"Each gig should be unique. You're always treading that line between keeping yourself fresh and giving people something they want to hear"
About Brian May
Brian May — Life and Legacy
Brian May is a multifaceted figure, celebrated as the lead guitarist of the iconic rock band Queen and as an accomplished astrophysicist. His unique blend of music and science has made him a notable voice in both fields. May's philosophy revolves around the idea that creativity is essential not only in art but also in scientific inquiry. He famously stated, 'I think creativity is a form of freedom,' reflecting his belief that artistic expression liberates the mind and spirit. This perspective is evident in his work, where he often intertwines themes of exploration and discovery, both in his lyrics and his scientific endeavors. May's commitment to education and scientific understanding is reflected in his pursuit of a PhD in astrophysics, which he completed later in life. His quotes often challenge conventional thinking, urging others to embrace curiosity and innovation. For instance, he highlights the importance of passion, asserting that it is a driving force behind success in any creative endeavor. This passion is palpable in his music, where he explores complex emotions and ideas, demonstrating how art can serve as a reflection of human experience. Today, Brian May's quotes resonate with those seeking to bridge the gap between creativity and intellect. His insights inspire individuals to pursue their passions relentlessly, reminding us that the pursuit of knowledge and artistic expression are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary paths that enrich our understanding of the world.
Quote collection
Brian May quotes (page 1 of 4)
80 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"When I'm gone, people will no doubt remember me for Queen, but I would much rather be remembered for attempting to change the way we treat our fellow creatures."
"I never took sheet music seriously. I could do better myself just by listening to other people and using my own intuition."
"I really thought I was pretty good before I saw Hendrix, and then I thought: Yeah, not so good."
"The biggest emotion in creation is the bridge to optimism."
"There is no way that you can ever really repeat something. I have this great belief that the magic of the moment can never be recaptured."
"I think music is about our internal life. It’s part of the way people touch each other. That’s very precious to me. And astronomy is, in a sense, the very opposite thing. Instead of looking inwards, you are looking out, to things beyond our grasp."
"I have to build my own boat this time. It's a big sea out there, and I have a pretty small boat. I have a lot of belief in it."
"It's wonderful for me to see what 'We Will Rock You' has done. 'We Will Rock You' and 'We Are the Champions' have kind of transcended the normal framework of where music is listened to and appreciated - they've become part of public life, which I feel wonderful about."
"What is left of your dream? Just the words on your stone. A man who learned how to teach then forgot how to learn."
"I despise the Lottery. There's less chance of you becoming a millionaire than there is of getting hit on the head by a passing asteroid."
"The guitar has a kind of grit and excitement possessed by nothing else."
"Queen songs tend to be about very personal things: personal dreams and personal ambitions."
"The guitar was my weapon, my shield to hide behind."
"There are a lot of things in Queen albums that you don't expect; that's why we threw them in"
"Astronomy's much more fun when you're not an astronomer"
"I was an incurable romantic then, same as I am now. I was always pining away after somebody"
"George Harrison was a fabulous, fabulous, fabulous guitarist, and a wonderful example of what a rock star should be. I totally revered him as an innovator. He was always fresh, daring, magnificently melodic, full of spiritual quality, and totally conscious of the chord structure beneath the solo. And he had the courage to play simple. He never took refuge in effects, or tried to impress with speed. I hope he knew how much we all loved and respected him."
"I go through major crises every few months, but then I have great peaks of belief and creativity. I'm a weird kind of animal"
"There are times when I flick through magazines and think I'm in danger of becoming a prisoner of my own hair."