Released on 4 November 2016, as a 2CD, 6CD or 3LP set, and reached no. 25.
Disc One length 59:17. Disc Two length 41:49.
Queen are: John Deacon, Brian May, Freddie Mercury, Roger Taylor
Management: Jim Beach
Executive Producers: Brian May and Roger Taylor
Mastered by Adam Ayan at Gateway Mastering, Portland, ME
Compilation and audio restoration by Kris Fredriksson
Audio supervised by Justin Shirley-Smith and Kris Fredriksson
Additional audio supervision by Joshua J. Macrae
Produced by Bernie Andrews (sessions 1 and 3), Jeff Griffin (sessions 2, 5 and 6) and Pete Ritzema (session 4)
Engineered by John Etchells (sessions 1 and 2), Chris Lycett (sessions 2 and 5), Nick Griffiths (session 3), Mike Franks (session 3), John Sparrow (session 4) and Mike Robinson (session 6)
Cover illustration by Clinic London - Clinic.co.uk
Design Consultancy by Richard Gray
Design by Clinic London
Queen Archivist Greg Brooks
Additional artefact and photographic research by Janice Page
Photogaphs by Terry O'Neill, BBC Photo Library, Rex Features, Alary, 'Queen Brazil' Facebook page, Chris Walter Photofeatures International, Radio Times, Richard Gray, Getty Images, Shinko Music, EMI Photo Archive
Photograph research by Paul Davies
Additional research by Richard Gray and Gary Taylor
Original BBC session tapes and memorabilia courtesy of The Queen and Brian May Archives
PR by Phil Symes
This album contains all six of Queen's sessions recorded for the BBC, from 1973 to 1977. It was released as a double disc CD, a triple LP, and a six CD deluxe set, which adds a disc of live highlights from concert broadcasts, titled 'Live On Air', and three discs of interviews, spanning the years 1976-1980, 1981-1986 and 1986-1992. Full details and transcriptions of these discs are on separate pages.
Fourteen of the 24 tracks have been released before as part of various projects. Sessions 1 and 3 were released in the UK as the 1989 album 'Queen At The Beeb', and later in the USA in 1995 as 'Queen At The BBC'. A further five tracks were released as bonus tracks on the 2011 double-disc reissues of 'Queen II', 'Sheer Heart Attack' and 'News Of The World'. Finally, one track was issued on a promo only CD single which was given away free with 'The Sun' newspaper in 2002. A double album containing all six sessions was originally planned for the mid-1990's, but nothing ever materialised. The complete sixth session was later released as part of the 'News Of The World' 40th anniversary boxed set, with the dialogue in much better quality.
While all formats of 'On Air' contain the same 24 tracks recorded for the BBC, the versions on the deluxe 6 CD set are slightly different as in most cases they add short excerpts of dialogue from the presenters (John Peel, Alan Black, and Bob Harris) between tracks. These do not affect the tracks themselves but obviously give a slightly longer running time.
Sessions 3, 4, 6, and half of session 2 were recorded fully live in the studio, while sessions 1, 5, and the remainder of session 2 started off with the album version backing tracks, and the band added new vocals and other instruments.
It was commonly believed that 'The March Of The Black Queen' was also recorded during session 4, but the sleeve notes deny this. However, it seems very unlikely that they would only record three tracks, especially as they are quite short, so it is more probable that they attempted to record the track but were unhappy with the result, or ran out of time. In the end, the album version was broadcast as part of the session instead, with a fade-out at the end.
My Fairy King
Disc 1, Track 1. Length 4:07.
Recorded during session 1, at Langham One Studio, London, on 5 February 1973.
Produced by Bernie Andrews, engineered by John Etchells, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 15 February 1973, as part of John Peel's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This performance uses the album version backing track, with some new elements added, rather than being a fully live version.
This track was originally released on the 'Queen At The Beeb' album in the UK, and with the stereo channels swapped on the 'Queen At The BBC' US album and the second 'Let Me Live' CD single.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen' album page. (Ahhhhh)
(Ahhhhh)
In the land where horses born with eagle wings
And honey bees have lost their stings
They're singing forever, ooh yeah
Lions den with fallow dear
And rivers made from wines so clear
Flow on and on and on forever
Dragons fly like sparrows through the air
And baby lambs where Samson dares
To go on, on, on, on
My fairy king (he rules the air)
And can see the things that are not there for you and me to see (he rules the air and turns the tides, oooh yeah)
My fairy king (he guides the winds)
He can only do right and nothing wrong
Ahhhhh
Then came man to savage in the night
To run like thieves and to kill like knives
To take away the power from the magic hand
To bring about the ruin to the promised land
Ahhh, ah, ahh-ahhhh
Ahh-ahhhh
They turn milk into sour
Like the blue of the blood of my veins
(Why can't you see it)
Fire burning in hell
With the cry of a screaming pain
(Son of heaven set me free and let me go)
Sea turns dry no salt from sand
Seasons fly no helping hand
Teeth don't shine like pearls for poor man's eyes
No more
Someone, someone
Has drained the colour from my wings
Broken my fairy circle ring
And shamed the king in all his pride
Changed the winds and wronged the tides
Mother Mercury, look what they've done to me, yeah
I cannot run
I cannot hide John Peel: And that's the first from Queen, and as, as far as I know this is the first broadcast the group's had, so it's nice to have them along, and that was called 'My Fairy King'
Keep Yourself Alive
Disc 1, Track 2. Length 3:48.
Recorded during session 1, at Langham One Studio, London, on 5 February 1973.
Produced by Bernie Andrews, engineered by John Etchells, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 15 February 1973, as part of John Peel's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This performance uses the album version backing track, with some new elements added, rather than being a fully live version.
This track was originally released on the 'Queen At The Beeb' album in the UK, and with the stereo channels swapped on the 'Queen At The BBC' US album.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen' album page. Ow
I was told a million times of all the troubles in my way
Might he grow a little wiser, little better every day
But if I crossed a million rivers, and I rode a million miles
Then I'd still be where I started, bread and butter for a smile
Well, I sold a million mirrors in a shop in alley way
But I never saw my face in any window any day
Now they say your folks are telling you be a superstar
But I tell you just be satisfied and stay right where you are
Keep yourself alive, come on, keep yourself alive
Ooh, take you all your time and a money
To keep you satisfied
Listen
Well I loved a million women in a belladonic haze
And I ate a million dinners brought to me on silver trays
Give me everything I need to feed my body and my soul
When I grow a little bigger, maybe that can be my goal
I was told a million times of all the people in my way
How I'd have to keep on trying and get better every day
But if I crossed a million rivers, and I rode a million miles
Then I'd still be where I started, same as when I started
Keep yourself alive, come on keep yourself alive
Ooh, take you all your time and a money
To keep yourself alive (to keep me satisfied)
Wow
Watch out
Ah
Keep yourself alive, ooh, keep yourself alive, oh
Take you all your time and a money
And honey you'll survive
Do you think you're better every day
No, I just think I'm two steps nearer to my grave
Come on, keep yourself alive, yeah, keep yourself alive
Um, all you people keep yourself alive
Keep yourself alive, come on keep yourself alive, um
All you people keep yourself alive
Keep yourself alive, come on, come on, keep yourself alive
Take you all your time and a money
And honey you'll survive
Keep yourself alive, come on, keep yourself alive
Ooh, all you people keep yourself alive
Take you all your time and money honey
Uh, keep yourself alive
Oohh, keep yourself alive
Keep yourself alive
Um, keep yourself alive John Peel: And that's written by guitarist Brian May, who contributed some nice noises to the track, and Queen the name of the band, and 'Keep Yourself Alive'
Doing Alright
Disc 1, Track 3. Length 4:11.
Recorded during session 1, at Langham One Studio, London, on 5 February 1973.
Produced by Bernie Andrews, engineered by John Etchells, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 15 February 1973, as part of John Peel's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This performance uses the album version backing track, with some new elements added, rather than being a fully live version. Roger sings lead vocals on the final verse.
This track was originally released on the 'Queen At The Beeb' album in the UK, and with the stereo channels swapped on the 'Queen At The BBC' US album and the second 'Let Me Live' CD single.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen' album page. Yesterday my life was in ruin
Now today I know what I'm doing
Gotta feeling, I should be doing alright
Doing alright
Where will I be this time tomorrow
Jumped for joy and sinking in sorrow
Anyway, I should be doing alright
Doing alright
Should be waiting for the sun
Looking round to find the words to say
Should be waiting for the skies to clear
If there were time in all the world
Should be waiting for the sun
And anyway I've got to hide away
Ooh, hide away
Ahhhh, ahhhh, ahhhh, ahhhh
Oooohhh
Yesterday my life was in ruin
Now today I know what I'm doing
Gotta feeling, I should be doing alright
Doing alright
Doing alright John Peel: I've seen the photos and I believe you, that's Queen, and those are Queen and 'Doing Alright'
Liar
Disc 1, Track 4. Length 6:28.
Recorded during session 1, at Langham One Studio, London, on 5 February 1973.
Produced by Bernie Andrews, engineered by John Etchells, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 15 February 1973, as part of John Peel's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This performance uses the album version backing track, with some new elements added, rather than being a fully live version.
This track was originally released on the 'Queen At The Beeb' album in the UK, and with the stereo channels swapped on the 'Queen At The BBC' US album and the second 'Let Me Live' CD single.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen' album page. I have sinned dear father
Father I have sinned
Try and help me father
Won't you let me in
Liar, oh nobody believes me
Liar, oh, why don't you leave me alone
Sire, I have stolen
Stolen many times
Raised my voice in anger
When I know I never should
Liar, oh everybody deceives me
Liar, yeah, why don't you leave me alone, wow
Liar, I have sailed the seas
Liar, from Mars to Mercury
Liar, I have drunk the wine
Liar, time after time
Father, please forgive me
You know you'll never leave me
Please will you direct me
In the right way
Liar, liar, liar, liar
Liar, look what they've done to me
Liar, every day every night
Liar, all the time
Liar, oh, oh, oh, ooh
Let me go
Listen
Ooh, you're gonna listen
Um, mama I'm gonna be your slave (all day long)
Mama I'm gonna try behave (all day long)
Mama I'm gonna be your slave (all day long)
I'm gonna love you till your dying day (all day long)
I'm gonna serve you till your dying day (all day long)
I'm gonna love you (all day long) till your lying day (all day long)
I'm gonna kneel down (all day long) by your side and pray (all day long)
All day long (all day long)
All day long (all day long)
Ow, all day long (all day long)
All day long (all day long)
All day long (all day long)
You hear (all day long)
Ow (all day long)
Um (all day long)
Come to me mama (all day long)
Shake, come on (all day long)
Ah, yes (all day long)
Wow, yes, we have lift off
Oh yes
All day long, all day long, all day long
Liar, liar, they never ever let you win
Liar, liar, everything you do is sin
Liar, nobody believes you
Liar, they bring you down before you begin
Oooh, let me tell you this
Ah yes, 'fore they let you John Peel: And Queen have an LP coming out eft soons, whatever that means, and that was the last from them, it was called 'Liar'
See What A Fool I've Been
Disc 1, Track 5. Length 4:20.
Recorded during session 2, at Langham One Studio, London, on 25 July 1973.
Produced by Jeff Griffin, engineered by Chris Lycett and John Etchells, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 13 August 1973, as part of Alan Black's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This track was also released on the 2011 double-disc reissue of 'Queen II' in remixed form, which has a heavier and crisper sound. At around 0:32, it uses an alternate line of lyrics, as 'On Air' contains 'caught a train' whereas the remix has 'I caught a train', and Freddie sings 'train' very differently.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen II' album page. Well she's gone
Gone this morning
See what a fool I've been
Oh Lord, I said
What a fool I've been
Wow I caught a train
A train to Georgia
Sixteen coaches long
Oh Lord, I said
Sixteen coaches long, yeah
Wow
I walked out
Onto the highway
Oooh, ow, ow, ow, ow
Oh Lord, I said
Greyhound bus had gone
Wow, surprise to me
Now hit
Woooh
I walked out
Onto the highway
Greyhound bus had gone
Oh Lord, I said
Greyhound bus had gone
It went a long time ago, sure did
Wow
Oh, well she's gone
Gone this morning
See what a fool I've been
So long I said what a
Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oool
I've been, oooh
Ah Alan Black: 'See What A Fool I've Been', well that's the first from a very fine session from Queen, and I think you'll really enjoy the other numbers we've got from them coming up later
Keep Yourself Alive
Disc 1, Track 6. Length 3:49.
Recorded during session 2, at Langham One Studio, London, on 25 July 1973.
Produced by Jeff Griffin, engineered by Chris Lycett and John Etchells, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 13 August 1973, as part of Alan Black's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This performance uses the album version backing track, with some new elements added, rather than being a fully live version.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen' album page. I was told a million times of all the troubles in my way
May you grow a little wiser, little better every day
If I crossed a million rivers, and I rode a million miles
Then I'd still be where I started, bread and butter for a smile
Well, I sold a million mirrors in a shop in alley way
But I never saw my face in any window any day
Now they say your folks are telling you be a superstar
But I tell you just be satisfied and stay right where you are
Keep yourself alive, keep yourself alive
Take you all your time and a money
And honey you'll survive
Ow
Well I loved a million women in a belladonic haze
And I ate a million dinners brought to me on silver trays
Give me everything I need to feed my body and my soul
When I grow a little bigger, maybe that can be my goal
I was told a million times of all the people in my way
How I'd have to keep on trying and get better every day
But if I crossed a million rivers, and I rode a million miles
Then I'd still be where I started, same as when I'd started
Keep yourself alive, yeah, keep yourself alive
Oooh, take you all your time and a money
And honey you'll survive, shake it
Uh, wow
Keep yourself alive, wow, keep yourself alive, oh
Take you all your time and a money
And honey you'll survive
Do you think you're better every day
No, I just think I'm two steps nearer to my grave
Keep yourself alive, come on, keep yourself alive
Ooh, you take my time and take more money
Keep yourself alive
Keep yourself alive, come on, keep yourself alive
All you people keep yourself alive
Keep yourself alive, come on, come on, keep yourself alive
All you people keep yourself alive
Keep yourself alive, oh yeah, keep yourself alive
Take you all your time and a money and honey you'll survive
Take you all your time and money honey
Oooh, you will survive Alan Black: Well that's another from our excellent Queen session, they really have some fine writers in the band, Brian May wrote that one, it's called 'Keep Yourself Alive', they in fact have an album out at the moment, you'll find a version of that song on it, and a couple of other things
Liar
Disc 1, Track 7. Length 6:28.
Recorded during session 2, at Langham One Studio, London, on 25 July 1973.
Produced by Jeff Griffin, engineered by Chris Lycett and John Etchells, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 13 August 1973, as part of Alan Black's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This performance uses the album version backing track, with some new elements added, rather than being a fully live version.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen' album page. Brian (during intro): Either you tell me, or I sing one in the first place I have sinned dear father
Father I have sinned
Try and help me father
Won't you let me in
Liar, oh nobody believes me
Ow, why don't you leave me alone
Sire, I have stolen
Stolen many times
Raised my voice in anger
When I know I never should
Liar, ooh everybody deceives me
Liar, ooh, why don't you leave me alone
Take it
Brian
Liar, I have sailed the seas
Liar, from Mars to Mercury
Liar, I have drunk the wine
Liar, time after time
Liar, you're lying to me
Liar, you're lying to me
Father, please forgive me
You know you'll never leave me
Please will you direct me
In the right way
Liar, liar, liar, liar
Liar, that's what they keep calling me
Liar, every day and every night
Liar, oh all the time
Liar
Oh yeah, oh-woh-woh-woh, let me go
Listen
Mama I'm gonna be your slave (all day long)
Mama I'm gonna try behave (all day long)
Mama I'm gonna be your slave (all day long)
I'm gonna love you till your dying day (all day long)
I'm gonna kneel down by your side and pray (all day long)
I'm gonna love you till your dying day (all day long)
And pray (all day long) and pray (all day long)
All day long (all day long)
All day long (all day long)
Ow (all day long)
Wow (all day long)
All day long (all day long)
All day long
All day long
Oh yes (Roger: ahhhh) ooh, take it
All day long, all day long, all day long
Liar, liar, they never ever let you win
Liar, liar, everything you do is sin
Liar, no, they never leave you
Liar, they let you down before you begin
Oooh, now let me tell you this
Now you know you could be dead before they let you
Oooh Alan Black: Well, there aren't too many bands around as strong vocally and musically as Queen, and that's another one of their compositions from the session, that was 'Liar', and there's a version of that on the Queen album in fact
Son And Daughter
Disc 1, Track 8. Length 6:01.
Recorded during session 2, at Langham One Studio, London, on 25 July 1973.
Produced by Jeff Griffin, engineered by Chris Lycett and John Etchells, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 13 August 1973, as part of Alan Black's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen' album page. I want you
Watch out
Tried to be your son and daughter
Rolled into one
You said you'd equal any man
For having your fun
Didn't you feel surprised to find
The cap just didn't fit
The world expects a man
To buckle down and a shovel shhh
What'll you do for loving
When it's a only just begun
I want you
To be a woman, yeah
Tried to be a preacher
And a fisher of men
An equal people preacher
Will you lead us all the same now
Ohh, well I travelled all round
The world and found
A brand new word for day
Watching the time
Mustn't linger behind
Pardon me I have to get away, wow
What'll you think of heaven
If it's a back from where you came
I want you
To be a woman
I want you to be a woman Roger: Ahhhhhhh
Roger: Steal yourself, this is valid Hit it
Ooh, didn't you feel surprised to find
The cap just didn't fit
The world expects a man
To buckle down and a shovel it
What'll you do for loving
When it's a only just begun
I want you
To be a woman
Oh, I want you to be a woman Alan Black: Ah, really is high energy stuff, that's Queen and sadly that's the last one from them on the session tonight, it's really been a pleasure listening to that music, I get the feeling they've been holding back until they feel they're ready, and I think that time has arrived
Ogre Battle
Disc 1, Track 9. Length 4:38.
Recorded during session 3, at Langham One Studio, London, on 3 December 1973.
Produced by Bernie Andrews, engineered by Nick Griffiths and Mike Franks, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 6 December 1973, as part of John Peel's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This track was originally released in edited form on the 'Queen At The Beeb' album in the UK, and with the stereo channels swapped on the 'Queen At The BBC' US album. These versions begin with the guitar at 0:42, losing the intro, therefore reducing the length to 3:56. This omitted section became known as the 'Forgotten Intro' on bootlegs. The version on 'On Air' is also incomplete, as the original mastertapes were damaged.
Apparently this track was also pressed onto a 7" acetate, presumably for a possible single release, which fades in on the first 'haa' at around 0:58, and out on the last 'battle' at around 4:03, reducing the length to around 3:05.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen II' album page. Ha, ha, ha, ha, haa
Now once upon a time
An old man told me a fable
When the piper is gone
And the soup is cold on your table
And if the black crow flies
Find a new destination
That is the sign
Come tonight
Come to the ogre sight
Come to ogre battle fight
He gives a great big cry
Swallow up the ocean
With a mighty tongue he catches flies
In the palm of a hand incredible size
One great big eye
Has a focus in your direction
And the battle is won
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Come tonight
Come to the ogre sight
Come to ogre battle fight
Ha, ha, ha, ha, haa
The ogre men are still inside
The two-way mirror mountain
You gotta keep down right out of sight
You can't see in but they can see out
Look out
The ogre men are coming out
From the two-way mirror mountain
They're running up behind
And they're coming all about
Can't go east 'cos you gotta go south
Ogre men are going home
And the great big fight is over
Bugle blow let trumpet cry
Ogre battle lives for evermore
Wow, oh, oh
But you can come along
You can come along
Come to ogre battle
Ha, ha, ha, ha, haa John Peel: Oh now there's a band of monsters for you, Queen and the first from them on tonight's programme, called 'Ogre Battle', and that's gonna be on an LP due for release around March
Modern Times Rock 'n' Roll
Disc 1, Track 10. Length 2:00.
Recorded during session 3, at Langham One Studio, London, on 3 December 1973.
Produced by Bernie Andrews, engineered by Nick Griffiths and Mike Franks, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 6 December 1973, as part of John Peel's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This track was originally released on the 'Queen At The Beeb' album in the UK, and with the stereo channels swapped on the 'Queen At The BBC' US album.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen' album page. Had to make do with a worn out rock and roll scene
The old bop is getting tired, need a rest, well you know what I mean
Fifty-eight that was great but it's over now and that's all
Something harder's coming up, gonna really knock a hole in the wall
Gonna hit you, grab you hard, make you feel ten feet tall
Hope that a big new thing's gonna come along soon
You don't know it could happen, any old rainy afternoon
With the temperature down and the juke box blowing no fuse
And the musical life's feeling like a long Sunday school cruise
You know that there's one thing every single body could use
It's not that I'm bright, just happy go lucky
Modern times - rock 'n' roll
Modern times - rock 'n' roll
Get your high heeled guitar styled boots and some dirty clothes
Get a hair piece on your chest and a ring through your nose
Find a nice little man who says he's gonna make you a big, big star
Stars in your eyes, ants in your pants, think you should go far
Everybody in this bum sucking world is gonna know who you are
Look out John Peel: 'Modern Times Rock 'n' Roll', that's the name of it, I've never seen Queen live actually, I must admit, I'd like to
Great King Rat
Disc 1, Track 11. Length 5:56.
Recorded during session 3, at Langham One Studio, London, on 3 December 1973.
Produced by Bernie Andrews, engineered by Nick Griffiths and Mike Franks, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 6 December 1973, as part of John Peel's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This track was originally released on the 'Queen At The Beeb' album in the UK, and with the stereo channels swapped on the 'Queen At The BBC' US album.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen' album page. Great king rat died today
Born on the twenty-first of May
Died syphilis forty-four on his birthday
Every second word he swore
Yes, he was the son of a whore
Always wanted by the law
Wouldn't you like to know
A wouldn't you like to know
A wouldn't you like to know
Great king rat was a dirty old man
And a dirty old man was he
Now what did I tell you
Would you like to see?
Where will I be tomorrow
Will I beggar, will I borrow
I don't care anyway
Come on, come on, the time is right
The man is evil and that is right
I told you, yes I told you
And that's no lie, no, no
Wouldn't you like to know
A wouldn't you like to know
People, people
Great king rat was a dirty old man
And a dirty old man was he
Now what did I tell you
Would you like to see?
Let me show you
Um, wouldn't you like to know
A wouldn't you like to know
People, people
Great king rat was a dirty old man
And a dirty old man was he
Now what did I tell you
Would you like to see?
Hit it
Now listen all you people
Throw out the good and keep the bad
Don't believe all you read in the bible
You sinners get in line
Saints you leave far behind
And very soon you're gonna be a disciple
Don't listen to what your mama says
Not a word, not a word mama says
Or else you'll find yourself being the rival, sure
The great Lord before he died
Knelt sinners by his side
And said 'you're going to realise tomorrow'
No, I'm not gonna tell you
What you already know
'Cos time and time again
The old man said it all a long time ago
Come on, come on the time is right
This evil man will fight
I told you once before (and that's no lie)
Take it
Um, now wouldn't you like to know
A wouldn't you like to know
People
Great king rat was a dirty old man
And a dirty old man was he
The last time I tell you
Would you like to see John Peel: Queen, and that's called 'Great King Rat'
Son And Daughter
Disc 1, Track 12. Length 7:08.
Recorded during session 3, at Langham One Studio, London, on 3 December 1973.
Produced by Bernie Andrews, engineered by Nick Griffiths and Mike Franks, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 6 December 1973, as part of John Peel's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This track was originally released on the 'Queen At The Beeb' album in the UK, and with the stereo channels swapped on the 'Queen At The BBC' US album.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen' album page. I want you
Watch out
Tried to be your son and daughter
Rolled into one
You said you'd equal any man
For having your fun
Um, didn't you feel surprised to find
The cap just didn't fit
A woman expects a man
To buckle down and a shovel it
What'll you do for loving
If it's a only just begun
I want you
To be a woman
Tried to be a teacher
And a fisher of men
An equal people preacher
Will you lead us all the same
Um, travelled all round
The world and found
A brand new word for day
Watching the time
Never linger behind
Pardon me I have to get away
What'll you think of heaven
If it's a back from where you came
I want you
To be a woman
Um, didn't you feel surprised to find
The cap just didn't fit
The world expects a man
To buckle down and a shovel it
What'll you do for loving
If it's a back from where you came
I want you
To be a woman John Peel: Queen, and the last from them, 'Son And Daughter', and a band that sounds like nutters actually, and I like that
Modern Times Rock 'n' Roll
Disc 2, Track 1. Length 2:45.
Recorded during session 4, at Langham One Studio, London, on 3 April 1974.
Produced by Pete Ritzema, engineered by John Sparrow, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 15 April 1974, as part of Bob Harris's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen' album page. Bob Harris: And here's some Modern Times Rock 'n' Roll now from Queen Had to make do with a worn out rock and roll scene
The old bop is getting tired, need a rest, well you know what I mean
Fifty-eight that was great but it's over now and that's all
Something harder's coming up, gonna really knock a hole in the wall
Gonna hit you grab you hard, make you feel ten feet tall
Ooh
Well I hope that a big new baby's gonna come along soon
You don't know it could happen, any old rainy afternoon
With the temperature down and the juke box blowing no fuse
And the musical life's feeling like a long Sunday school cruise
And you know that there's one thing every single body could use
Modern times - rock 'n' roll
Modern times - rock 'n' roll
Get your high heeled guitar styled boots and some groovy clothes
A hair piece on your chest and a ring through your nose
Find a nice little man who says he's gonna make you a big, big star
Stars in your eyes, ants in your pants, think you should go far
Everybody in this bum sucking world is gonna know who you are
Rock 'n' roll (Freddie: rock 'n' roll) Rock 'n' roll (Freddie: rock 'n' roll) Rock 'n' roll (Freddie: rock 'n' roll) Rock 'n' roll (Freddie: move it to the left, move it the right) Rock 'n' roll (Freddie: rock 'n' roll) Rock 'n' roll (Freddie: rock 'n' roll) Rock 'n' roll (Freddie: rock 'n' roll) Rock 'n' roll (Freddie: rock 'n' roll) Rock 'n' roll Bob Harris: Ah yes, that's the first of three on the programme tonight from Queen, and that was called 'Modern Times Rock 'n' Roll'
Nevermore
Disc 2, Track 2. Length 1:27.
Recorded during session 4, at Langham One Studio, London, on 3 April 1974.
Produced by Pete Ritzema, engineered by John Sparrow, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 15 April 1974, as part of Bob Harris's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This track was originally released on the 2011 double-disc reissue of 'Queen II'.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen II' album page. There's no living in my life anymore
The seas have gone dry
And the rain stopped falling
Please don't you cry anymore
Can't you see
Listen to the breeze
Whisper to me please
Don't send me to the path of nevermore, oh, oh, oh
Even the valleys below
Where the rays of the sun
Were so warm and tender
Now haven't anything to grow
Can't you see
Why did you have to leave me (nevermore, nevermore)
Why did you deceive me (nevermore, nevermore)
Send me to the path of nevermore
When you say you didn't love me anymore (aahhh)
Ahhh, nevermore
Nevermore Bob Harris: Oh yes, written by the band's vocalist, Freddie Mercury, that was Queen
White Queen
(As It Began)
Disc 2, Track 3. Length 4:51.
Recorded during session 4, at Langham One Studio, London, on 3 April 1974.
Produced by Pete Ritzema, engineered by John Sparrow, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 15 April 1974, as part of Bob Harris's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Queen II' album page. So sad her eyes
Smiling dark eyes
So sad her eyes
As it began
On such a breathless night as this
Upon my brow the lightest kiss
I walked alone
And all around the air did say
My lady soon will stir this way
In sorrow known
The white queen walks and the night grows pale
Stars of lovingness in her hair
Needing - unheard
Pleading - one word
So sad her eyes
She cannot see
How did thee fare, what have thee seen
The mother of the willow green
I call her name
'Neath the window have I stayed
I loved the foot steps that she made
And when she came
White queen how my heart did ache
And dry my lips no words could make
Still I wait
My Goddess hear my darkest fear
I speak too late
It's for evermore that I wait
Dear friend, goodbye
No tears in my eyes
So sad it ends
As it began Bob Harris: Um, yes, that's Queen, the last from them tonight, and that was called 'White Queen'
Now I'm Here
Disc 2, Track 4. Length 4:16.
Recorded during session 5, at Maida Vale Studio, London, on 16 October 1974.
Produced by Jeff Griffin, engineered by Chris Lycett, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 4 November 1974, as part of Bob Harris's programme.
This performance uses the album version backing track, with some new elements added, rather than being a fully live version.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Sheer Heart Attack' album page. Here I stand
Look around, around, around, around, around
But you won't see me
Now I'm here
Now I'm there I'm just
Just a new man
Yes, you made me live again
A baby I was when you took my hand
And the light of the night burned bright
The people all stared didn't understand
But you knew my name on sight
Whatever came of you and me
America's new bride to be
Don't worry baby I'm safe and sound
Down in the dungeon just Peaches 'n' me
Don't I love her so
Ooh, you made me live again
Yeah, oh yeah
Yeah
Ooh, a thin moon me in a smoke screen sky
Where the beams of your lovelight chase
Don't move, don't speak, don't feel no pain
With the rain running down my face
Your matches still light up the sky
And many a tear lives on in my eye
Down in the city just Hoople 'n' me
Don't I love him so
Oh, don't I love, love him so
Woo
Whatever comes of you and me
I love to leave my memory with you Now I'm here
Think I'll stay around, around, around, around, around, around
Down in the city justa you 'n' me Ow
Don't I love you so
Go, go, go little Queenie, ooh Bob Harris: Ah, that's great, that's the first of four songs tonight from their new album 'Sheer Heart Attack', recorded specially for the Monday programme, that was Queen, and that was called 'Now I'm Here'
Stone Cold Crazy
Disc 2, Track 5. Length 2:15.
Recorded during session 5, at Maida Vale Studio, London, on 16 October 1974.
Produced by Jeff Griffin, engineered by Chris Lycett, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 4 November 1974, as part of Bob Harris's programme.
This performance uses the album version backing track, with some new elements added, rather than being a fully live version.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Sheer Heart Attack' album page. Sleeping very soundly on a Saturday morning I was dreaming I was Al Capone
There's a rumour going round, gotta clear outta town
Yeah, I'm smelling like a dry fish bone
Here come the law, gonna break down the door, gonna carry me away once more
Never, I never, I never get it any more
Gotta get away from this stone cold floor
Crazy
Stone cold crazy, you know
Ahh
Yeah
Rainy afternoon I gotta blow a typhoon and I'm playing on my slide trombone
Anymore, anymore, cannot take it anymore
Gotta get away from this stone cold floor
Crazy
Stone cold crazy, you know
Hit 'em, haa
Ahhh
Ohh
Wooh
Walking down the street, shooting people that I meet
With my rubber tommy water gun
Here come the deputy, he's gonna come and getta me
Gotta get me get up and run
They got the sirens loose
I got right outta juice
They're gonna put me in a cell, if I can't go to heaven
Then they let me go to hell
Crazy
Stone cold crazy, you know
Ow Bob Harris: Well that's the best thing I've heard for a long time, Queen, and 'Stone Cold Crazy'
Flick Of The Wrist
Disc 2, Track 6. Length 3:25.
Recorded during session 5, at Maida Vale Studio, London, on 16 October 1974.
Produced by Jeff Griffin, engineered by Chris Lycett, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 4 November 1974, as part of Bob Harris's programme.
This performance uses the album version backing track, with some new elements added, rather than being a fully live version.
This track was originally released on the 2011 double-disc reissue of 'Sheer Heart Attack'.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Sheer Heart Attack' album page. Dislocate your spine if you don't sign he says
I'll have you seeing double
Mesmerise you when he's tongue tied
Simply with those eyes (oooh, ooh, oooh)
Synchronise your minds and see
The beast within him rise
Don't look back
Don't look back
It's a rip off
Flick of the wrist and you're dead baby
Blow him a kiss and you're mad (oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh)
Flick of the wrist - he'll eat your heart out
A dig in the ribs and then a kick in the head
He's taken an arm, taken a leg
All this time honey
Baby you've been had
Intoxicate your brain with what I'm saying
If not you'll lie in knee deep trouble
Prostitute yourself he says
Castrate your human pride (oooh, ooh, oooh)
Sacrifice your leisure days
Let me squeeze you till you've dried
Don't look back
Don't look back
Ooh, it's a rip off
Aahhh
Aahhh
Aahhh
Work my fingers to my bones
I scream with pain
I still make no impression
Seduce you with his money make machine
Cross collateralise (big time money, money)
Reduce you to a muzak fake machine
Then the last goodbye (aah-ahh, aah-ahh, aah-ahh, aah-ahh)
It's a rip off
Flick of the wrist and you're dead baby
Blow him a kiss and you're mad (oooh, oooh, oooh, oooh)
Flick of the wrist - he'll eat your heart out
A dig in the ribs and then a kick in the head
He's taken an arm, taken a leg
All this time honey
Baby you've been had Bob Harris: Ah, yes, it's a pleasure to have them on the programme, it really is, Queen, and that was called 'Flick Of The Wrist'
Tenement Funster
Disc 2, Track 7. Length 2:57.
Recorded during session 5, at Maida Vale Studio, London, on 16 October 1974.
Produced by Jeff Griffin, engineered by Chris Lycett, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 4 November 1974, as part of Bob Harris's programme.
This performance uses the album version backing track, with some new elements added, rather than being a fully live version.
This track was originally released on the 2011 double-disc reissue of 'Sheer Heart Attack'.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'Sheer Heart Attack' album page. My new purple shoes
Have been amazing the people next door
And my rock 'n' roll 45's
Been enraging the folks on the lower floor
I got a way with the girls on my block
Try my best be a real individual
And when we go down to Smokies and rock
They line up like it's some kinda ritual
Ooh, give me a good guitar
And you can say that my hair's a disgrace (ooooh)
Or, just find me an open car
I'll make the speed of light outta this place
Um, I like the good things in life
But most of the best things ain't free (ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh)
So the same situation
Just cuts like a knife
When you're young, and you're poor, and you're crazy
(Young and you're crazy, young and you're crazy, young and you're crazy)
Ooh, give me a good guitar
And you can say that my hair's a disgrace (ooooh)
Or, just find me an open car
I'll make the speed of light outta this place Bob Harris: Great. It's rare to hear Queen without Freddie Mercury taking the lead vocal, but that was the last number tonight from them, 'Tenement Funster', and if you can over the next few weeks, get to see them on tour, because they really are an amazing band
We Will Rock You
(slow version)
Disc 2, Track 8. Length 1:35.
Recorded during session 6, at Maida Vale Studio, London, on 28 October 1977.
Produced by Jeff Griffin, engineered by Mike Robinson, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 14 November 1977, as part of John Peel's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This track contains a shortened slow version (1:14), followed by an explosion and reading (believed by some to be 'Siddhartha' by Herman Hesse) (0:22). It then segues into the fast version. It was later included in the 2017 'News Of The World' 40th anniversary boxed set.
Jeff Griffin and Mike Robinson both provide backing vocals.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'News Of The World' album page. Buddy you're a boy make a big noise
Playing in the street gonna be a big man some day
You got mud on your face
You big disgrace
Kicking your can all over the place
Singing
We will, we will, rock you
We will, we will, rock you, come on
We will, we will, rock you
We will, we will, rock you (Unknown dialogue) believed in a creator God, Brachma. The Buddha rejected Brahmism and mocked at it's rituals. As for Brachma, the Buddha didn't deny his existence, but regarded him as a deluded spirit, who imagined he had created the universe
We Will Rock You
(fast version)
Disc 2, Track 9. Length 2:45.
Recorded during session 6, at Maida Vale Studio, London, on 28 October 1977.
Produced by Jeff Griffin, engineered by Mike Robinson, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 14 November 1977, as part of John Peel's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This track segues from the slow version, and was originally released on a 2002 promo CD, given away free in 'The Sun' newspaper. It was later included in the 2017 'News Of The World' 40th anniversary boxed set, with the dialogue at the end in much better quality.
Jeff Griffin and Mike Robinson both provide backing vocals.
Further details of the track can be found on the 'News Of The World' album page. Oooh, oooh, yeah
Yeah, come on
Buddy you're a boy make a big noise
Playing in the street gonna be a big man some day
You got mud on your face
You big disgrace
Kicking your can all over the place
We will, we will, rock you
We will, we will, rock you
Buddy you're a young man, hard man
Shouting in the street gonna take on the world some day
Blood on your face
Big disgrace
Waving your banner all over the place
Sing it
We will, we will, rock you, oh yes ah
We will, we will, rock
Oh, oh, oh, oh
We will, we will, rock you, yes
We will, we will, rock you
Buddy you're an old man, poor man
Pleading with your eyes gonna make you some peace some day
Mud on your face
Big disgrace
Somebody better put you back into your place
We will, we will, rock you, come on
We will, we will, rock you
We will, we will, rock you
Oh, rock you
Right on John Peel: Right on to you too chaps, those are Queen and the first from them tonight, and it's called 'We Will Rock You', profundity or just another teenage anthem?
Spread Your Wings
Disc 2, Track 10. Length 5:23.
Recorded during session 6, at Maida Vale Studio, London, on 28 October 1977.
Produced by Jeff Griffin, engineered by Mike Robinson, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 14 November 1977, as part of John Peel's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This track was originally released on the 'News Of The World' 2011 double disc reissue, and was later included in the 2017 40th anniversary boxed set, with the dialogue at the end in much better quality.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'News Of The World' album page. Sammy was low
Just watching the show
Over and over again
He knew it was time
He'd made up his mind
And leave his dead life behind
His boss said to him
'Boy you'd better begin
To get those crazy notions right out of your head
Sammy, who do you think that you are?
Why can't you be happy at the Emerald Bar'
Spread your wings and fly away
Fly away, far away
Spread your little wings and fly away
Fly away, far away
Pull yourself together
'Cos you know you should do better
That's because you're a free man, yeah
He spends his evenings alone in his hotel room
Keeping his thoughts to himself, he'd be leaving soon
Wishing he was miles and miles away
Nothing in this world, nothing, could make him stay
Since he was small
He had no luck at all
Nothing came easy to him
Now it was time
He'd made up his mind
'This could be my last chance'
His boss said to him
'Now listen boy
You're always dreaming
You've got no real ambition, you won't get very far
Sammy boy, don't you know who you are?
Why can't you be happy at the Emerald Bar'
So honey
Spread your wings, fly away
Fly away, far away
Spread your little wings and fly away
Fly away, far away
Pull yourself together
'Cos you know you should do better
That's because you're a free man, yeah
So come on honey
Fly, fly with me
Far away
Oooh, let me take you
Ooh yeah
Ooh
Oh spread, come on
Spread your wings
Come on and fly, fly, fly with me
Yeah
Ooooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh-oh
Yeah
M-m-m-m-m-m-m-m-m-m fly, yeah
Oh, yeah
Alright, alright
Come on honey, fly with me, yeah
Oh spread
Oooh, yeah John Peel: These are Queen, and another from them, and you'll probably notice that all of the tunes they're doing tonight are from the LP 'News Of The World', although these are in some cases radically different versions, this is 'It's Late'
It's Late
Disc 2, Track 11. Length 6:34.
Recorded during session 6, at Maida Vale Studio, London, on 28 October 1977.
Produced by Jeff Griffin, engineered by Mike Robinson, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 14 November 1977, as part of John Peel's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This track features a new middle section, similar to 'Get Down, Make Love'. It was later included in the 2017 'News Of The World' 40th anniversary boxed set, with some additional dialogue at the end.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'News Of The World' album page. You say you love me
And I hardly know your name
And if I say I love you in the candle light
There's no-one but myself to blame
But there's something inside
That's turning my mind away
Oh, oh, how I could love you
I could let you stay
It's late - and I'm bleeding deep inside
It's late - is it just my sickly pride
Too late - even now the feeling seems to steal away
So late - though I'm crying I can't help hear you say
It's late, it's late, it's late
But not too late
Ooh, ooh, yes
Oooh
The way you love me
Is the sweetest love around
But after all this time
The more I'm trying
The more I seem to let you down, yes
Now you tell me you're leaving
And I just can't believe it's true
Oh, oh, how I love you
Though you know I can't be true
Oh, you make me love you, yes
Don't tell me that we're through
It's late - oooh, and it's driving me so mad
It's late - oooh, but don't try to tell me that it's
Too late - even now love you can't turn out the light
So late - I've been wrong but I'll learn to be right
It's late, it's late, it's late
But not too late
No
It's late, it's late, it's late
Ohhh, oooh
Ow, oh
Ow, ohhhh, oooh
Make, make, make, make
Oh, oooh, oooh, ooh, oooh
Oww
Oh, oohh
Make love, make love, make love, make love, make love, make love, make love, m-m-m-m-m-m-m-m-m-ooh
Get down, oooh
Oh, oh, oh, oh, ohhh
Ow
Ooh
Ooh, shh, ahh
Ohh
Maaa
Ow
Owww, oooh
It's all too late
M-m-m-m-m-m-m-m-m-m-m-m-m-late, ooh, late John Peel: Oh, positively psychadelic in points there, those are Queen, and that's called 'It's Late'.
My Melancholy Blues
Disc 2, Track 12. Length 3:10.
Recorded during session 6, at Maida Vale Studio, London, on 28 October 1977.
Produced by Jeff Griffin, engineered by Mike Robinson, and originally broadcast on BBC Radio 1 on 14 November 1977, as part of John Peel's 'Sounds Of The Seventies' programme.
This track was originally released on the 'News Of The World' 2011 double disc reissue, and was later included in the 2017 40th anniversary boxed set.
Details of the original version can be found on the 'News Of The World' album page. Another party's over
And I'm left cold sober
My baby left me for somebody new, oooh, oooh
I don't wanna talk about it
Want to forget about it
Wanna be intoxicated with that special brew
Come and get me
Let me
Get in that sinking feeling
That says my heart is on an all time low, so
Don't expect me
To behave perfectly
And wear that sunny smile
My guess is I'm in for a cloudy and overcast
Don't try and stop me
'Cos I'm heading for that stormy weather soon
I'm causing a mild sensation
With this new occupation
I'm permanently glued
With this extraordinary mood
So now move over
And let me take over
With my
Melancholy blues
I'm causing a mild sensation
With this new occupation
I'm in the news
I'm just getting used to my new exposure
Come into my enclosure
And meet my
Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha
