Are Any Bands More Popular Today Than in Their Independent Glory Days?
The ongoing discussion about the popularity of bands is a fascinating one. One particular band often talked about is Queen, with its iconic lead singer, Freddie Mercury, and more recent lineup featuring lead singer Adam Lambert. This article explores whether any band, including Queen, is as popular today as they were in their heyday.
Queen: Has Their Popularity Waned?
When discussing the relative popularity of Queen, one cannot miss the impact of both Freddie Mercury and Adam Lambert. Fans and music enthusiasts might wonder if Queen is more popular now, after the success of Adam Lambert, or if the classic line-up was the pinnacle. According to many, the inclination leans towards the original Freddie Mercury-led Queen being the most popular. However, others argue that the contemporary lineup, featuring Adam Lambert, has rekindled interest in the band, potentially reaching a new audience. Despite the argument, many fans of Queen remain nostalgic for the original era, with most still listening to their classic hits from the 80s.
Current Popularity and Relevance of Bands
It's worth noting that few bands currently match the popularity of those from the late-70s to early-80s era like Queen. Contemporary bands like Elton John, The Rolling Stones, and others continue to produce new music, which contributes to their enduring popularity. However, Queen differs in that they primarily rely on their back catalogue, with their 2019 tour venues averaging about 20,000 seats and not selling out fully. Though, they are considered to be a significant draw with concert venues often coming close to full capacity.
The Revenue Gap: Then vs. Now
One significant factor often mentioned in discussions about Queen's current popularity is their financial success. Queen currently generates much larger revenues than they did in the 80s. Back then, touring bands often broke even, but today, with music being practically free, concerts cost substantially more. As a result, bands like Queen can charge premium prices for concert tickets, resulting in far greater earnings. This factor is sometimes used to argue that Queen is currently more popular than in their heyday, even if the size of their following hasn't significantly increased.
The Impact of the Movie
The 2018 biographical film, Bowie, featuring Adam Lambert and Queen, has been another factor in the band's current popularity. The film, which offered a glimpse into Queen's legendary history and the impact Lambert had on renewing interest in the band, likely exposed a new audience to their music. The film undoubtedly gave Queen a resurgence, as it introduced the band to people who had not previously listened to their music. Additionally, the film's success could have brought more fans to re-examine and re-discover Queen's back catalogue, leading to renewed interest in the band's classic era.
In conclusion, while Queen may not be more popular in terms of raw attendance numbers compared to their peak in the 80s, their financial success and the resurgence of interest through the film suggest a different kind of popularity. The nostalgia and impact of their classic songs continue to resonate with fans old and new, indicating that the band remains highly influential and beloved in the music industry and among audiences.
Keywords: Queen, Popular Bands, Nostalgia in Music