Freddie Mercury, born Farrokh Bulsara, was a renowned British singer and songwriter. He gained global recognition as the lead vocalist and pianist of the rock band Queen. Considered one of the best singers in the history of rock music, he was famous for his extravagant stage presence and four-octave vocal range. Mercury challenged the typical image of a rock frontman; his dramatic persona and style propelled him into iconic status.
In 1987, Mercury, who identified as bi-sexual, was diagnosed with AIDS; sadly, he passed away at the age of 45 due to complications from the disease just one day after announcing his diagnosis in 1991. In 1992, a concert was held at Wembley Stadium to raise awareness for AIDS and pay tribute to him. In 2018, his career with Queen was depicted in the biopic Bohemian Rhapsody.
Freddie Mercury was born in Zanzibar in 1946 to Parsi-Indian parents; he and his family had to flee during the Zanzibar Revolution in 1964. They moved to Middlesex, England. Freddie had been studying and writing music for several years, and in 1970, he formed the band Queen with Brian May on guitar and Roger Taylor on drums.
Queen’s very own Mercury was responsible for writing a plethora of hit songs, such as “Killer Queen,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Somebody to Love,” “We Are the Champions,” “Don’t Stop Me Now,” and “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.” He was known for his captivating stage presence and often engaged with the crowd during live performances, as evidenced by his memorable appearance at the 1985 Live Aid concert. He also pursued a successful solo career as a producer and guest musician for various other artists.
Mercury never had an in-depth discussion or confirmed his sexuality with the public. However, it was well known that this rock icon had relationships with men and women. When Mercury died in 1991, Mary Austin was by his side as she had been for much of his adult life. At one point in their relationship, he had asked her to marry him, and when he died, he left her half his reported $75 million estate.