“Play the Hits”
In a 2017 interview with MOJO, May recalled the blunt instructions given by Live Aid co-creator Bob Geldof: “This is a global jukebox. Don’t get clever. Play the hits.” Queen listened. They crammed six of their biggest songs into a tight, high-impact set that opened with an abridged “Bohemian Rhapsody” and closed with the anthems “We Will Rock You” and “We Are the Champions.” The goal wasn’t to showcase artistry or experiment — it was to unite a global audience in pure musical celebration.
Chaos Behind the Scenes
Speaking to Total Guitar in 2023, May described Live Aid as “kind of the Wild West” — a relentless rotation of acts with little time for preparation. There were nerves, rushed equipment changes, and the knowledge that this was an unprecedented global broadcast. Yet amid the stress, May said there was a “joy and excitement that overrode everything.”
A Royal Audience
The Moment of Truth
Imperfect but Unforgettable
By May’s own admission, Queen’s set was far from flawless. The rushed nature of the day led to “tense moments” and some ragged playing. But none of that mattered. The electricity of the performance, powered by Freddie’s connection with the crowd, transcended technical imperfections.
Playing for the Cause
May insists Queen didn’t step onstage to outshine anyone. “We didn’t go there to do that,” he said. “We went there to do our bit. I think the whole thing was very pure and genuine. Nobody was trying to capitalize on it.”
A Legacy That Endures
