‘I visited the studio where Queen recorded their biggest hits – one thing surprised me’

Explore Queen’s Legacy at Mountain Studios Exhibition in Montreux

Though definitively a British musical institution, the iconic band Queen produced many of their chart-topping songs from 1978 onwards in Montreux, Switzerland. The celebrated pop group acquired Mountain Studios in 1979 after recording their seventh album, Jazz, at the facility. Subsequently, they recorded six more successful albums there, along with solo projects from band members Freddie Mercury, Brian May, and Roger Taylor. This studio became a significant location in Queen’s history.

Queen: The Studio Experience

A Permanent Exhibition in Montreux

Now, five decades later, the renowned studio has been transformed into a permanent exhibition dedicated to the band’s illustrious career. “Queen: The Studio Experience” opened its doors in 2013 and is situated within the Casino Barrière de Montreux.

Free Admission and Fan Memorabilia

During a September 2024 visit coinciding with the Freddie Celebration Days – an annual event commemorating Freddie Mercury’s birthday – I experienced the exhibition and was astonished to find admission was complimentary.

Complimentary offerings are indeed uncommon for Queen enthusiasts given the typically high costs associated with band merchandise and reissued recordings, not to mention expensive concert tickets.

Entrance is free of charge throughout the year, and with opening hours from 9 am to 9 pm, Monday to Sunday, it ensures accessibility for visitors to the Montreux area. Donations to The Mercury Phoenix Trust, the charity established in Freddie Mercury’s name, are welcomed but optional.

Inside the Exhibition

Accessible and Welcoming

The venue offers accessible entry for wheelchair users, and both dogs and strollers are permitted inside. Upon entering, visitors pass through a corridor adorned with fan notes and illustrations expressing admiration, leading into a room showcasing costumes and significant mementos related to the band.

Experiencing Mountain Studios

Intimate Setting, Iconic History

The initial impression is the surprisingly modest size of the space. Considering Queen’s reputation for extravagance, expectations might be for a grander setting. Numerous photo opportunities are available, with life-size cardboard figures of Freddie Mercury positioned throughout, despite less-than-ideal lighting conditions.

Costume reproductions on display include Freddie’s famous Wembley Stadium attire from The Magic Tour, featuring the yellow jacket and white trousers, along with his “prawn” costume from the “It’s a Hard Life” music video. Handwritten lyrics from various band songs are featured prominently within the display cases.

The Recording Room

Witnessing Music History

This section of the exhibition does not resemble a working recording studio. Visitors proceed to another room to discover the original recording studio where Queen’s musical magic transpired. This room is more compact than anticipated and includes some of the vintage equipment and instruments utilized during their recording sessions.

A plaque embedded in the floor marks the precise location where Freddie Mercury recorded his final vocals with the band. Out of respect, visitors consciously avoided stepping directly on this spot during my visit.

A Sentimental Journey

More Than Just a Studio

Exploring the remainder of the studio doesn’t require extensive time, yet it undeniably evokes a profound atmosphere. Numerous celebrated songs were created here. Notably, Freddie Mercury spent his last recording sessions within these walls, laying down vocals for tracks he knew he would not live to see completed, given his failing health. It is impossible to remain unmoved by this historical context.

A Must-See for Music Fans

Appreciation for this experience extends beyond devoted Queen followers. The picturesque location beside Lake Geneva enhances its appeal. While travel to Montreux can be costly, and the area itself is not inexpensive, a visit to Queen: The Studio Experience is highly recommended for anyone traveling in the vicinity. It offers a unique glimpse into music history.