Author Description

In November 1991, the world was shocked by the death of one of rock's most flamboyant and adored superstars. Freddie Mercury's unique blend of brilliant musicianship and outrageous showmanship had kept Queen at the top of the charts for years, but no one suspected he was sick with AIDS. Now, for the first time, the whole story can be told. Rick Sky, a journalist who covers the international rock scene, has put together some rare interviews with Mercury's closest friends and loyal colleagues and come up with fresh insights into the rock star's glamorous career and turbulent life. He explores Freddie Mercury's modest beginnings as a shy art student from Zanzibar; Queen's tentative first steps in 1968 and their big break in 1972; Mercury's emergence as the extroverted king of Glam/Glitter Rock; Queen's triumphant set at Live Aid; the inside story behind the creation of Queen's rock anthems like "Bohemian Rhapsody" and "We Will Rock You"; the singer's outrageous partying and lavish lifestyle; the two women in his life; and his reluctance to admit his bisexuality despite having had AIDS for five years before his death. Featuring rare photos and a comprehensive Queen chronology, this revealing biography is the fascinating story of a man who became a legend in his own lifetime.