this was awesome, and like the companion video, an important historical document people will cherish for decades, and hopefully centuries.

[@BennieTarrMusic]

Hell fuckin'yeah millennium

[@SilentAttackTV]

timestamp?

[@NoName-to5xl]

He's fucked, how is he gonna top this?

[@wingsounds13]

@@NoName-to5xl he doesn't have to top it, he'll just go on doing what he does - which is the only response he could have to this incredible release.

[@melvynobrien6193]

One of the five most important? FUCKING NONSENSE.

[@debvalle7466]

I love that Brian goes down Beato YT wormholes at 3am! That’s what I do 😄 What wonderful, well-deserved compliments he laid on you, Rick! You’re the rock star to the rock stars!!! 🎉💐🎸

[@brianmay9852]

thanks for your love and support all through this times❤❤❤❤

[@hamiltonloomis7648]

I love Rick's genuine smile while Mr May is answering his questions...especially when he starts playing Red Special! He never takes for granted that he is interviewing Rock royalty.... Congratulations on your success Rick! And of course, not enough could ever be said about Mr May's genius, brilliance, impact, and genuineness.

[@buckybeen1]

You can tell Brian really enjoys answering questions he hasn't been asked a million times.

[@JohnnyAGraves]

That’s what adds to the greatness of this interview

[@jeffyoung9341]

Hey Rick.. 14, 12, and 8 years old kids will be listening to Queen for a long, long, long time! They were that good!

[@SST9589]

Having genius is one thing, understanding it entirely another. This is one of my favourite interviews ever. 👏

[@kathyscoppettuolo7168]

So happy to see Brian doing this interview with Rick, who is probably the best organic promoter of music!

[@RoverWaters]

Did you understood who wrote the guitar solo?

[@brianmay3261]

Thank you so much.

[@Rockingoodman]

Yeah. Having Brian May call you or as a peer, wow. He clearly stated that he admired your work and is flattered that you admire his. The interview is on a different level than of he thought of you as media or press. This is a conversation with someone who understands your mission. Thank you again for that mission

[@davidjames1624]

Seeing the enjoyment on Rick's face is priceless.

[@w13rdguy]

Thanks, Rick. Only so many people could do a proper interview on Brian. He's just such a deep guy, and deserving of more than an "ordinary" list of prepared questions 👍🏻☘️

[@mattmarkus4868]

he smart

[@unacuentadeyoutube13]

only so little* I guess

[@stixnfeet7818]

To see such an iconic musician that gets along down the road of time and have such lack of ego, honesty and grace is just so very nice to see. Thank You Mr. May for your contribution to this world.

[@soupdragon151]

Thats Dr. May to you!

[@mollyhall2954]

@@soupdragon151 And now Sir May to all of us.

[@martinhegelius7445]

@@mollyhall2954 Sorry, Sir Brian it is!

[@Markplaysmusic]

All the good guys do because they're too busily engrossed in their art, it's not about fame and fortune anymore if ever. Those who are truly talented are usually the last accept that fact.

[@mollyhall2954]

@@martinhegelius7445 Love you for that! I see notifications and expect awful remarks, and get them, and then a nice guy like You, is cool, and just says, "Sir Brian it is!" and restores my faith in humanity! Real life is hard enough for most of us (at least in our old age!) To be honest, I remember it being just as hard when I was a child, teenager, newlywed and middle-aged, too! Never easy for anybody, and in the last few years in America it seemed to get much meaner than it ever needed to be, for so many. Music was my escape, at age 8--The Beatles! The world around me was happier and I will always adore them for that, and Sir Brian did, too! How about you? Not how rock began for you? (For all I know, you're 18 and a new fan! A young Queen-fan friend told me, in awe, that at my age I had Lived the history of rock and roll! It's almost true! Before The Beatles I loved The Everly Brothers and Little Richard! I love Queen's stage medley of early rock!)

[@jppagetoo]

Brian has a lot of respect for you Rick. I have never heard him talk so deeply about some things before. He was straight with you because he trusted you. It is rare to get such an unguarded conversation.

[@RogerBarraud]

He knows he's not wasting his breath, time or mental effort on Rick, because he knows how insightful Rick is. Great to see and hear the rapport between them.

[@rtbarnes4893]

Yep, well done., RIck!..

[@GTTg-kr2xh]

You can't fake being sincere and nice all the time - Brian is consistently considerate and kind. He speaks in detail - concrete detail - and not just flies over the top. He is gracious with his time and you forget (almost) that this guy is one of the best known, major guitar players in one of the best bands ever. You got to love it!

[@marksturge9505]

I'm glad Brian brought up "You Take My Breath Away" from A Day at the Races. It is truly an absolute masterpiece. Highly underrated Queen track.

[@hermanhelmich]

Hell yeah!!

[@toomuchtoofast4533]

That was one of my faves

[@robphilpott43]

100 percent. The guitar orchestration in the middle is gorgeous and so right for the song. And then there’s Freddie’s voice, beautiful piano playing and all those multi-tracked harmonies. Come to think of it, everything!

[@neiljones1938]

I was around in the 1970s listening to Queen in real time. Those albums were extremely popular. Nice to see a younger generation enjoying it now.

[@charliekane135]

It's one of my favourite Queen songs, along with 'White Queen'.

[@andreakormosnekacso4804]

This interview confirmed my idea that Queen members were real pioneers in recordings. Thank you for talking to Sir Brian who has been remained such a kind person as he was many years ago.

[@Christian_Martel]

It’s such a heart warming conversation about two guys passionate about music. Loved it!

[@bartley3742]

Rick, this is the ultimate. Unless you can snag an interview with Freddie or Lennon, this is the ultimate. You look like you're in heaven. Thank you for this.

[@VanHouse_Productions]

Or McCartney

[@Songbirdstress]

The best thing is Rick's "I died and went to heaven" smile.

[@benjamineer3045]

Brian is so humble... it almost hurts, this man has been the one of the biggest bands on earth, played on some of the biggest tracks ever ( and you could stop here, but you shouldnt)... is generally regarded as one of the best guitar sounds ever and leaving music aside he has a degree in astrophyisics .. (wait not just a a degree .... a bloody PhD). He is a Commander of the British Empire (which does not exist anymore but still). He is to this day an activists for animal life in Britain and the rest of world.... and yet he is so super humble and adorable that it almost hurts. If you want to have goals in your life try to be 10% of Brian May and you have done more than enough

[@dianecourtney2724]

Love your comment… all four guys in Queen were nice guys who just happened to be geniuses.

[@johnbaxter533]

Most over-qualified member of a rock and roll band ever. PhD in astrophysics, that is what we common folks in Texas call a rocket scientist. Rocket scientists just happen to be amongst the most brilliant individuals on the planet. Growing up a queen fan makes it seriously difficult to appreciate a number of really astounding guitar gods. To me, he really stood out and is in a league of his own. The ultimate guitar hero. Listen to "All dead, All dead" or "In only seven days" and realize those sounds you hear are guitars, LAYERS of them, 15 or 20 guitars. No one else dared to try such a thing.

[@benjamineer3045]

@@johnbaxter533 and you can even go one step further, not only did he have a truly iconic sounds and is great and tasteful player with a superbe sense for harmony... he bloody build his instrument himself from stuff he had left over at home. A absolutely inspiring person.

[@Frankincensedjb123]

Gesh, settle down

[@scoutrenegade6761]

Don't forget, he also built the guitar he used for all the Queen songs... Pretty cool!

[@jonathanvaro5166]

Watching Rick with a non-stop grin is perfect in this video.

[@MarksMindBox]

Rick Beato getting fully deserved recognition from rock legends for his skills makes me truly hopeful that there's at least some justice in the world.

[@amitychief3061]

The more interviews I see with Brian May, the more I like him. Also, he always talks about and gives credit to Rory Gallagher for giving him his sound. You can tell Brian is such a brilliant guy, but humble as well.

[@metalguru5226]

He's brilliant. "I would much rather be remembered for attempting to change the way we treat our fellow creatures." - Brian May.

[@DashboardDivas]

I'm sleeping down at the laundromat!

[@dougking7331]

Just bumped into this interview. This is amazing. I was in high school in 75 when this came out and we thought that it was the greatest thing.

[@markmallinder7618]

Rick’s face when Brian May tells him what a great guitarist he is! You can see from Rick’s face how he must’ve felt.

[@Jeff_H_the_Guitarist]

Brian May is so charming. Sharing the story of the tuning issue on the end of Rhapsody on Rick’s show was just gold. This interview mist’ve made Rick’s day/week/year.

[@garyeaton]

Am I the only one that thinks it’s way past time for a follow up w/ Brian May. What an awesome conversation. Bravo.

[@stenis999]

This is the best interview I've ever seen with a musician! Absolutely love it. Brian May is a legend and so are you! Nobody else I've encountered could ever get an interview like this. What a lovely, humble and great man. And the way you "do" your interviews gives them every little play they need. No interruptions. Both of you just enjoying yourselves... and respecting each other! Damn, he seems to be as much of a fan of you and your youtube channels as you are of him. Well... I'm a fan of both of you! Thank you so very much for this.

[@fifovelazquez]

you should see the one he did with Sting and Dominic Miller

[@RobertJSedky]

When Brian plays Rick Beato looks like the happiest human on earth! ❤️

[@Rebecca-qx1et]

It brought tears to my eyes!

[@jimipalmer5041]

Brian is sooo cool, and quite humble as well, not to mention his scientific achievements. Plus, he loves Rory Gallagher! 👍🎶💖

[@digviano77]

Amazing! For me, watching Rick SMILE all through this interview, is a clear example of someone realizing a lifelong dream. This makes me really happy for him. Artists are lucky to have you interview them, Rick. Congratulations! Happy to watch all of this unveil in real time.

[@ZonkerRoberts]

What Brian's probably talking about when he says the 24-track tape machine was faulty (it was scraping recording media off the tape - "you could see through the tape") is that the heads - the parts that record and read the signal onto and off the tape - needed relapping. It's normal for the friction of the tape passing over the heads to gradually wear their rounded profile flat. Part of routine maintenance is sending the heads out to be machined/polished back to their correct shape and this is called "relapping". Naturally, getting heads relapped costs *money*, something record labels and recording studios are notoriously loathe to part with ;-) and causes downtime during which the tape machine can't be used (which costs them even more money). So head relapping is sometimes put off for too long. This has been your moment of analog recording technology history for today. :-)

[@robertyboberty]

My heart was in my mouth when I heard that story

[@ishko108]

that was awesome. we need more stories like that to learn from.

[@stevelacker358]

Just to add more insufferable detail… I worked with old, multitrack tape recorders early in my career… not with music but with analog instrumentation data for engineering tests… but the recorders are either the same or similar to 16 and 24 track recorders. The old buggers are way more complex than a home open reel deck, but the principles are similar. There are a number of things in the tape path which can damage the tape if out of adjustment or worn. The heads themselves can and DO wear (quite a lot since the tape oxide can be pretty abrasive), but usually the high frequency response of the head starts to degrade before the head is bad enough to damage tape. Not always, but usually. There are tape guides that tend to get overlooked by a lot of people maintaining the machines because they focus on the heads and capstan(s), and fixed (non- roller) guides can develop,flat spots. The capstans are the high maintenance part because the rubber wheels have to remain compliant, and when they get a bit hard the metal capstan wheel begins to (for lack of a better word) lose “traction” on the rubber capstan wheel and slip slightly on both the rubber idler wheel and the tape, which really causes a lot of wear. Better tape drives don’t have pinch type capstans and instead relied on having over 180 degrees of rubber capstan wheel touching the back of the tape under relatively high tension, though, and therefore avoided any capstan contact on the oxide side of the tape. The goal was a large diameter capstan wheel with a healthy wrap of tape. Alignment of parts is also critical and poor alignment can cause wear. In short… I know lots of possibilities, but without knowing a lot more about the tape drive mechanism it’s hard to guess.

[@Alfonso162008]

@@stevelacker358 I did not understand a thing from your second comment 😂 but it's cool to learn more stuff. I had heard the "tape was translucent after so many overdubs" story many times, but this was the first time I could hear the actual reasons behind it, so it was very cool.

[@johnalexander5738]

Brian is definitely one Rock Star that it would be soooo great to hang out with.

[@michaelkatselos4296]

I'm convinced that Brian May as influenced most if not all rock guitarists out there in some way. He doesn't get the accolades of Page, Clapton, Van Halen and Hendrix but he's definitely in all of us, even if it's subliminal due to his longevity, innovation and extensive body of work.

[@gcsoulsurfer]

Totally agree !

[@jonathanhardy9142]

As far as rock guitar influence can be measured, the zenith to me is to be named in the list of instant 'air guitar' masters, & May is right up there with all the rest. The solo in 'We will rock you', the breakout riff in 'Bohemian Rhapsody' plus pretty much all the rest of his guitar work in their tunes. Incredible

[@justinheath3894]

Literal tears in my eyes, watching Rick emotionally “bite his lip”, while his guitar 🎸 hero praised his plying. Fuck. That was beautiful.

[@agnosticmonk4952]

Fan boy with class.

[@SilentGloves]

The grin on Rick's face when Brian plays is the purest thing ever. :D

[@tsho5934]

This may be the best interview of Brian May that I have ever seen - the warmth and respect of both Brian and Rick comes through...and its not just the standard questions - I felt that Rick was really reaching for new insights, and he is smart enough and experienced enough to get them. Kudos Rick!

[@brianrussell7691]

Yep, an epic interview. It plays, as if were in someone’s living room or den. Awesome gentlemen.

[@marceloabelenda]

You will enjoy even more the one with Rick Wickman!

[@CarswellEvangelism]

Rick...I was fortunate to ATTEND the Wembley Stadium "Live Aide" show in July of 1985 and one would have thought (based upon crowd response) that Elton and McCartney didn't even matter). Covered it for my FM station in Philly. NOT UNTIL THEN did I comprehend Queen's gargantuan popularity! Excellent job with Brian, whom I met that day.

[@frankgiannantonio6664]

We’re you working for WMMR ? I was @ my Grandparents house in Margate and even they watched and were amazed by Queen. Of course there was pride that Philly stepped up and opened JFK stadium for the other show.

[@josephbowles4995]

Man I love just listening to Brian. I can listen to him talk and tell stories for hours and hours and hours so incredible.

[@brunomoscon8899]

It’s crazy how humble Brian is, the guy is an absolute genius! You can tell that the success didn’t get to his head at all.

[@aiturran]

You can watch Rick enjoy this in his non verbal comm. He's just happy, enjoying, smiling and fanboying to Brian May. What an intelligent, humble and brilliant human and musician.

[@SteveWattse]

What a lovely fellow, well done Rick for being the model interviewer!

[@herseem]

Rick, I can imagine it being quite emotional to have one of your heroes praise your work as soon as you start talking to them, but you deserve it

[@DizGuys1]

What a fantastic chat, I don't want to call it an interview, it could easily be Rick and Brian in a pub chatting about guitars, strings, harmonics, tape and carrying on until closing time. Please Bri and Rick make this a series. I'd love to hear Queen II talked about (I didn't want to say dissect) so much was going on in that album, Ogre Battle, Fairy Feller, White Queen etc. One chat a month on a different album would be fantastic, get Roger in too to talk about drums, Queen always had the biggest most bombastic drum sounds live or studio. Major props to you Rick for this, and thank you Brian for all of it, seeing the Deacy in the flesh was fascinating.

[@Daniela_Germany]

Oh yeah, Queen II, my favorite album! Also, I heard Brian say in an interview it was his favorite album.

[@jonforfar7809]

Queen II is my favourite album from Queen - If you are going to do a one of Brian's songs I vote for 'Father to son"

[@stevelacker358]

A very overlooked album, and also my favorite. It’s astounding as it exists, but I always think how it might have been with 10 years’ more advanced recording technology.

[@geneedwards5639]

Brian is brilliantly humble and courteous.

[@relevantbrother8964]

Brian is such a gentleman, old school, brilliant rock legend. So down to earth.

[@colinwallace5286]

In a world full of self-absorbed people, when you hear Brian May say that the continued popularity of their music makes him feel humbled and happy, you can see that it’s true.

[@markmarshallmusic]

I can't even imagine how humbling it must be to have Brian May tell you that you taught him to appreciate Comfortably Numb. No clue how you slept that night. Thank you as always.

[@Karlgolden]

How did I miss this?! Incredible video 😍😍 Brian is such a lovely person and of course incredible musician 🔥🔥🔥

[@katherinequann7190]

You didn't miss it; this interview just occurred this past week.

[@davideaston6944]

Considering his ability and education, he sure acts humble, doesn't he? Pretty cool...

[@centaurus5676]

You would have only missed it, if it had been deleted!

[@NeilLewis77]

I love Brian Mays guitar playing and he always seems a nice guy, but...... I hate being the kill joy, party pooper, who brings people down with an inconvenient truth, but..... When we banned the horrible cruel brutal "sport" of fox hunting in the UK, Brian Mays son was one of the people that stormed parliament in protest and demand his right to get packs of dogs to kill fox's while he trotted after on horse back. Fox hunting is well known as the sort of thing only the very rich and very cruel would take part in and I detest anyone that endorses it. I've never seen Brian asked on his thoughts about the subject but I always have this nagging feeling that Brian is the sort of very rich old white man that looks down his nose at the poor. His son's actions remind me of the phrase "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree". Like I say I have huge respect for May as a musician and since I've never met him it would be wrong of me to slag him off too much. I hope I'm wrong about him and I hope one day I will see an interviewer ask him about his opinions on fox hunting and the terrible behavior of the toffs involved. Like his son. With that being said, I'm just a KZbin comment and will always bang my head to rapsody. So I probably should just stfu.

[@electricaardvark]

I think that you may have him confused with someone else! (Possibly Bryan Ferry's son?) Brian is a massive Animal Rights activist, very much against both Fox Hunting and Badger Baiting... He's been vegetarian for years, and I believe is now vegan. So I can't imagine that his kids will have been brought up to be pro-fox hunting!

[@dylanmenzies3973]

I love Brians complete dedication to details of sound and custom equipment, a real scientist and artist combined.

[@shorerocks]

I can listen to Brian May all day long. Queen was my first favorite band, and it is still today. 45 years later.

[@lechefmusic]

One of the best artist interviews I have ever seen. Ricks positivity and appriciation is just great. Same as Brians humbleness and openess. Love Ricks smile, when Brian plays his AC-30. Little boys dream came through. Greeeeat video. Love it!

[@FT-64]

Dr. May is an absolute genius, both as a musician and a human being. This interview brings a smile, hearing how he worked with the rest of Queen to create their magic, and how much he appreciates the combination of the tech and the people they had at the time. Incredible!

[@adams7405]

Brian is still the ultimate guitar player,quote from Clapton in 1981 "There is a guy in Queen who does things i dream of doing." I still hear snippets on early Queen albums,guitar flashes as I call them.Lots of technically proficient players out there but in terms of emotion nobody tops Dr May

[@fubokuen]

This sounds eerily like my feeling in the early 70's that Brian May was doing things in the studio that Jimmy Page just talked about doing. May pioneered A LOT of guitar recording techniques in Queen's 'NO SYNTHESIZERS' era.

[@mf5202]

Some of the stuff he did in the early albums was just incredible. Of course, Brighton Rock, among many many others.

[@julesbaby47]

I met Brian in a a Pub, such a lovely guy, didn't get at all upset when I kept asking about Freddie.

[@Mathuews1]

Brian talks about this in an older interview. He says he learned to "not be an ass" to fans and people who want to talk from Rory Gallagher. He said Rory always made time for people and was always kind to people and that made a huge impression on him.

[@gibson617ajg]

It wasn't in Papplewick was it? The Griffin. I've seen him in there, he has a house nearby.

[@rossconran2333]

The one thing thst stands out with so many musicians of this generation is just how genuine sweet and humble they are.

[@chrishyde1216]

I don't think I've ever seen an interview like this. It is partly about Brian being modest, open and down to earth, but very much about the unique position that Rick has in music which Brian completely gets. Fabulous interview.

[@brianmay0000]

Thank you for the love and support❤❤❤ .May God continue to bless you ✌✌

[@fossilmatic]

That discussion about the first guitar solo is gold. “That place”, including Mantovani and The Laughing Policeman, that informs British guitarists of the 60s and early 70s, mixed up with blues techniques and phrasing, Vaughn Williams, British folk music, and classical music via the British Proms; that is what made the generation of Peter Green, Brian May, David Gilmour, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, Ritchie Blackmore, and so many others (Ollie Halsall, anyone?) so different and unique. It’s the “roots” music culture of the British Isles, like Tennessee and Mississippi are for US guitarists.

[@PaulA-ji7jh]

Rick will probably never see this comment because this interview was made a while ago, but how amazing an interviewer he is !!! His questions are so pertinent and unique, perceptive and incisive. And his knowledge of music, the guitar, recording techniques is out of this world good !! What he got out of Brian, who himself is such an amazing guy, is very special. These two are having such an marvelous discussion. Thank you Rick, you’re a master !!! Paul

[@southpawlibranine3511]

Ric deadbeat-o. Quite possibly the most annoying know it all on KZbin

[@eldergeektromeo9868]

Another home run, Rick! I am convinced there is absolutely not a better interviewer currently than yourself! You know and love the music, and you know what to ask and when! Thank You, and Bravo!

[@ElevenBravo]

In addition to great interrogative questions, Rick knows when to not say anything, interject, etc... let the person talk unfettered.

[@edzielinski]

Brilliant. It's thrilling to hear about these gritty details, behind the music, the stories, the technical nuances. You know it's good when you're 58 minutes in and you still can't get enough. Thanks Rick! Thanks Brian! Peace to John Deacon and Roger Taylor, and our late friend Freddie Mercury.

[@RoverWaters]

Did you understand who wrote the guitar solo?

[@cathalsurfs]

At around 17:30, Brian mentions the genius and legend Rory Gallagher! Possibly the greatest rock guitarist of our time and a great fiddle player to boot (being born in the County Donegal and growing up in the Rebel County of Cork, Ireland). Rick - please do a show on Rory!!!

[@DavidRavenMoon]

When Brian May says you’re “scarily good” that’s a compliment and a half!

[@gsimons213]

Great interview. I liked when he said that Bohemian Rhapsody still has secrets that will be remain so because Freddy is no longer with us. Let us just enjoy the splendor of the music and get caught up in the drama when we listen to it.

[@rovcanada1]

Almost brought tears to my eyes when Brian pulled the vinyl out, flipped it over, then pretended to put it down on a platum. He was showing the world what he believes is the best format for music. I agree.

[@Musicienne-DAB1995]

I'm seeing a lot of people tout the vinyl. I was raised on CDs, then switched to digital music. But I'm now tiring of the digital format and wanting to go back to CDs again. Can you explain why you think vinyl is best?

[@rovcanada1]

@@Musicienne-DAB1995 Sure, but it may surprise you. It's not the actual sound reproduction. Too many audiophiles make false claims about vinyl sounding better than digital formats -- it doesn't! In fact, it is often worse (scratches, dirt/dust, wear, needle quality, late production press etc.). 1. Vinyl gave the artists the chance to exhibit another dimension of their art on a tangible 'canvas' ... the cover/jacket and sleeve. It even has its own name; Album Art! I don't need to wax lyrical about iconic cover designs that are already etched into your brain. I can name dozens off the top of my head, but for CD-only covers I could name but a few. 2. The physical act of preparing and setting the vinyl on the platten requires a little time and a degree of delicacy. Because of this it sort of focuses your mind on what your mood is guiding you to listen to before you commit. As you closely watch the needle whilst you lower it onto the platter you are preparing to physically connect with the artist's music. 3. Track time per side: Artists had to really think hard about the formatting of the tracks that they wanted on the vinyl. They knew that between track 'X' and track 'Y', there would be a minute or so break whilst the listener got up and flipped the vinyl over. Think of Dark Side Of The Moon or Abbey Road for example, and how they are purposely divided into distinct 'parts'. This is lost on CD as the tracks just keep churning out without a contemplative pause. Also, the time limit on vinyl made sure that 'so-so' songs were left on the cutting room floor. With CD's, artists can just throw any crap in as fillers as there are fewer time constraints.

[@lynby6231]

I was born in ‘59 and grew up with vinyl and an album was a treasure, it was a prized possession that you cherished, I miss all the artwork and information ( lyrics and instruments etc) the whole package was wonderful.

[@palfrensis]

The love and respect he has for Freddie is very touching.

[@TVC15ohoh]

Absolutely MARVELOUS interview. Probably my favorite Beato interview. I officially LOVE Brian May. What a GREAT yet utterly humble guy. Just breathtaking.