Freddie Mercury

Imagine a voice so bright and powerful it can fill a stadium — that was Freddie Mercury! Born Farrokh Bulsara in 1946, Freddie became the lead singer of the rock band Queen. In this minute, we'll focus on the single most amazing thing about him: his voice and the way he put on shows.

Freddie was a superstar in the 1970s and 1980s. As Queen's frontman, he wrote and sang songs that mixed rock with opera, pop, and theater. Big hits like 'Bohemian Rhapsody,' 'We Will Rock You,' and 'We Are the Champions' made him famous around the world.

His performances were full of color, energy, and drama — think flashy outfits, piano solos, and a microphone stand that became part of the show. One of his greatest moments was Live Aid in 1985, when he led a crowd of 72,000 and millions more on TV in one of rock's most electric performances.

Why does he matter? Freddie turned songs into anthems people sing at sports games, in movies, and at school assemblies. He inspired artists to be bold and theatrical, and he helped fans everywhere feel brave being themselves. Close your eyes, hear that opening piano, and you'll know why Freddie's music still rocks the world.