Why, when and how did John Deacon leave Queen after so much success?

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As a gamer who has spent countless hours immersed in Queen’s iconic music and captivating live performances, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of nostalgia when reflecting on John Deacon’s departure from the band. It’s like losing a trusted ally in an epic quest – you know the game would still go on, but it just wouldn’t be the same without him.

Occasionally, a band’s disbandment becomes unavoidable, or it can lead to a significant split where certain members move forward while others stay behind. However, there’s usually a tense catalyst that sets this change in motion

For quite some time now, John Deacon has taken a step back from his active role as a member of Queen. The death of Freddie Mercury in November 1991 marked a significant shift within the original lineup of the band. After Mercury’s passing, the three remaining members focused on previously recorded songs by him and eventually released an album titled Made In Heaven, which showcased all four band members

995 saw the launch of their most commercially successful studio album, which has remained a landmark in their discography. This was one of Freddie Mercury’s last collaborative projects with the band. His final public performance took place on January 17, 1997 in Paris. Notably, he joined Brian May, Roger Taylor, and Elton John for a joint performance onstage for just one song

John Deacon leaves Queen after final onstage show.

In a “Ballet for Life” concert aimed at promoting AIDS awareness, Elton John and Deacon performed a fitting rendition of “The Show Must Go On.” However, Deacon expressed discontent following the performance, confessing to May and Taylor that he could no longer carry on. Eventually, Deacon did contribute to the recording of “No-One but You (Only the Good Die Young)” in October 1997, but this marked his retirement from the band and live performances

Since then, Deacon has been quite elusive, much like the reserved member he was within the band. Previously, Deacon found joy in playing bass and composing songs alongside the exuberance of Mercury, and the massive stage presence of both Brian May and Roger Taylor. However, his tenure with the band had come to an end

Deacon’s decision to leave and retire was deeply connected to Mercury’s passing, which had a profound impact on the band. However, for Deacon, it signified not just the end of their music together, but perhaps the disbanding of the group altogether. This is further elaborated in an insightful article and interview with him, titled “The Invisible Man at Bassist & Bass Techniques.”

After Freddie’s demise, he declared “For us, this is the end.” There was no sense in moving forward because replacing Freddie was impossible. Taylor and May took over the Queen mantle, continuing to showcase the band through the stage production “We Will Rock You”, album compilations, and touring first with Paul Rodgers and currently with Adam Lambert. Bassists are being hired for tours to fill Deacon’s role

John Deacon keeps his distance from Queen, but with a watchful eye on the business

Deacon has continued monitoring the band’s financial status even though there isn’t any social interaction with the former bassist. Additionally, he endorses significant projects such as the 2018 smash hit “Bohemian Rhapsody,” and he has turned down multiple offers to rejoin the group over time

I can’t deny the profound absence of Freddie Mercury in Queen. His charisma was truly irreplaceable, and it’s clear that many fans share my sentiment. As a dedicated fan myself, I understand Deacon’s statement. Adam Lambert isn’t trying to replace Freddie; he openly acknowledges this fact himself. Yet, on tour, his performances are nothing short of spectacular, keeping the spirit of Queen’s music alive and vibrant

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2024-09-05 16:00