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How to Analyze Bohemian Rhapsody

The song "Bohemian Rhapsody" was written by the band Queen's front man Freddie Mercury, according to the website Queen Songs. "Bohemian Rhapsody" was recorded and released in 1975 and was at the top of the charts for nine weeks, making it the most successful of Queen's song. The song includes vocals, drums, bass, piano, guitars and a backing choir. To analyze "Bohemian Rhapsody," it is important to listen to the song and read the lyrics to explore the song's meaning.

Things You'll Need

  • Lyrics of "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen
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Instructions

    • 1

      Examine the use of instrumentation in "Bohemian Rhapsody." Notice that the musical accompaniment to the song is sparse at times, meaning that there is less to distract the audience from the vocals. Pay attention to the changes in musical accompaniment throughout the song, including the speed of tempo and loudness or softness. Ask yourself how these factors affect the song and what emotional response you have to the music. Include an opinion on how the beginning of the song, which is sung without accompaniment, makes you feel.

    • 2

      Read the lyrics and describe what you think the song is about and why. Consider whether the song is describing an event literally or if the lyrics are meant as a metaphor for a hidden meaning. Quote lines of the song that you think are significant and explain what each could symbolize, for example the lines "mama, just killed a man, put a gun against his head..." and "gotta leave you all behind and face the truth" could represent that the song is telling the story of a man who has committed a murder and is now having to face the consequences.

    • 3

      Address the way the lyrics and the instrumental work together in the song. Ask yourself whether the sound of the music and the words in the song make you feel similar emotions or if they contradict each other. Examine parts of the song that demonstrate your opinion. For example the line "I sometimes wish I'd never been born at all" is supported by a buildup of musical accompaniment, which could be seen as working with the lyrics by supporting and heightening the emotion of the words.

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