This year Freddie Mercury would have turned 60.  Dying on November 24 1991 from the HIV related illness AIDS, the music world was robbed of one of the true performers.  Freddie Mercury was a real talent with an operatic voice who could captivate an audience like few others.  He penned hits Don’t Stop Me Now, Somebody to Love, We Are the Champions and all-time rock classic Bohemian Rhapsody.  Mercury fronted glam rock band Queen known for their exceptional and flamboyant live performances.  Queen’s 1985 Live Aid set is widely acclaimed as the best rock and roll concert of all time.

Sadly ‘The Great Pretender’ is no longer with us.  But the show must go on…  This year to mark the occasion EMI Music have released a DVD in tribute to Freddie’s birthday.  Entitled Lover of Life, Singer of Songs the DVD includes The Untold Story, a fascinating documentary on Freddie’s life, as well as The Solo Videos DVD.  In addition to a whole host of TV documentaries and parties in his honour, a photography exhibition has just opened at the Proud Gallery on the Strand.  This runs until the 22nd October.  For more information go to www.proud.co.uk

Freddie Mercury is an inspiration to all of us to live life to the full.  In his own words ‘Don’t stop me now… I’m having a good time’  Freddie at 60 we salute you!