Brian May is one of the most iconic rock band performers of the generation. The lead guitarist of the world-famous Queen has been thrilling audiences for decades with a music catalog that is one of the most recognizable of the era. Originally formed in 1970 when Freddy Mercury joined the band, Queen continued performing for decades. The passing of Freddy Mercury in 1991 threatened to end the band’s performances. While the band did go on hiatus for multiple years, they have come together for various performances since that time.
On April 11, Brian May came together with singer Benson Boone at Coachella 2025, and the performance had fans shaking with excitement. Singing the classic Queen hit, “Bohemian Rapsody”, the duo were able to channel the legendary band’s essence and put on a show that will leave a lasting impression for fans and newcomers alike.
Brian May Leads Historic Career
Brian May has been performing in the industry since 1963. Before becoming the lead guitarist for Queen, he was involved in the progressive rock band Smile. When Freddy Mercury joined the group in 1970, they rebranded themselves Queen and became one of the most successful rock groups in history. In 2018, the band was awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Even after Queen stopped releasing new music, Brian May continued as a solo performer. He has since done multiple collaborations with artists, including Kerry Ellis, Five Finger Death Punch, and Sam Ryder. Brian May was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001 and has also received multiple assorted awards and accolades since. He was ranked 33 on Rolling Stone’s list of 250 greatest guitarists, and also was rated 2 in a poll of Guitar World readers.
With his iconic sound, brilliant songwriting ability, and influential musical style, Brian May holds up as one of the greatest rock band members of all time. He has also dedicated his life to making an impact outside of music and has earned a Ph.D in astrophysics. His contributions to the science community and work as an animal welfare activist have further cemented his worldwide legacy.
Brian May Makes Coachella Appearance
On Friday, April 11, Brian May made an appearance on stage at the Coachella music festival 2025. May recently suffered a stroke last year, so his appearance alongside Benson Boone was a welcome sign for fans. Performing the classic hit Bohemian Rhapsody, the iconic rock star began by rising on a platform to the top of the stage decked in all white. May played his guitar for the song and stayed on stage for the rest of the set as well.
May had already teased a possible appearance with Boone on his Instagram, posting a picture of the two on a plane together. The caption read, “Look who I bumped into – on the way to the fabled Palm Springs. Maybe something will happen ?!” Well, something certainly did, and it got fans completely ecstatic. Boone completed his performances in truly iconic style, with a white and blue outfit in homage to Freddy Mercury and signature backflips that thrilled the audience.
Brian May finished with Boone by playing guitar for the hit song, “Beautiful Things”, a number two hit on Billboards Top 100 in 2024. During the set, Boone also let fans know he has a new album coming out on June 20 entitled American Heart. His set and the iconic collaboration with Brian May have left fans stunned and thrilled. May is as strong as ever, and Boone was able to do the iconic group justice.
More iconic Coachella performances are expected as the festival continues through the weekend.
