About the song
“Killer Queen” is a standout track by the iconic British rock band Queen, featured on their 1974 album *Sheer Heart Attack*. Crafted by Freddie Mercury, the creative force behind the band, this song is a prime example of Mercury’s visionary artistry. Influenced by the sounds of The Beatles and the lyrical style of The Beach Boys and Noël Coward, Mercury approached “Killer Queen” with a distinctive blend of musical influences and thematic depth.
The song is noted for its sophisticated harmonies, meticulously arranged with four different vocal parts, particularly prominent in the chorus and background vocals. Brian May’s intricate guitar solo further enhances the track’s complexity and flair, showcasing his virtuosic skill. “Killer Queen” explores the story of a high-class courtesan, weaving historical and political references into its narrative. Mentioning figures such as Maria Antonia of Austria, the Queen of France, and notable political personalities like Khrushchev and Kennedy from the 1950s and 1960s, the song adds a layer of historical context to its character portrayal.
Upon its release, “Killer Queen” achieved significant commercial success, reaching number two on the UK charts. Its influence extended beyond music, inspiring Araki Hirohiko to create the stand “Killer Queen” in the renowned manga series *JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure*. Despite its acclaim, Paul Rodgers noted that “Killer Queen” was not performed during the Queen + Paul Rodgers tours, citing that “the melodies are just too on the spot” for live renditions. This track remains a testament to Queen’s innovative approach to rock music and Freddie Mercury’s exceptional songwriting prowess.
Video
Lyrics
She keeps her Moët et Chandon
In her pretty cabinet
“Let them eat cake, ” she says
Just like Marie Antoinette
A built-in remedy
For Khrushchev and Kennedy
At anytime an invitation
You can’t decline
Caviar and cigarettes
Well versed in etiquette
Extraordinarily nice
She’s a Killer Queen
Gunpowder, gelatine
Dynamite with a laser beam
Guaranteed to blow your mind
Anytime
Recommended at the price
Insatiable an appetite
Wanna try?
To avoid complications
She never kept the same address
In conversation
She spoke just like a baroness
Met a man from China
Went down to Geisha Minah
Then again incidentally
If you’re that way inclined
Perfume came naturally from Paris (naturally)
For cars she couldn’t care less
Fastidious and precise
She’s a Killer Queen
Gunpowder, gelatine
Dynamite with a laser beam
Guaranteed to blow your mind
Anytime
Drop of a hat she’s as willing as
Playful as a pussy cat
Then momentarily out of action
Temporarily out of gas
To absolutely drive you wild, wild
She’s out to get you
She’s a Killer Queen
Gunpowder, gelatine
Dynamite with a laser beam
Guaranteed to blow your mind
Anytime
Recommended at the price
Insatiable an appetite
Wanna try?
You wanna try