Queen’s Manager Recalls Elton John Telling Band That ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ Would ‘Never Be a Hit’

Queen’s Manager Recalls Elton John Disbelief Over ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ Potential

In a surprising turn of events, Queen’s manager, John Reid, recently reminisced about a conversation with Elton John where John expressed his doubts about Queen’s iconic track, ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ becoming a hit. Despite the initial skepticism, the song defied all odds and went on to become one of the band’s most popular and enduring hits.

The year 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the release of “Bohemian Rhapsody” on October 31, 1975. The elaborate and unconventional composition, spanning just under six minutes, introduced a new standard to the rock music landscape at the time. Reflecting on the making of the song, Brian May, and Roger Taylor, members of the original Queen lineup, shared insights with Rolling Stone about the unexpected success of the track.

Taylor recalled the extensive process of recording the song, with all three band members contributing to each part, which added a unique depth to the composition. The band faced challenges not only in perfecting the track but also in deciding its final length. Gary Langan, the sessions’ assistant engineer, remembered the discussions revolving around the song’s duration, with Freddie Mercury advocating for a six-minute length, which some in the band found contentious.

As the band deliberated over the song’s length and composition, they also pondered the reaction of their record label. Despite the concerns raised by some about its duration, the band stuck to their vision, and the song was released at just under six minutes. Reid, the band’s manager at the time, shared insights into the discussions surrounding the track’s length, highlighting the different opinions within the band and the industry about its potential success.

During this period, Reid was dating Elton John, who voiced his disbelief in the song’s potential to become a hit due to its length. John asserted his opinion that the track would not achieve mainstream success, a sentiment that starkly contrasted with the eventual trajectory of “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Despite the initial skepticism expressed by John, the single went on to not only become a commercial success but also a cultural phenomenon that has endured for decades.

Reflecting on the chaotic recording process of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” one of the music producers, Roy Thomas Baker, described it as a joke that surprisingly resonated with audiences. The disjointed recording process, featuring distinct sections composed separately, culminated in a cohesive and innovative piece that defied traditional song structures. Baker’s recollection sheds light on the creative spontaneity and experimentation that defined the making of the iconic track.

In hindsight, the doubts and challenges faced by Queen during the creation of “Bohemian Rhapsody” only add to the mystique and legacy of the song. The unexpected success and enduring popularity of the track stand as a testament to the band’s innovative spirit and willingness to push artistic boundaries. As fans continue to celebrate the 50th anniversary of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” the story behind its creation serves as a reminder of the unpredictable journey that can lead to musical greatness.