While Queen is widely recognized for inhabiting a theatrical, pop-infused corner of rock, their artistic depth surpasses conventional perceptions. Beyond the extraordinary vocal abilities of frontman Freddie Mercury and the electrifying guitar work of Brian May, the band showcased a capacity for a more acerbic and edgy musical expression than they are commonly credited for.
Mercury and the band delivered incisive and pointed critiques that shed light on a different facet of their musical identity. Despite their flamboyant stage presence, Queen possessed a core hardness that played a pivotal role in their success, countering their more whimsical aspects.
A standout example of their early prowess is found in ‘Death On Two Legs,’ the opening track from the 1975 album ‘A Night at the Opera.’ This song makes a compelling case for being one of their most cutting compositions. Mercury crafted and dedicated the track to Norman Sheffield, the band’s former manager, and co-owner of London’s Trident Studios. Queen felt deeply aggrieved at that time by Sheffield, believing he had not adequately supported them, leading to their parting ways before the album’s recording.
In the 2011 documentary ‘Days of Our Lives,’ surviving Queen members reflected on the tense atmosphere during Sheffield’s tenure. Despite creating hits, the band wasn’t reaping financial rewards, causing frustration, especially when drummer Roger Taylor was instructed not to hit the drums too hard due to a lack of funds for new drumsticks. Taylor recalled, “You see them (the management) running around in stretch limos and think, ‘Hang on, there’s something not right here!’”
Freddie Mercury’s lyrics open with the lines, “You suck my blood like a leech / You break the law and you breach,” clearly articulating his and the band’s sentiments. Interestingly, Mercury initially had reservations about the song’s tone, deeming it too resentful. However, Brian May encouraged him to complete it.
In a bold move, the song’s title includes “Dedicated to…” which, though lacking a direct reference to Sheffield, makes a powerful statement. Sheffield, angered by this, sued Queen and their record label, leading to an out-of-court settlement. Ironically, this publicized the song’s origin, further questioning Sheffield’s standing.
Sheffield denied mistreating Queen as manager, citing the 1972 management contract in his 2013 autobiography. However, the damage was irreversible. On the ‘Live Killers’ version of ‘Death of Two Legs,’ Mercury introduces the song, stating, “This is a song about a real motherfucker of a gentleman!” emphasizing the lingering intensity of their feelings towards the managerial fallout.
Listen to ‘Death On Two Legs’ below.