Dreaming of a different path, Brian May offered fans a glimpse into his musical “what ifs.” Known for his remarkable work with Queen, the guitarist opened up about the bands he wished he could have joined if life had taken a different turn.
In a candid interview with The Guardian, May shared how the Beatles and Led Zeppelin left a profound impact on him. Their groundbreaking music shaped his artistry and sparked dreams of being part of their legendary journeys.
This rare insight from May isn’t just a tribute to his influences—it’s a window into the creative imagination of one of rock’s most celebrated musicians. It’s a fascinating thought: what could have been if Brian May had joined these iconic bands?
Brian May’s Beatles Dream
Brian May didn’t hesitate when asked about his dream band. If Queen hadn’t existed, he would have loved to join the Beatles. Their unmatched creativity and innovative spirit resonated deeply with him, shaping his own artistic journey.
May recalled how watching the 2021 docuseries Get Back struck a chord with him. The behind-the-scenes look at the Beatles’ studio process reminded him of Queen’s own experiences. The struggles and triumphs felt all too familiar.
For May, the Beatles weren’t just an inspiration—they were a connection to the shared challenges of making music. The parallels between the two bands highlighted how greatness often emerges from chaos.
The Guitarist’s Reflections on The Beatles
When asked about joining another band, Brian May didn’t hold back. “The Beatles, probably,” he shared, acknowledging the challenges of being one of them. Despite the difficulties, he felt a deep connection to their extraordinary creativity.
May reflected on watching Get Back, the 2021 Beatles docuseries. The first part stirred bittersweet memories, reminding him of Queen’s tense studio moments. “Here we are, and things aren’t quite fitting,” he recalled, empathizing with the Beatles’ struggles.
As the series progressed, May saw something hopeful. The Beatles rediscovered their synergy, creating a textbook example of studio collaboration. For May, it was a touching reminder of the magic that can emerge from even the most challenging moments.
Brian’s Led Zeppelin Inspiration
Brian May didn’t limit his dream band to just the Beatles. He also expressed a deep admiration for Led Zeppelin. Their groundbreaking sound and artistry left a lasting impression on him and his music.
In a January interview with Total Guitar, May shared how Zeppelin influenced Queen’s hit “Now I’m Here.” The song reflects the powerful impact of Jimmy Page’s guitar mastery and John Bonham’s thunderous drumming.
Hearing Led Zeppelin for the first time was a turning point for Queen. It affirmed that they were on the right path, inspiring them to embrace their own bold, innovative style. For May, Zeppelin wasn’t just a favorite—they were a guiding force.
Brian May’s Led Zeppelin “What If”
Brian May mused on the possibility of joining Led Zeppelin, saying, “If it wasn’t the Beatles, it could’ve been Led Zeppelin. If they let me in.” The idea of playing alongside them was a thrilling thought.
He remembered the first time he heard Zeppelin, feeling a mix of awe and admiration. “We thought, ‘Oh, my God, this is where we’re trying to get to, and they’re already there!’” Their sound was a benchmark for Queen’s ambitions.
Even though they sometimes felt behind Zeppelin’s success, May stressed that Queen had its own unique vision. That vision led them on a path that was all their own, crafting an extraordinary journey that set them apart.