I can see Brian talking to his grand children as a grand father, sitting near the fire place talking about his guitar and how it was the time with freddie . I could listen to his stories for hours since he has a lot to talk about.
Before anything else he's a true gentleman, a humble and awesome human being. I wish we had more people as him living in this planet. Such a pleasure to hear his words, it's a lesson about life even more than guitars.
His guitar is a sweet example of if you want something done right, do it yourself. The switches to allow inverting the phase is just great. Those brittle clean sounds are so incredible and delicate. And when those harmonics come out in the solos.... genius.
@@Cat-hw1vh It mostly adds that metallic "clink" when the pick first hits the string. But plastic picks can do it, too. The thing I think about the metal pick is that he is not going to shred using that and so it gives his solos more of a slow to medium speed and that is just perfect for rock, pop rock, but not shred. Just my thoughts and his strings hate him but oh well. :)
This guitar is alive!! I saw Queen live 1977 in Germany, Frankfurt Festhalle. After hearing Brian Mays Solo I decided to play Guitar myself. Electric Guitar, and I`m doing this since them . - Thank you Brian!!
I can see why Freddie wanted to work with Brian (and Roger). They were cut from the same cloth-their deep love and the way they strove for perfection, was unparalleled. So happy they found each other and gave us the priceless gift of Queen!!! ❤️👑😘
The guy is a living legend, has created one of the most iconic guitar tones of all times and still is very humble with enough patience to show every detail of his technique and equipament. Thank you for showing me that I can do great things out of simple stuff, Mr. May. Your life story is inspiring.
That makes two of us. After listening to Brian talk about what "Red" does and reading his book it's so cool to watch him play a concert and know exactly what he's doing and how he gets that amazing "Queen" sound that is unlike anyone else in the world.
Me too... I saw Queen here in Seattle at the Coliseum in Seattle Center, 1980, The Game Tour, and afterwards me and my friend, Mark Renstrom, met Brian when he walked out from back stage and just began talking with about 6 of us who were back there hoping to see something neat.
What were the odds that a man of this caliber; astrophysicist, guitarist extraordinaire and renaissance man would end up running into and meeting one of the greatest, most charming vocalists, showman and musician extraordinaire and that those two would go to not only enthuse but write and perform some of the finest melodies ever recorded and then continue to perform them to maximum bravado live. Life is beautiful and full of possibilities, never give up or ever stop believing in yourself. The universe awaits you and your gifts
The drummer, his voice his writing talent his personality and the three of them hand picked the base player were all required for the epic combined legend
Its funny how he could only dream of buying a guitar because he was poor, but ended up building something that was better than the most expensive guitars out there.
Just like diomond cannot be formed in nature without extreme pressure, some people cannot do great things if they are given everything to satisfy their needs without labor, effort and struggle. Brian and his dad had been building red special for two years till the moment it was finally ready. I`m not sure if Brian May would have done so much in music and performing if he was not so involved and emotionally invested in building his first electric guitar.
The fact that he's playing that guitar in this present day, a guitar that's created some of the most well known songs in history, including Boho Rhap is pretty awesome. I'd feel overwhelmed in its presence as crazy as that sounds, just knowing the history lol.
When Brian accepted the Living Legends award for Queen Joe Satriani, who introduced Brian said that in 1991 he and Steve Vai asked Brian if they could try his guitar. And he went on to say that neither of them could make that guitar sound like Brian May. They could only make it sound like themselves. And it frustrates both of them heavily. Perhaps that is why Steve made the comment you talk about!
Steve Vai: "I was 21. I went to the Rainbow Bar & Grill, and Brian May was there. I couldn’t believe it. I mustered up every little bit of courage and went up to him and said, “Thank you so much for everything you’ve done. I play guitar. I’m here in town with Frank Zappa.” He said, “Oh, really? Why don’t you come down to our rehearsal?”I went down, and he brought me up on the stage, and he let me play the guitar-the guitar that he built with his dad [the “Red Special”]. I couldn’t even believe that I was touching this instrument! He was so kind and so warm, and for who? This kid, you know? And I played his guitar, and it sounded like Steve Vai. Then when he played it, it sounded just like Brian May. It was very apparent to me that his tone is in his fingers and his head. He’s a class act from head to toe, and it shows in his playing. I can listen to any player and pantomime their sound, but I can’t do Brian May. He’s just walking on higher ground."
Master Guitarist, Down to earth Gentleman. Brian May doesn't even act or come off as being famous. But he's more than just famous, Now he's a Legend, Just as the Red Special is. One of the best sounding guitars I've ever heard is the Red Special.
Love Queen, love Brian May. That guitar has a sound of it's own, unique. You only have to hear a couple of seconds of this guitar on the radio or whatever and know straight away that it's Brian May playing. Outstanding guitarist. Legend and a rather nice chap. When he shows how to do the delay stuff, it sounds very ''Get down make love'' from the middle section of the song where it goes a bit psychedelic and you can also hear little bits from the solos he did over the years. Love it!
When a guitarist doesn't need to touch a string to make a guitar sound good you know there on legend status . If you can't appreciate what this man has done for music and guitar best you go learn . I could listen to him play for hours wow.
What a great legacy, an amazing musician and an even greater human being. Just bought my tickets for Queen in Newcastle in January 2015. LONG LIVE BRIAN MAY!
I love this man. So humble and kind. He never forgets where he came from. He keeps recalling his dad, who obviously he loves so much. He never had the "I'm a rock legend, idolize me" attitude, though he could because he's a freaking genius.
Brian, if you see this, you are an absolute legend and you inspired me to pick up the guitar in and I’ve been playing guitar ever since I got the inspiration from you
This clip is freeking GOLDEN. Thank you Brian, for the lovely, personal and fascinating talk, and also many thanks to whoever recorded it. My Red Special is coming from BMG soon (as soon as you autograph her, Bri!) and believe me, she will be played regularly and treasured.
Brian had a wonderful family, he was bless! I loved that Brian,Rodger, andJohn protected Freddie right too thee end, Just like In one of there songs. Love it! Love everything about Queen and Freddie Mercury!
Flappo Spammo EVH is vastly overrated. Brian May is up there with Hendrix and Beck for sure. I'd also add Paul Kossoff to that list, in my opinion he was quite possibly the most underrated guitarist of all-time...
EVH was in Brian’s just-for-fun garage band/recording project Star Fleet Project. There are pictures of Brian, Eddie and bassist Phil Chen (where Eddie is holding Phil’s bass and Phil is holding the Frankenstrat). They also had the drummer from REO speedwagon and Queen’s touring keyboard player, and Roger Taylor sang backing vocals on one of their three songs. The project was inspired by the theme song to a Power Rangers-type show from Japan that Brian’s son watched.
Everyone gives me a weird look when I tell them about The Red Special, because they just cannot fathom a rock star displaying such ingenuity. I know Brian isn't the only legend with mad DIY skills (Les Paul, Tom Schulz), but he's my favorite to hear from because he's so unbelievably practical and humble. What a guy
When I clicked on the video, it wasn't my intention actually watching the whole thing - I thought it was far too long, and I would get borred after 5 minutes, I just wanted to see what it was. And then, here I am, 40 minutes later, wishing it the video was longer. What an amazing man and guitarist! It's still hard for me to grasp that Queen were not just Freddie Mercury and the rest of the guys. They were respectively Freddie Mercury, Roger Taylor, Brian May and John Deacon. 4 absolute geniuses working together - you just don't see that in any other band
I can easily listen to (Dr.) Brian May playing guitar all day long. I can also easily listen to Dr. May talking about guitar, astrophysics, childhood, or anything, all day long. What an extraordinary gentleman, who indeed has a very gentle, soothing and attractive voice.
I grew up in Brazil, hearing "Love Of My Life" on the radio, and Queen was a very familiar name to everyone. But up until 1990 I only knew the occasional hit and the only album I had heard in its entirety and actually owned was "The Works". Until an older neighbour sold me his collection of Queen albums on LP up to "The Game" and my life changed. I was already 21 and deep into rock and roll and heavy metal, and getting to know Queen's body of work was like opening windows and doors I had no idea existed. The albums were so diverse. Brian and Roger also sang beautifully, which was also a surprise to me, but the thing that stuck to my mind and imagination above all was May's guitar sound. It was so unique and peculiar. No one sounded like him. Later I found out a lot of it had to do with the guitar he used, and that no one else had for he and his father had built it themselves. That just adds to the whole mystique of Queen. Hats off to Brian and his father, you are truly sound genious.
Dr. May is so interesting in explaining his lengendary guitar and father's love in helping him create the guitar! He is the total package of musician and academic. Would love to meet him one day.
Brian playing and singing Skiffle !! What a treat ! I am a big music lover but Queen were my 1st love at tender age of 12 yrs old ! My first album was Night at the Opera and I worked backwards getting into their earlier albums which I absolutely still adore ! I’m 55 yrs now and have just sat & watched the very wonderful Bohemian Rhapsody movie they’ve finally made....I notice no one wanted to leave the cinema, grasping at every last final drop of information available (like reading all the words on the Queen albums - I’m an anorak what can I say I loved and still have their vinyl albums !)I am reconnecting with their music and am taken back to the snowy winter when we were sent home from school and I loved it becos I could listen to the album my mum bought me for Xmas once again instead of doing my homework ! Freddie, Brian, Roger, John... I love you ♥️♥️♥️♥️
nicolarsefir Same age as you...and I know exactly what you mean. Can’t stop reliving my love of ‘everything Queen’ since watching the movie. BTW..I also sat and listened to my album when I was supposed to be ‘studying’. 🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼👐🏿❤️
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., Thank you for the torrent love and support?, Ever made it to front roll of any of my concert before ?
@@carronalee It’s intriguing staying up so late listening to me while you should be studying... If I want to lose I’ll lose for you, will you sing for me if you care if you are sincere?
Gareth Hayes: yes, and had he been an electronics engineer in, say USA, he probably would have become rich if he would have had the right business savy. He maybe could have made more money in Japan also; since so much of their economy is in the electronic industry. Of course it may not have been that way back then at that time; that would have been quite a while back.
Brilliant Video, I was lucky enough to see Queen in Melbourne Australia, the Works Tour, I liked Queen but after seeing them Live I instantly was a massive Fan!!! As a Guitarist watching Brian May Perform I was blown away, Fredie Mercury was Outstanding, what an incredible Voice and an incredible Showman, as was Rodger Taylor and John Deacon!!! I will never forget that Concert, it was Magical. Thank you Brian May🎸♥️♥️♥️. Melbourne, Australia.
he is like living breathing and talking rock and roll it is so amazing to see how he explains the details so simple that everybody can understand it so salute this legend amazing thank you for the music Brian P.s. so honoured to have the same name
Ian Miller He's not only very intelligent and talented, but also devoted, kind and very, very decent. He's got a good heart. I love and respect him a LOT.
Janneke Goossens We were trying to get thru a boarder crossing, and the officer wanted to know what were the "50 pair of women's breast" on the manifest. We tried to explain that when Freddie sang "I want to be free", he liked to wear them. Well the officer wasn't have any of it and demanded to see the articles, which were loaded at the very front of the tractor-trailer. We had to pull it around to a big lot and start unloading the whole trailer to get the breast out.Brian was of the opinion that he was just a "Bloody pervert" making us laugh as we unloaded the whole unit. We finally could get one of the little guys to the front, and ha had to work at it to get the case that had the breast. After we had unloaded everything, and had the case opened the officer said "Oh" and signed the BOL saying we could cross. That week we got more than a couple of extra bucks in our pay envelope.I still think to this day it was either Brian or Freddie that gave us some extra money out of their own pockets. I love the time I spent working for these guys. Best bosses and best job I ever had hands down.
What a musician. What great musician. Pure genius. What I like about Brian that he’s a very pure, very natural. Such an amazing person. Never get tired to listen to him. God bless Brian May!
You know it was both an emotional bond with his father, and the fact it was a well made custom made instrument. If I was to get a craftsman to make me such a guitar, it would cost several thousand dollars. He is lucky his father was a craftsman and spent the time to craft such an instrument. Most parents would have bought them some cheap Chinese made junk.
Brian's amazing 👏😍 and so easy to listen to when speaking. BUT when he plays his amazing 🎸guitar, I am transported to heaven. A man of many accomplishments and stories to tell‼️‼️‼️ I'm also a fanatical fan of QUEEN and listen to their music 🎶🎵❤ Daily. God made good use of all the talent bestowed to Brian
What a truly beautiful human being. All my years of playing and though I know, note for note, all his solos, i have NEVER tried to sit down and learn them because there is absolutely no point. No matter how well i play the notes in the proper succession, I myself, nor anyone ever will ever be able to make the notes sound as lovely.
The movie was a turning point for me, never knew how wonderful Queen was. When you play Bijou on you “Red Special” it sounds like it is crying, the most soulful and haunting sound I have ever heard! You are truly a guitar God!
Brian....YOU ARE a WONDERFUL PERSON & a GUITAR GENIUS !!! Absolutely great film of you doing what you love the most....so privileged to have seen this on YT. Much love Nicola x Keep on Rockin !
I have no clue about instruments and I could sit here and listen to him talk on n on about it he makes learning fascinating about subjects I could go without but this man got a gift for teaching playing and over all a great personality
I'm the same age as Brian & have been playing since I was fifteen, I have several high end guitars & also one of his Korean repros, I've got to say it's quite amazing, but to the point he is so original in all he does, from the making of the guitar to the way he plays, so distinctive, a one off, love the guy
I keep hoping that he will do an album of just him jamming on his guitar.. one long instrumental thing.. would be great. I'd listen to it everyyyyyy day
Dr. Brian May inspired me to to play the guitar and i always rock and play with his solos and riffs. So i would like to say Thank You to Dr. Brian May and Queen for inspiring me to get into music. LEGENDS ❤
What a great story ! What a nice guy ! That guitar they made together is an absolute one of a kind classic ! I'm glad he and his dad worked everything out before he passed. Dr. Brian May is making sure that his education was not "wasted". I wish this truly talented man a long life and much more success ! PS - I'd really like to see Dr. May make an album (OK OK - a CD) that combines astrophysics and music. I'm sure there are many sounds from space that would inspire some great music.
What a G R E A T guitarplayer and a very Nice guy too! The first time that i heard him play was on the single 'Killer Queen' back in the seventies. I thought wow! what an incredible sound has this guy! He made that guitar sing...also later on 'Love Of My Live'...that guitar solo drove me into tears the first time i heard it...really, and still can sometimes...such a deep feeling in his playing...Didn't knew at that time he has build that guitar together with his dad. Awesome guitar but i think there's only one person who can play it like nobody else can...for sure...Thank you Brian for your beautiful unique sound...respect.
How wonderful. The very likeable and humble Dr Brian May starts off by telling us how he fantasised about having a stratocaster or a telecaster - the industry leaders of his youth (and still incredibly good) - and ends up creating an instrument that is in fact superior, one of a kind with such a unique and inimitable sound that, along with Freddie's voice and the other band members contributions, defines Queen's sound and an era. Thank you for posting this fascinating talk.
Thank You Brian May and Queen for this video! I've always loved this guitar. I've learned so much from this video about Brian's technique, especially on his solos, it was mind blowing learning about the accoustics pockets and feedbacks, etc. Now I know how he makes his famous solo! I want to hear more from him about his guitar, freddie, queen and anything, he's a very good storyteller! I want to play that guitar so badly XD Now I have to buy that book. GOD Bless You Brian May and thanks for your legacy! #BrianMay #RedSpecial #Queen #MyFavoriteGuitarEver
True Legend. Would never drop off during a lecture conducted by him! I felt Brighton Rock waiting round the corner and the excerpts chilled my back. Well done to Brian and Fuzz Fire Fender...Rock On!
Him and his father are wizards this video confirms it. That should be title. I enjoyed the fuck out of this, even though I already know his whole rig. Listening to him talk about it in detail is fantastic.
Such a wonderful influence for our young,, being kind, being creative, being educated and technical while have the rebel in you not to do harm to yourself or others but to motivate greatness or in Brian May's way is pure genus. what a sweet caring man. God Bless You Brian
Yeah, he collected star wars toys when he was "a kid" :) Born 1947 First star wars movie 1977 Brian, you really don´t have to be ashamed for being a grown up nerd. ;)
mojopin 70: exactly, and you don't understand that until you are old and a senior. Any memory of yourself dating back 20 years ago, in your mind, is when you were a kid!
What can I say... It’s just a joy to watch a sincere heartfelt man who lives creating something great phisically and also emotionally for himself and for world🙏😇🎶
Never a big Queen fan back-in-the-day, but as a fellow guitarist, what a lovely, lovely down-to-earth and humble man... Beautiful to hear about the history of the guitar and it's technical innovation and about Brian's Dad, who was a bit naive building him a great guitar and then being disappointed in his career choice ;-). Thanks, Brian for a unique insight into your early life and some great playing...
I could listen to Brian talking and playing like this for hours.
So Do I
Me too! :-)
Why not all day long?
For days... or years.. :)
I'd go crazy collecting guitars if i was Brian May but he made his #1 Red Special so there's no need for other guitars.
You can easily tell that... "He's old but still a child" ... He'll never stop rocking!
Nice all dead, all dead reference there
but please you must forgive him
@@jonasrmb01 all dead, all dead
I can see Brian talking to his grand children as a grand father, sitting near the fire place talking about his guitar and how it was the time with freddie . I could listen to his stories for hours since he has a lot to talk about.
Even better, the fireplace *is* a guitar :-)
@@RogerBarraud Even funnier, since the neck of his guitar is actually made out of an old fireplace xD
Don't forget listening to his soothing voice
Before anything else he's a true gentleman, a humble and awesome human being. I wish we had more people as him living in this planet. Such a pleasure to hear his words, it's a lesson about life even more than guitars.
Faux humility. The man is the master of the humblebrag.
@@TontoEpstein Fuck off, prick.
You know what happened to the real Tonto?........Lone ranger had him Stuffed!!
@@littlemissblackdress7587 Classy.
@@chrisl9620 You're thinking of the horse. The Indian was given a reservation and a casino.
How can you not like this guy...he has an emotional empathy with is very charming :)
Brian is one of the coolest and certainly broadest intelligences around... fact he figured out that "Queen" guitar sound is icing on the cake!
Great guitarist and nice guy and you can really hear in this interview how much he loves his dad.
thats exactly what i was thinking... wonderful
He couldn't hide his thoughts on Pop's. No need to anyway
@@xomkong
In the doco "These are the days of his lives", he starts talking about Harold and started to cry because he still misses him very much
@Kevin Prima Today's cold world rarely allows parents enough financial security to take that kind of time, sadly.
Thank Mr. HAROLD MAY! GREAT SON. ♡ Mum, T♡♡!
His guitar is a sweet example of if you want something done right, do it yourself. The switches to allow inverting the phase is just great. Those brittle clean sounds are so incredible and delicate. And when those harmonics come out in the solos.... genius.
That's an outstanding comment. Thanks for that.
I think the six-pence piece adds to the brittleness
Truth Surge, I’m a huge Brian May fan, and I’m also a fan of you
@@Cat-hw1vh It mostly adds that metallic "clink" when the pick first hits the string. But plastic picks can do it, too. The thing I think about the metal pick is that he is not going to shred using that and so it gives his solos more of a slow to medium speed and that is just perfect for rock, pop rock, but not shred. Just my thoughts and his strings hate him but oh well. :)
@@chadlong9614 ty!!
This guitar is alive!! I saw Queen live 1977 in Germany, Frankfurt Festhalle. After hearing Brian Mays Solo I decided to play Guitar myself. Electric Guitar, and I`m doing this since them . - Thank you Brian!!
Red Special = Best Guitar of the History!!!
Rubbish! Best guitar for him and queen.
David Gilmour's Black Strat = Best Guitar of the History!!!
Lucille = Best Guitar of History!!!
Yes
Every Guitar Ever = Best Guitar(s) in History
I really enjoyed this. Thanks Brian.
I can see why Freddie wanted to work with Brian (and Roger). They were cut from the same cloth-their deep love and the way they strove for perfection, was unparalleled. So happy they found each other and gave us the priceless gift of Queen!!! ❤️👑😘
“If it’s worth doing it’s worth overdoing” “That’s the Queen philosophy.” Ah, I love it!!! Thanks Brian 😊
The guy is a living legend, has created one of the most iconic guitar tones of all times and still is very humble with enough patience to show every detail of his technique and equipament. Thank you for showing me that I can do great things out of simple stuff, Mr. May. Your life story is inspiring.
Brian, you're definately the most adorable person❤
One of my absolute idols. The word 'Genius' is often over-used...but NOT in his case!
Genius is used by people who do not have goals of their own to work towards so they just admire without seeing how possible it is.
@@kevinzhang3313 But Brian May truly is gifted. You cannot deny that.
Many pathological con artists are indeed geniuses.
I could sit here and listen to this dude read the phonebook and I'd be fascinated.
May would take out a magic marker, write the word "QUEEN" on the phone book cover, and then sell it to the highest bidder.
That makes two of us. After listening to Brian talk about what "Red" does and reading his book it's so cool to watch him play a concert and know exactly what he's doing and how he gets that amazing "Queen" sound that is unlike anyone else in the world.
or play the phonebook....I'm pretty sure he's perfectly capable of doing that. And it'd sound like heaven
Me too... I saw Queen here in Seattle at the Coliseum in Seattle Center, 1980, The Game Tour, and afterwards me and my friend, Mark Renstrom, met Brian when he walked out from back stage and just began talking with about 6 of us who were back there hoping to see something neat.
I would honestly watch that all day
What were the odds that a man of this caliber; astrophysicist, guitarist extraordinaire and renaissance man would end up running into and meeting one of the greatest, most charming vocalists, showman and musician extraordinaire and that those two would go to not only enthuse but write and perform some of the finest melodies ever recorded and then continue to perform them to maximum bravado live.
Life is beautiful and full of possibilities, never give up or ever stop believing in yourself. The universe awaits you and your gifts
Eye Dunno Yes! Complete serendipity. 🥰🥰
👏🏻
What a beautiful comment.
Eye Dunno Well said! Exquisite.
The drummer, his voice his writing talent his personality and the three of them hand picked the base player were all required for the epic combined legend
Its funny how he could only dream of buying a guitar because he was poor, but ended up building something that was better than the most expensive guitars out there.
...and now the guitar he built is more expensive than the most expensive guitars out there.
That's arguable, really. And price is not necessarily an indicator of worth.
just like leo fender
Just like diomond cannot be formed in nature without extreme pressure, some people cannot do great things if they are given everything to satisfy their needs without labor, effort and struggle.
Brian and his dad had been building red special for two years till the moment it was finally ready. I`m not sure if Brian May would have done so much in music and performing if he was not so involved and emotionally invested in building his first electric guitar.
if it is better why nobody plays BMG guitars
A humble genius.
The fact that he's playing that guitar in this present day, a guitar that's created some of the most well known songs in history, including Boho Rhap is pretty awesome. I'd feel overwhelmed in its presence as crazy as that sounds, just knowing the history lol.
one of my favourite modern renaissance man, super cool, humble and fiercely intelligent guy.
Steve Vai once stated: "I can emulate every other guitar player, except Brian May". That says enough
Well said. He's a very unique player. I can play a bit of guitar and playing the Queen solos with all their nuances is terribly tricky to do properly.
When Brian accepted the Living Legends award for Queen Joe Satriani, who introduced Brian said that in 1991 he and Steve Vai asked Brian if they could try his guitar. And he went on to say that neither of them could make that guitar sound like Brian May. They could only make it sound like themselves. And it frustrates both of them heavily. Perhaps that is why Steve made the comment you talk about!
And Huggy Bear once stated: "With the exception of Gene Simmons and Brian May, I can pimp and whore better than every other pimp and whore."
Try Guthrie Govan. He already did.
Steve Vai: "I was 21. I went to the Rainbow Bar & Grill, and Brian May was there. I couldn’t believe it. I mustered up every little bit of courage and went up to him and said, “Thank you so much for everything you’ve done. I play guitar. I’m here in town with Frank Zappa.” He said, “Oh, really? Why don’t you come down to our rehearsal?”I went down, and he brought me up on the stage, and he let me play the guitar-the guitar that he built with his dad [the “Red Special”]. I couldn’t even believe that I was touching this instrument! He was so kind and so warm, and for who? This kid, you know? And I played his guitar, and it sounded like Steve Vai. Then when he played it, it sounded just like Brian May. It was very apparent to me that his tone is in his fingers and his head.
He’s a class act from head to toe, and it shows in his playing. I can listen to any player and pantomime their sound, but I can’t do Brian May. He’s just walking on higher ground."
Master Guitarist, Down to earth Gentleman. Brian May doesn't even act or come off as being famous. But he's more than just famous, Now he's a Legend, Just as the Red Special is. One of the best sounding guitars I've ever heard is the Red Special.
Love Queen, love Brian May. That guitar has a sound of it's own, unique. You only have to hear a couple of seconds of this guitar on the radio or whatever and know straight away that it's Brian May playing. Outstanding guitarist. Legend and a rather nice chap. When he shows how to do the delay stuff, it sounds very ''Get down make love'' from the middle section of the song where it goes a bit psychedelic and you can also hear little bits from the solos he did over the years. Love it!
He plays a bit of Now I'm Here, as well. I know the band hated Live Killers, but I love that album.
When a guitarist doesn't need to touch a string to make a guitar sound good you know there on legend status . If you can't appreciate what this man has done for music and guitar best you go learn . I could listen to him play for hours wow.
I loved this! That was a very fast 40 minutes. I love listening to Brian May talk about anything, really.
You're so right - it went like a flash for me - that is so true !!!
i like hearing him talk Astrophysics.
Brian May, absolute legend!
I love the way he speaks with real emotion about his Dad, with love, affection and respect. He comes across as a very genuine man.
Brian, you helped me save my life years ago with your reply. Thank You, A.J
That's so sweet
The excalibur of this era
GENIAL!!!
According to Vai is not even comfortable to play.
@@einarabelc5 Every guitar is different. This one has a really thick neck.
@@einarabelc5 According to Vai, not Brian, the actual player
Dr. Brian May is not only one of the greatest guitar players ever, a part of one of the greatest bands ever, but he is also a true gentleman.
What a great legacy, an amazing musician and an even greater human being. Just bought my tickets for Queen in Newcastle in January 2015. LONG LIVE BRIAN MAY!
and freddie mercury, and queen
Lucky you saw Queen live!!!
I had the pleasure of not only meeting Brian but playing with him. He is one of natures gentlemen.
I love this man. So humble and kind. He never forgets where he came from. He keeps recalling his dad, who obviously he loves so much. He never had the "I'm a rock legend, idolize me" attitude, though he could because he's a freaking genius.
The Division Bell very very true. Brian is the man. Division Bell is a fantastic album btw 😉
Brian may and David Gilmour are the best guitarists out there too!!
Me too
Brian, if you see this, you are an absolute legend and you inspired me to pick up the guitar in and I’ve been playing guitar ever since I got the inspiration from you
This clip is freeking GOLDEN. Thank you Brian, for the lovely, personal and fascinating talk, and also many thanks to whoever recorded it. My Red Special is coming from BMG soon (as soon as you autograph her, Bri!) and believe me, she will be played regularly and treasured.
Brian had a wonderful family, he was bless! I loved that Brian,Rodger, andJohn protected Freddie right too thee end, Just like In one of there songs. Love it! Love everything about Queen and Freddie Mercury!
Dr Brian May. You are incredible and always will be!
brian is vastly underrated
imo he's up there with evh , beck and hendrix
Flappo Spammo EVH is vastly overrated. Brian May is up there with Hendrix and Beck for sure. I'd also add Paul Kossoff to that list, in my opinion he was quite possibly the most underrated guitarist of all-time...
Brian would probably disagree with you. He has always been very complimentary of EVH.
jagreb agreed. May loved the gunslinger mentality of Van Halen, and EVH himself. They were fairly good friends
EVH was in Brian’s just-for-fun garage band/recording project Star Fleet Project. There are pictures of Brian, Eddie and bassist Phil Chen (where Eddie is holding Phil’s bass and Phil is holding the Frankenstrat). They also had the drummer from REO speedwagon and Queen’s touring keyboard player, and Roger Taylor sang backing vocals on one of their three songs. The project was inspired by the theme song to a Power Rangers-type show from Japan that Brian’s son watched.
He has more hits with queen than all of them put together.
Everyone gives me a weird look when I tell them about The Red Special, because they just cannot fathom a rock star displaying such ingenuity. I know Brian isn't the only legend with mad DIY skills (Les Paul, Tom Schulz), but he's my favorite to hear from because he's so unbelievably practical and humble. What a guy
When I clicked on the video, it wasn't my intention actually watching the whole thing - I thought it was far too long, and I would get borred after 5 minutes, I just wanted to see what it was. And then, here I am, 40 minutes later, wishing it the video was longer.
What an amazing man and guitarist! It's still hard for me to grasp that Queen were not just Freddie Mercury and the rest of the guys. They were respectively Freddie Mercury, Roger Taylor, Brian May and John Deacon. 4 absolute geniuses working together - you just don't see that in any other band
Not Only a great guitarist but humble and original.
His phony humility grates on my nerves.
I can easily listen to (Dr.) Brian May playing guitar all day long. I can also easily listen to Dr. May talking about guitar, astrophysics, childhood, or anything, all day long. What an extraordinary gentleman, who indeed has a very gentle, soothing and attractive voice.
I grew up in Brazil, hearing "Love Of My Life" on the radio, and Queen was a very familiar name to everyone. But up until 1990 I only knew the occasional hit and the only album I had heard in its entirety and actually owned was "The Works". Until an older neighbour sold me his collection of Queen albums on LP up to "The Game" and my life changed. I was already 21 and deep into rock and roll and heavy metal, and getting to know Queen's body of work was like opening windows and doors I had no idea existed. The albums were so diverse. Brian and Roger also sang beautifully, which was also a surprise to me, but the thing that stuck to my mind and imagination above all was May's guitar sound. It was so unique and peculiar. No one sounded like him. Later I found out a lot of it had to do with the guitar he used, and that no one else had for he and his father had built it themselves. That just adds to the whole mystique of Queen. Hats off to Brian and his father, you are truly sound genious.
Dr. May is so interesting in explaining his lengendary guitar and father's love in helping him create the guitar! He is the total package of musician and academic. Would love to meet him one day.
What a great guy. Utmost respect for this man.
Brian playing and singing Skiffle !! What a treat ! I am a big music lover but Queen were my 1st love at tender age of 12 yrs old ! My first album was Night at the Opera and I worked backwards getting into their earlier albums which I absolutely still adore !
I’m 55 yrs now and have just sat & watched the very wonderful Bohemian Rhapsody movie they’ve finally made....I notice no one wanted to leave the cinema, grasping at every last final drop of information available (like reading all the words on the Queen albums - I’m an anorak what can I say I loved and still have their vinyl albums !)I am reconnecting with their music and am taken back to the snowy winter when we were sent home from school and I loved it becos I could listen to the album my mum bought me for Xmas once again instead of doing my homework !
Freddie, Brian, Roger, John... I love you ♥️♥️♥️♥️
nicolarsefir Same age as you...and I know exactly what you mean. Can’t stop reliving my love of ‘everything Queen’ since watching the movie. BTW..I also sat and listened to my album when I was supposed to be ‘studying’. 🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼👐🏿❤️
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., Thank you for the torrent love and support?, Ever made it to front roll of any of my concert before ?
@@carronalee It’s intriguing staying up so late listening to me while you should be studying... If I want to lose I’ll lose for you, will you sing for me if you care if you are sincere?
"Our dad made our TV."
My dad could barely program the VCR. :/
Supernautiloid Lol...I'm tech support in our house...Damn....built a tv? What did Brian's dad do for a living?
Christine O'Neal Harold May was an electronics engineer in the Royal Air Force
Gareth Hayes: yes, and had he been an electronics engineer in, say USA, he probably would have become rich if he would have had the right business savy. He maybe could have made more money in Japan also; since so much of their economy is in the electronic industry. Of course it may not have been that way back then at that time; that would have been quite a while back.
Yep... Its 2018, i too am a dad who cant program a vcr.
HAHAHAHAHAHA
everytime he says dad you can feel the love and you know he misses him dearly.....made me realize i i miss my dad too
Not only a great guitarist, but vocal too. Love you Brian May.
and an astrophysicist too
I love All bri!!!!
Brilliant Video, I was lucky enough to see Queen in Melbourne Australia, the Works Tour, I liked Queen but after seeing them Live I instantly was a massive Fan!!!
As a Guitarist watching Brian May Perform I was blown away, Fredie Mercury was Outstanding, what an incredible Voice and an incredible Showman, as was Rodger Taylor and John Deacon!!!
I will never forget that Concert, it was Magical.
Thank you Brian May🎸♥️♥️♥️.
Melbourne, Australia.
I have this book checked out from the library and it's wonderful. I built my first guitar at 15 in 1981 and Brian was a major influence.
I love this gentleman. Such a great storyteller also
he is like living breathing and talking rock and roll it is so amazing to see how he explains the details so simple that everybody can understand it so salute this legend amazing thank you for the music Brian P.s. so honoured to have the same name
This guy is a genius in the broadest sense of the word, multi super talented, plain brilliant, a delight to hear and a gentleman
I am SO proud to be able to call this man my idol, because ohh.... I couldn't quite think of a better idol than my Bri! c: ❤I love you Brian!❤
I love him too! He seems to be very good person too!
chictomana
Ahh!!!
Ian Miller
He's not only very intelligent and talented, but also devoted, kind and very, very decent. He's got a good heart. I love and respect him a LOT.
Janneke Goossens We were trying to get thru a boarder crossing, and the officer wanted to know what were the "50 pair of women's breast" on the manifest. We tried to explain that when Freddie sang "I want to be free", he liked to wear them. Well the officer wasn't have any of it and demanded to see the articles, which were loaded at the very front of the tractor-trailer. We had to pull it around to a big lot and start unloading the whole trailer to get the breast out.Brian was of the opinion that he was just a "Bloody pervert" making us laugh as we unloaded the whole unit. We finally could get one of the little guys to the front, and ha had to work at it to get the case that had the breast. After we had unloaded everything, and had the case opened the officer said "Oh" and signed the BOL saying we could cross. That week we got more than a couple of extra bucks in our pay envelope.I still think to this day it was either Brian or Freddie that gave us some extra money out of their own pockets. I love the time I spent working for these guys. Best bosses and best job I ever had hands down.
*****
omg!!! That sounds AMAZING. What exactly was your job? Roady-something?? :D
What a musician. What great musician. Pure genius. What I like about Brian that he’s a very pure, very natural. Such an amazing person. Never get tired to listen to him. God bless Brian May!
He is just amazing, honest and modest down to earth man.
A guitarist, making music form a guitar, is normal..... but a guitarist, making a guitar, and making music from that same guitar, is extraordinary....
And create an unique sound from it.
Absolutely ICONIC !!
Mohamad Shukri Ishak 1
It's also the reason why no one can do the same as he does. He's unique, and no one has a guitar like he has.
You know it was both an emotional bond with his father, and the fact it was a well made custom made instrument. If I was to get a craftsman to make me such a guitar, it would cost several thousand dollars. He is lucky his father was a craftsman and spent the time to craft such an instrument. Most parents would have bought them some cheap Chinese made junk.
Brian's amazing 👏😍 and so easy to listen to when speaking. BUT when he plays his amazing 🎸guitar, I am transported to heaven. A man of many accomplishments and stories to tell‼️‼️‼️ I'm also a fanatical fan of QUEEN and listen to their music 🎶🎵❤ Daily. God made good use of all the talent bestowed to Brian
What a truly beautiful human being. All my years of playing and though I know, note for note, all his solos, i have NEVER tried to sit down and learn them because there is absolutely no point. No matter how well i play the notes in the proper succession, I myself, nor anyone ever will ever be able to make the notes sound as lovely.
The movie was a turning point for me, never knew how wonderful Queen was. When you play Bijou on you “Red Special” it sounds like it is crying, the most soulful and haunting sound I have ever heard! You are truly a guitar God!
Brian....YOU ARE a WONDERFUL PERSON & a GUITAR GENIUS !!!
Absolutely great film of you doing what you love the most....so privileged to have seen this on YT.
Much love Nicola x
Keep on Rockin !
I want a Brian May for myself
Wow. The greatest guitarist in history sharing his thoughts, and secrets too, in a way. Love you, Brian!
Dr. Brian May, genius.
I have no clue about instruments and I could sit here and listen to him talk on n on about it he makes learning fascinating about subjects I could go without but this man got a gift for teaching playing and over all a great personality
this the fifth Queen member he's talking about. priceless
eemmm, how about Spike Edney??
Jenry Sinaga with all due respect to Spike, who is vital to Queen on tour. The RS is as every bit as vital to the “Queen sound” as Freddie’s voice was
Indeed!
@@garethhayes3470 Oh! As well as Deacy Amp!
Nah, from what he says it sounds like his dad is the fifth Queen member
I'm the same age as Brian & have been playing since I was fifteen, I have several high end guitars & also one of his Korean repros, I've got to say it's quite amazing, but to the point he is so original in all he does, from the making of the guitar to the way he plays, so distinctive, a one off, love the guy
I love Brian May! Thank you for all of your gifted talents you have given to everyone! ❤️ always!
I keep hoping that he will do an album of just him jamming on his guitar.. one long instrumental thing.. would be great. I'd listen to it everyyyyyy day
Absolutely 💖
That's A GREAT IDEA 💡💡💡💡
Dr. Brian May inspired me to to play the guitar and i always rock and play with his solos and riffs.
So i would like to say
Thank You to Dr. Brian May and Queen for inspiring me to get into music.
LEGENDS ❤
Brian's voice is so soothing to listen
I can listen to Brian May play all day or just quietly listen to his life... either way... it's beauty.
Brian May really is a very special man. His enthusiasm for life and his craft is truly inspiring!
The story of this guitar is just incredible to me, that it’s still around, looking and sounding so amazing is well amazing!
Space sound!
Unique!
The one and only Brian May!
What a great story ! What a nice guy ! That guitar they made together is an absolute one of a kind classic ! I'm glad he and his dad worked everything out before he passed. Dr. Brian May is making sure that his education was not "wasted".
I wish this truly talented man a long life and much more success !
PS - I'd really like to see Dr. May make an album (OK OK - a CD) that combines astrophysics and music. I'm sure there are many sounds from space that would inspire some great music.
What a G R E A T guitarplayer and a very Nice guy too! The first time that i heard him play was on the single 'Killer Queen' back in the seventies. I thought wow! what an incredible sound has this guy! He made that guitar sing...also later on 'Love Of My Live'...that guitar solo drove me into tears the first time i heard it...really, and still can sometimes...such a deep feeling in his playing...Didn't knew at that time he has build that guitar together with his dad. Awesome guitar but i think there's only one person who can play it like nobody else can...for sure...Thank you Brian for your beautiful unique sound...respect.
How wonderful. The very likeable and humble Dr Brian May starts off by telling us how he fantasised about having a stratocaster or a telecaster - the industry leaders of his youth (and still incredibly good) - and ends up creating an instrument that is in fact superior, one of a kind with such a unique and inimitable sound that, along with Freddie's voice and the other band members contributions, defines Queen's sound and an era. Thank you for posting this fascinating talk.
Thank You Brian May and Queen for this video! I've always loved this guitar. I've learned so much from this video about Brian's technique, especially on his solos, it was mind blowing learning about the accoustics pockets and feedbacks, etc. Now I know how he makes his famous solo! I want to hear more from him about his guitar, freddie, queen and anything, he's a very good storyteller! I want to play that guitar so badly XD Now I have to buy that book. GOD Bless You Brian May and thanks for your legacy! #BrianMay #RedSpecial #Queen #MyFavoriteGuitarEver
The man is 100% pure.
I love Brian May - he's a true genius
True Legend. Would never drop off during a lecture conducted by him! I felt Brighton Rock waiting round the corner and the excerpts chilled my back. Well done to Brian and Fuzz Fire Fender...Rock On!
❤ love Brian's talk. Very nice to hear the history.
Thanks a million 👍👍👍👍👍
Not a musician but found this fascinating. Such a modest guy for such a genius. Talks with such passion
Him and his father are wizards this video confirms it. That should be title. I enjoyed the fuck out of this, even though I already know his whole rig. Listening to him talk about it in detail is fantastic.
WHAT a gifted man !!! An integral component to the genius of Queen ... Thank you, Brian May ... xoxo
A great humble genius nice guy, thank you Brian May..
Such a wonderful influence for our young,, being kind, being creative, being educated and technical while have the rebel in you not to do harm to yourself or others but to motivate greatness or in Brian May's way is pure genus.
what a sweet caring man. God Bless You Brian
So fascinating! He's such a good teacher too!
I’m almost 80 , was a big Elvis & Beatles fan but then found Freddie & Queen along with a renewed passion😍💐❤️🙏💫
My very humble genius human. I love you, Bri! 🖤❤
This is a real treat for all of us who play guitar or just appreciate the beginnings of how the music was made. I quite enjoyed this! Thank you!
Yeah, he collected star wars toys when he was "a kid" :)
Born 1947
First star wars movie 1977
Brian, you really don´t have to be ashamed for being a grown up nerd. ;)
30 was a kid compared to his age now :)
mojopin 70: exactly, and you don't understand that until you are old and a senior. Any memory of yourself dating back 20 years ago, in your mind, is when you were a kid!
I’m 34 and think of most stuff that happened 7 or more years ago as when I was a kid. Probably because that’s when I lost my lightsaber.
Remember that he does have an *earned* PhD in Astrophysics, so he's kind of into the whole space thing.
@@thenewyorkpauls lol..best comment..
What a wonderful person Brian is!!! Humbleness is fascinating!!! Thanks a LOT!!!
Not even a quarter of the way through and I can already say this is one of the coolest videos I’ve ever seen
What can I say... It’s just a joy to watch a sincere heartfelt man who lives creating something great phisically and also emotionally for himself and for world🙏😇🎶
One of my favorite people in the world. Wow, what a fantastic talk, thanks so much!
Never a big Queen fan back-in-the-day, but as a fellow guitarist, what a lovely, lovely down-to-earth and humble man... Beautiful to hear about the history of the guitar and it's technical innovation and about Brian's Dad, who was a bit naive building him a great guitar and then being disappointed in his career choice ;-). Thanks, Brian for a unique insight into your early life and some great playing...