qclassicla albums queen a night at the opera

Q Classic LA Albums: Queen's 'A Night at the Opera'

The making of Queen's iconic album, 'A Night at the Opera', is a fascinating tale that has been extensively documented in the band's 'Classic Albums' series. One song that stands out as particularly noteworthy is 'Death on Two Legs (Dedicated to.)', a track that was born out of creative tension and personal conflict within the band.

According to Brian May, the band was initially taken aback by Freddie Mercury's incisive lyrics, which were described as being 'so vindictive' that even May felt bad singing them. The song was reportedly dedicated to Queen's former manager, Norman Sheffield, who had a tumultuous relationship with the band during his tenure from 1972 to 1975.

Despite never making a direct reference to Sheffield, the song's lyrics were unmistakable in their meaning, and it's no surprise that Sheffield himself felt appalled by the song. He even went so far as to sue Queen and the record label for defamation, resulting in an out-of-court settlement.

During live performances of the song, Mercury would often rededicate it to 'a real motherfucker of a gentleman', although this line was censored on the version that appeared on their 1979 album 'Live Killers'. The song's title, 'Death on Two Legs (Dedicated to.)', has become synonymous with Queen's ability to craft music that is both catchy and deeply personal.

In his autobiography, 'Life on Two Legs: Set The Record Straight', published in 2013, Sheffield denied the rumors of mistreatment and abuse, providing copies of the original management contracts between himself and Queen as proof. While the exact nature of their relationship remains a topic of debate, one thing is clear - 'Death on Two Legs (Dedicated to.)' is a powerful testament to the band's ability to channel their emotions into music that continues to captivate audiences to this day.

The song's enduring popularity can be attributed to its raw energy and Mercury's remarkable vocal performance. The lyrics are a masterclass in storytelling, painting a vivid picture of a tumultuous relationship that is both personal and professional.

In conclusion, 'Death on Two Legs (Dedicated to.)' is a standout track from Queen's iconic album 'A Night at the Opera'. Its complex history and emotional resonance make it a fascinating case study for fans of the band.

Qclassicla albums queen a night at the opera