Born in 1947 in Hampton, United Kingdom, Brian May developed a dual career path as a significant rock musician and a professional astrophysicist. Best known as the lead guitarist of the band Queen, his contributions to music include penning major hits and performing with a distinctive, layered sound while simultaneously pursuing advanced academic research in science.
Early Development and Smile
Brian May attended Hampton School and later the University of London and Imperial College London. Before achieving global recognition, he played in the progressive rock group Smile alongside Roger Taylor. This band operated from 1968 until 1970 and established the foundational musical relationships that would lead to his later work.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →The Queen Era
As a founding member of Queen, May contributed guitar performance, songwriting, and vocals. His notable compositions include the anthems We Will Rock You, I Want It All, Who Wants to Live Forever, and The Show Must Go On. Beyond his instrumentals, he served as a singer-songwriter and record producer, influencing the trajectory of rock music through the 1970s, 1980s, and beyond.
Scientific Contributions
Alongside his musical activities, May maintained a commitment to astrophysics. He earned his Doctor of Science degree from Imperial College London. His career in science includes serving as the Chancellor of Liverpool John Moores University between 2008 and 2013. His expertise has been utilized in professional scientific contexts, reflecting a career balanced between studio recordings and academic observation.
Awards and Recognition
May has received numerous accolades for his services to music and charity. He was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2005 and received a knighthood in 2023. Additional honors include the Order of the Badge of Honour, the Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres, and multiple honorary doctorates from institutions such as the University of Hertfordshire and the University of Exeter.
Fast facts
- Born: 1947, Hampton, United Kingdom
- Academic Degree: Doctor of Science
- Notable Band Membership: Queen
- Key Compositions: We Will Rock You, Who Wants to Live Forever
- Chancellor Role: Liverpool John Moores University (2008-2013)
- Knight Bachelor: 2023
- Primary Fields: Astrophysics, Rock Music, Guitar Performance
Questions readers ask
What is Brian May's academic background?
He studied at Imperial College London and the University of London, eventually earning a Doctor of Science degree in astrophysics.
Which bands did Brian May belong to?
His musical career includes memberships in Smile, Queen, The Brian May Band, Rock Aid Armenia, and Rock Therapy.
Achievements
- Commander of the Order of the British Empire — 2005
- Order of the Badge of Honour
- Knight Bachelor — 2023
- Notable work: We Will Rock You
- Notable work: Who Wants to Live Forever
- Notable work: The Show Must Go On
- Notable work: I Want It All
- Instruments: guitar, piano and voice
- Genres: rock music, glam rock and pop rock
