Think You Know Queen’s Early Hits? Guess the First 10 Songs They Ever Released! Don’t Worry, We’ve Got the List!

Queen, the legendary rock band led by the electrifying Freddie Mercury, has cemented itself in the annals of music history with their genre-defying sound and unforgettable live performances. From their anthemic hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody” to “We Will Rock You,” Queen’s catalog is a treasure trove for any rock fan. But let’s rewind to the early days—before the world was chanting along to their stadium-shaking songs.

How well do you know Queen’s early hits? Do you think you can name their first 10 songs? Don’t worry, we’re here to take you on a journey back to Queen’s humble beginnings, highlighting their earliest tracks that launched them to superstardom. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to their catalog, here’s a list of Queen’s first 10 songs that you might just be surprised to discover!

1. Keep Yourself Alive (1973)

Released as Queen’s debut single, “Keep Yourself Alive” introduced the world to their unmistakable sound—a mix of hard rock riffs, theatrical vocals, and a touch of glam. Although it didn’t chart initially, it’s since become one of the band’s most iconic early tracks.

2. Doing All Right (1973)

Originally written by Queen’s guitarist Brian May and Tim Staffell (from May’s pre-Queen band, Smile), this track shows off a softer, more contemplative side of Queen. It seamlessly shifts from mellow acoustic to a more powerful rock ballad, showcasing the band’s range.

3. Great King Rat (1973)

With its progressive rock flair, “Great King Rat” is a dynamic and complex song from Queen’s debut album. Freddie Mercury’s lyrical storytelling and powerful delivery cement this as a hidden gem in the early Queen catalog.

4. My Fairy King (1973)

Another track from their debut album, “My Fairy King” gives listeners a taste of Mercury’s penchant for fantasy and mythical storytelling. Its intricate structure and falsetto vocals signaled that Queen was more than just your average rock band.

5. Liar (1973)

“Liar” is one of the heaviest songs on Queen’s first album and features epic guitar solos and dramatic vocals. Clocking in at over six minutes, it’s an early example of Queen’s ability to create operatic rock epics, a style they would perfect in later years.

6. The Night Comes Down (1973)

A softer and more introspective track, “The Night Comes Down” was one of the first songs Brian May wrote for Queen. The song’s ethereal atmosphere and emotional lyrics made it a standout on their debut album.

7. Modern Times Rock ’n’ Roll (1973)

Drummer Roger Taylor steps into the spotlight on this fast-paced track, delivering raw vocals and a relentless rhythm. “Modern Times Rock ‘n’ Roll” is a reminder that Queen could bring the energy of pure rock ‘n’ roll when they wanted to.

8. Son and Daughter (1973)

Featuring a heavy, bluesy riff from Brian May, “Son and Daughter” is a song that allowed Queen to flex their hard rock muscles. The track’s slow, sludgy tempo gave it an almost Black Sabbath-like feel.

9. Jesus (1973)

A bit of a departure from Queen’s typical themes, “Jesus” is a track that touches on the story of Christ’s life. Despite its religious overtones, it’s still very much a Queen song—complete with soaring vocals and rich harmonies.

10. Seven Seas of Rhye (1973)

While the version on their debut album was only an instrumental snippet, “Seven Seas of Rhye” would go on to become one of Queen’s biggest early hits when they released a fully-fledged version on their second album. With its driving piano and catchy melody, it was a sign of bigger things to come for Queen.

Conclusion

Queen’s first 10 songs set the foundation for the band’s meteoric rise to fame. From hard-hitting rock tracks to whimsical ballads, these early releases showcased the band’s range, creativity, and undeniable talent. Even in their earliest days, Queen was pushing boundaries, and these tracks give us a glimpse into the start of a legendary career.

Think you knew all of these? Now that you’ve got the list, it’s time to revisit these songs and appreciate the genius of Queen from the very beginning!