In the realm of guitar music, Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” holds a special place. Its interesting structure and mix of musical styles showcase the band’s musical prowess, particularly that of lead guitarist Brian May. “Bohemian Rhapsody” was unlike anything heard before – a rich blend of rock, ballad, opera and progressive pop, all tied together by May’s distinct guitar work.
Paying attention to the guitar elements in “Bohemian Rhapsody”, one can discern Brian May’s unique approach to layering guitar tracks to create a fuller sound. The classic, echoing solo that begins at approximately the four-minute mark is an excellent example of May’s proficiency. His use of a homemade guitar, the ‘Red Special’, also contributed to the original sound. For guitar players, dissecting the song can prove to be a valuable lesson in learning how to incorporate multiple styles and techniques in one piece.