Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” is one of the most beloved rock songs of all time, but would that still be true if it had a different title?
A collection of 1,500 personal items from Freddie Mercury’s home are set to be auctioned off in September, and that includes a document revealing the song’s original title.
The original title of “Bohemian Rhapsody” was “Mongolian Rhapsody.” Auction company Sotheby’s tweeted images of drafts of the song, which includes a glimpse at its original title.
Explaining her decision to auction items off, Mary Austin, one of Mercury’s closest and most trusted friends, said:
“For many years now, I have had the joy and privilege of living surrounded by all the wonderful things that Freddie sought out and so loved. But the years have passed, and the time has come for me to take the difficult decision to close this very special chapter in my life.”
Nikki Blakk talks to Steve Gorman about the surprising song name, how Freddie Mercury created the song, and what the author of several books on Queen had to say about “Mongolian Rhapsody”. Listen below: