Brian May
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Brian May

Queen

Architect of Queen's layered guitar orchestrations. Built his own 'Red Special' guitar from scratch and created symphonic rock textures through multi-tracking. Every solo a melodic statement, every harmony part precisely crafted, defining the sound of arena rock through homemade gear and orchestral vision.

3 Eras
16 Gear Items

SIGNATURE TONE

Unique orchestral guitar sound from Red Special through Vox AC30s with treble booster. Multi-tracked guitar harmonies creating choir-like textures. Sustaining, singing lead tones with precise articulation. Uses sixpence coin as pick for distinctive attack.

SIGNAL CHAINS BY ERA

Explore how the rig evolved over time

1

Early Queen Era

1973-1977 5 items
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Establishing multi-layered guitar orchestrations with Red Special guitar.

2

A Night at the Opera Era

1975-1980 5 items
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Peak period with 'Bohemian Rhapsody' showcasing guitar orchestration mastery.

3

Modern Era

2000-Present 6 items
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Queen + Adam Lambert tours with signature Brian May guitars.