Queen: The Splendor of the 70s vs. the Elegance of the 80s

"Heres a question for people who were there at the time. Did you prefer 70s Queen band to 80s Queen?" As a seasoned fan of the incredible ensemble, I must say that my personal preference leans heavily towards the 70s. Despite Queen's enduring popularity with varying constellations of fans through the decades, their evolution from the groundbreaking 70s to their more complex 80s demonstrates a journey marked by both evolution and nostalgia.

Formative Years: The 1970s Countdown

My fandom of Queen began in the early 70s, right around the time when their first album was being released. It was during a live performance at Queen Mary College London that the magic of Queen first entered my life, albeit in a hazy memory. This period was marked by the raw, dynamic performances of the band, with Brian May’s ‘mercurial’ playing, Freddie Mercury’s flamboyant posturing, and a rhythm section that was second to none.

Queen's first five albums are a testament to their artistry, all of which were vinyl masterpieces.Each track was a meticulously crafted piece of art, with Freddie Mercury's idiosyncratic songwriting bringing a unique flavor to each composition. However, the consistency began to wane after the release of 'A Day at the Races,' with success seeming to blunt their edge. Nonetheless, their live performances during this era were unmatched, with their performance at Live Aid being an exceptional highlight.

First Impressions: The 1970s Recall

The first time I saw Queen was on a Dutch music show called Toppop, where they were playing 'Killer Queen' in Amsterdam's studio. I was six years old and it was their first hit in my country. The glam era resonated with me, much like other acts at the time. However, Queen quickly took over and became my favorite. By 1977, I was a die-hard fan, and my preference for the 70s Queen remains strong. While I still enjoy their 80s material, there is something uniquely special about the 70s Queen, a time when their music was fresh and new to me.

The Evolution of Queen: A Decade Apart

Queen continued to produce timeless classics throughout their twenty-year recording career, with my personal favorites coming from the 1970s. This period was defined not only by their groundbreaking sound but also by the technological advancements of the time, such as vinyl LPs, compact cassettes, and 8-track cartridges. We listened to every track on an album in the intended order, immersing ourselves in the music and forming deep connections with each piece.

The 1970s Queen also stands out for the urgency and spontaneity of their live shows. These concerts were well-rehearsed but retained a certain rawness and energy. By the time of their final live concert in 1986 at Knebworth, Queen had become an immensely polished act, but there was a sense that they had lost that early, passionate edge. The spectacle of their performances in large arenas could not quite reproduce the intimate thrill of smaller venues.

Conclusion: A Fan’s Reflection

While I do appreciate Queen's 80s material, my favorite tracks and memories are undoubtedly from the 70s. The 70s Queen embodies the raw, vibrant energy that captivated me as a young fan. Their music remains timeless and special to me, a reminder of the joy and thrill of discovering a new and exciting band. Whether you prefer the 70s or 80s Queen, one thing is clear: Queen's music continues to resonate with fans around the world.