Brian May, legendary guitarist and founding member of Queen, recently opened up about the emotional impact of one of the most iconic moments in rock history—Queen’s unforgettable performance at Live Aid in 1985. Now, four decades later, the memories still bring a lump to his throat.
On Sunday, July 13, May, 77, attended a special anniversary gala in London celebrating 40 years since Live Aid, the groundbreaking benefit concert held to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. The event featured a performance of Just For One Day: The Live Aid Musical and reunited many artists connected to the historic occasion.
Joining May was his 38-year-old daughter, Emily Ruth May, one of three adult children he shares with his ex-wife, Christine Mullen. The father-daughter duo made a striking appearance on the red carpet—Brian in a colorful graphic jacket paired with black pants and white sneakers, while Emily wore a dark navy blue outfit and sandals.
Reflecting on that day four decades ago, when Queen took the stage at Wembley Stadium alongside Freddie Mercury, John Deacon, and Roger Taylor, May revealed just how deeply the experience still moves him. “It made me very emotional at the time,” he told Reuters. “Even thinking about it now makes me emotional.”
“There has never been a day like that in my life,” he added, capturing the profound significance of the moment that helped cement Queen’s legendary status and showcased the power of music to unite and inspire for a greater cause.
Live Aid remains one of rock’s most defining events, and Brian May’s heartfelt reflections serve as a poignant reminder of its lasting legacy—not just as a concert, but as a historic act of compassion and solidarity. For May, the emotions stirred by that July day in 1985 continue to resonate, proving that some moments are truly unforgettable.
