Ghost Pays Tribute to Queen with Bohemian Rhapsody Performance
Ghost’s Musical Influences
Tobias Forge, the frontman of Ghost, has long expressed his admiration for legendary rock band Queen. In a 2022 interview with Rock & People, he candidly shared his wish to create music akin to that of Queen, citing them along with other heavyweights like Iron Maiden and Candlemass as major influences. This influence is evident in Ghost’s melodic rock style, designed to appeal to a broad audience.
Queen in the Spotlight at Polar Music Prize
On May 27, during the prestigious Polar Music Prize ceremony held in Stockholm, Ghost had the opportunity to honor Queen by performing their iconic track, Bohemian Rhapsody. The performance was made even more special as it took place in the presence of Queen members Brian May and Roger Taylor. Accompanied by talented guitarist Fredrik Åkesson (known for his work with Opeth and Talisman) and the renowned Eric Ericson Choir, Forge delivered a heartfelt rendition that celebrated Queen’s monumental contributions to music.
A Royal Recognition
As part of the ceremony, Queen was not only recognized for their artistic legacy but also received a royal commendation from King Charles XVI Gustaf, who presented them with a check for one million Swedish crowns alongside their trophy. This honor underscored the enduring impact of Queen on the musical landscape.
Ghost’s Current Success
Currently, Ghost is riding high on the success of their latest album, Skeletà, which has topped charts in the United States and secured the fourth position in album sales in Sweden. Their recent tour has been a massive hit, attracting over 33,000 fans across three concerts in France, including a performance at the Accor Arena in Paris. In a unique approach to enhance the concert experience, Ghost has implemented a “no smartphones” policy, a move that has garnered support from their audience and has even inspired Iron Maiden to consider similar initiatives for their upcoming shows. The album Skeletà is available on all major streaming platforms.
Conclusion
Ghost’s tribute to Queen at the Polar Music Prize exemplifies the profound influence of the legendary band on contemporary artists. With their unique blend of theatrical rock and melodic appeal, Ghost continues to captivate audiences while paying homage to the giants of the genre. As they progress on their successful tour, fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for both Ghost and the enduring legacy of Queen.
FAQs
What song did Ghost perform at the Polar Music Prize?
Ghost performed Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen during the Polar Music Prize ceremony.
Who accompanied Ghost during the performance?
Ghost was accompanied by guitarist Fredrik Åkesson and the Eric Ericson Choir during their performance.
What is Ghost’s latest album called?
Ghost’s latest album is titled Skeletà.
How successful has Ghost’s tour been?
Ghost’s tour has been highly successful, with over 33,000 fans attending three concerts in France, including a major performance at the Accor Arena in Paris.
What unique concert experience has Ghost implemented?
Ghost has introduced a “no smartphones” policy during their concerts to enhance the live experience for fans.
