Freddie Mercury would have marked his 73rd birthday today and the former Queen singer remains a huge part of British rock music.
Many music fans regard him as one of the best lead singers in history, and he was responsible for various hit songs including Killer Queen, Somebody to Love, and We Are the Champions.
A movie about his life and rise to fame called Bohemian Rhapsody was released in 2018 and received praise from fans and critics, while Rami Malek received the Oscar for Best Actor earlier this year for his portrayal of Freddie.
Along with his musical career, his death at the age of 45 and the circumstances in which he died have remained a big talking point.
When did Freddie Mercury die and what was his cause of death?
Freddie Mercury died on 24 November 1991 at his home in Kensington, London.
A public statement was released by Queen’s manager shortly before his death to confirm that he had been tested HIV positive and had AIDS.
His illness was something that only his closest friends were aware of until close to his death, and in his statement, he said: ‘I hope that everyone will join with me, my doctors and all those worldwide in the fight against this terrible disease.’
His cause of death was recorded as being bronchial pneumonia which is a condition that is also known as inflamed lungs, and it was brought on from complications with AIDS.
Freddie Mercury quotes
‘I always knew I was a star, and now the rest of the world seems to agree with me.’
‘A concert is not a live rendition of our album. It’s a theatrical event.’
‘I won’t be a rock star. I will be a legend.’
‘We’re a bit flashy, but the music’s not one big noise.’
‘I guess I’ve always lived the glamorous life of a star. It’s nothing new – I used to spend down to the last dime.’
‘We’ve gone overboard on every Queen album. But that’s Queen.’
‘The reason we’re successful, darling? My overall charisma, of course.’
‘I think my melodies are superior to my lyrics.’
‘Years ago, thought up the name Queen. It’s just a name. But it’s regal, obviously, and sounds splendid.’
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