THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB Winter 2013 Hi Everyone! From

Home , All American Alien Boy, Dale Griffin, Electric Fire, Friends Will Be Friends, Fun in Space, Fun on Earth

ell it has been Queen to You a great Queeny W year hasn‘t it?! New Roger album, The Lot, the Cross collection, Brian and Kerry‘s dates and re- leases. Brian‘s book sig- nings, badger savings and wood plantings! WWRY touring in North America, Extravaganza touring the US and the UK, FFAD, Con- vention, Queen and Adam in Vegas, the Studio Experi- ence in Montreux, Cross reunion with the SAS Band Xmas bash (which was amazing by the way!), a new deal with Universal just signed, probably more stuff I have forgotten... and to top it all this little teaser from Brian‘s website (brianmay.com) just this week (Dec 3rd) „Queen meeting in Montreux. We discussed touring ! Can‘t tell you what the outcome of this conversation was. But well, interesting! Yep. I know. I‘m bad. But I promise as soon as there is definite news, you will have it. When Queen calls, it‘s hard to hang up“... tails) - AND.... who knows about that tour teaser?!! what can I say?!! Such exciting news! Start saving everyone! In all, a brilliant Queen year, and next year seems it That‘s it from me for now - have a brilliant, peaceful LONG SERVING MEMBERS: might be shaping up the same! Brian and Kerry dates and fun filled Christmas, and may the New year bring UIGI BENEGGI - Italy (32 years) in the early part of the year. April 26th we will be ha- you and yours all you wish for! RIP David Richards, who sadly died on ANDREW BARNETT - Essex (30 years) ving a big Fan Club Party to celebrate the fan club‘s Decemebr 20th. A wonderful, talented CHRIS FRANCIS - Kent (35 years) 40th anniversary! It will be held at Lakeside, in Frim- Love and warm hugs man, who was responsible for many of CATHERINE GARDYNE - Scotland (18 years) ley, Surrey (www.lakesidesurrey.co.uk/) Details will Queen‘s greatest albums. CHRISTINE CAINS - Dorset (36 years) be sent out via email soon, PLEASE ensure you are He will be much missed. BETTINA LINDQUIST - Finland (20 years) registered on our members only website. If you DON‘T PAUL WALBYOFF - Monmouthshire (27 years) have email, drop me a line or call after Christmas! I GERALDINE MARTIN - Merseyside (40 years!) am also trying to get the club back in the Guinness PHILIP THOMPSON - County Durham Book Of Records for a second time - NO fan club has EVER reached 40 years! We may have a picnic at the John, 46 year old Queen fan, is beginning to think Graphic Design: Printed and distributed by Nene Valley Railway in the summer for the anniversa- The Official International Queen Fan Club Christoph von Herrath Fox Print Services LLP he is the only fan in Scotland! Looking to get in touch ry of Breakthru. Then of course the convention, next P.O. Box 141, West Horsley, Surrey KT24 9AJ www.cvh-graphic-design.de Tunbridge Wells, Kent with male and female fans! John Giannandrea, 47 September (Go to: www.arenatravel.com for full de- T: +44 (0) 1483 281995, E: [email protected] Mail: [email protected] 01892 617999 Kilbrennan Drive, Tamfourhill, Falkirk, FK1 4SQ

2 THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB 3 News Roundup News Roundup Badgers!!! New York

rian May is launching a new music video, colla- November 25, 2013 - The Interna- borating not only with his long-time singing part- tional Academy of Television Arts & Bner Kerry Ellis, but also with legendary British Sciences announced the winners of screen actress Virginia McKenna. the 41st International Emmy The track is a haunting version of Virginia McKenna’s Awards tonight at a Gala event atten- original song “Nothing Really Has Changed”. The release ded by over 1000 international tele- of the track forms part of May’s hard-fought campaign to vision professionals and hosted by oppose the continued slaughter of thousands of Britain’s John Oliver at the New York Hilton. badgers under the Government’s ‘roll out’ of The Great Pretender, Rhys Thomas‘s the cull which would see the killing of thousands of excellent documentary, tied for the healthy animals. May comments: “The so-called trials Arts Programming award, with a Ko- are going ahead despite fierce public opinion, under rean documentary. Well done Rhys! conditions of secrecy - nobody is allowed in the areas of Kerry Ellis & Brian May the cull, and no photographs may be taken - and with absolutely no form of public accountability. The Govern- New Book The Candelight Concerts: 8 - 26 February 2014 ment continues to ignore the whole scientific communi- ty, and the view of the public. The “Brian May‘s Red Special - The story of the cull is a disaster as was predicted; it home-made guitar that rocked Queen and the ue to the phenomenal success of their previous new areas recently, music is still what energises me - the was never on the cards that culling World“. The book is in the very early days at the tours, legendary Queen Guitarist Brian May and greatest joy. And Ms Ellis is the most inspiring collabora- could eradicate bTB - only vaccina- moment. No release date except hopefully by Dsinging sensation Kerry Ellis are to perform to - tor - we’re a pretty good band! I’m grateful for the opportu- tion can do that. Nobody benefits - christmas next year, it will be published by Carl-Carl- gether once again, in a brand new show, The Candlelight nity to bring this show to a wider audience - already certainly not the farmers, or the tax- ton Books. Brian said on his website (www. Concerts. working on hardening up the finger ends…” brianmay.com) “The Book on the Red Beginning at the Gordon Craig Theatre in Stevenage on Kerry Ellis added: “I am so excited to be taking to the road Special is ongoing work in progress and 18th February, this is a chance to see one of the world’s again with the candlelight concerts; it‘s humbling to have is coming on very well! I‘m actually a greatest guitar players, Brian May and Britain’s newest such demand for our show. I can‘t tell you how much I enjoy lot more excited about it than I expec- First Lady of song, Kerry Ellis take to stage. Join them for performing these songs with Brian and what fun we have ted to be!! The pictures alone will be a magical evening of world class acoustic music, perfor- with the audiences in these intimate settings. I feel very quite shocking to some people - there med by candlelight at intimate venues around the UK. honoured and can‘t wait to get going.“ is so much that has never been seen!“ Kerry Ellis was the creator of the role of Meat in Queen’s Tickets for The Candlelight Concerts are on sale now. Rock theatrical, We Will Rock You, and went on to be- Full UK Tour Dates come a sensation on both sides of the Atlantic starring as 18 February 2014 - Stevenage Gordon Craig Theatre Breakthru 2014 the Green Witch in the musical Wicked. Throughout this www.gordon-craig.co.uk / 01438 363 200 time, Brian May and Kerry Ellis maintained a special musi- 19 February - Buxton Festival cal partnership, with May producing the fine Ellis debut www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk / 0845 127 2190 album ‘Anthems’ in 2010. Their first tour played 12 suc - 21 February - Scarborough Spa cessful dates around the UK in 2011, including two sold- www.scarboroughspa.co.uk / 01723 821 888, £39 out nights at London’s Albert Hall, for which Kerry won 22 February - Grantham Meres payer. The Government has plunged, blinkered into this the Best Solo Performance award from Whatsonstage. www.guildhallartscentre.com / 01476 406158, £39 mess. So, after all this, what will have changed ? com. The two then returned to the road with their eager- 23 February - Bath Theatre Royal Virginia’s song, ‘Nothing Really Has Changed’ is the per- ly anticipated tour in November last year, which was ex - www.theatreroyal.org.uk / 01225 448844 fect message for this time.” tended in 2013. 25 February - Eastbourne Congress It was recorded during Ellis and May’s live performance The Candlelight Concerts will see Brian and Kerry per- www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk / 01323 412000 at the Montreux Jazz Festival, as part of their ‘Acoustic By Registration is now open for the brilliant Breakthru con- form stripped down versions of Queen classics alongside 26 February - Southend Cliffs Pavilion Candlelight’ tour, and the video for the song is available vention! After a brilliant weekend in Toronto earlier this a number of their personal favourite songs, showcasing www.southendtheatres.org.uk / 01702 351135 to view on YouTube to buy on iTunes. All profits from the year, next year sees it return to Clevelnd, Ohio, July 25 to Kerry’s extraordinary voice with Brian accompanying her Tickets priced: £39.00 / £40.00, To book tickets please sale of this track will go to the “Sponsor Badger Vaccina- 27. Always a fantastic, Queen filled weekend, a must for all on both guitar and vocals. call the Credit Card Hotline on 0844 758 758 tion Fund”. Viewers can also donate to the Fund on You- North American fans! http://www.queenbreakthru.com/ Brian May said: “Although life has taken me into so many For online bookings please visit www.ticketzone.co.uk Tube. for full information and booking details. See you there!!

4 THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB 5 News Roundup News Roundup Queen/Freddie Film Roger Solo and The Lot A Very Special Pudsey

There is no news to report on this I‘m afraid, although This year, for Children in Need here in the UK, celebrities meetings have taken place, casting sessions have been were asked to decorate their own Pudsey Bear, and tehse and gone... all I can give you is this quote from Brian, were then auctioned on Ebay, all proceeds benefitting featured on his Soapbox on November 24th... the charity. The designers were Sir Paul McCartney, Coldplay, Sir Terry Wogan, Dame Shirley Bassey, Brian May, Dame Judi Dench, Joanna Lumley and Dame Helen Mirren. Brian’s Astronomy Bear is inspired by his passion for astronomy and his Doctorate in Astrophysics, and comes with its very own telescope, so Pudsey can enjoy star gazing, as his creator intended. This is Brian‘s Pud- We Will Rock You sey, and he sold for £1550.00! You know Robert De Niro in acclaimed acting roles as November 11th saw the release of Roger‘s long awaited „Vito Corleone“ in The Godfather Part II and „Jake La- new album „Fun On Earth“, plus the definitive box set of Motta“ in Raging Bull, but he‘s now taking on a new role „For us, a day to DO something, marking a date where his solo work, and his output with The Cross. as producer of the musical We Will Rock You. „Why not?“ we feel a cold wind. And we did. The Lot comprises of Roger’s solo albums Fun In Space De Niro said in an interview before a rehearsal for We Roger and I met with Graham King, the patient man (1981), Strange Frontier (1984), Happiness? (1994), Will Rock You in America. „...You never know until you who has been piloting our Freddie film through tricky Electric Fire (1998) and Fun On Earth, as well as the go. ... It‘s just a fun thing to take a shot at, and it‘s not waters this last couple of years. three albums by his band The Cross - Shove It (1988), easy.“ The musical, which is being brought to the States And we had a fabulous breakthrough moment. We saw Mad, Bad And Dangerous To Know (1990) and Blue after years of worldwide success, is a story created by some trial footage which brought big smiles to our faces, Rock (1991). Although he was known for enjoying the English playwright and director Ben Elton that encom- and made three decisions which will enable us to press rock’n’roll lifestyle, Fun On Earth and the breadth of The passes a catalogue of songs from rock band Queen. As a that vital button this coming week, barring inclement Lot perfectly showcases Taylor’s versatility and veracious rock lover himself, De Niro says that project was so- acts of the Gods. So we should be actually shooting appetite for hard work. mething he was passionate about. footage before long. It will come quicker than we think. The Cross celebrated their 20th anniversary reunion „I was very enthusiastic; Jane [Rosenthal] (co-produ- This is a good wind blowing. Freddie must be smiling, with a gig at the G Live in Guildford, Surrey on December cer), because of her enthusiasm, I said ‚Let‘s do it!‘ ... with a glint in the eye. 7th, as part of the SAS Christmas Party concert. But sadly The music is great.“ he said. Cheers all, Til soon - Bri“ still no news on any possible live dates from Roger! WWRY continues it‘s extensive tour - for full details and dates go to www.wewillrockyou.com.

The 2014 Official Queen calendar is now available Queen Calendar online! www.danilo.com/Shop/Music-Calendars/ Queen-2014-Calendar Diableries May‘s Wood Brian‘s latest book project, Stereoscopic Adventures in Hell was published by the The Planting of 157-acre site, May’s Wood, began Saturday London Stereoscopic Company (www. September 28 2013. Dr Brian May, founder of Save Me londonstereo.co.uk) on Halloween, 31 Oc- planted the first tree to mark the start of a Save Me project tober, and has been written and resear- to establish a new native woodland on a 157-acre site in ched by Brian May, Denis Pellerin and Bere Regis, Dorset. In total, more than 100,000 trees and Paula Fleming. It is 280 pages with 500 photographs in shrubs will be planted over the next 12 months in what is colour and black and white and it comes complete with an one of the largest new woodland planting schemes in the OWL stereo viewer designed by Brian May. south of England this year. Brian‘s Save Me woodland planting scheme aims to create a significant wildlife haven and enhanced ecological habitat on a site to the southern side of the village of Bere Regis which was previously agricultu- ral land. For further information on this, and all Save Me projects, go to http://www.save-me.org.uk/

6 THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB 7 The First Convention Friends will be Friends... he first Queen Convention that I attended after year my English keeps getting better and better. Thank several months’ consideration was the 25th anni- you for that, you lovely Queenies. Tversary in 2010. The idea that I go there alone Since 25th Convention I have made dozens of friends at seemed scary, I did not know anyone there. I had a few the Conventions and a number of those have become a days in London before Convention weekend. I met Ger- really close to me. My closest friend Erika lives in Brazil, man Queen fans before the We Will Rock You musical, they were also going to the Convention on next day. We went to a bar for a few pints after the show, and we discussed everything from Queen to our cultural differen- ces. Fear of being alone and going to the Queen Conven- tion started to evaporate. They were my first Queen friends whom I have kept in touch with ever since. Roger appeared on the BBC‘s „The One Show“ on October 18th, to promote Fun On Earth, The Lot and Extravaganza. I was asked to find some fans to be in the audience at quite short notice, but as usual, there were many willing people out there! The photo shows all of those who attended - thanks guys!

B&B IN TORQUAY - FOR QUEEN FANS

o you fancy a break in Devon, in the gorgeous Sou- we met at 26th Queen Convention. I can share sadness, th West area of England? For a weekend getaway, happiness, laughs, tears and dreams with her. Queen D midweek break or longer holiday, come and enjoy meetings have brought much joy to my life and friend- the hospitality at our friendly home in Torquay. The Torbay ships all over the world, at the Convention all seems to be area is known as The English Riviera and we enjoy the a one big Queen family and that‘s what we are. mildest climate in the whole of Britain. The Queen Convention is a spectacular part of something We are situated in peaceful Wellswood, between Babba- incredibly nice and cool! It’s beyond belief how you can combe and Torquay, just a 10 minute walk and a 4 minute be a part of something like this, unbelievable. Thank drive to the main town centre, harbour side and sea. We you all. Cheers! are also on the local bus route from Torquay town and Henry K. Rock, Finland ...ps waiting the next one... harbourside. Moran (in red, from Israel), Henry (very drunk, from Many thanks to Henry for his account of attending his We offer 2 clean, comfortable and quiet Finland) and Erika (in blue, from Brazil). first convention – I know many fans feel the same. double rooms with own en-suite shower night with a maximum occupancy of two They would love to attend, but feel a little nervous facilities. Each bedroom looks out over persons per room. £10.00 per person non-re- The next morning I was waiting for the train in Liverpool about being alone. This never happens! Everyone will Street Station, and I was very excited. At the station I met be your friend, and never let you be alone, and many the peaceful rear garden and comes fundable deposit is required when booking René and Lonnie from Minnesota, USA. I traveled part of will become friends for life. complete with flat screen TV, double gla-- either by paypal or cheque, and full payment the journey with them. We went to the Convention and Next years convention will be at Presthaven Sands in zing and heating. There is a Queen theme is required in cash on arrival. hung together during the day, another friendship was North Wales (NOT the same venue we used to go to!). running through the whole house as well Tel: 01803 389229 / email: garytaylortqy @ born. While in the evening I met lots of people who beca- September 26 to 29th 2014. It is already over half way as the guest bedrooms. aol.com for enquiries and bookings (mobi- me my Queen friends and more than just Queen friends. to being sold out, but there are still places available! To A choice of hot and cold breakfast is opti- le: 07944435883). People at the Convention have always been quite ama- find out more about the event, accommodation and onal at an additional cost of £5 per perper-- You can find us on Facebook at‚ B&B in zing, so is the whole atmosphere. I didn’t use English prices, go to www.arenatravel.com. Or you can call son. We also cater for vegetarians. We do Torquay - For Queen Fans‘. very much before the Convention, so I tried to listen and their dedicated booking team on 01473 660800. not offer evening meals but there are many And for further information on the area drink more than talk. Sometimes I purposely stood a local restaurants catering for every taste. visit www.englishriviera.co.uk/places-to- little away from the crowd, but always someone pulled Accommodation costs £20 per person per visit/english-riviera/torquay me to join with others and they forced me to chat! Every

8 THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB 9 A Queen PilgRimAge By The lAke

eferring to The Queen Studio Experience, a corded there in that room, at that desk, with trusted lyrics. Roger‘s Action This Day ling‘ the place and taking in permanent exhibition in Montreux, some- co-producer David Richards by their side. You can lyrics are there too, and exam- all that happened there back R one wrote on a Queen forum the other day, play at being the sound engineer at one of those legen- ples from John and Freddie!! in 1978/79, during the early „Sounds like a great thing - I‘d love to visit one day.“ dary sessions that gave us Mother Love and A Winter‘s There is much to see and take in, much to hear, and and late 80s, and of course in 1991. I would like to say this... and as you know, I rarely if Tale. Turn up the bass, turn down the voice. A little the control room alone makes the visit worthwhile. It is very special and it‘s definitely worth the journey ever rave over much. I‘ll make an exception for this. more gtr, a little less piano. You decide. Stop and imagine for a moment; yourself standing on - or pilgrimage, might be a better word. It is indeed a great thing. It‘s actually very significant, It is a magical experience, and there is no other space the very same spot that Freddie stood when he sang Seriously (I can be sometimes!!!)... you‘ll love this and perhaps more than some of you might realise - as in this world like it. It has a unique place in Queen his very last songs. The room in which he downed that exhibition. You‘ll love Montreux if you‘ve never been I don‘t know if the press release is widely available or history and, in my opinion, you do actually ‚feel‘ it... vodka and, as Brian recalled, just „went for it!“ And before. You can see the Freddie statue too, and other not. unless you‘re a cold and insensitive soul, of course. then... you can listen, on brilliant speakers, to the fi- breathtaking scenes and blissful landscapes. And When you arrive at this enigmatic and hugely atmos - Like Freddie wrote, you have to open up your mind nal result of those sessions. The clarity and starkness swans floating by. And if you see me there, you really pheric place, and step inside the room where all four and step inside, to take the most away from it. will shock you!!!! Be prepared for this. There are ought to offer me a beer as a small thank you for this Queen band members once wrote, created, recorded I went out to the venue a few weeks back and set up 7 other surprises in that room too. insight. together, you are immediately aware that you‘re in‚ or 8 display cabinets. Nice big lovely expensive (and My colleague Justin went out after me, to set up the I know I sound like a publicity man, but that wasn‘t the place to be‘ for any real and true Queen fan. SECURE) glass cases, not tiny boxes. They‘re great! sound system and mix faders, etc, and he has offered the intent. I‘m just genuinely excited about this, it‘s a You are in the actual room where Freddie Mercury There are some fab things to see, some of them for the ‚something‘ there, for you guys to ponder, (which i‘ll great experience, so I thought I‘d share a little. recorded his very last vocal performances. The actual very first time. Brian‘s original handwritten lyrics for not disclose now) which is extremely interesting, and Go see it. Greg Brooks (Queen Archivist) spot where he stood is marked on the floor. It‘s rather ‚Tie Your Mother Down‘ for example, which we only a first. Justin was there too during Queen‘s final re- Queen: ‘The Studio Experience Montreux‘ was ope- chilling on some levels. It may even move you. found at the house this year! There is, to my mind any- cording sessions together. It‘s quite a thought, isn‘t it! ned by Brian May and Roger Taylor December 2, Then, if you wish, you can sit at the mightily impressi- way, truly startling Queen history to look at in your There are many subtle things to take in at this QSE. 2013. Thereafter open daily from 10:30 to 22:00. ve control desk and mix the vocals, bass, gtr, piano, own time, so take your time. I love such things; I It‘s not merely exhibits and clinical text on walls. This Entrance free although donations to the Mercury drums, etc, on some wonderful songs that Queen re- could spend all day just looking at the handwritten exhibition is the first of its kind. It‘s largely about ‚fee- Phoenix Trust are encouraged.

10 THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB 11 Fan Story Fan Story

first “discovered” Queen in 2011. Of course I knew that song on Made in Heaven? Did This is pretty much where the story of how I became a about the group beforehand – who could escape Freddie sing it? I have to listen to that Queen fan ends, but the crazy journey is just begin- IBohemian Rhapsody in England? – but I paid little again...” And so I did. ning. In February I was in London and – by sheer attention to the group for a couple of simple reasons. coincidence – Brian was doing a book-signing at Ast- Firstly, I was born in 1994. To put that into perspecti- And then it clicked. My God. roFest for his latest Astronomy book The Cosmic Tou- ve, the first Queen album that was released after I was Where has this been all my life? rist. How could I turn down the opportunity to see born was Made in Heaven; a mere year later. I did not him? I attended the event and he was exactly like he grow up with the Queen hype: I didn’t see them tour I was bitten by the Queen bug and was on YouTube and in all the stories I read from with Freddie and the only activity that they had in my listened religiously to anything I people: kind, courteous and very humble. He also si- infancy was with Queen+ Paul Rodgers and their The could find. For a couple of months I gned my Made in Heaven album: my reason for being Cosmos Rocks album, which was very under-promo- looked around trying to find as much a Queen fan. Funnily enough, he didn’t recognize me ted to the point where I didn’t know such a collabora- information as I could on the group from Twitter but I didn’t really expect him to. Howe- tion existed. and getting as many cheap albums ver, I met him again while I was volunteering at Tiger So how did I discover the group? Well, I’m a big fan of as I could (I’m just a poor boy from Tracks in March. I was made aware of this by Brian going to car boot sales, because you never know if a poor family, after all!) and then via Twitter and I had always wanted to do some volun- you’re going to find any kind of hidden gem out in the the news was announced: Queen+ teer work if only to force myself out of my introversion wild and – being a retro video game enthusiast – I Adam Lambert would be playing for a couple of hours and try to help the world in some was always prepared to spend a couple of hours each the Hammersmith Apollo. Holy ****, small way. So I signed up for the first day of the event week searching for a potential gem. It was at my local this I had to see! It was only a mini- because that was the only day I could do it, and it car boot sale one cold March morning in 2011 where tour, and I didn’t know if they would tour again! For turns out that Brian and Kerry Ellis were also there. something sparked my curiosity: Queen’s Made in all I knew, Brian and Roger may have begun tired and My friend and I were positioned by the Recycled Tiger, Heaven album. I knew enough about the group to know disillusioned with touring by this point, so I got two so he came by fairly quickly. My friend – being a Ker- that this was their last album, and the one they re- How I Became tickets to see the final show on July 14th 2012, for me ry Ellis fan – wanted a picture of all of us and Kerry leased after Freddie’s death, so – out of morbid curi- and a friend. We went there and what unfolded before us happily obliged, calling Brian over for a picture. After osity – I bought it for £1 to see how the group tackled was nothing short of legendary. It was my first concert the first picture, he walked up right beside me and the task of making a posthumous album. However, I A Queen Fan... ever, and to this day it is still the best one I’ve been to. asked the cameraman to take another one. “Are you think I listened to it once and swiftly forgot about it Now, I have been suffering with Depression for a good sure?” the guy asked. “Yeah, let’s have another one!” due to problems I was having at school in the time. ...and the CRAZY Journey that En- number of years, largely due to explosive issues with Did he recognize me that time? I don’t know, but it You see, I was bullied relentlessly at school because, sued. By Sam “KaisaJesta” Geden my family and the behaviour I was subjected to by my still showed that he was a kind and caring person to well... I was different. This sounds clichéd, but I liked peers in school. It’s a crippling thing to live with and anyone that wanted to have some of his time. different things from most people – the music of Mi- I’ve struggled with it quite a lot in the past couple of The third time I met Brian was on the Badger Cull chael Jackson, retro video games, non-mainstream collaborative work. During this time, I clung to a par- years. Of course, being a teenager with an inferiority March. Now, Brian had ignited my passion for ani- films – and I therefore became a big target for people. ticular song: The Show Must Go On. It became an complex, I made my woes known on Twitter; not ex- mal wildlife protection, and when I became aware It was a very painful time, and it completely consu- anthem; a mantra to which I lived by during this time pecting sympathy but merely to just blow off steam. of what the Badger Cull was, I was horrified of what med me to the point where I became a paranoid mess, of insane stress: But on one October night something greatly unexpec- the Government were doing and what little scientific and all of my passions took a backseat to merely sur- ted happened. Brian May tweeted me out of the blue. basis they had for enacting the Cull. I wanted to do viving that year of school. No Matter What, The Show Must Go On. Not only that, but he followed me on there. something; anything to try to stop this, so I plugged Thankfully I did survive, but I went out of the frying the hell out of the Government petition on my Twit- pan and into the fire. You see, school students nowa- Because of this song, I began to look at Queen again, Wait, what? What!? HOLY $#!^ ter account and I attended the March. I knew that days are surprisingly co-ordinated and organised: and as fate would have it another car boot sale one Brian would be there, but this wasn’t about meeting they will hit you where it hurts and at the time where year later on April 2012 yielded a gem to which I could I of course knew that Brian suffered with Depression Brian: I wanted to do something to help the world, it will hurt the most. While I escaped that level of co- learn more about the group: The Freddie Mercury very severely in the 90s with the loss of his marriage, and this was all I could think of doing. The atmos- ordination when I went to college, I came across a Tribute Show on VHS. Why I pick the morbid, post- his father and dear Freddie, but this was something I phere of the March was indescribable: I had never different opposition: the artsy dramatic Performance death stuff is beyond me, but I gladly paid £2 for it never expected. Was it because beforehand I was tal- known such a mass of people to be united over one Studies types who believe that everything they create and watched it as soon as I got home. I became more king about Made in Heaven and praising the song cause before (keep in mind, I was just 18 at the time is a work of art, and are unwilling to accept any form acquainted with their catalogue through this, and Mother Love for being one of the best songs of all and I never wanted to get into politics because I of criticism. They were few and far between, but they when Brian sang Too Much Love Will Kill You – sup- time, in every conceivable area? I don’t know, but his knew – even from a young age – that it would just became vicious if you dare criticise their work. This posedly the first time the public was introduced to support meant a lot in what was one of the darkest cause stress to try to fight the system). While we made working with them unbearable when it came to this song – a memory was triggered. “Wait, wasn’t patches of my life. were marching, I happened to get close to Brian and

12 THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB 13 Fan Story

when he looked at me, he had a warm smile on his him for releasing the book because a lot of the com- face and I sheepishly asked “Hi Brian, do you re- positions were giving me ideas for a film project I am The Tattoos of Brandy Huston member me?” and he went “Of course I do! You’re currently conceptualising. Brian appeared humbled Sam!” For that moment, my mind exploded. For the and said “Thank you so much! I love what you write on I wanted to send in day last year, November 18. rest of the March, we walked in close proximity of Twitter and the things you’re doing for the animals is pictures of my tat- Both of these tattoos were each other and exchanged smiles to each other whe- wonderful, so put it there!” and he put out his hand. It toos. My oldest one done by a tattoo artist named never we made eye contact. was like I was in a dream in which everyone was so kind is the Queen crest, Mario Sanchez of Prick Tattoos In the Summer, I also met Brian’s lovely wife Anita Dob- and friendly: something I’m still not fully accustomed located on my lower here in San Antonio, Texas. I son while catching a show in London called Carnival to because of all the stuff that happened in school. back, and I‘ve had it just wanted to share these with of the Animals. My friend and I had A couple of days later, I went to a Diab- since March 2004. you, I hope you like them! gathered a small bag of gifts for her leries lecture, wishing to know more The Hot Space tattoo I don‘t think I will have and when we presented them to her, about the cards and their history. It on my left arm was anything but Queen rela- she was completely taken aback by it was a deeply fascinating lecture and I done last year on ted tattoos done, that is and thanked us both before giving us slightly caught the Stereo bug from it, September 9, and the Lover of Life, Singer of Songs how much I love them! big hugs! She also invited us to stay after- because I can definitely see why people Freddie tattoo on my right arm was done on my birth- Take care! wards to hang out, which we obliged. enjoy them so much. At the subsequent In October, I was very fortunate to be book-signing, Brian saw me and my chosen to go to a screening of The One friend and yet again donned that warm A brand new Show with a bunch of other Queen Fan smile. “Oh! It’s you two – hello!” When YouTube channel - Club members because Roger was being we finished taking a photo and we were interviewed. I jumped at the chance to walking off, he called out to me: “Re- created specially for go for the possibility of meeting Roger. member that whenever you fall down, Queen fans, by Queen To cut a long story short, Roger didn’t just keep on getting up!” I was so taken fans… is now live want to hang out after the show and aback by his kindness that I actually took off as soon as the cameras stop- forgot the book and his PA chased after ped rolling. I wasn’t too beaten up about me to return it! Did Anita talk to him n Tuesday July 23rd 2013, Queen’s archivist Gary and Greg have made a start with over 100 newly it though, because it was great to hang about the talk we had a couple of days Greg Brooks and contributor/expert Gary Tay- created Features of their own, and have many more to out with fellow Queen fans and I made before? Was he aware that I was going Olor launched their exciting new channel on follow. They cover numerous items that many of you a number of wonderful friends on that through a rough patch? I don’t know, YouTube, and now invite fellow fans and collectors to won‘t have seen before including many Exclusive clips trip, so it was still completely worth- but his kindness and well-wishes still join them in making ‘Rare Share: Queen Collectables’ just for the Rare Share channel. while. Later on in the month, I won a means the world to me. the place to go to view and share Queen memorabilia A comprehensive Guide (suggestions and tips for crea- competition to attend a VIP Halloween So that’s my story, thus far. I’ve only from all around the world. ting your own clips) features within the channel, but party in celebration of the launch of been a Queen fan for two years and yet The channel will focus exclusively upon Queen and for now, in essence, your video should (ideally) be 2–3 Brian’s new book Diableries: Stereo- so many amazing things have happe- Solo related nostalgia, everything ever released, pre- minutes long, NOT contain any Queen music or video, scopic Adventures in Hell, and of course ned! I’ve seen Queen+ perform; I’ve sented in concise video clips. This will be the band’s and cover any rare or interesting or significant items I jumped at the opportunity. The party seen both members of the group live unique and fascinating history from the perspective you have. You can present it however you like. Try to was fantastic and I met so many won- and I’ve met Brian on several occasi- of you the fans. There are thousands of wonderful be original, informative and entertaining. You can be derful people, like the wonderful Ja- ons to the point where he seems to en- items to get through, a vast array of treasures which serious or funny: whatever you think appropriate. cky, Neil Murray, Greg Brooks and Anita again, who joy my company (though maybe that’s the optimism in they‘d like you to be a part of. This channel is for you: the fans and collectors. You recognized me from last time. Anita and I actually me). The year ahead is looking great as well, with the Anything rare and interesting in the name of Queen decide what’s worth covering, and what’s not. You had a heart-to-heart about life and Depression, in Queen Fan Club convention in September being so- has its place on Rare Share. Be it records, books, bo- guys know this stuff better than anyone else, so you’re which she told me that my life had barely begun and mething I’m really looking forward to. I’ve met so xed sets, pos ters, acetates, t-shirts, cassettes, colou- best qualified to present these rare gems. And don’t that you just have to keep on trying no matter what life many amazing and warm people that it makes me feel red vinyl, CD‘s, toys, tickets, passes, tour programs, forget to subscribe to the channel so that you don’t throws at you. I was so humbled to have that conver- so fortunate to even be a fan. Being a Queen fan has boot legs or badges. Whatever it is you have, fellow miss the latest uploads. sation with her, and afterwards she invited me to improved my quality of life so much, and it has made fans will want to see it. The Rare Share: Queen Collectables channel has now hang out with her for the rest of the night, which I me feel like I actually have friends: something I’ve It’s not only about physical items of memorabilia. It had over 45,000 views since July and have nearly 1000 happily obliged. Brian was also there, and as soon as struggled with since I was a child. could also be a concert, or an exhibition you‘d like to subscribers. Don‘t miss out, go to YouTube.com and he saw me he gained that familiar warm smile and review, or a convention, or a book signing appearance search for “Rare Share Queen Collectables”. You can shook my hand. Later on, I went up to him and thanked To that, I thank you all. Sam “KaisaJesta” Geden you attended. also find us on Facebook.

14 THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB 15 Little Queenies Across England The Queen guide to good parenting... By Steve Sherratt

Early Moustache by Emma Pryde

Fin Pryde is a 6 year old mad Queen/Freddie fan, evenmore than me! He knows all of the songs and mimicks Freddie‘s moves! He has to have his favourite songs on EVERYDAY! I have a hat just like Freddie‘s and he throws it around like Freddie used to! He loves Bohemian Rhapsody, WWRY, WATC, RADIO GAGA and countless others! He goes to theatre school and did a snippet of WWRY the musical, he LOVED it! I think he may be on stage doing something similar when he is older! Queen Family by Helen Knight He said he also wants to grow Tyler „Little Melina“ Standridge a moustache just to be like Freddie! My queenie kids! Emily (9) and Taylor-Mae (5). Emi- by Donna Standridge ly has now been to 5 conventions (one of those pictu- I did the C2C on the 18/07/2013 - 21/07/2013 it was a res is when she won the fancy dress!) and Taylor -Mae total of 140 miles across England from Whitehaven to We definitely have a second-generation Queenie in went to her first this year and they cant wait for 2014‘s! Tynemouth. The day I started it was 30+ degrees not the house - and he came into it all on his own. My son Emily‘s favourite track is Princes of the universe and the ideal weather to cycle in!! Tyler (almost 12 now) found the Muppets version of Taylors We Will Rock You. I did it for Dog‘s trust UK which is a charity I have Bohemian Rhapsody when he was about 7 years old tried to support where I can, the ride became more and he loved it so much, he had to show it to me. I poignant to me as before I did the ride I lost my best asked him if he wanted to see the video for the real No Choice by Zoe & Rob Dean friend ever my little dog „Rusty“ who was the most song that came from, so we watched Queen‘s video. wonderful dog in the world and I miss him so much. It was INSTANT love, just like it was for me around his Luke Dean is 4, I set a target of £200.00 which I didn‘t think I would age when I first heard Killer Queen. He dug up video and hasn‘t had a reach, however I put the fact I was doing the ride on after video and became absolutely enamored with choice but to grow the fan Club Face book page and also it was adver- Freddie. He wanted to sing like Freddie, and studies up with Queen. tised in the last fan club magazine. Cut a long story his every move and note. He loves „We Will short I went to Dog‘s trust in Shrewsbury on the We‘ve even nicknamed him Little Melina. He dresses Starting Young by Aisha O‘Brien Rock You“ and I am 09/09/2013 and handed over a Cheque for £536.00, like Freddie every year on FFAD (and sometimes just teaching him the which even now I cannot believe. for the hell of it). The walls in his room are covered in Morgan Loves Queen, When you ask him what his fa - hand clapping. He is I just want to take this opportunity to thank the won- Queen and he has more Queen tees than I do (little vourite song is he sings „I want to ride my Bicycle“ slowly getting there derful Queen Fans for sponsoring me I am forever bugger). He‘s a flamboyant and shameless child From a baby I sang it to him while doing circular mo- bless him. He loves grateful anyone interested in getting a rescue dog (sound familiar?) who knows every word to every vements with his legs... the conventions and form dogs trust can check their website out at www. Queen song, and once incited his entire class of 200 If you point to any member of the band he can tell you seeing his queen fa- dogstrust.co.UK fellow 8 year-olds into a rousing chorus of the infa- who they are!! But he cant really pronounce Freddie mily. Next year me and my colleagues from work (Staf- mous WWRY in an indoor stadium. School officials Mercury he instead says Freddie MUCKERY it is very fordshire Police) hope to ride from John O ‘Groats to still talk about it. My little legend! funny! Lands’ End again for the Dogs trust.

16 THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB 17 Queen & Mott Part 2 Queen & Mott Part 2

ll was not well with Brian May as Queen and Mott The Hoople began their tour of A US in the spring of 1974. Earlier in the The Ballad of Queen & Mott year, before travelling to Australia, May had developed gangrene in his arm from a dirty inoculation By Patrick Lemieux needle and though he had recovered, his arm was Part 2 the significance of the event as they performed “Earth” still bothering him throughout the UK tour before the and a cover of the Tim Hardin song “If I Were A Car- band left for the United States. In New York City, at the penter.” Uris Theatre on Broadway, Mott The Hoople, with Mick Ronson, sadly, would pass away from cancer the Queen as the support act, performed six concerts over following year, 1993, but left behind a posthumous five days in May. Mott recorded their May 8th show for album, Heaven And Hull (released in 1994). Included a forthcoming live album. On the day after the last on the album was The Freddie Mercury Tribute Con- show, Brian May collapsed, having developed hepati- cert recording of “All The Young Dudes.” Ian Hunter tis. Queen’s involvement on the US tour ended and the would pay tribute to his friend with the song “Michael band returned to England. Brian recovered in the Picasso,” performed at the Mick Ronson Memorial hospital and Mott The Hoople continued their tour in Concert and later recorded and released on his 1996 North America. album The Artful Dodger. After Mott returned from the tour, their Live album, 1996 would see Morgan Fisher put together the Mott featuring material from their Broadway show (as well The Hoople tribute album, Moth Poet Hotel, which as from an earlier concert at the Hammersmith Odeon), included Brian May’s cover of “All The Way To Mem- was released. Ariel Bender departed the band and phis,” featuring a guest appearance by Ian Hunter. Mick Ronson, formerly one of David Bowie’s Spiders This version would also appear on May’s solo album From Mars, took his place for the tour at the end of the Another World in 1998. year. By December, though, the band was on its last Tim Staffell returned to recording music in 2003 with legs. Personalities clashed and Ian Hunter found him s e l f his solo album, aMIGO. For the album, Staffell and burnt out. After the tour, he and Mick Ronson left. Brian May would re-record their co-written Smile song Queen with Ian Hunter of Mott The Hoople and The remaining members would continue, dropping “Doin’ Alright” (previously recorded by Smile in 1969 producer Roy Thomas Baker at the Montreal Fo - ‘The Hoople’ from their name and carrying on simply and by Queen in 1972). Staffell would also re-record rum, the 26th January 1977 as Mott. No more was Mott The Hoople as it once was. his song “Earth,” which had been recorded by both Brian May recovered from his bout of hepatitis and Smile and Morgan. Fittingly, this recording would rejoined the band as they started recording new ma- World tours and five more studio albums followed for of AIDS and in April of 1992, the surviving members fea ture his Smile band-mate May and his Morgan terial. His ill-health had aggravated an existing ulcer Queen (A Day At The Races, News Of The World, Jazz, of Queen held The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert bandmate Morgan Fisher. and he was soon hospitalized once again. The other The Game and the Flash Gordon soundtrack album). In at Wembley Stadium. They invited their friends and 2009, 40 years after Mott The Hoople first took to the three continued working and waited for their guita- 1981, they moved their recording sessions for their tenth colleagues to perform with them that evening and it stage, the house lights at the Hammersmith Apollo rist to return. May, meanwhile, wrote from his bed, album from Munich, Germany to Montreux, Switzer - was here that several significant reunions occurred dimmed and their classic intro music, Holst’s “Jupi- penning the song “Now I’m Here” as way to sort out land. David Bowie lived nearby and he and Queen began during the performance of a single song: “All The Young ter: Bringer Of Jollity,” poured triumphantly out of the his feeling about the lost US tour. He gave a nod to spending time in the studio. Bowie would listen to their Dudes.” Ian Hunter and David Bowie, who worked on speakers once again. Mott took to the stage as the Mott The Hoople with the lyric “Down in the city just progress and even record vocals for the track “Cool the original Mott The Hoople song; David Bowie and original line-up of Ian Hunter, Dale Griffin, Pete Hoople and me.” Cat” (vocals that were left off the final album). Even- Mick Ronson, who had been bandmates since before Overend Watts, Mick Ralphs and Verden Allen, and May returned to good health and Queen would com- tually, the five men decided to write and record a new the Ziggy Stardust days; Ronson and Hunter, who their reunion concert was played to a capacity crowd. plete their third album, Sheer Heart Attack. Their track together and the result was “Under Pressure.” were bandmates in Mott The Hoople during Mott’s fi- The lives and careers of the artists of Smile, Mott The next milestone of success came with their fourth al- The tenth Queen album would be Hot Space and for nal days and collaborated in their solo projects; and Hoople, Queen, Morgan and David Bowie have woven bum, A Night At The Opera, and its massive single, the tour, the band decided to add a keyboardist to of course, Hunter, Bowie and Queen, who had all though one another’s and each helped shape those “Bohemian Rhapsody,” in 1975. In January of 1976, their live shows. They enlisted Morgan Fisher (for- worked together throughout their respective careers. they worked with, and in doing so, not only were the Queen arrived in New York City for their upcoming merly of Mott The Hoople and the band Morgan, with 1992 would end with an unexpected reunion of the artists inspired, but the world received great music. tour and met up with Ian Hunter, who was recording Tim Staffell) for the UK dates and their concert at Mil- band Smile, at The Marquee Club, where the Fan Club Patrick Lemieux is a Canadian artist and writer, his All American Alien Boy album. Freddie, Roger ton Keynes, recorded, broadcast and later released Christmas Party saw Roger Taylor’s band The Cross and co-author of the book The Queen Chronology. and Brian recorded backing vocals for the track “You on DVD, shows Queen and Fisher having fun onstage. performing. Taylor was then joined onstage by Brian Follow him on Twitter: @MadTheDJ and check out Nearly Did Me In.” 1991 saw the tragic death of Freddie Mercury as a result May and Tim Staffell and all involved acknowledged his blog: madthedj.wordpress.com

18 THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB 19 Freddie For A Day Freddie For A Day

aturday 9th March 2013 - We Will Rock You, I couldn’t see the guitarist for a while through the fog, Dominion Theatre. Andy Sparks and Rich and off we came. Then for the bow - I could see my S Blower’s West End Stage Debut - This was The girls in the audience and hear them screaming - just Day of Our Lives!!! a brilliant moment. All high-fives on the stage, and My twin daughters Annie and Laura, my neighbours then sadly it was all over. We both then got so many Rachel and Paulie and I set off from Bath just after 8 am. hugs and “well done”s from the cast. We had definite- We arrived at the Dominion Theatre at 12:30 to pick Days Of Our„moustache‘ Lives!shaped cake and Andy won ly found “The Place of Champions”!! up four tickets - which were the “best seats in the house”. Richard Blower and Andy Sparks were lu- with votes for his FFAD group photo... So it was back up to change and wipe off the makeup, As we headed out the door, we met Andy Sparks and cky enough to get a chance to perform on here is their story! while Chris went to collect our families and friends to his family, and we all went round to the Stage Door to stage at WWRY London. Richard made a bring them up to the Freddie Mercury Suite, which meet the company manager, Chris Fisher. was awesome for everyone. On the way up, I did ma -

The cast soon came in - I apologized to them in ad - vance about any inevitable mistakes that may hap- pen during our performance! Everyone was so friendly; such lovely people. We then had a few run- throughs with the cast, and practised our final bow, which gave a sense of the reality of it all - very very frightening! While the cast warmed up their vocals, Stuart kindly let Annie have a go on the piano; being pleasantly sur- prised at her rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody, to cries of “You may as well resign, Stuart!” from the cast! As we weren’t needed until the end of the show, Andy and I changed back into our normal clothes, and went to sit with our parties for the first half of the show. After an incredible first half, Chris Fisher came to collect Andy and I at the interval, and we were taken up to the “Freddie Mercury Suite”, a special green room deco- rated for the 10th Anniversary. We got changed into our costumes, took some photos and looked at all of Rich Blower and Andy Sparks the framed pictures and handwritten lyrics on the walls of the room - it was amazing; the adrenaline Chris led me, Andy, Laura and Annie up to Wardrobe, was really starting to kick in again! to try on a costume. Everyone shook our hands and Chris Fisher then came to take us to “The Village” and, was so nice - we were very excited. We then went down to as it’s known for its crazy makeup, it was dreadlocks sort out head gear, again with wonderful people in for Andy (which particularly suited him) and a bandana the wig department. Finally, through a maze of corri- for me - due to my lack of hair! While we were there, pletely fired up - it was just fantastic. Andy was over nage to check Wayne Robinson’s (“Brit”) muscles dors and staircases, we reached the stage. A mixture the cast were coming in and out and all talking to us, on the other side of the stage and was feeling “under and they are real! We also got a photo with Rachael of astonishment, fear and surprise came upon us as wishing us luck. We had a great group photo - just pressure” as he had been nervous throughout some of Wooding (“Scaramouche”), which was great. we saw the 2300 seats in front of us. amazing and we weren’t even on stage yet! the day. He just needed someone to love! That came in Our day had come to an end at the Dominion Theatre We were introduced to Georgia Barberi, the resident Finally, we went backstage; Andy one side and me the a Flash - Rachel John (Meat) and Oliver Tompsett - one of the best days of our lives! The cast had cer- choreographer, and Annie and Laura sat on the ‘Gaga other. I was watching the last couple of minutes when (Galileo) were next to him and said “We’re gonna tainly “paid their dues” and had their “bows and cur- World’ steps, to film and take photographs. Andy and Katie Paine (Killer Queen of the day) came down and Rock and you’ll be fine” - well no one was going to tain calls”. And to each every one of them, we “thank I had “stage buddies” in the form of Dance Captains introduced herself and gave me a hug as we chatted. stop him now!! you all”, from the bottom of our hearts! I have never and we were talked through the steps for the final She just said “That’s me” and rushed onto the stage - There was the cue, and for some reason I said: “Just met such a kind, helpful and extremely talented group of song of Bohemian Rhapsody in the show. After lear- how cool was that!! follow my lead and you’ll be fine!” to the cast, and we people all in one place - as well as being incredibly fit ning the moves, we were joined by Stuart Morley, the The curtain came down and it was time to group to- went onstage, laughing our heads off. I’m pretty sure and good looking! What an honour to be a part of Musical Director, for some piano accompaniment. gether in the wings for Bohemian Rhapsody. I was com- that I was in time head banging and jumping, though their world for even a short amount of time.

20 THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB 21 Collectors Corner Many thanks as always to expert Gary Taylor!

QUEEN LIVE BOX SET

A special limited edition 6 DVD set including: LIVE AT WEMBLEY STADIUM: 25TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION (2 Disc) - ROCK MONTREAL - LIVE IN RIO - ON FIRE: LIVE AT THE BOWL (2 Disc), was released on 19th November 2013 by Eagle Vision Entertainment (EV306549) in the USA only. The MSRP is $49.98 and is issued on THE FREDDIE MERCURY NTSC format. TRIBUTE CONCERT Exclusive to this package is ‘Live In Rio’ and is the first time it has been released on an official DVD. The Two special edition box sets were made in Japan for concert in Brazil features the band performing at the ‘The Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert’ video on Blu- ‘Rock In Rio’ festival in January 1985. Dazzling ray and DVD formats. They were released on 28 Au- 250,000 fans, the setlist features 5 songs from ‘The gust 2013 and contain a specially made T Shirt in Works’, which they were supporting at the time. each box. Also shown here is the regular Blu-ray edition of the concert that is strangely presented in a DVD size case. CD PROMOS

There have been a number of promotional CD’s released over the last few months to tie in with various Queen and solo projects. They include: Queen: ‘Hun- GREATEST HITS I, II & III garian Rhapsody - Live In Budapest’ DVD, Brian May and Weebl (featuring Brian Blessed): ‘Save The Bad - The Platinum Collection: A limited 3 disc steel book ger Badger Badger’, Brian May and Kerry Ellis: edition of ‘The Platinum Collection’ was released in ‘Nothing Really Has Changed’ and 2 CD’s for Roger Germany only in October 2013. It entered the German Taylor’s ‘Sunny Day’. album chart at Number 8. A NIGHT AT THE OPERA QUEEN’S RANKING IN JAPAN An audio-only Blu-ray Pure Audio A new book on Queen Disc was released by Island (0060 was released in Au- 2537327713) in November 2013 con- gust 2013 in Japan taing all 12 tracks from the ‘A Night only. It features the At The Opera’ album. The disc plays usual high quality on Blu-ray compatible players only photos, in both black and has High Fidelity Audiophile and white and co- Sound with 5.1 Surround Sound, lour, from Queen’s 2.0 DTS and PCM sound mixes. The 40 year career. disc features no video content but does include a voucher to downdown- load the album.

22 THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB 23 „...this is for all You lovely crazy people out there...“

Jacopo Tampieri from Italy in Montreux in occasion of the Guinness world Carole James with Brian at the book signing record scarf in Cheltenham Argentinean fans with Brian

Brian with Martin Josephson Tony Scott, fan club member for 34 years, with Brian

Tommos’ 40th birthday party - Benidorm, July 4th 2013

24 THE OFFICIAL INTERNATIONAL QUEEN FAN CLUB