A magical moment in music history was made earlier this year when Queen guitarist Sir Brian May teamed up with the legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli for an unforgettable duet of Queen’s iconic ballad, Who Wants to Live Forever, in the heart of Tuscany. This remarkable collaboration took place during Bocelli’s third and final concert in his series celebrating the 30th anniversary of his career, held in July 2024.
The evening was not only a stunning musical event but also a personal one for Sir Brian May, who was celebrating his 77th birthday. Fans were treated to a surprise birthday celebration as Andrea Bocelli himself serenaded the guitarist with a heartfelt rendition of Happy Birthday, live on stage. However, it was the emotional performance of Who Wants to Live Forever that truly captivated the audience, showcasing the powerful combination of May’s timeless guitar riffs and Bocelli’s soaring operatic vocals.
Brian May shared a glimpse of the performance with fans on Instagram, calling it one of his “most unforgettable moments of 2024.” The post, accompanied by a video from the concert film, captures the breathtaking scenery of Tuscany, with the duo performing the 1986 Queen power ballad in the open air, amidst the beauty of Italy’s rolling hills. May’s caption read, “One of my most unforgettable moments of 2024 – with the magnificence of Andrea Bocelli in beautiful Tuscany. HAPPY NEW YEAR FOLKS !!! May all your surprises be good ones! Bri.”
The song Who Wants to Live Forever was originally written by Brian May for the soundtrack of the 1986 cult classic Highlander. It was later featured on Queen’s A Kind of Magic album and became a staple in the band’s live performances. The track is known for its emotional depth and its reflection on the transient nature of life, making it a fitting choice for such a powerful duet.
The collaboration between May and Bocelli was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for fans, who marveled at the seamless fusion of rock and opera. For those who missed the live performance, the shared video offers a chance to witness this once-in-a-lifetime pairing that brought together two of the most celebrated musicians from different worlds.
This collaboration adds to the storied history of Who Wants to Live Forever, a track that has been performed by various artists, including the famous rendition by Seal at the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert, five months after the legendary Queen frontman’s passing. May and Bocelli’s performance, however, will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most poignant renditions of the song, etched into the memories of those who were fortunate enough to witness it live in Tuscany.
As we enter 2025, we can only hope for more such musical surprises from these two extraordinary artists who continue to inspire and uplift with their incredible talents.
