Brian May, 77, rocks Coachella as Benson Boone’s surprise guest for ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ — 7 months after suffering stroke

Importance Score: 30 / 100 🔵

Queen’s Brian May Makes Surprise Coachella Appearance After Stroke

Rock music legend and Queen guitarist Brian May delivered a thrilling surprise performance at Coachella on Friday night, just seven months after a stroke temporarily impaired his arm mobility. The iconic musician joined Benson Boone during his set in Coachella Valley, California, sending shockwaves through the festival crowd. May’s appearance, featuring a memorable rendition of the “Bohemian Rhapsody” guitar solo, quickly became a highlight of the event and a testament to his enduring talent and resilience.

Iconic Guitar Solo on the Main Stage

May, 77, was remarkably elevated onto the Coachella Main Stage as Boone commenced his cover version of Queen’s timeless hit, “Bohemian Rhapsody.” He flawlessly executed the celebrated guitar solo, earning enthusiastic cheers and acknowledgment from Boone during the performance.

Brian May performs on the Main Stage at Coachella with Benson Boone on April 11, 2025.
May ascends from beneath the stage during the guitar solo of “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
Brian May passionately plays the guitar during the cover of the song made famous by his band, “Queen.”

Seamless Performance and Stage Presence

Throughout his time on stage, May exhibited no indication of physical limitations, effortlessly playing his guitar with precision and a broad smile. Following his initial solo, May briefly retreated beneath the stage before re-emerging to perform alongside Boone and fellow guitarist Sus Vasquez in a dynamic collaboration.

Boone’s Tribute to Freddie Mercury

Boone, a 22-year-old artist from Washington, commenced his performance of the song in a striking ermine-fur cloak, later discarding it to reveal a silver leotard. This outfit choice appeared to be a subtle homage to the legendary Queen frontman, Freddie Mercury, known for his flamboyant stage attire.

Brian May plays alongside guitarist Sus Vasquez during the performance.
Benson Boone reacts as Brian May performs the guitar solo during his cover of “Bohemian Rhapsody” during night one of Coachella.
Benson Boone jumps off a piano, over Brian May at the conclusion of “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

A Moment of Gratitude

As the song reached its crescendo, Boone notably jumped from atop a grand piano, leaping over a kneeling May as a gesture of respect and showmanship.

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“Let’s hear it for Queen guitarist Brian May,” Boone exclaimed to the vast crowd gathered in the Southern California desert, before bowing in reverence to the rock icon. May remained on stage to contribute to Boone’s hit single, “Beautiful Things,” further amplifying the collaborative energy.

Teasing the Surprise Collaboration

Leading up to the Coachella set, May had hinted at the impending performance through a series of Instagram posts, generating anticipation for Boone’s show. In one post, May lauded Boone as a “truly golden 22 year old prodigy,” expressing his pleasure at their newfound friendship and collaborative venture.

Benson Boone and Brian May pose for a photo prior to their performance together at Coachella.
Brian May shared a photo of himself and Benson Boone in a private jet en route to Coachella Valley.

Stroke Recovery and Return to Music

Back in September, May had disclosed that he had experienced a “minor stroke” the previous week, confessing his initial fears that this health event might jeopardize his distinguished musical career. In a video message shared on Instagram, May reassured fans of his recovery and his ability to continue performing. He described the stroke as a “little scary” health incident that temporarily affected his arm movement.

Brian May and Benson Boone share an embrace backstage following their performance.
Brian May, Benson Boone and Boone’s band take a bow after their set.

The guitarist’s condition improved, with his wife, Anita Dobson, confirming his stabilization and return to musical activity. Dobson had previously mentioned her hope for no further health setbacks in an interview given in December.

“Back to His Old Self”

Recently, Dobson offered further positive updates on her husband’s health, stating he was “back to his old self.” During a television appearance, she conveyed her gratitude for the concern and well-wishes received, affirming May’s full recovery.


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