Amazing that you can't hear the amazing play of Montserrat's voice until he slows it down. I didn't realize she sang so many notes in one like that. Really art.
I know everyone is rightfully amazed by Freddie's performance here. I am included in that group. I'm unsure how many people appreciate the greatness of Montserrat's voice and musicianship. When she was in her prime about 10-15 years before this, she was possibly the greatest prima donna of all time. The control and ability to match with Freddie without overpowering him is amazing. I love that this is analysis and not reaction -- keep them coming!
Montserrat was Freddie’s favorite opera singer. In her autobiography, she describes how she met him when he attended one of her concerts at Royal Albert Hall. She didn’t know who he was. However, she invited him to the after concert party, during which they clicked so well, that she went to his home after that and they talked and discussed music until breakfast time, and she came away a true fan. She spoke so highly of his talent, his charisma, his style, his genius. They were fast friends after that. Freddie admired her for her remarkable breathing control and the timbre of her voice. Freddie loved opera and in fact the opening of Queen’s Night at the Opera is the story of Cavelleria Rusticana - Mama... just killed a man... later on, in the song, Mozart’s Don Giovanni comes in too -arguing with the devil. Another great video Fil! As always interesting and informative. Loved it!
Dear JH, Thank you so much for sharing this marvelous background story. I lived in London from 1994-96, and miss it every day. All the best to you -- Lynn in Albuquerque
Freddie never ceased to astound me ....How many other front men for a Multi million dollar selling band can create tons of chart topping hits, legendary songs, influence the musical world in so many ways..and then hold his own with one of the greatest opera divas in modern history . I am simply speechless. Good one Phil Loved the freakin hell out of this !Rest in Peace Freddie , You were in every way , by every measure...one of a kind.
The only showman who is right with him is Bowie. Bowie had a different personality, maybe not as charismatic, but in my book Bowie reigns supreme when it comes to presence on stage. Albeit, bizarre at times. 😊 At least from his earlier theatrical days. Again, my opinion.
Watching and listening knowing of Freddie's condition already at that time makes this so much more epic and impressive. He knew he would not make it until 1992 for the Olympics and she was let into the very small circle of close loved ones that knew. This being a hidden reason for this spectacular performance, to be on par with the grandness of the opening ceremonies, so they would have his part to play alongside her live.
Freddie had hoped to sing with Monserrat at the ‘92 Olympics but the opening song he had planned for the music was “BARCELONA”……you can hear them singing which is so wonderful!! So sad he did not make it but in spirit he was there with their song “BARCELONA”…❣️
This is one of your best videos. You really nail the way that two superficially similar but actually very different vocal styles blend so well together. I saw Queen live at Knebworth in 1986. I will never forget how absolutely, shockingly brilliant Freddie was. I have never seen a performer simply own a stage, and an audience, like that. Before or since.
Freddie Mercury is my all time favourite singer. All started when I was 14. My teacher showed us the documentary Super Size Me. Fat Bottomed Girls was featured in that movie, and I was like "What kind of song is that?" I knew about The Beatles, Rolling Stones, The Who, and other bands from England. But I had no idea who QUEEN was. I saw their Live AID show later that night (VIA RUclips) and blew myself away. I just could not believe I saw the most pure musical performer in music history. Thank you so much for this video :-) I love all your videos. Like I always tell you, Fil, you are the teacher the world needs right now. Your lessons are awesome.
Mr Blue for sure and certain! There is always something to learn and experience with Fil’s analysis. It’s always worth the browse as we’re actually gaining something worthwhile, something of personal value ❤️🇦🇺
Freddie said that he wanted this to be a combination of rock and opera. Freddie also said that he was not an opera singer and that he was not going to try to pretend to be one. It didn't seem to me that Freddie moved like an opera singer, he didn't accentuate his movements with the flair that Monserrat did, but moved more like one might expect from a rock singer. I like the way these two genres came together on this album. I am always amazed how well Freddie sings with having no professional vocal training at any time in his life. Thank you for presenting this and going over the fine points.
Freddie, getting me through the current world situation and pandemic. He is such a blessing to those of us who were left behind. Going to see you one day, in heaven Freddie, but hope you know how much your are loved and missed. Thank you for another great video, Fil. I have been struggling lately with all that is happening here in the US and I look around me and don't recognize myself, my country, my neighbors or this world. Never have I felt so far removed. Only Freddie and my daughter are getting me through this and it is day by day. FREDDIE LIVES FOREVER.
God, family and country has long been a steady framework for most of us. Bad elements quietly took over our Institutions and stripped truth out of everything. I think you will be pleasantly surprised next year. Rumbles in the spirit say God is moving to restore sanity to the world. Evil has tried His last nerve. Blessings to you and your daughter.
He was definitely suffering the effects of his illness here. That is (one reason) why it wasn't sung live. Freddie couldn't rely on his voice at that point. Though he'd probably have been as great as usual, it was too big a performance to risk anything.
What strikes me is how versatile Freddie's voice was in range and pitch and how it complements and accentuates the singing of Montserrat as well as her voice complementing Freddie's voice. Thanks for covering this beautiful blending of voices... You really do justice to Freddie's abilities as a singer and his capability in working with a classically trained singer to create an amazing compilation of singing talent... So glad I got to see and hear this astounding collaboration of such versatile singing voices.
Right on! You said it so beautifully. I loved hearing this video and hearing them together. I have always loved Freddie Mercury but I was never exposed to Montserrat Caballe before today. Phil, you have enlarged my world. Thank you.
Thank you Fil; great analysis as always. Love Freddie... legend. So incredible that he wrote these songs in such a relatively short time.. and could stand tall next to the amazing ‘Montsie’. There was a deep, deep love between them... and he left us way too early.
I had been resisting listening listening to this because I am not very fond of opera. I was afraid it would change my view of Freddie You opened my eyes and I'm so so glad I listened to their performance. It was cosmically beautiful. Thank you!!
Thank you for your analysis of Freddie and Monserrat on Freddie’s actual birthday, as well as appreciating Freddie Mercury and Mike Moran’s work. Especially knowing Freddie is a self-taught artist. Queen was one of my favorite rock bands as a teenager. You state that the video is “gold” for comparison in voices,” and I state your videos are platinum in analysis and detail. If I were a billionaire I believe I would invest in creating a cable TV music analysis channel for you, not to mention that smile of yours would attract Women like chicks to a 1950’s Elvis, and guys to the rock analysis component. Lol!
Freddie and Monserrat recorded one of the best true crossover albums of all time. If anyone reading this hasn't heard the album from which this song was drawn, get it! One thing that I always loved about Freddie/Queen was that they could hit the pitch perfectly straight through without coming in a bit flat and wavering up to pitch. Monserrat must have really enjoyed the experience of recording with one of those "rock and roll" guys...
I think it was Brian May who commented that Freddie's combination of absolute pitch and powerful vocals meant that when overdubbing a vocal line multiple times to make it sound fuller, he came right on target every time. This made it sound like it was just one take. If Freddie wanted to make it sound like a chorus of voices singing the same line, he actually had to "fight" his absolute pitch a bit, or else the vocal dubs became indistinguishable from one another! I don't think this would have happened to many other rock singers. :)
Outstanding analysis of a stellar performance. I have seen this video before. I hope all those to whom it is new will take the time to watch it all the way through. A breathtaking blend of styles where truly the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
What a good way to demonstrate the different vibratos. I would have never noticed the difference before. I remember hearing something about Freddy Mercury singing with an opera singer, but never took the time to try to watch it! Thanks
One Of The Most Basazz SOngs About A City Ever Sung. Thank You for taking the time to break this down. Very Interesting.I know Freddy Would Be pleased As Punch someone many years later are breaking down his voice.
Fil, This is Totally Spectacular Here, Freddie in a Tux, He was a Diamond, only one Freddie will ever exsist, He will never be replaced, R.I.P. to Him, Cousin Figel
I remember watching this performance so long ago and it still gives me goosebumps! Freddie’s brilliance had no boundaries, he was born to sing and perform....a true legend in every way! Excellent Fil! Cheers Mario! 😀👌🤘
The moment that you stepped into the room you took my breath away " has always been my favorite line , I noticed you 🙂👍smiling each time it got to that line
Wow ,what a story/ show ! He was born to do this . RIP man . Stay safe everyone. Thanks for this Fil, and it didn’t get removed because of copyrights , yeah ! ❤️ Nice . Unmistakable indeed ! The composition is a journey in and of itself. 🙂
Absolutely no doubt about the talent and skill of Freddie Mercury, and though I’d never heard her before, Monserrat. Thoroughly enjoyed the performance which I did go listen to twice more. However, I’m totally blown away by Fil’s analytical skill. Wow.
So beautiful. Thanks for explaining. Amazing to think Freddie was singing with an incredible opera singer while ill with AIDS. He was otherworldly. He was also so amazed by her. He went to see Pavarotti but when he heard her small part he was amazed by her voice and asked to meet her!
What an unusual yet surprisingly compatible pairing. I had the pleasure of attending live performances of Montserrat Caballe at the Metropolitan Opera. She was quite the operatic diva and Barcelona was her native city. Thank you for highlighting the different vibrato styles.
I saw Queen live at Winterland in San Francisco California. One of the classiest shows I've ever seen. I think David Bowie and Queen were two of the classiest acts in rock and roll. Freddie came out and he drink a champagne toast to what he called the the most sophisticated audience ever. Well we all really liked that. I think the first rock opera we saw was Jesus Christ Superstar the Who's Tommy and Hair. Meatloaf did a pretty good job of operatic rock and roll. Nobody does Opera like the Italians. Queen definitely kicked it up a notch. There were other bands that were also making their mark Sweet and Be-Bop Deluxe. Doo wop was also vocally more advanced than what was going on in rock and roll. Country songs will also work as rock and roll songs. To rock an Opera, or write opera that is rock, that's talent with a twist. Very cool and much appreciated. Thanks Freddie.
We would never think you are manipulating any performance. Freddie had such an amazing voice. I wasn't aware of this video; what a performance Thank you.
That was beautiful! And your explanation about the differences in their singing techniques answered so many questions I’ve had over the years. I like that you can explain these things so that your average listener can understand. Thanks so much for analyzing this performance.
Thank you so much for that! I not only enjoyed one of my favorite performances, but I learned a lot of new information about singing, both pop and opera. You did a great job explaining everything.
Thanks for providing a great and thorough analysis on Freddy Mercury and Monserrat Caballe's stellar performance of "Barcelona." As you suggested, I watched their performance video all the way through. I agree with you that this performance is a "goldmine," as you described it--there's so much in it in terms of dramatic elements as well as both instrumental and vocal dynamics(e.g. pitch range, vibrato application). You always have me musically thinking--thanks, Fil!
Hi Phil am glad you're back with another stunning one!Am blown away by your analysis, very precise and witty.Freddie was a great musician.Who can dare sing with such a gifted Diva and get away with that?It takes guts and pure talent!Thanks for your video. Keep it up!
Freddie was amazing. I can't even imagine any other rock singer that would even attempt to do that. He was so brave. I think that they became great friends and she was one of the first ones that Freddie told about his illness. Thank you for posting that video. You are amazing too! I just love how you do different genres of music and you are so intelligent about them all. Did you study classical nusic?
When Freddie was getting into the song, before it was slowed down, it reminded me of his singing in 'Princes of The Universe', the Highlander song. PLEASE listen to the full song! It's wonderful!
I'm at a loss for words which is unusual for me. All I can say is WOW and once again thanks Fil you walked me through my first time hearing this although I've admired Mr. Mercury for many, many years.
Now I'm amazed to better understand Barcelona's creation/style. It was prepared for a Sports Stadium activity. thousands and thousands gathered to encourage/mourn every competition by highly prepared athletes who worked many years to participate Therefore, applause, applause Freddie Mercury, Mike Moran and Montserrat for providing this beautiful composition enhancing the 1992 Olympics I see why your music won the competition.
Hi Fil! One of my favorite duets! I have listened to this so many times! I remember when Freddie did the interview praising her! She heard about it, and the rest is history! This duet was beyond gorgeous! Loved every moment of it! Freddie did a beautiful job with his vocals! Freddie was a genius! Very much missed! ✌️ Loved the way you explained it...perfect!
You are enchanting, Mr Wings of Pegasus. Really incisive and informative analysis. The wellspring of 'Barcelona''s gestation was Mercury's fascination, and respect for, what he called the 'best voice in the world.' He was nervous, awe-struck, humble. But this video of yours proves him to be the musician that he, too, could claim to be. Caballe recognised that, and moreover, said 'Musicians understand each other.' Later she would say 'He conquered me'. He gave her a rush of excitement, delight, arousal which was forbidden territory for her. She called it freedom. And your sweet smile watching them mirrors our delight in unpacking these mysteries.
I love watching your covering a wide variety of performers and arrangemnts as compared to any other channels. Always so interesting and knowledgable. Freddie and Monserat apart from their amazing vocal abilities both possess a dramatic ability. Watching Monserat's eyes and hand movement is beguiling. Freddie stage presence is a perfect match in this epic performance. Thank you for this amazing analysis.
I've watched at least 3-4 different reaction videoes from vocal coach reactors to this song. All of them were interesting and great in themselves, but I learned more of the difference in the voices between these two great performers in this video alone than in all of the other ones combined.
Thankyou so much for the breakdown, particularly on the vibrato. I'd always recognised this as a kind of 'call and response' with Monserrat and never really noticed the shift in pitches. Outside of Live Aid, this is my favourite Freddy performance. Because look at him! In a tux, next to an opera singer and he is not the slightest bit out of place, musically or dynamically. How many mainstream frontmen could you say that about? None!, that's how many. Even though this is not his stage, he still somehow manages to own it with his charisma and mannerisms. At the Remembrance Concert in 1992, Robert Plant said it the best when he said 'it's testament to Freddy that a lot of the artists here are changing the keys of the songs because they just can't do a 'Freddy''. That is a lovely compliment from someone who is also regarded as the greatest frontman ever. Imagine...
I think that it would have been intresting to see how Freddie would have continue to grow and develop his taste and musical preferences. Just watchibg these performances you can see how much he loved this type of music. The joy on his face and in his voice. Even watching some of the other video's just seeing the pure and utter joy just brings tears . I appreciate how diverse his ability to create music was and on some ways feel like we truly lost a sensational musician. Just watching this makes me wonder what else coukd he have done and accomplish. Too me, I like to think he may have delved deeper into this form of music and even wrote his own opera. who knows. Thank you, I truly enjoyed this analysis and it has made me appreciate his vocal abilities even more. I really enjoyed the lesson. It will give me an added appreciation of the work .
Incredible that you broke it down so wonderfully and showed how the differences between them is there. Thank you it was such fun and a tribute to two incredible singers we'll never see again
This performance is so bitter-sweet. On the one hand, a towering highlight of Freddie's career, but also the beginning of the end. Montserrat was one of the very very few people who knew Freddie was ill. She said after his death how she found out about his health when she commented on them singing the song at the Olympics opening ceremony in 1992. She said Freddie quietly took her hand and told her that he would be dead before 1992. And he was right, passing away in 1991. Their live concert footage from 1988 was played on a huge screen instead. Breaks my heart that he passed away before he could do that opening ceremony. 😢
His vocals were his and no one can compare! He was not trained in a operatic vein but that’s ok...the dual was wonderful! I’m not one for opera, but I am always a one for talent...always talent! It’s amazing to the difference...but it’s all gr8! Thanks Fil...what a day to start with...thank you!
I really enjoyed your analysis of this masterpiece. Most people with channels don't have a clue what they are talking about and do what they do, (of course, claiming this was the first time they saw or heard it...BS) and are there selling their facial response to the piece. You on the other hand dissect the piece bit by bit and teach your audience something they would not have seen or known before. That was amazing. You mentioned the over-the-top intro to this performance. I interpreted it as an almost Royal introduction to two of the most off-the-hook performers about to grace you with their musical presents it was surly app repo for what was about to happen. I have listened to the who album 50 times and never tire of it. I seem to get as emotional each time as I did the first time I heard/saw it. It's just that indelible. When you hear pieces like "How can I go on" especially when it was written at the time of his life when he knew his years were not many, it is heart rendering. I love seeing so many young people that were never even born during Freddies time loving, and appreciating his music generation after generation, and trying to cover it. Freddie and Queen were giants in the music world and their music will be loved and appreciated for many many generations. Thank you for your interesting dissection of this piece. You have a new fan
Thank you for this! He loved Montserrat so much, he wrote an entire album for her: Barcelona(with some help from Mike Moran and Tim Rice)! He sometimes sent her tapes with her guide vocals in his falsetto. I do believe the feeling was mutual.
There was a documentrary from French TV on YT, about Montse's 1974 performance in Bellini's Norma at the Roman Theatre in Orange, France. Montse was great at pianissimo. She was playng major roles first in Basel and then in Bremen at a very young age by modern standards, after studying at the Liceu in Barcelona. Jose Carreras was a good friend of hers. When he had leukemia, Montse contacted some friends, and the result was the Three Tenors. In early performances, you can see Placido steadying Jose.
Great video analyzing two great singers!!...My Granddaughter might be born tomorrow (today now for some of you) on Freddie’s birthday, September 5th. I hope so!
One of my favourite songs ever, what an amazing performance. Sad that Freddie left us so early, who knows what he would have achieved. Great analysis Fil.
First time watching your channel. It popped up because of Freddie's birthday yesterday, and I subscribe to many Queen channels. Love this! I especially love the smile on your face as you watched Freddie & Montserrat. Thanks.
a lifelong musician,, drummer/piano myself , I can appreciate your analysis, great job, knowing music theory it's refreshing to hear someone as yourself do an accurate entertaining review like this. fun. nobody , but nobody could do it like Freddy., his passion, his drive for high peak performance, his personality,, showmanship on stage.. his natural gift of his beyond amazing vocal abilities that very very few people have. however I refuse to go and see Bohemian Rhapsody, I'm just too partial to Freddy, I fear it would not live up to my views and expectations. no matter who they used or how good they were, in my mind, you just can't portray that guy accurate enough for my taste hahahahhaha just my opinion
This is a really great analysis, Queen and Freddie does not block their music! I would like for someone to analyse the song Ensueno, it is the only song they did together where Freddie really did singing opera. Of course it is really interesting to see the difference between classical and contemporary singing. Another interesting song they did together was The Golden Boy. Yes, this is really not a song for baritone, especially not in full chest voice. A lot of people think when a voice sounds deeper and richer that it sounds baritone like, but you do get tenors with quite deep voices. A dramatic tenor and lyric baritone can sound very close together at times.Freddie could change up his vibrato as well, he does an intro for a Billy Squier song Love Is The Hero, he did an amazing vibrato on that intro.
@@The1queencollector Yes, that intro is out of this world and so few people know about it. It is somewhat ironic that Freddie never used an intro like that for one of Queen's songs.
Mesmerizing!! I felt the "Star Wars" part sounded more like a fanfare to me, announcing the arrival of Freddie and Montserrat and indicating "pay attention". I'm surprised that Freddie was singing at the Barcelona Olympics considering that he wasn't Spanish. An excellent analysis, Fil. Thank you.
Teresa Fino , sadly, Freddie did not sing at the Olympics in Barcelona. That was in 1992 after he had already gone off to join the other gods. I believe that the Spanish tenor Jose Carreras sang his part. Montserrat was fortunately there to sing her part. It was she who initially asked Freddie to write a song about her hometown. For the album, Montserrat wrote Spanish lyrics for Freddie's Exercises in Free Love. It is called Ensueno, and Freddie sings the Spanish words perfectly. Growing up bilingual or trilingual gave him an ear for languages.
@@karolyn8644, I believe that Freddie was projected on a big screen during the olympics in Barcelona in ‘92… If I am wrong and Jose really sang Freddie’s part, please point me to a place where I can hear it/watch it as I am very curious to see how that sounds! Thank you!
@@IlianNachev I might be the one in the wrong. I thought I had seen a video of Jose singing Freddie's part, but can't find it, so maybe I got it wrong. All I could find with Jose at the '92 Olympics is this: ruclips.net/video/OmUS9vu-O1s/видео.html
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This song always makes me cry, you can see the amazing emotional connection between Freddie and Montserrat.
Amazing that you can't hear the amazing play of Montserrat's voice until he slows it down. I didn't realize she sang so many notes in one like that. Really art.
Freddie looks and sounds like he was born to do this!
And great smile, Fil. ✌️
Absolutely
I know everyone is rightfully amazed by Freddie's performance here. I am included in that group. I'm unsure how many people appreciate the greatness of Montserrat's voice and musicianship. When she was in her prime about 10-15 years before this, she was possibly the greatest prima donna of all time. The control and ability to match with Freddie without overpowering him is amazing. I love that this is analysis and not reaction -- keep them coming!
As I've always said, if butter had a voice, it would sound like Montserrat Caballé.
Montserrat was Freddie’s favorite opera singer. In her autobiography, she describes how she met him when he attended one of her concerts at Royal Albert Hall. She didn’t know who he was. However, she invited him to the after concert party, during which they clicked so well, that she went to his home after that and they talked and discussed music until breakfast time, and she came away a true fan. She spoke so highly of his talent, his charisma, his style, his genius. They were fast friends after that.
Freddie admired her for her remarkable breathing control and the timbre of her voice.
Freddie loved opera and in fact the opening of Queen’s Night at the Opera is the story of Cavelleria Rusticana - Mama... just killed a man... later on, in the song, Mozart’s Don Giovanni comes in too -arguing with the devil.
Another great video Fil! As always interesting and informative. Loved it!
Perhaps she did not know who he was in a face to face meeting, but she said she knew Queen because her children had a few Queen albums.
Dear JH, Thank you so much for sharing this marvelous background story. I lived in London from 1994-96, and miss it every day. All the best to you -- Lynn in Albuquerque
I didn’t know that!
How educational! I knew their story but you put there so much detail. Thank you so much. I really appreciate ❤️
THANK YOU for all that wonderful information, I learned SO MUCH! I wonder if it's possible to track down a copy of Montserrat's autobiography?
Freddie never ceased to astound me ....How many other front men for a Multi million dollar selling band can create tons of chart topping hits, legendary songs, influence the musical world in so many ways..and then hold his own with one of the greatest opera divas in modern history . I am simply speechless. Good one Phil Loved the freakin hell out of this !Rest in Peace Freddie , You were in every way , by every measure...one of a kind.
Nobody is now or will ever be a better frontman or showman than Freddie Mercury. He is music royalty. Period.
Royalty isn't a high enough adoration for Freddie. The man will always be a vocal GOD and no one can outclass him in the genre
The only showman who is right with him is Bowie. Bowie had a different personality, maybe not as charismatic, but in my book Bowie reigns supreme when it comes to presence on stage. Albeit, bizarre at times. 😊 At least from his earlier theatrical days. Again, my opinion.
Ian Anderson was better.
Mick Jagger
@@fm6419 Ian Anderson.
Watching and listening knowing of Freddie's condition already at that time makes this so much more epic and impressive. He knew he would not make it until 1992 for the Olympics and she was let into the very small circle of close loved ones that knew. This being a hidden reason for this spectacular performance, to be on par with the grandness of the opening ceremonies, so they would have his part to play alongside her live.
Didn't the Spanish Tenor Jose Carreras sing Freddie's part at the Olympics in 1992?
Didn't Carreras sing a different song? With Sarah Brightman?
Freddie had hoped to sing with Monserrat at the ‘92 Olympics but the opening song he had planned for the music was “BARCELONA”……you can hear them singing which is so wonderful!! So sad he did not make it but in spirit he was there with their song “BARCELONA”…❣️
This is one of your best videos. You really nail the way that two superficially similar but actually very different vocal styles blend so well together.
I saw Queen live at Knebworth in 1986. I will never forget how absolutely, shockingly brilliant Freddie was. I have never seen a performer simply own a stage, and an audience, like that. Before or since.
Freddie Mercury is my all time favourite singer. All started when I was 14. My teacher showed us the documentary Super Size Me. Fat Bottomed Girls was featured in that movie, and I was like "What kind of song is that?" I knew about The Beatles, Rolling Stones, The Who, and other bands from England. But I had no idea who QUEEN was. I saw their Live AID show later that night (VIA RUclips) and blew myself away. I just could not believe I saw the most pure musical performer in music history. Thank you so much for this video :-) I love all your videos. Like I always tell you, Fil, you are the teacher the world needs right now. Your lessons are awesome.
Mr Blue for sure and certain! There is always something to learn and experience with Fil’s analysis. It’s always worth the browse as we’re actually gaining something worthwhile, something of personal value ❤️🇦🇺
The best album ever produced. Freddie and Montsy, friends until the end.
Freddie said that he wanted this to be a combination of rock and opera. Freddie also said that he was not an opera singer and that he was not going to try to pretend to be one. It didn't seem to me that Freddie moved like an opera singer, he didn't accentuate his movements with the flair that Monserrat did, but moved more like one might expect from a rock singer. I like the way these two genres came together on this album. I am always amazed how well Freddie sings with having no professional vocal training at any time in his life. Thank you for presenting this and going over the fine points.
Their collaborations remain at the top of my most favourite musical diversions. Happy Birthday Freddie Mercury.
Freddie, getting me through the current world situation and pandemic. He is such a blessing to those of us who were left behind. Going to see you one day, in heaven Freddie, but hope you know how much your are loved and missed. Thank you for another great video, Fil. I have been struggling lately with all that is happening here in the US and I look around me and don't recognize myself, my country, my neighbors or this world. Never have I felt so far removed. Only Freddie and my daughter are getting me through this and it is day by day. FREDDIE LIVES FOREVER.
God, family and country has long been a steady framework for most of us. Bad elements quietly took over our Institutions and stripped truth out of everything.
I think you will be pleasantly surprised next year. Rumbles in the spirit say God is moving to restore sanity to the world. Evil has tried His last nerve. Blessings to you and your daughter.
💯.
Always enjoy some Freddie. Already showing signs of being ill. Sad losing him, love his special talent. Thanks for the Vid.
He was definitely suffering the effects of his illness here. That is (one reason) why it wasn't sung live. Freddie couldn't rely on his voice at that point. Though he'd probably have been as great as usual, it was too big a performance to risk anything.
I miss Freddie.
I saw Caballe three times when she was alive in NYC......her voice was other worldly. She and Jose Carrara’s were great friends.
Josep Carreras, both him and Montserrat are spanish singers.
What strikes me is how versatile Freddie's voice was in range and pitch and how it complements and accentuates the singing of Montserrat as well as her voice complementing Freddie's voice. Thanks for covering this beautiful blending of voices... You really do justice to Freddie's abilities as a singer and his capability in working with a classically trained singer to create an amazing compilation of singing talent... So glad I got to see and hear this astounding collaboration of such versatile singing voices.
Right on! You said it so beautifully. I loved hearing this video and hearing them together. I have always loved Freddie Mercury but I was never exposed to Montserrat Caballe before today. Phil, you have enlarged my world. Thank you.
A life long dream for Freddie coming true and what a performance.
That was so fantastic I cannot find the words to describe it. I could listen to it over and over.
Montserrat said in an interview that the time she spent with Freddie was the most surprising, beautiful, and happy of her life.
Thank you Fil; great analysis as always. Love Freddie... legend. So incredible that he wrote these songs in such a relatively short time.. and could stand tall next to the amazing ‘Montsie’. There was a deep, deep love between them... and he left us way too early.
TIME STAMPS -
1:20 Performance
4:56 Analysis Start
5:45 Orchestral Dynamics
10:37 Vocal Analysis
13:44 Vibrato Pitch Range, Slowed
15:17 Vibrato Comparison
17:04 Freddie's Belting in Chest
18:35 Perceived Drama
20:41 Final Example Slowed
21:51 Performance Background
I had been resisting listening listening to this because I am not very fond of opera. I was afraid it would change my view of Freddie
You opened my eyes and I'm so so glad I listened to their performance. It was cosmically beautiful. Thank you!!
Thank you for your analysis of Freddie and Monserrat on Freddie’s actual birthday, as well as appreciating Freddie Mercury and Mike Moran’s work. Especially knowing Freddie is a self-taught artist. Queen was one of my favorite rock bands as a teenager. You state that the video is “gold” for comparison in voices,” and I state your videos are platinum in analysis and detail. If I were a billionaire I believe I would invest in creating a cable TV music analysis channel for you, not to mention that smile of yours would attract Women like chicks to a 1950’s Elvis, and guys to the rock analysis component. Lol!
Thanks for the kind words!
Freddie and Monserrat recorded one of the best true crossover albums of all time. If anyone reading this hasn't heard the album from which this song was drawn, get it!
One thing that I always loved about Freddie/Queen was that they could hit the pitch perfectly straight through without coming in a bit flat and wavering up to pitch.
Monserrat must have really enjoyed the experience of recording with one of those "rock and roll" guys...
I think it was Brian May who commented that Freddie's combination of absolute pitch and powerful vocals meant that when overdubbing a vocal line multiple times to make it sound fuller, he came right on target every time. This made it sound like it was just one take. If Freddie wanted to make it sound like a chorus of voices singing the same line, he actually had to "fight" his absolute pitch a bit, or else the vocal dubs became indistinguishable from one another! I don't think this would have happened to many other rock singers. :)
@@louise_rose - Sadly, I have to agree with your assessment; Freddie was THAT good!
@@paulsimmons5726 Yay, now I know Youtuibe is no longer hiding my reply comments! :)
@@louise_rose Well, at least not this time! You never know with YT...
Take care!
I am so wowed. Freddie is simply mesmerizing.
Just goes to show the depth and breath of his talent, not to mention the guts it took for a rocker to go into a totally different genre
well guts he sure had... in spades!
Outstanding analysis of a stellar performance. I have seen this video before. I hope all those to whom it is new will take the time to watch it all the way through. A breathtaking blend of styles where truly the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
Nice commentary. I think this was his last live performance, sad to say.
@@paulacorreira3943 No, it was't his last and this song isn't live.
This isn't live.
What a good way to demonstrate the different vibratos. I would have never noticed the difference before. I remember hearing something about Freddy Mercury singing with an opera singer, but never took the time to try to watch it! Thanks
One Of The Most Basazz SOngs About A City Ever Sung. Thank You for taking the time to break this down. Very Interesting.I know Freddy Would Be pleased As Punch someone many years later are breaking down his voice.
Fil, This is Totally Spectacular Here, Freddie in a Tux, He was a Diamond, only one Freddie will ever exsist, He will never be replaced, R.I.P. to Him, Cousin Figel
I remember watching this performance so long ago and it still gives me goosebumps! Freddie’s brilliance had no boundaries, he was born to sing and perform....a true legend in every way! Excellent Fil! Cheers Mario! 😀👌🤘
The moment that you stepped into the room you took my breath away " has always been my favorite line , I noticed you 🙂👍smiling each time it got to that line
Freddie Mercury was a musical genius. First time seeing this.
That lady could split atoms
Wow ,what a story/ show ! He was born to do this . RIP man .
Stay safe everyone. Thanks for this Fil, and it didn’t get removed because of copyrights , yeah ! ❤️
Nice . Unmistakable indeed ! The composition is a journey in and of itself. 🙂
Wow. Freddie sang with every bit of his body! This was phenomenal. Thanks for bringing it home.
Fil is endlessly interesting. I love so much his analysis of Freddie's pop song vibrato and Montserrat's opera vibrato. Fabulous!
Wonderful analysis! I love when artists step out of the box, so Freddie singing this with his Diva friend Montserrat is right up my alley!
Absolutely no doubt about the talent and skill of Freddie Mercury, and though I’d never heard her before, Monserrat. Thoroughly enjoyed the performance which I did go listen to twice more. However, I’m totally blown away by Fil’s analytical skill. Wow.
Thanks!
My favorite Freddie Mercury song. Goosebumps and tears!
So beautiful. Thanks for explaining. Amazing to think Freddie was singing with an incredible opera singer while ill with AIDS. He was otherworldly. He was also so amazed by her. He went to see Pavarotti but when he heard her small part he was amazed by her voice and asked to meet her!
What an unusual yet surprisingly compatible pairing. I had the pleasure of attending live performances of Montserrat Caballe at the Metropolitan Opera. She was quite the operatic diva and Barcelona was her native city. Thank you for highlighting the different vibrato styles.
I saw Queen live at Winterland in San Francisco California. One of the classiest shows I've ever seen. I think David Bowie and Queen were two of the classiest acts in rock and roll. Freddie came out and he drink a champagne toast to what he called the the most sophisticated audience ever. Well we all really liked that. I think the first rock opera we saw was Jesus Christ Superstar the Who's Tommy and Hair. Meatloaf did a pretty good job of operatic rock and roll. Nobody does Opera like the Italians. Queen definitely kicked it up a notch. There were other bands that were also making their mark Sweet and Be-Bop Deluxe. Doo wop was also vocally more advanced than what was going on in rock and roll. Country songs will also work as rock and roll songs. To rock an Opera, or write opera that is rock, that's talent with a twist. Very cool and much appreciated. Thanks Freddie.
We would never think you are manipulating any performance.
Freddie had such an amazing voice. I wasn't aware of this video; what a performance Thank you.
Thank you Fil, I really enjoyed your analysis. I love hearing these two impeccable voices together; it gave me chills.
That was beautiful! And your explanation about the differences in their singing techniques answered so many questions I’ve had over the years. I like that you can explain these things so that your average listener can understand. Thanks so much for analyzing this performance.
So much emotion in the music. Another singer that we lost way too soon. The arrangement and production are brilliant.
Montserrat is still my Favorite opera singer, and I have a new appreciation of Freddie Mercury’s capabilities. Such talent, both of them. RIP
Thank you so much for that! I not only enjoyed one of my favorite performances, but I learned a lot of new information about singing, both pop and opera. You did a great job explaining everything.
Thanks!
Thanks for providing a great and thorough analysis on Freddy Mercury and Monserrat Caballe's stellar performance of "Barcelona." As you suggested, I watched their performance video all the way through. I agree with you that this performance is a "goldmine," as you described it--there's so much in it in terms of dramatic elements as well as both instrumental and vocal dynamics(e.g. pitch range, vibrato application). You always have me musically thinking--thanks, Fil!
Hi Phil am glad you're back with another stunning one!Am blown away by your analysis, very precise and witty.Freddie was a great musician.Who can dare sing with such a gifted Diva and get away with that?It takes guts and pure talent!Thanks for your video.
Keep it up!
This was amazing Phil. Slowing it done for clarity and then listening again you get even more appreciation of the artistry and talent of both of them.
Freddie was amazing. I can't even imagine any other rock singer that would even attempt to do that. He was so brave. I think that they became great friends and she was one of the first ones that Freddie told about his illness.
Thank you for posting that video. You are amazing too! I just love how you do different genres of music and you are so intelligent about them all. Did you study classical nusic?
Thanks, no didn't study music just got into guitar and then teaching!
Hey Fil! Hope you're doing well. Thanks for this. Freddie is my all time favorite singer. He was phenomenal. He is so missed.
Excellent analysis Fil. Another home run 😊
Every video you make with Freddie Mercury, you are smiling😊 i love it
When Freddie was getting into the song, before it was slowed down, it reminded me of his singing in 'Princes of The Universe', the Highlander song. PLEASE listen to the full song! It's wonderful!
I always thought that Princes Of The Universe was one of, if not *the* best song on the album.
@stephanhuebner4931 I think it made his vocal cords bleed
Love your channel. Great, balanced reviews xx
This was a dream come true for him with whom he had the pleasure of collaborated with
I'm at a loss for words which is unusual for me. All I can say is WOW and once again thanks Fil you walked me through my first time hearing this although I've admired Mr. Mercury for many, many years.
Freddie Mercury = My KING! Thank you so much for this one, Fil...so EXCELLENT! Rock on!
Now I'm amazed to better understand Barcelona's creation/style. It was prepared for a Sports Stadium activity. thousands and thousands gathered to encourage/mourn every competition by highly prepared athletes who worked many years to participate Therefore, applause, applause Freddie Mercury, Mike Moran and Montserrat for providing this beautiful composition enhancing the 1992 Olympics I see why your music won the competition.
What a gorgeous tone and pitch this diva had- like no other!
Hi Fil! One of my favorite duets! I have listened to this so many times! I remember when Freddie did the interview praising her! She heard about it, and the rest is history! This duet was beyond gorgeous! Loved every moment of it! Freddie did a beautiful job with his vocals! Freddie was a genius! Very much missed! ✌️ Loved the way you explained it...perfect!
You are enchanting, Mr Wings of Pegasus. Really incisive and informative analysis. The wellspring of 'Barcelona''s gestation was Mercury's fascination, and respect for, what he called the 'best voice in the world.' He was nervous, awe-struck, humble. But this video of yours proves him to be the musician that he, too, could claim to be. Caballe recognised that, and moreover, said 'Musicians understand each other.' Later she would say 'He conquered me'. He gave her a rush of excitement, delight, arousal which was forbidden territory for her. She called it freedom. And your sweet smile watching them mirrors our delight in unpacking these mysteries.
I love watching your covering a wide variety of performers and arrangemnts as compared to any other channels. Always so interesting and knowledgable. Freddie and Monserat apart from their amazing vocal abilities both possess a dramatic ability. Watching Monserat's eyes and hand movement is beguiling. Freddie stage presence is a perfect match in this epic performance. Thank you for this amazing analysis.
That song gives me the chills!
I've watched at least 3-4 different reaction videoes from vocal coach reactors to this song. All of them were interesting and great in themselves, but I learned more of the difference in the voices between these two great performers in this video alone than in all of the other ones combined.
Thankyou so much for the breakdown, particularly on the vibrato. I'd always recognised this as a kind of 'call and response' with Monserrat and never really noticed the shift in pitches.
Outside of Live Aid, this is my favourite Freddy performance. Because look at him! In a tux, next to an opera singer and he is not the slightest bit out of place, musically or dynamically. How many mainstream frontmen could you say that about? None!, that's how many. Even though this is not his stage, he still somehow manages to own it with his charisma and mannerisms.
At the Remembrance Concert in 1992, Robert Plant said it the best when he said 'it's testament to Freddy that a lot of the artists here are changing the keys of the songs because they just can't do a 'Freddy''. That is a lovely compliment from someone who is also regarded as the greatest frontman ever. Imagine...
Not the video I was looking for, but the video I watched.
I think that it would have been intresting to see how Freddie would have continue to grow and develop his taste and musical preferences. Just watchibg these performances you can see how much he loved this type of music. The joy on his face and in his voice. Even watching some of the other video's just seeing the pure and utter joy just brings tears . I appreciate how diverse his ability to create music was and on some ways feel like we truly lost a sensational musician. Just watching this makes me wonder what else coukd he have done and accomplish. Too me, I like to think he may have delved deeper into this form of music and even wrote his own opera. who knows. Thank you, I truly enjoyed this analysis and it has made me appreciate his vocal abilities even more. I really enjoyed the lesson. It will give me an added appreciation of the work .
The vocal gymnastics of la Suprema perfectly frames Freddy's voice. Albeit, not at her prime this is still a magnificent performance.
Incredible that you broke it down so wonderfully and showed how the differences between them is there. Thank you it was such fun and a tribute to two incredible singers we'll never see again
This performance is so bitter-sweet. On the one hand, a towering highlight of Freddie's career, but also the beginning of the end. Montserrat was one of the very very few people who knew Freddie was ill. She said after his death how she found out about his health when she commented on them singing the song at the Olympics opening ceremony in 1992. She said Freddie quietly took her hand and told her that he would be dead before 1992. And he was right, passing away in 1991. Their live concert footage from 1988 was played on a huge screen instead. Breaks my heart that he passed away before he could do that opening ceremony. 😢
His vocals were his and no one can compare! He was not trained in a operatic vein but that’s ok...the dual was wonderful! I’m not one for opera, but I am always a one for talent...always talent! It’s amazing to the difference...but it’s all gr8! Thanks Fil...what a day to start with...thank you!
I really enjoyed your analysis of this masterpiece. Most people with channels don't have a clue what they are talking about and do what they do, (of course, claiming this was the first time they saw or heard it...BS) and are there selling their facial response to the piece.
You on the other hand dissect the piece bit by bit and teach your audience something they would not have seen or known before. That was amazing. You mentioned the over-the-top intro to this performance.
I interpreted it as an almost Royal introduction to two of the most off-the-hook performers about to grace you with their musical presents it was surly app repo for what was about to happen.
I have listened to the who album 50 times and never tire of it. I seem to get as emotional each time as I did the first time I heard/saw it. It's just that indelible.
When you hear pieces like "How can I go on" especially when it was written at the time of his life when he knew his years were not many, it is heart rendering. I love seeing so many young people that were never even born during Freddies time loving, and appreciating his music generation after generation, and trying to cover it.
Freddie and Queen were giants in the music world and their music will be loved and appreciated for many many generations. Thank you for your interesting dissection of this piece. You have a new fan
Thanks!
I know this is mostly about Freddie but Montserrat Caballé is an amazing singer.
Thank you for this! He loved Montserrat so much, he wrote an entire album for her: Barcelona(with some help from Mike Moran and Tim Rice)! He sometimes sent her tapes with her guide vocals in his falsetto. I do believe the feeling was mutual.
So very interesting!! Thank you for the work you put into this. Wow!!
Vibrato demo was exceptional. Anybody who doesn't understand vibrato after that wasn't paying attention.
Thanks!
I feel like Freddie could have taken over the show but he let Monserrat’s voice shine and complements her perfectly. True artistry.
Quite the opposite
You couldn't be much wrong
I mean as well as myself! Sorry
Not sure if you've ever reliesed how nice it is to see you smile 😊
I don’t know who the guy is that is explaining this video is, but he has the most beautiful smile! And he seems to know what he’s talking about...
Thanks!
It shouldn't work together but it really does and wow
I thought that Freddie looked so handsome too
There was a documentrary from French TV on YT, about Montse's 1974 performance in Bellini's Norma at the Roman Theatre in Orange, France. Montse was great at pianissimo. She was playng major roles first in Basel and then in Bremen at a very young age by modern standards, after studying at the Liceu in Barcelona. Jose Carreras was a good friend of hers. When he had leukemia, Montse contacted some friends, and the result was the Three Tenors. In early performances, you can see Placido steadying Jose.
Freddie’s as sexy in a tux as he is in his Superman tank top. Impressive performance too. Love the drama!
For a split second, as they walked to center stage, I'm sure I saw a bit of his strut/swagger.
Absolutely he got better looking with age I think. Something about him for sure even to this day
Great video analyzing two great singers!!...My Granddaughter might be born tomorrow (today now for some of you) on Freddie’s birthday, September 5th. I hope so!
And yes my granddaughter was in fact born on Freddie’s birthday! ☺️
One of my favourite songs ever, what an amazing performance. Sad that Freddie left us so early, who knows what he would have achieved. Great analysis Fil.
First time watching your channel. It popped up because of Freddie's birthday yesterday, and I subscribe to many Queen channels. Love this! I especially love the smile on your face as you watched Freddie & Montserrat. Thanks.
a lifelong musician,, drummer/piano myself , I can appreciate your analysis, great job, knowing music theory it's refreshing to hear someone as yourself do an accurate entertaining review like this. fun. nobody , but nobody could do it like Freddy., his passion, his drive for high peak performance, his personality,, showmanship on stage.. his natural gift of his beyond amazing vocal abilities that very very few people have. however I refuse to go and see Bohemian Rhapsody, I'm just too partial to Freddy, I fear it would not live up to my views and expectations. no matter who they used or how good they were, in my mind, you just can't portray that guy accurate enough for my taste hahahahhaha just my opinion
I love this analysis! Thank you very much, Fil...
Freddie' s just amazing in this.....and lets monzerat shine as well....truly magical....🙂🙂
All I can say is WOW 😳. Beautiful 🤩
This is a really great analysis, Queen and Freddie does not block their music! I would like for someone to analyse the song Ensueno, it is the only song they did together where Freddie really did singing opera. Of course it is really interesting to see the difference between classical and contemporary singing. Another interesting song they did together was The Golden Boy. Yes, this is really not a song for baritone, especially not in full chest voice. A lot of people think when a voice sounds deeper and richer that it sounds baritone like, but you do get tenors with quite deep voices. A dramatic tenor and lyric baritone can sound very close together at times.Freddie could change up his vibrato as well, he does an intro for a Billy Squier song Love Is The Hero, he did an amazing vibrato on that intro.
Ensueno! My favorite song on that album! Going to go have a listen!
That intro is Godly, Freddie was defo on another level for that one.
@@micheleshelley6156 and the demo Exercise in free love
@@The1queencollector Yes, that intro is out of this world and so few people know about it. It is somewhat ironic that Freddie never used an intro like that for one of Queen's songs.
@@ZENOBlAmusic it suppose it was spontanious, Lady with a Tenor Sax with these two is pretty good as well.
Amazing how more powerful her voice is.
Mesmerizing!! I felt the "Star Wars" part sounded more like a fanfare to me, announcing the arrival of Freddie and Montserrat and indicating "pay attention". I'm surprised that Freddie was singing at the Barcelona Olympics considering that he wasn't Spanish. An excellent analysis, Fil. Thank you.
Teresa Fino
, sadly, Freddie did not sing at the Olympics in Barcelona. That was in 1992 after he had already gone off to join the other gods. I believe that the Spanish tenor Jose Carreras sang his part. Montserrat was fortunately there to sing her part. It was she who initially asked Freddie to write a song about her hometown. For the album, Montserrat wrote Spanish lyrics for Freddie's Exercises in Free Love. It is called Ensueno, and Freddie sings the Spanish words perfectly. Growing up bilingual or trilingual gave him an ear for languages.
@@karolyn8644,
I believe that Freddie was projected on a big screen during the olympics in Barcelona in ‘92… If I am wrong and Jose really sang Freddie’s part, please point me to a place where I can hear it/watch it as I am very curious to see how that sounds! Thank you!
@@IlianNachev I might be the one in the wrong. I thought I had seen a video of Jose singing Freddie's part, but can't find it, so maybe I got it wrong. All I could find with Jose at the '92 Olympics is this:
ruclips.net/video/OmUS9vu-O1s/видео.html
@@IlianNachev According to Google, Montserrat sang Barcelona with Spain's other leading opera singers. So I'd say Jose was probably included in that!
@@willowbark5649,
I would really like to hear that if it truly happened. Please provide me with a link to it if you have one.
Astonishingly powerful. Legendary.
Uptown ROCK in a tuxedo!! 👌