Remembering Freddie Mercury: The Iconic Tribute Concert
On April 20, 1992, Wembley Arena hosted a memorable concert in honor of Freddie Mercury, the legendary Queen frontman who passed away on November 24, 1991. Organized by the remaining members of Queen and their manager Jim Beach, the event aimed to commemorate Mercury, raise funds for HIV research, and increase AIDS awareness. Despite no initial lineup announcement, all 72,000 tickets sold out within three hours, showcasing the immense love and respect for Mercury.
The concert featured two parts, with the first half including performances by Metallica and Guns N’ Roses. The second half saw the surviving Queen members joined by a star-studded cast, including Elton John, Roger Daltrey, Tony Iommi, Ian Hunter, James Hetfield, George Michael, Seal, Paul Young, Robert Plant, Axl Rose, Slash, Liza Minnelli, and others.
A highlight of the event was the collaboration between David Bowie and Annie Lennox on “Under Pressure,” with Lennox taking on Mercury’s parts. The performance was remarkable, with Lennox’s unique interpretation complementing Bowie’s impeccable delivery. Their tender and charming interactions added depth to the rendition, making it a standout moment in the concert.
Watch the video below to experience the unforgettable duet between David Bowie and Annie Lennox, a tribute to the enduring legacy of Freddie Mercury and Queen.