Queen’s Lost 1974 Christmas Song Finally Revealed
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Queen to Release Previously Unheard 1974 Christmas Song, ”Not For Sale (Polar bear)”
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A lost track from the Queen II sessions, recorded in 1974, will see the light of day on a 2026 reissue, offering fans a rare glimpse into the band’s early creative process.
Origins of “Not For Sale (Polar Bear)”
Guitarist Brian May announced the upcoming release of “Not For Sale (Polar Bear),” a Christmas song recorded during the sessions for Queen‘s 1974 album, Queen II. The song was ultimately cut from the final tracklist, remaining unheard for five decades. Queen initially recorded the song as the band Smile.
May clarified that while bootleg versions of the song from the band’s earlier incarnation as Smile may circulate, this particular recording is a previously unreleased version. He described it as a ”work in progress” that will be included in the forthcoming reissue of Queen II, slated for release in 2026. Brian May shared the song on Planet Rock on December 22, 2023.
First Play and Upcoming Reissue
“Not For Sale (Polar bear)” received it’s world premiere on Planet Rock radio on December 22, 2023.Planet Rock reported the song’s unique history and May’s comments regarding its release.
The inclusion of this track on the Queen II reissue represents a significant addition to the band’s catalogue. Reissues frequently enough provide fans with deeper insights into an artist’s creative process, including alternate takes, demos, and previously unreleased material. This release is expected to appeal to both dedicated queen fans and music historians interested in the band’s evolution.
The Importance of Queen II
Queen II, released in 1974, is a pivotal album in Queen‘s discography.It showcased the band’s ambitious arrangements, complex harmonies, and theatrical flair. The album is frequently enough divided into a “white side” and a “black side,” reflecting the contrasting songwriting styles of Freddie Mercury and Brian May.
The reissue of Queen II, with the addition of “Not For Sale (Polar Bear),” promises to provide a more thorough understanding of the album’s creation and the band’s artistic growth during this crucial period. it’s a testament to Queen‘s enduring legacy and the continued interest in their music.