Freddie Mercury’s early songwriting drafts, which are to be auctioned off at Sotheby’s Auction House in London, offer a glimpse into the creative process behind one of the most iconic songs of Queen – “Bohemian Rhapsody.” The early version of the song was titled “Mongolian Rhapsody” before it was replaced with the familiar “Bohemian.”
Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody Was Different
The collection of over 1,500 items, once belonging to the rock star, includes 15 pages of handwritten lyrics for “Bohemian Rhapsody” penned by Mercury himself. What is arguably the most popular Queen song looks the same on the draft, with few exceptions, like the title.
Mary Austin, a close friend of Mercury, is selling the personal items on his behalf. During an interview, she explained that the decision to part with the collection stems from the need to organize her affairs and close this chapter of her life. Except for a few personal gifts and photographs, Austin is selling the entirety of Mercury’s items, which have remained at his Garden Lodge home in London’s Kensington neighborhood since his passing in 1991.
The Draft Could Go for $1.5 Million
The estimated value of the paper alone, which holds the early draft of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” reaches an impressive £1.2 million (approximately $1.5 million). Other items of interest include a pair of Adidas high-top sneakers, a crown and cape ensemble, and Mercury’s posthumous 1992 MTV Video Music Award for Best Music Video, recognizing the iconic “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
Mary Austin stated that she made the decision not to hold anything back, expressing the need for bravery in selling the entire collection. However, before the items go up for auction, Queen fans will have the opportunity to view them in a free traveling exhibition titled Freddie Mercury: A World of His Own. The exhibition was on display at Sotheby’s New York location from June 1st to June 8th.
Sotheby’s, in a statement on their website, highlighted that the collection is a testament to Freddie Mercury’s passion and brilliant mind. Over three decades, these items have resided at Mercury’s cherished Garden Lodge, showcasing the quality and diversity of his creative works.
The upcoming auction offers an extraordinary chance to delve into the artistic journey of one of music’s most revered figures. As fans and enthusiasts immerse themselves in Mercury’s handwritten lyrics and personal belongings, they will gain a deeper understanding of his creative process and the indelible mark he left on the world of music. The auction will take place later this year, after the 1,500 items from the singer’s estate get unveiled to the public for the first time, starting August 4th, 2023. This gallery-like experience will end on Mercury’s birthday, September 5th, and culminate with six public and private sales, starting September 6th.