Queen’s legendary guitarist Brian May has shared an unexpected pick from the band’s vast and iconic catalog—a deeply cherished track that he refuses to perform live out of respect for the late Freddie Mercury.

With a discography packed full of timeless anthems and bold experiments, even Queen’s members find it hard to single out personal favorites. During a global livestream event promoting their Live Around the World album and movie, Brian May, Roger Taylor, and current vocalist Adam Lambert engaged in a candid Q&A about their top Queen songs.

While Roger Taylor named classics like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Under Pressure,” and “Somebody To Love” without hesitation, and Adam Lambert admitted he couldn’t settle on a single favorite depending on his mood, Brian May’s choice surprised many: “The Miracle.”

Unlike Queen’s well-known hits, “The Miracle” is a lesser-known song written by Freddie Mercury during a difficult chapter in his life. May described the track as possessing a “strange, unique magic,” praising its haunting beauty and the optimism Freddie conveyed despite personal struggles.

Yet, May and Taylor have made a conscious decision to exclude “The Miracle” from live performances, honoring the intimate significance of the song and Freddie’s memory. This choice adds a poignant layer to the track’s mystique, highlighting its special place within Queen’s legacy.

Brian May’s revelation invites fans to revisit “The Miracle,” not only as an underrated gem but as a heartfelt personal statement from Freddie Mercury—one that reflects the complex emotions behind Queen’s music and the profound respect that continues to bind the band members decades later.