Pre-Queen Songs
This page features details of all tracks which originate from before Queen's debut album in 1973. It includes tracks which have been officially released, demos, and some live performances.
Further details of the various groups can be found on the Other Groups biography page.
April Lady | Blag | Doing Alright | Earth | Polar Bear | Step On Me | White Queen (As It Began)
I Can Hear Music | Going Back
Get Out Of My Life Woman / Satisfaction | Hold On I'm Coming | How Can It Be | Knock On Wood | My Girl | NSU | Our Love Is Driftin' | Purple Haze | Remember | Step On Me (two versions) | Sweet Wine
Communication Breakdown | Crossroads | Jailhouse Rock | Rain | Rock Me Baby | So Sweet | Vagabond Outcast | We're Going Home | We're Going Wrong
(on the Brian May Collaborations 1967-1986 page)
Appointment | Give Me Time | I Need Time | She Was Once My Friend | Sugar Lump Girl | Yours Sincerely
Sunny | Transit 3 | Vehicle
Buona Sera | Game Of Love | I Got You (I Feel Good) | I'll Go Crazy | In The Midnight Hour | Just A Little Bit | What's On Your Mind
Green
Hangman (later recorded by Queen but unreleased, on separate page)
- Gettin' Smile (Japanese only LP, 1982; includes all six Smile tracks) [discography]
- Ghost Of A Smile (Netherlands only CD, 1997; includes all six Smile tracks plus two versions of 'Man From Manhattan') [discography]
Two bootleg albums, 'Queen In Nuce' and 'Pre-Ordained', have also been released, which have somehow found their way into reputable places like Virgin, HMV and Amazon, so are included for completeness. Full details can be found in the Pre-Queen Albums Discography.
- Earth / Step On Me (US only single, 10 August 1969) [discography]
- I Can Hear Music / Going Back (did not chart, 29 June 1973) [discography]
April Lady
Recorded by Smile
. Length 2:42.
Brian May sings lead vocals, and Roger sings a few lines aswell.
Written by Stanley Lucas, this song was given to the band by Mercury Records.
Recorded at De Lane Lea Studios in London, September 1969, produced by Fritz Freyer.
This track is available on the 'Gettin' Smile' Japanese LP and the 'Ghost Of A Smile' Dutch CD. She won our hearts, the arts she loved
Was painting pictures for free
When she was done she hung them up
For all the children to see
Goodbye april lady
It's been good to have you around
Goodbye april lady
You've done a lot for the folks in this town
The children learned to read
She strung their beads
It's sorry she was the one
As you can see isn't she good
She don't leave nothing undone
Goodbye april lady
It's been good to have you around
Goodbye april lady
You've done a lot for the folks in this town
She taught them all to love
She was their cream
And we don't want her to go
But we know too well
She fell in love
And there's no stopping her so
Goodbye april lady
It's been good to have you around
Goodbye april lady
You've done a lot for the folks in this town
Goodbye april lady
Goodbye april lady
Goodbye
Blag
Recorded by Smile
. Length 3:11.
Written by Brian May or Roger Taylor.
Recorded at De Lane Lea Studios in London, September 1969, produced by Fritz Freyer.
This track is available on the 'Gettin' Smile' Japanese LP and the 'Ghost Of A Smile' Dutch CD. On 'Ghost Of A Smile', Tim Staffell credits this track to Roger, but the 'Brighton Rock' style suggests that Brian May was also involved. Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Take away my sunshine
You take away my rain
I can see it in your eye
There must be an answer somewhere (there must be a way)
You can find a way
I can see it in your eye
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Do, do, do
Buona Sera
Performed by The Reaction
, with Roger on drums, at Wadebridge Cinema, Cornwall, England, in 1966. Length 3:07.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by Louis Prima in 1957, and later by Dean Martin.
A studio version of the track is only available on a four track acetate single, and has yet to appear on a bootleg or MP3 download. Buona sera, signorina, buona sera
Well, it's time to say goodnight in Napoli
By the little jeweller shop we'll stop and linger
And I'll buy a wedding ring to fit your finger
Well, in the meantime, let me tell you that I love you
Buona sera, signorina, kiss me goodnight
Say buona sera, signorina, buona sera
Well, it's time to say goodnight in Napoli
By the little jeweller shop we'll stop and linger
And I'll buy a wedding ring to fit your finger
Well, in the meantime, let me tell you that I love you
Buona sera, signorina, kiss me goodnight
Say buona sera, signorina, buona sera
Well, it's time to say goodnight in Napoli
By the little jeweller shop we'll stop and linger
And I'll buy a wedding ring to fit your finger
Well, in the meantime, let me tell you that I love you
Say, buona sera, signorina, kiss me goodnight
Say, buona sera, signorina, buona sera
Well, it's time to say goodnight in Napoli
In the little jeweller shop we'll stop and linger
And I'll buy a wedding ring to fit your finger
Well, in the meantime, let me tell you that I love you
Buona sera, signorina, kiss me goodnight
Buona sera, signorina, kiss me goodnight
Buona sera, signorina, kiss me goodnight
Communication Breakdown
Performed by Ibex
, with Freddie on vocals, at The Sink Club, Liverpool, England, on 9 September 1969. Length 2:09.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by Led Zeppelin for their 1969 album 'Led Zeppelin'.
Due to the poor quality of the available recording, and the loudness of the music, attempting to transcribe the lyrics of this track is near impossible and would be fairly pointless.
Crossroads
Performed by Ibex
, with Freddie on vocals, at The Sink Club, Liverpool, England, on 9 September 1969. Length 3:51.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by Robert Johnson in 1937, but notably covered by Cream on their 1968 live album 'Wheels Of Fire'.
Due to the poor quality of the available recording, and the loudness of the music, attempting to transcribe the lyrics of this track is near impossible and would be fairly pointless.
A 1994 performance of this track by Paul Rodgers, with Brian May on guitar, was released in 2011, on the 'Live At Montreux' album.
Doing Alright
Recorded by Smile
. Length 3:45.
Written by Tim Staffell and Brian May. Roger Taylor sings some lead vocals.
Recorded at Trident Studios in London, in June 1969, produced by John Anthony. This is the only Smile track which was recorded in stereo.
The track is available on the 'Gettin' Smile' Japanese LP and the 'Ghost Of A Smile' Dutch CD, and was later re-recorded by Queen and as a duet by Tim Staffell and Brian May, Yesterday my life was in ruin
Now today I know what I'm doing
Gotta feeling, I should be doing alright
Doing alright
Where will I be this time tomorrow
Jumped in joy or sinking in sorrow
Anyway, I should be doing alright Doing alright Should be waiting for the sun
Anyway I've got to hide
Going back to where the skies are blue (skies are blue)
Going home to find the world
Should be waiting for the sun
Anyway I've got to hide
Ahhh, ahhh, ahhh, ahhh, oooh Yesterday my life was in ruin
Now today I know what I'm doing
Gotta feeling, I should be doing alright
Doing alright Doing alright
Earth
Recorded by Smile
. Length 3:59.
Written by Tim Staffell.
Recorded at Trident Studios in London, in June 1969, produced by John Anthony, with additional keyboards by Chris Smith.
The track is available on the 'Gettin' Smile' Japanese LP and the 'Ghost Of A Smile' Dutch CD, and was later re-recorded by Tim Staffell and Brian May. I might be at a table
And suddenly I'll catch
A fleeting vision of her crystal seas
Or I might be standing in a crowded dockyard faraway
Underneath the sun I've never seen
'Cos I have seen many worlds
For what it's worth
But I'll never see again the planet earth, my earth
I might be chasing waves of light
Out towards the rim
Where stars are sparse
And the cold of space seeps in
Or I might be in a bar room
Drinking methylated gin
And thinking of the places I have been
Yes, I have seen many worlds
For what it's worth
But I'll never see again the planet earth, my earth
I have seen many worlds
For what it's worth
But I'll never see again the planet earth, my earth
Cast adrift amongst the stars
I float from sun to sun
Dreaming of the world that gave me birth
All the places I have been
Remind me there is none
To match the cool green rolling hills of earth
'Cos I have seen many worlds
For what it's worth
But I'll never see again the planet earth, my earth
Game Of Love
Performed by The Reaction
, with Roger on drums, at Truro City Hall, Cornwall, England, in 1966. Length 2:10.
This is an unreleased track, and I am unsure where the track originates from.
The lyrics of this track are very difficult to make out, as the drums are very prominent.
Get Out Of My Life Woman / Satisfaction
Recorded by 1984
, with Brian on guitar and Tim Staffell on vocals, at Thames TV Studios, Teddington, in Spring 1967. Length 7:08.
This is a medley which features 'Get Out Of My Life Woman', 'Satisfaction', and 'Get Out Of My Life Woman' again.
'Get Out Of My Life Woman' was originally recorded by Lee Dorsey and reached no 22 in 1966.
'Satisfaction' was originally recorded by The Rolling Stones and reached no 1 in 1965. Get out of my life woman
You don't love me no more
Get out of my life woman
You don't love me no more
Get out of my life woman
You don't need me no more
Get out of my eyes teardrops
I've got to see my way around
Get out of my eyes teardrops
I've got to see my way around
Get out of my life woman
I've got heartaches by the pound
Get out of my life woman
You don't love me no more
Get out of my life woman
You don't love me no more
Get out of my life woman
I've got heartaches by the score
Get no
Get no
Get no
Get no
Get no
Get no
Get no
I can't get no satisfaction
I can't get no girl reaction
'Cos I try, oh I try, oh I try, oh how I try
I can't get no, no satisfaction
No, I can't get no, no satisfaction
No satisfaction, no satisfaction
Get out of my life woman
You don't love me no more
Get out of my life woman
You don't love me no more
Get out of my life woman
You don't want me no more
Going Back
Released under the name Larry Lurex
, featuring Freddie Mercury, Roger Taylor and Brian May. Length 3:31.
Written by Gerry Goffin and Carole King, and originally recorded by Dusty Springfield, reaching no 10 in 1966.
Available on the original 7" single, on the 'Lover Of Life, Singer Of Songs' CD, both the 3CD and 10CD/2DVD 'Solo' boxed sets, and the 'Messenger Of The Gods' album and boxed set.
Recorded at Trident Studios, London, in the summer of 1972, and produced by Robin Cable.
Excerpts of this track appear in 'Mother Love' and the instrumental version of 'Machines (or Back To Humans)'. I think I'm going back
To the things I learnt so well in my youth
I think I'm returning to
Those days when I was young enough to know the truth
Now there are no games
To only pass the time
No more colouring books
No Christmas bells to chime
But thinking young and growing older
Is a sin
And I can play the game of life to win
I can recall a time
When I wasn't ashamed to reach out
To old friends
And now I think I've got
A lot more than just my toys to lend
Now there's more to do
Than watch my sailboard glide
And everyday can be
My magic carpet ride
And I can play hide and seek with my fears
And live my days instead of counting my years
And everyone debates
The true reality
I'd rather see the world
The way it used to be
A little bit of freedom's all we lack
So catch me if you can
I'm going back
Green
Recorded by Wreckage
, and written by Freddie Mercury. Length 3:13 (2:50 excluding the dialogue).
Recorded at Freddie's flat in Ferry Road, Barnes, London, in October 1969, featuring Freddie Mercury, Mike Bersin, John Taylor and Richard Thompson. It was recorded at a rehearsal, and was edited down from a 10 minute tape.
The track is officially available in the 10CD/2DVD 'Solo' boxed set.
The lyrics to the song are quite difficult to make out, so the lyrics here are probably inaccurate.
Various excerpts from the 10 minute demo tape are available, as follows: This version adds a new section to the start of the track - basically, the first 18 seconds of dialogue in the boxed set has been replaced by a 1:25 section which is completely different to the rest of the track, so much so that it could actually be a different song. The rest of the track sounds identical to the released version. Length 4:18. This version features essentially the same parts as the released version but in far inferior quality. It begins with about 12 seconds of various parts of the track, during which the tape cuts badly a couple of times. It then features the end of the track ("I'm losing sense of rhythm" onwards), which is from a different recording to the released version, as it includes slightly different dialogue. When this version finishes, there is a bit of silence and then the normal released version is heard in it's entirety, omitting the dialogue at the start and the end (from approx 0:18 to 3:09). Length 3:30. This version is by far the most interesting, it has the same structure as version 1, but the 'normal' part of the track must be from an alternate take, as it contains minor lyric changes. Length 4:19. The Boxed Set version includes some intro dialogue, the main song and then some outro dialogue
Version 1 contains the new verses, the main song and then outro dialogue
Version 2 contains the end of a different take, then the main song
Version 3 contains the new verses, and then an alternate take of the song
The 'alternate take' in version 2 is different to version 3; the 'new' verses in versions 1 and 3 are from the same take. In total these versions include excerpts from at least three different takes. As there is so much duplication between the versions, the lyrics below are divided into a number of sections. This may not be the easiest form to follow, but should highlight the differences between each version.
Boxed set version lyrics
Introductory dialogue and lyrics: boxed set, excerpts 1 & 3, excerpt 2
Main song lyrics: boxed set and excerpts 1 & 2, excerpt 3 Unknown voice: No, we'll pick it up
Freddie: Yeah, so don't, listen, don't forget, when, when you, after the, after the two verses, if you're doing the same thing like you did, like you'll be going de dum de dum de dum de dum. Then you'll be going
Unknown voice: OK, look, let's get on with it 'cos I want to sing, right? There's a sudden change in me
I'm another person inside of me
Tomorrow I am going to see
The last of the blue skies above me
And I'm ready
And I'm going away
There's nothing you can do to stop me
Myself a life is at an end
I'm going to start again
Wonderful voice screaming me on now
I believe my time has come
Any moment
I'll be drifting to the sun
And I'm waiting for the tide to turn me on
To the flower that is beckoning me on
And I'm ready
I know I'm going away
Nothing you can do to stop me
Myself a license up to heaven
I'm going again
Wonderful voice leaving the earth now
Green
Turning green
Rapidly changing to a place I've never seen
Green
Turning green
Contaminated soul breathing fire to a boy
Green
Turning green
Soles of my feet are expanding due to heat 'cos I
I'm losing sense of rhythm
Losing sense of rhythm
I'm completely changing to a brand new system Unknown voice: Ow Ahh Unknown voice: Very, very good
Freddie: No
Unknown voice: It's not that fast is it, well (????) There's a place I have been
And a face I have seen
Today
The secrets of the dungeon (Unknown lyrics) But I've said all my prayers
Never asked it, never cared
At all
I see a shadow looking there
It's trying to lead me to the wall
Ohh, that I'm looking for
Never living, never living anymore, ahhh
Cannot live without you Unknown voice: Seven, eight
Freddie (in excerpt 3 only): Wait a minute Freddie ad-libs Losing sense of rhythm [tape cuts] Reaching [tape cuts]
Unknown dialogue Losing sense of rhythm
I'm losing sense of rhythm
I'm completely changing to a brand new system Freddie: That's right. Oh, beautiful
Unknown voice: One, two, three, four Ahh Unknown voice: No, we'll pick it up
Freddie: Yeah, so don't, listen, don't forget, when, when you, after the, after the two verses, if you're doing the same thing like you did, like you'll be going de dum de dum de dum de dum. Then you'll be going
Unknown voice: OK, look, let's get on with it 'cos I want to sing, right? There's a sudden change in me
I'm another person inside of me
Tomorrow I am going to see
The last of the blue skies above me
And I'm ready
And I'm going away
There's nothing you can do to stop me
Myself a life is at an end
I'm going to start again
Wonderful voice screaming me on now
I believe my time has come
Any moment
I'll be drifting to the sun
And I'm waiting for the tide to turn me on
To the flower that is beckoning me on
And I'm ready
I know I'm going away
Nothing you can do to stop me
Myself a license up to heaven
I'm going again
Wonderful voice leaving the earth now
Green
Turning green
Rapidly changing to a place I've never seen
Green
Turning green
Contaminated soul breathing fire to a boy
Green
Turning green
Soles of my feet are expanding due to heat 'cos I
I'm losing sense of rhythm
Losing sense of rhythm
I'm completely changing to a brand new system Unknown voice: Ow Ahh Unknown voice: Very, very good
Freddie (in the boxed set and excerpt 1 only): No
Unknown voice (in the boxed set and excerpt 1 only): It's not that fast is it, well (????) There's a sudden change in me
I'm another person inside of me
Tomorrow I am going to see
The last of the blue skies above me
And I'm ready
I'm going away
There's nothing you can do to stop me
Myself a life is at an end
Come back again
Wonderful voice leaving the earth now
I believe my time has come
Any moment
I'll be drifting to the sun
And I'm trying, waiting for the tide to turn me on
To the flower that is, that is beckoning me on
And I'm ready
And I'm going away
There's nothing you can do to stop me
Myself a license up to heaven
I'm going back again
Wonderful voice leaving the earth now Unknown voice: Still playing those gaps in the (unknown dialogue, continuing throughout verse) Green
Turning green
Rapidly changing to a place I've never seen
Green
Turning green
Contaminated soul breathing fire to a boy
Green
Green, green, green, green, aah
Ooh, soles of my feet are expanding due to heat 'cos I
I'm losing sense of rhythm
Losing sense of rhythm
I'm completely turning to a brand new system
Hold On I'm Coming
Recorded by 1984
, with Brian on guitar and Tim Staffell on vocals, at Thames TV Studios, Teddington, in Spring 1967. Length 3:45.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by the duo Sam & Dave for their 1966 debut album of the same name. If you ever feel bad
I'm the best guy you've ever had
When the day comes you're feeling down
Call on me, I'll come around
Oh, hold on, I'm coming
Hold on, I'm coming
Oh, hold on, I'm coming
Hold on, I'm coming
If you ever feel bad
Come with me, I'll make you glad
When the day comes you're feeling down
Call on me, I'll come around
Oh, hold on, I'm coming
Hold on, I'm coming
Hold on, I'm coming
Hold on, I'm coming
Reach out to me, for satisfaction
I'm the one who'll be there
Well, you know I'm the one to care
There for you, alright
If you ever feel bad
I'm the best guy you've ever had
When the day comes you're feeling down
Call on me, I'll come around
Oh, hold on, I'm coming
Hold on, I'm coming
Hold on, I'm coming
Hold on, I'm coming
Reach out to me for satisfaction
I'm the one who'll be there
When you're low I'm the one who cares
There for you, oh
If you ever feel sad
I'm the best guy you've ever had
When the day comes you're feeling down
Call on me, I'll come around
Oh, hold on, I'm coming
Hold on, I'm coming
Hold on, I'm coming
Hold on, well I've come
How Can It Be
Recorded by 1984
, with Brian on guitar and Tim Staffell on vocals, at Thames TV Studios, Teddington, in Spring 1967. Length 3:08.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by The Birds (not to be confused with The Byrds) as the B-side of their 1965 single 'No Good Without You Baby'. Babe, you always pass me by
How can it be
Now I've got to understand why
How can it be
Say you love me, then again
How can it be
Can't resist those other men
How can it be
I said how can it be
I said how can it be
I said how can it be
I said how can it be
Alright
I can read you like a book
How can it be
Now I thought you had just the one look
How can it be
When you, wahhh, you use me
How can it be
And you, ohh, confuse me
How can it be
I said how can it be
I said how can it be
I said how can it be
I said how can it be
I Can Hear Music
Released under the name Larry Lurex
, featuring Freddie Mercury, Roger Taylor and Brian May. Length 3:27.
Written by Phil Spector, Ellie Greenwich and Jeff Barry, and originally recorded by The Beach Boys, reaching no 10 in 1969.
The original single version is available on the 7" single, the 'Lover Of Life, Singer Of Songs' CD, and in both the 3CD and 10CD/2DVD 'Solo' boxed sets, while an edit appears on the 'Messenger Of The Gods' album and boxed set.
Recorded at Trident Studios, London, in the summer of 1972, and produced by Robin Cable.
The track was originally going to be released under the name 'Larry Lurex & The Voles From Venus'. 1. 'Messenger Of The Gods' Edit (3:23) (available on the album and boxed set; this version features a slightly earlier fade out) This is the way
I only dreamed it could be
The way that it is
Oh, no, when you are holding me
I never had a love of my own
Maybe that's why when we're all alone
I can hear music
I can hear music
Sounds of the city, baby
Seems to disappear
Oh well, I can hear music
Sweet, sweet music
Whenever you touch me, baby
Whenever you're near
Loving you - it keeps me satisfied
And I can't explain, oh no
The way I'm feeling inside
You look at me we kiss and then
I close my eyes and here it comes again
I can hear music
I can hear music
Sounds of the city, baby
Seems to disappear
Oh well, I can hear music
Sweet, sweet music
Whenever you touch me, baby
Whenever you're near
I can hear music
Sweet, sweet music
Whenever you touch me, baby
Whenever you're near
I can hear music
Sweet, sweet music
Whenever you touch me, baby
Whenever you're near
I Got You (I Feel Good)
Performed by The Reaction
, with Roger on drums, at Wadebridge Cinema, Cornwall, England, in 1966. Length 2:50.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by James Brown in 1965.
A studio version of the track is only available on a two track acetate single, and has yet to appear on a bootleg or MP3 download. Woo
I feel good, I knew that I would now
I feel so good, I knew that I would now
So good, so good
I got you
I feel nice, sugar and spice
I feel so nice, sugar and spice
So nice, so nice
I got you
When I hold you in my arms
There ain't nothing that can do me no harm
When I hold you in my arms
Your love can do me no harm
And I feel nice, sugar and spice
Want you to know that I feel so nice, sugar and spice
So nice, so nice, I got you
When I hold you in my arms
There ain't nothing that can do me no harm
When I hold you in my arms
My love can do me no harm
And I feel nice, sugar and spice
Oh, I feel so nice, yeah, sugar and spice
So nice, so nice, I got you
I feel good, I knew that I would now
Don't you know I feel so good
I knew that I would now
So good, so good
I got you
So good, so good
I got you
So good, so good
I got you
Hey
I'll Go Crazy
Performed by The Reaction
, with Roger on drums, at Wadebridge Cinema, Cornwall, England, in 1966. Length 2:46.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by James Brown in 1960.
As well as the full version a 0:41 edit of the track is also available.
A studio version of the track is only available on a four track acetate single, and has yet to appear on a bootleg or MP3 download. If you leave me, I'll go crazy
If you leave me, I'll go crazy
I love you, I love you
You, nobody else
If you hurt me, I'll go crazy
If you hurt me, I'll go crazy
I love you, I love you
You, nobody else
You've got to live for yourself
For yourself and nobody else
You've got to live for yourself
For yourself and nobody else
If you leave me, I'll go crazy
If you leave me, I'll go crazy
I love you, I love you
You and nobody else
If you hurt me, I'll go crazy
If you hurt me, I'll go crazy
I love you, I love you
You, nobody else
You've got to live for yourself
For yourself and nobody else
You've got to live for yourself
For yourself and nobody else
If you leave me, I'll go crazy
If you leave me, I'll go crazy
I love you, I love you
You, nobody else
If you hurt me, I'll go crazy
If you hurt me, I'll go crazy
I love you, I love you
You, nobody else
You've got to live for yourself
For yourself and nobody else
You've got to live for yourself
For yourself and nobody else
If you leave me, I'll go crazy
If you leave me, I'll go crazy
I love you, I love you
You, nobody else
In The Midnight Hour
Performed by The Reaction
, with Roger on drums, at Wadebridge Cinema, Cornwall, England, in 1966. Length 3:36.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by Wilson Pickett, and reached no 12 in 1965.
As well as the full track, a 1:36 edit of the middle of the track is also available.
A studio version of the track is only available on a two track acetate single, and has yet to appear on a bootleg or MP3 download. I'm gonna wait till the midnight hour
That's when my love comes tumbling down
I'm gonna wait till the midnight hour
That's when there's no one else around
I'm gonna take you girl, hold you
And do all the things I told you
In the midnight hour, yes I am
In the midnight hour
Oh
I'm gonna wait till the stars come out
And see that twinkle in your eyes
I'm gonna wait till the stars come out
That's when my mood begins to shine
I'm gonna take you girl, hold you
And do all the things I told you
In the midnight hour, yes I am
In the midnight hour, alright, yeah
I'm gonna wait till the stars come out
And see that twinkle in your eyes
I'm gonna wait till the stars come out
That's when my mood begins to shine
I'm gonna take you girl, hold you
And do all the things I told you
In the midnight hour, yes I am
In the midnight hour
Oh, I'm gonna wait till the midnight hour
That's when my love comes tumbling down
I'm gonna wait till the midnight hour
That's when there's no one else around
I'm gonna take you girl, hold you
And do all the things I told you
In the midnight hour, yes I am
In the midnight hour, yes I am
In the midnight hour, oh, yes I am
In the midnight hour
Jailhouse Rock
Performed by Ibex
, with Freddie on vocals, at The Sink Club, Liverpool, England, on 9 September 1969. Length 3:25.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by Elvis Presley and reached no 1 in January 1958. The track was subsequently performed live extensively by Queen, and full details can be found on the Live Only Songs page.
Due to the poor quality of the available recording, and the loudness of the music, attempting to transcribe the lyrics of this track is near impossible and would be fairly pointless.
Just A Little Bit
Performed by The Reaction
, with Roger on drums, at Wadebridge Cinema, Cornwall, England, in 1966. Length 2:33.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by Rosco Gordon in 1959.
A studio version of the track is only available on a four track acetate single, and has yet to appear on a bootleg or MP3 download. Babe, I don't want it all
Babe, I just want a little bit
Babe, I don't want it all
Babe, I just want a little bit
Just a teeny weeny bit, just a teeny weeny bit of your love
Turn the lights down low
Babe, I gave you a kiss
Turn the lights down low
Babe, I gave you a kiss
Just a teeny weeny bit, just a teeny weeny bit of your love
Ooh, let's go
Babe, I don't want it all
Babe, I just want a little bit
Babe, I don't want it all
Babe, I just want a little bit
Just a teeny weeny bit, just a teeny weeny bit of your love
Oh yeah
Turn the lights down low
Babe, I gave you a kiss
Turn the lights down low
Babe, I gave you a kiss
Just a teeny weeny bit, just a teeny weeny bit of your love
Knock On Wood
Recorded by 1984
, with Brian on guitar and Tim Staffell on vocals, at Thames TV Studios, Teddington, in Spring 1967. Length 2:55.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by Eddie Floyd in 1966 and later by David Bowie in 1974. Two, three, four
I don't wanna lose, this good thing
That I've got, if I do
I will surely
Surely lose a lot
Because your love is better
Than any love I know
It's like thunder, lightning
The way you love is frightening
I gotta knock on wood
I'm not superstitious about you
But I can't take no chance
Oh my head, is spinning baby
Baby, I'm in a trance
I said your love is better
Than any love I know
It's like thunder, lightning
The way you love is frightening
I gotta knock on wood, baby
I'm not superstitious about you
But I can't take no chance
My head, is spinning baby
Baby, I'm in a trance
I said your love is better
Than any love I know
It's like thunder, lightning
The way you love is frightening
I gotta knock on wood, baby
Ohhhhh, yeah
Said I'd better knock, knock on wood
I said I'd better knock, knock on wood
I said I'd better knock, knock on wood
My Girl
Recorded by 1984
, with Brian on guitar and Tim Staffell on vocals, at Thames TV Studios, Teddington, in Spring 1967. Length 2:20+.
This track was originally recorded by The Temptations for their 1965 album 'The Temptations Sing Smokey'.
This track is available on Youtube but it is an edited version, which fades out abruptly. I've got sunshine on a cloudy day
And it's cold outside, I've got the month of May
Oh, I guess you'd say
What can make me feel this way?
It's my girl
You know I'm talkin' 'bout my girl
I've got so much lovin' all the bees envy me
I've got the sweetest song that I can sing all the bluebirds in the trees
Oh, I guess you'd say
What can make me feel this way?
It's my girl
Talkin' 'bout my girl
Oooh
Oooh
Hey, hey, hey
Hey, hey, hey
Oooh
I don't need no money, all I need is my babe
I've got all the riches baby one big man can crave
Oh, I guess you'd say
What can make me feel this way
It's my girl
You know I'm talkin' 'bout my girl
NSU
Recorded by 1984
, with Brian on guitar and Tim Staffell on vocals, at Thames TV Studios, Teddington, in Spring 1967. Length 3:40.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by Cream for their 1966 album 'Fresh Cream'.
Brian sings the first line of each 'verse'. Two, three, four
Driving in my car, smoking my cigar
The only time I'm happy's when I play my guitar
Wah, ah, ah, ah, ah
Wah, ah, ah, ah, ah
Ha
Singing in my yacht, what a lot I've got
Happiness is something which just cannot be bought
Wah, ah, ah, ah, ah
Wah, ahh, ahh
Wah, ahh, ahh
Wah, ah, ah, ah, ah
I've been up and down, I've been in and out
I don't want to go until I've found it all out
Wah, ahh, ahh
Wah, ahh, ahh
Wah, ahh, ahh
Wah, ahh, ahh
Ha
What's it all about, anyone in doubt
I don't want to go until I've found it all out
Wah, ahh, ahh
Wah, ahh, ahh
Wah, ahh, ahh
Our Love Is Driftin'
Recorded by 1984
, with Brian on guitar and Tim Staffell on vocals, at Thames TV Studios, Teddington, in Spring 1967. Length 3:19.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by the Paul Butterfield Blues Band for their self-titled 1965 album. Our love is drifting
Honey, I can see it day by day
Our love is drifting
Honey, I can see it day by day
I know that you've let some other man
Steal my little girl away
Lord, I worked hard all my life
I tried to get you the things that you need
Yes, I worked hard all my life
I tried to get you the things that you need
If I'm not careful then that girl
She, she'll get stolen and taken away from me, ha, alright
Our love is drifting
I can see it day by day
Our love is drifting
Honey, I can see it day by day
Don't you let no other man
Steal my little girl away
Alright
Polar Bear
Recorded by Smile
. Length 3:54.
Written by Brian May. Brian May and Tim Staffell share lead vocals.
Recorded at De Lane Lea Studios in London, September 1969, produced by Fritz Freyer.
This track is available on the 'Gettin' Smile' Japanese LP and the 'Ghost Of A Smile' Dutch CD.
Details are also available of an unreleased Queen version. In the bright shop window sits the polar bear
Makes the children's eyes light up to see him there
Oooh, amongst the tinsel he gives everyone a smile
Too see him as you'd see a star
Love him from where you are
He's not for, not for, not for sale
Past an open window walks the pretty girl
Does she see me at her feet it's hard to tell
Oooh, but if I ask her she might turn her smile away
I see her as I'd see a star
Love her from where you are
He's not for, not for, not for sale
I guess I'll learn to look
Oooh, without a grasping hand
Minor contentment wears a smile
I love her from where I lie
He's not for, not for, not for sale
Not for sale
Purple Haze
Recorded by 1984
, with Brian on guitar and Tim Staffell on vocals, at Thames TV Studios, Teddington, in Spring 1967. Length 4:19.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by The Jimi Hendrix Experience and released as a single in 1967.
This track unsurprisingly features far more prominent guitar from Brian than most of the other tracks. Two, three, four
Purple haze all in my brain
Crazy things that don't seem the same
You've got me chumping, blowing my mind
Tomorrow or just the end of time?
Purple haze all around
Don't know if I'm comin' up or down
You've got me chumping, and I don't know why
'Scuse me while I kiss the sky
Help me, ohhh, help me
Alright
Purple haze all around
Don't know if I'm comin' up or down
You've got me chumping, or is it real
Whatever it is, that girl put a spell on me
Help me, ohhh, help me
Alright
Purple haze all in my brain
Crazy things that don't seem the same
You've got me chumping, but I don't know why
'Scuse me while I kiss the sky
Help me, ohhh, help me, help me, help me
Purple haze
Purple haze
Purple haze
Purple haze
Rain
(live)
Performed by Ibex
, with Freddie on vocals, at The Sink Club, Liverpool, England, on 9 September 1969. Length 3:50.
The track is only available in the 10CD/2DVD 'Solo' boxed set.
Written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, and originally recorded by The Beatles in 1966 as the B-side to 'Paperback Writer'. If the rain comes
They run and hide their heads
They might as well be dead
If the rain comes
If the rain comes
When the sun shines
They slip into the shade
And sip their lemonade
When the sun shines
When the sun shines
Rain
I don't mind
Shine
Weather's fine
If the rain comes
They run and hide their heads
Oooh, they might as well be dead
If the rain comes
If the rain comes
Rain
I don't mind
Shine
Weather's fine
Rain
Oooh, oooh, oooh-oooh
Oooh, oooh, oooh-oooh
Oooh, oooh, oooh-oooh
Oooh, oooh, oooh-oooh
Rain
Rain
Rain
Rain
Rain
Remember
Recorded by 1984
, with Brian on guitar and Tim Staffell on vocals, at Thames TV Studios, Teddington, in Spring 1967. Length 2:11.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by The Jimi Hendrix Experience for their 1967 album 'Are You Experienced?'. It segues into 'Sweet Wine'. It includes a few seconds of studio noise before the track itself starts. Oh, remember how the honeybees
They used to sing for the sunshine
Oh, they used to sing for the rain
Yeah, they used to sing so sweet
But since my baby left me
They ain't sung a thing all day
Oh, remember how the honeybees
They used to sing for the sunshine
Well, they used to sing for the rain
My, they used to sing so sweet
But since my baby left me
They ain't sung a thing all day
Oh, come on pretty baby, come on back to me
Make everybody happy as can be now
Oh, remember how the honeybees
They used to sing for the sunshine
Oh, they used to sing for the rain
Yeah, they used to sing so sweet
But since my baby left me
They ain't sung a thing all day
Rock Me Baby
Performed by Ibex
, with Freddie on vocals, at The Sink Club, Liverpool, England, on 9 September 1969. Length 1:05.
This is an unreleased track, which has been recorded by countless blues artists and was originally a hit for B.B King in 1964. This is a short edit of the live track. Rock me, my love
Rock me, rock me baby
Rock me
Rock me, rock me, rock me away
So Sweet
Performed by Ibex
, with Freddie on vocals, at The Sink Club, Liverpool, England, on 9 September 1969. Length 3:17.
This is an unreleased track, and I'm unsure where it originates from, or whether this is the actual title of the track.
Due to the poor quality of the available recording, and the loudness of the music, attempting to transcribe the lyrics of this track is near impossible and would be fairly pointless.
Step On Me
Recorded by 1984
, with Brian on guitar and Tim Staffell on vocals, at Thames TV Studios, Teddington, in Spring 1967.
This is an unreleased track, which was later recorded by Smile. It is the only track from the session which is an original composition.
Two versions of the track were performed, lasting 3:07 (take 1) and 3:13 (take 2). The track is fairly similar to the version later recorded by Smile, with only minor lyric changes. Brian's guitar in take 1 is far less prominent than on take 2. Two, three, four
Know what I said when I saw you crying
Hang on that's for me
I was weak in the head, I believed your lying
You're just a bad memory
My life is going to be better, oooh
My why could I never ever see she'd step on me
Well I talked to your friend just the other day
I was lonely, couldn't raise a smile
Oh but she hid a smile and she ain't like you
Gonna stay for more than just a little while
My life is going to be better, oooh
My why, why, could I never ever see she'd step on me
Step on me, step on me, step on me
Now it's so good I won't waste my time
On a two year old picture of you
Now that you're gone everything's fine
But your pride won't admit that we're through
My life is going to be better, oooh
My why, why, could I never ever see she'd step on me
Step on me, step on me, step on me
Now it's so good I won't waste my time
On a two year old picture of you
Now that you're gone everything's fine
But your pride won't admit that we're through
My life is going to be better, oooh
My why, why, could I never ever see she'd step on me
Never ever see she'd step on me
Step On Me
Recorded by Smile
. Length 3:09.
Written by Tim Staffell and Brian May.
Recorded at Trident Studios in London, in June 1969, produced by John Anthony.
This track is available on the 'Gettin' Smile' Japanese LP and the 'Ghost Of A Smile' Dutch CD. It originates from Tim and Brian's days in the group '1984', and details of their version of the track are available here. Know what I said when I saw you crying
Hang on that's for me
I was weak in the head, I believed your lying
You're just a bad memory
My life is going to be better, oooh
My why could I never ever see she'd step on me
Well I talked to your friend just the other day
I was lonely, couldn't raise a smile
She hid a smile and she ain't like you
Gonna stay for more than just a little while
My life is going to be better, oooh
My why could I never ever see she'd step on me
Step on me, step on me, step on me
Now it's so good I won't waste my time
On a two year old picture of you
Oh now that you're gone everything's fine
But your pride won't admit that we're through
My life is going to be better, oooh
My why could I never ever see she'd step on me
Step on me, step on me, step on me
Now it's so good I won't waste my time
On a two year old picture of you
Now that you're gone everything's fine
But your pride won't admit that we're through
My life is going to be better, oooh
My why could I never ever see she'd step on me
Never ever see she'd step on me
Sweet Wine
Recorded by 1984
, with Brian on guitar and Tim Staffell on vocals, at Thames TV Studios, Teddington, in Spring 1967. Length 3:34.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by Cream for their 1966 album 'Fresh Cream'. It segues from 'Remember'. Ba, ba
Ba, ba, ba, ba
Ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba
Ba, ba
Ba, ba, ba, ba
Ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba
Who wants the worry, the hurry of city life
Money, nothing funny, wasting the best of our life
Sweet wine, hay making
Sunshine day breaking
We can wait 'till tomorrow
Night time, bird calling
Road free, leaf falling
We can bide time
Ba, ba
Ba, ba, ba, ba
Ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba
Ba, ba
Ba, ba, ba, ba
Ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba
Sweet wine, hay making
Sunshine day breaking
We can wait 'till tomorrow
Night time, bird calling
Road free, leaf falling
We can bide time
Who wants the worry, the hurry of city life
Money, nothing funny, wasting the best of our life
Ba, ba
Ba, ba, ba, ba
Ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba
Ba, ba
Ba, ba, ba, ba
Ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba, ba
Sunny
Recorded by The Opposition
, with John Deacon on bass, in 1968 or 1969. Length 2:47.
This track was originally recorded by Bobby Hebb, and reached no 12 in 1966.
This track is only available on an acetate single. Sunny, thank you for the sunshine bouquet
Sunny, thank you for the love that you brought my way
You gave to me your all and all
Now I feel ten feet tall
Sunny one so true, I love you
Sunny, thank you for the smile upon your face
Sunny, well thank you for the love that you brought my way
You're my spark of nature's fire
You're my one complete desire
Sunny one so true, I love you
Sunny, thank you for the smile upon your face
Sunny, thank you for the love that you brought my way
You're my spark of nature's fire
You're my one complete desire
Sunny so true, I love you
I love you
I love you
I love
Transit 3
Recorded by The Opposition
, with John Deacon on bass, in 1968 or 1969. Length 2:28.
This is an original instrumental track, named after the band's third van. It is only available on an acetate single.
Vagabond Outcast
Performed by Ibex
, with Freddie on vocals, at The Sink Club, Liverpool, England, on 9 September 1969. Length 2:22.
This is an unreleased track, which was written by Freddie and is one of his earliest compositions. It is also the only track which Ibex performed in Liverpool which is not a cover.
The available recordings of this song end abruptly before the end of the track. A further edited version is also available which is simply the first 2:07 of the song.
Due to the poor quality of the available recording, and the loudness of the music, attempting to transcribe the lyrics of this track is near impossible and would be fairly pointless.
Vehicle
Recorded by The Opposition
, with John Deacon on bass, in 1968 or 1969. Length 2:18.
This track was originally a blues track and later became a hit for The Ides Of March in 1970.
This track is only available on an acetate single. I'm a friendly stranger in a black sedan
Won't you hop inside my car
Got pictures, candy
I'm a loveable man
I'll take you to the nearest star
I'm your vehicle, baby
I'll take you anywhere you wanna go
I'm your vehicle, woman
About that I hope you know
That I love you (love you)
Need you (need you)
Want you
Got to have you child
Great God in heaven you know I love you
You know I do
If you want to be a movie star
I got two tickets to Hollywood
But if you want to stay just as sweet as you are
I really would have thought you would
I'm your vehicle, baby
I'll take you anywhere you wanna go
I'm your vehicle, woman
About that I think you know
That I love you (love you)
Need you (need you)
Want you
Got to have you child
Great God in heaven you know I love you
Ooh, you know I do
I'm a friendly stranger in a black sedan
Won't you hop inside my car
I got pictures, candy
I'm a loveable man
I'll take you to the nearest star
I'm your vehicle, baby
I'll take you anywhere you wanna go
I'm your vehicle, woman
About that I think you know
That I love you (love you)
Need you (need you)
Want you
I've got to have you child
Great God in heaven you know I love
We're Going Home
Performed by Ibex
, with Freddie on vocals, at The Sink Club, Liverpool, England, on 9 September 1969. Length 6:43.
This is an unreleased track, also known as 'I'm Going Home', which was originally recorded by Ten Years After for their 1968 album 'Undead'.
Due to the poor quality of the available recording, and the loudness of the music, attempting to transcribe the lyrics of this track is near impossible and would be fairly pointless.
We're Going Wrong
Performed by Ibex
, with Freddie on vocals, at The Sink Club, Liverpool, England, on 9 September 1969. Length 3:38.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by Cream for their 1967 album Disraeli Gears.
Due to the poor quality of the available recording, and the loudness of the music, attempting to transcribe the lyrics of this track is near impossible and would be fairly pointless.
What's On Your Mind
Performed by The Reaction
, with Roger on drums, at Wadebridge Cinema, Cornwall, England, in 1966. Length 2:09.
This is an unreleased track, which was originally recorded by Shelby Smith.
A studio version of the track is only available on a four track acetate single, and has yet to appear on a bootleg or MP3 download. I'd like to know what's on your mind
It seems you're not the girl you used to be
Or is it just that you've grown out of here
What's on your mind
When we're alone, it's all there is
I hope you both could do so far away
And you don't seem to hear a thing I'll say
What's on your mind
I really thought that it was true love
My darling, but I don't see desire in your heart
If you've found a new love my darling
Tell me now, don't start living a lie
If there is someone new
I'll plead and say remember me yesterday
Just say the words, we'll go our separate way
What's on your mind