Brian MayQueen’s historic guitarist, who formed the band with Roger Taylor and Freddie Mercury, creating a very strong bond with both. Some of the band’s most famous songs were written by May himself, who dedicated his life to music but not only. In 2007, at Imperial College London, Brian May obtained a PhD in astrophysics: he studied asteroids and their way to avoid a collision with the Earth. Among the major awards won in his career, was the award of Knight of theorder of the British Empire in 2023. He was nominated by King Charles III for his services “to music and charity”.
Brian May’s love for the music world started very early. In fact, when he was just five years old, he started playing the piano and then dedicated himself guitar a little further: due to the lack of money that woudl be needed to buy the guitar of his dreams, he started to build his Red Special himself, using a wooden architrave and part of the fireplace. The guitar, completed in 1965, is used by May still today. The musician recently he suffered a stroke and was unable to move his arm: fortunately everything went well and today he returned to play.
Brian May: the great love of Anita Bodson and the songs dedicated to her
In the private life of brian May there was no shortage of gorgeous women. From his first wife, Chrissy Mullens, he had three children: James, Louisa and Emily Ruth, born respectively in 1978, 1981 and 1987. He then married for the second time Anita Bodson, ”Angie Watts” in the british soap “EastEnders”. The drama has been broadcast by the BBC as 1985 and it was not long before it became essential viewing for the citizens of England, in love with its plots and main characters. There was certainly a lot of talk about the two’s love story from the beginning. After knowing Anita DobsonActually, May, who divorced Christine Muellen in 1988, managed to overcome a period of serious personal crisis. He dedicated “too much love will kill you” and “I want it all” to her. Romantic songs that made the history of the music world.
- What are Brian MayS contributions to science outside of his music career?
An Exclusive Interview with Brian May: The Rock Legend’s Life Beyond Music
Editor: Brian, it’s an honor to have you with us. Your journey from being the iconic guitarist of Queen to earning a PhD in astrophysics is remarkable. What prompted your shift towards academia after a stellar music career?
brian May: Thank you! Music has always been my first love, but I’ve always had a curiosity about the universe. After Queen took off, I realized that I’d put my academic ambitions on hold. I decided to finish what I started and returned to Imperial college London to delve into astrophysics. Studying asteroids and how we can prevent potential collisions with Earth was fascinating and fulfilling.
Editor: That’s amazing. Your guitar, the Red Special, has become legendary. Can you share the inspiration behind its creation and how it has shaped your music career?
Brian May: Absolutely! The Red Special was a labor of love. I couldn’t afford the guitar I wanted, so I built it myself starting at age 16. It represents my journey in music—every scratch, every repair has a story. The guitar’s unique sound has influenced many of our songs and has genuinely become an extension of me.
Editor: Speaking of songs, many of your most cherished tracks are timeless. Can you tell us about the personal motivations behind “Too much Love Will Kill You” and “I Want It All”?
Brian May: Those songs are deeply personal to me, especially during a time when I was coming out of a tough period. My love for Anita Dobson gave me strength. Writing those lyrics helped me to express what I was feeling, and it’s something I think resonates with many people—love can be both uplifting and challenging.
Editor: You recently received the honor of being appointed a Knight of the Order of the British Empire. What does this recognition mean to you?
Brian May: It’s an immense honor. Being recognized for my contributions to music and charity is humbling. I’m thankful for the nomination by King Charles III. It reinforces my belief in the power of music to bring about change and support crucial causes.
editor: You’ve been open about facing health challenges, including a stroke. How has that experience affected your viewpoint on life and music?
Brian May: Difficult experiences like that can be sobering. The stroke reminded me of the fragility of life, but it also reignited my passion for music. Being unable to use my arm was tough, but I persevered, and now I’m back to playing. It’s a reminder that you must never take your gifts for granted.
Editor: With such an extensive career in both music and science, what advice would you give to young musicians and aspiring scientists?
Brian May: Pursue your passions with vigor, but remember to balance your dreams with practical steps. Whether in music or science, keep learning, stay curious, and don’t be afraid of failure—it frequently enough leads to the greatest discoveries. Surround yourself with supportive people who challenge you and help you grow.
Editor: Thank you, Brian, for sharing your insights. Your journey is inspiring, and we look forward to your future endeavors, both in music and beyond.
Brian May: Thank you! It was a pleasure to chat about my passions. keep following your heart,and who knows where it will lead you!