Producer Reinhold Mack Says Working with Queen Was ‘Basically an Accident.’ Then Freddie Mercury Became His Son’s Godfather (Exclusive)

Renowned music producer Reinhold Mack is preparing to part with cherished memorabilia from his time working with the iconic band Queen, just ahead of what would have been Freddie Mercury’s 80th birthday. Mack, now 77 years old, first connected with Queen while employed at Musicland Studios in Munich, a venue that played a pivotal role in the production of the band’s most celebrated works.

In a candid conversation with PEOPLE, Mack reflected on how his journey with Queen began almost by chance. Initially working with guitarist Gary Moore in Los Angeles, he received an unexpected call about a potential collaboration with an unnamed band in Munich. After some inquiries, he surmised that the project would involve Queen, prompting him to take the opportunity. “I figured, let’s do that,” he remarked, and flew to Germany—a decision that would change the course of both his career and personal life.

Mack quickly established a rapport with Mercury, which blossomed into a close friendship that would last for years. This relationship gave rise to numerous memorable moments, both professionally and personally. Notably, during the production of the band’s hit song “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” Mack and Mercury began to intertwine their lives. Mack recalled how Mercury would occasionally spend time with his family, creating bonds that extended beyond the studio.

“Our relationship turned into a friendship,” Mack stated. He reminisced about how Mercury would sometimes roam the streets of Munich incognito. At the time, the city was largely unaware of the frontman’s celebrity status, allowing him the freedom to engage in everyday activities like shopping with Mack’s wife. “He bought silverware, tracksuits, and table tennis tables for my kids,” Mack shared fondly, adding that Mercury was a skilled table tennis player who attended family celebrations.

During the recording of the 1982 album Hot Space, Mack’s wife jokingly commented that completing an album was more challenging than childbirth, highlighting the lengthy and demanding process Queen endured in the studio. Ironically, during this time, she gave birth to their youngest son, whom Mack affectionately refers to as “little Freddie.” This child would become Mercury’s godson, and Mack noted that the late singer maintained a connection with the family long after his passing in November 1991.

As he prepares for the impending auction at Propstore, which runs from October 1 to October 2, Mack will offer more than 80 rare items, including a Yamaha C3 grand piano, a significant instrument used by Mercury during their recording sessions. The piano, which has an estimated pre-sale value between £264,000 and £528,000, was integral to some of Queen’s biggest hits and has been played by other musical legends such as The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin.

In addition to the piano, the auction catalogue also features various memorabilia associated with Mercury, including an AKG C414 EB microphone used to capture his powerful vocals. Among the highlights are handwritten lyrics for tracks such as “My Love Is Dangerous” and “Let’s Turn It On,” as well as a teddy bear gifted to the Mack family by Mercury—each item telling a story of creativity and camaraderie.

Mack’s deep affection for Mercury and his work with Queen is palpable as he reflects on their time together. The upcoming auction serves as both a celebration of the legendary musician’s legacy and a poignant reminder of the meaningful connections forged in the world of music.

As the auction date approaches, fans and collectors alike will have the chance to own a piece of history, but for Mack, the memories and friendships created over the years remain invaluable. The full catalogue for the auction is now accessible, with registration open for enthusiastic bidders ready to secure a slice of rock heritage.