One Year of Love: Queen's Musical Evolution Without Brian May

Is a Queen song still a Queen song without Brian May? The band's 1986 track "One Year of Love" proves that it can be. Written by bassist John Deacon and sung by Freddie Mercury, the song showcases a different side of Queen's sound. Despite the absence of Brian May's guitar, the track features Deacon on Yamaha DX-7 synth, a string orchestra conducted by Lynton Naiff, and a saxophone part played by Steve Gregory. Recorded at the Town House studio in London, the session was led by Mercury, who had a clear vision for the song.

Gregory, known for his iconic saxophone part in George Michael's "Careless Whisper," recalled the recording session as a smooth and efficient process. With Mercury providing guidance and direction, the track came together quickly, showcasing the band's collaborative spirit. Released as a single in 1986, "One Year of Love" stands out as one of the few Queen songs solely written by Deacon, highlighting his songwriting talent within the band.

Despite his quiet demeanor, Deacon's songwriting skills did not go unnoticed by Mercury, who praised his contributions in a radio interview. Deacon's evolving songwriting abilities added depth to Queen's repertoire, showcasing the band's versatility and creativity. "One Year of Love" remains a testament to the band's ability to create memorable music even without all members present, solidifying their status as rock legends.