2001
Dave Grohl (Nirvana) & Taylor Hawkins
With legendary four-octave-voiced Freddie Mercury at the helm, Queen expanded the possibilities of rock, amping up theatricality, showmanship, and technical proficiency while incorporating classical orchestrations, densely stacked harmonies, and innovative recording techniques. From ‘ 70s prog origins to ‘ 80s arena rock resurrection, they exemplified the value of taking risks in rock. Their multi-genre palette included heavy metal, pop, disco, synthy new wave, and even rockabilly, all while remaining distinctively, fantastically, Queen.
Induction
Impact
Signature Sound
Genre-Bending Rock Grandeur
In their 20 year run, Queen continuously evolved and defied expectations. Beginning in 1970 with heavy, progressive rock, thick with fantasy-themed lyrics, they segued mid-decade to experimental, operatic, stadium-ready anthems, vaudevillian rock, and searing punk. In the ‘80s, they mastered synth-driven, radio-friendly pop. Throughout, their mastery of rock performance became legend.
The first song on Queen’s debut album, this Brian May-penned, anthemic call-to-arms announced the arrival of a soon-to-be-iconic quartet.
From the Museum
The GreatRock Pretender
Queen frontman Freddie Mercury’s 1987 cover of the Platters’ 1955 classic “The Great Pretender” hit No. 1. This cardboard cutout standee, one of dozens, was used as a prop in the accompanying music video, which paid homage to a number of Mercury’s iconic looks in videos like “Made in Heaven,” “I Want to Break Free,” and “Radio Ga Ga.”
From the Museum
The GreatRock Pretender
Queen frontman Freddie Mercury’s 1987 cover of the Platters’ 1955 classic “The Great Pretender” hit No. 1. This cardboard cutout standee, one of dozens, was used as a prop in the accompanying music video, which paid homage to a number of Mercury’s iconic looks in videos like “Made in Heaven,” “I Want to Break Free,” and “Radio Ga Ga.”
Queen opened up the ears of millions to countless genres of music. They were true originals.
Taylor Hawkins
Foo Fighters
2001 Hall of Fame Essay
"Queen always epitomized one of the great faiths in rock & roll: the ceaseless will to take things over the top."
Jim Farber
Paper Artifacts
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Influence
Rory Gallagher
Liza Minnelli
Queen
sealed with a signature
This is the signature that appears on the inductee’s plaque at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to officially commemorate their induction.
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