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English rock group. The group was formed in 1970 by Freddie Mercury (Frederick Bulsara; b Zanzibar, 5 Sept 1946; d London, 24 Nov 1991; lead vocals), Brian May (b Hampton, Middlesex, 19 July 1947; guitar), John Deacon (b Leicester, 19 Aug 1951; bass-guitar) and Roger Meddows-Taylor (b Kings Lynn, 26 July 1949; drums). Their early work was in the glam rock mode but they soon developed a more individual style through Mercury's camp stage moves and witty lyrics. This was evident on Bohemian Rhapsody (1975), a six-minute song that was accompanied by a spectacular video which inaugurated the modern era of music video. Later hits included We are the champions (1977), which became a sports event anthem, the disco-inflected Another one bites the dust (1980), Under Pressure (1981), which featured guest vocals by David Bowie, and Radio Ga-Ga (1984). Their last album with Mercury, who died of AIDS-related illnesses, was Innuendo (1991) whose title referred to rumours of the singer's ill health. The group subsequently disbanded although Mercury, May and Taylor had already undertaken several solo recording projects such as Mercury's duets with Montserrat Caballé and Taylor's work with the group the Cross.
Reference Entry. 203 words.
Subjects: music
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