2023-08-13 12:00:33
Much has been speculated about the relationship between Freddie Mercury’s teeth and his voice. However, science has denied that his teeth had any influence.
Last update: August 13, 2023
Freddie Mercury, the legendary lead singer of Queen, left an indelible mark on the history of music. Aside from his talent and charisma on stage, his teeth also played an intriguing role in his uniqueness. Personally, the shape of his teeth led him to go through complex and, for a long time, the myth was built that the source of his exceptional voice resided there.
There are 3 curiosities about Freddie Mercury’s teeth that we will know here. And even if you don’t believe it, scientific studies were even carried out to determine the real origin of his vocal records. Were the teeth responsible for his vibrato?
1. Freddie had supernumerary teeth
Without a doubt, the most distinctive feature of Freddie Mercury’s teeth was their large size. Although, beyond that, what the singer had was supernumerary teeth. That is, excess or extra teeth, according to the number that is considered normal or habitual in human beings.
Although hyperodontia is a rare condition, Freddie had it. In fact, had four extra teeth.
This, in addition to generating a visual impact on the audience, also led to speculation by the press about its influence on the voice. Despite the appearance, Mercury did not seek to correct this characteristic with orthodontic treatment.
The condition became more noticeable in his teens, when he was still known by his given name: Farrokh Bulsara. It is known that he was repeatedly mocked.
The cause of his extra teeth is still unknown. However, we know that there are genetic disorders that cause them, and even more serious syndromes (such as cleidocranial dysplasia or Gardner syndrome). Of course, the latter were not present in Freddie.
Beyond any speculation, it is a strange feature. Prevalence studies indicate that only 1% of people with extra teeth have more than two. Mercury had four.
2. Mercury’s amazing voice wasn’t thanks to his teeth
Over the years, there has been much speculation about the relationship between Freddie Mercury’s voice and his teeth. Some claimed that his exceptional four-octave vocal range was due to the resonance he got from his supernumerary teeth. Even in the famous song Bohemian rhapsody, he attributed his voice to the resonance of his mouth caused by the extra teeth.
However, several dental specialists have denied the theory. Although her teeth gave her a unique appearance, they did not play a significant role in her vocal ability. The secret behind his extraordinary range was in the “fake” vocal cords.
These membranes, also known as the vestibular folds, are a pair of mucosal structures that lie over the true vocal cords. Unlike them, which are used for sound production, they are not involved in phonation.
Sin embargo, Freddie Mercury had the rare ability to activate and control these “false” vocal cords. Which allowed her to achieve a unique vocal range and distinctive vibrato that became her hallmark.
Scientific studies managed to register an incredible range of 37 semitones of range in the singing voice of the artist, which went from F#2 to G5. This is considered an irregularity, taking as a starting point that his speaking voice was in the baritone standard.
3. Freddie had a complex about his overbite
Another curiosity about Freddie Mercury’s teeth was his overbite, which he mentioned on several occasions as a reason for personal complex. His close friend and personal assistant, Peter Freestone, claimed that Freddie always tried to cover his teeth with his upper lip or hand when on television.
His iconic mustache was considered a way to disguise his teeth and hide his complexion.
It is understandable that physical appearance could affect the confidence of anyone, even a rock star. However, this particularity did not in the least diminish his talent and charisma. His voice and presence were so powerful that his teeth faded into the background.
Freddie Mercury: unique from any look
Dentistry and medicine still study his exceptional vocal register and the curiosities surrounding his teeth. Freddie Mercury’s genius continues to inspire artists and fans alike. The music of Queen continues to resound in the hearts of future generations.
It is important to remember that our uniqueness and differences are part of what makes us special. Like Freddie Mercury, he embraced the uniqueness of his teeth and made it part of his identity. we can all learn to accept and celebrate what makes us unique.
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