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Queen’s Brian May Makes Surprise Coachella Appearance with Benson Boone
Rock icon Sir Brian May, the legendary guitarist of Queen, delivered a surprise performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, joining singer Benson Boone onstage. The unexpected appearance saw May perform a rendition of Queen’s timeless anthem, “Bohemian Rhapsody,” alongside Boone during the latter’s set. This electrifying moment at the renowned music festival comes after May’s wife recently confirmed his improved health following a minor stroke suffered last year.
Triumphant Return to the Stage
Just days after his wife, Anita Dobson, assured fans of his well-being, Brian May demonstrated his return to form by appearing with Grammy-nominated artist Benson Boone. On Friday evening, May graced the stage with Boone and a choir, delivering his iconic guitar riffs to the 1975 classic hit, “Bohemian Rhapsody.” The performance marked the opening night of the first weekend of the Coachella festival.
May commenced his performance at the piano, adorned in a majestic blue velvet cape with white fur trim, reminiscent of Freddie Mercury’s iconic stage attire. He later shed the cape to reveal a sparkling blue jumpsuit, seemingly a tribute to the flamboyant style of the late Queen frontman from the 1970s. His energetic stage presence captivated the Coachella audience.
Social Media Hints at Collaboration
Prior to the surprise Coachella performance, Brian May subtly hinted at his appearance on Instagram. He posted a photo from a private jet featuring Boone seated across from him, with the caption: “Look who I bumped into – on the way to the fabled Palm Springs … Maybe something will happen ?!”.
In another Instagram post, May shared a selfie with Boone, praising the young singer as a “truly golden 22 year old prodigy” and expressing his delight at forming a friendship. These posts fueled anticipation among fans leading up to the festival.
Fan Reactions Overwhelm Social Media
Although Brian May refrained from directly commenting on the Coachella performance immediately afterward, he reposted a clip of the performance, much to the delight of his fanbase. Social media platforms were flooded with enthusiastic reactions from fans who celebrated May’s surprise appearance.
Overjoyed Fan Comments:
- “He looked great!! So glad to see him play,” one fan commented.
- “What an absolute treat to get to hear Brian himself!!!” another exclaimed.
- “Amazing, so beautiful, just seeing Brian makes everything ok,” a third chimed in.
- “Wonderful!!! @brianmayforreal rocking as usual!!!” a fourth wrote.
- “Legendary guitarist. So wonderful to see him on stage!” a fifth gushed.
Recounting Health Update
Brian May had previously disclosed news of his health to followers last September in an Instagram video, offering reassurance regarding his recovery and ability to perform. He shared details of a “minor stroke” that had temporarily affected his arm mobility.
In the video, May explained the incident, stating, “What they called it was a minor stroke and all of a sudden – out of the blue – I didn’t have any control over this arm so was a little scary.” He also expressed immense gratitude for the exceptional care he received at Frimley Hospital.