Brian May Reveals the Beatles Song That Changed His Life Forever: “Love Me Do”
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
As one of the most iconic guitarists of all time, Brian May of Queen has never been shy about his admiration for The Beatles. But in a 2020 interview with Loudersound, May revealed just how deeply one particular Beatles song impacted his life—“Love Me Do”. According to the legendary guitarist, this song not only changed his perspective on music but also spoke to his soul during a pivotal moment of his teenage years.
From the moment he first heard the song on the radio, May knew that The Beatles were no ordinary band. “I knew this bunch of guys were magic,” he said. “They voiced all my hidden joy and yearnings as a teenager struggling to make his way into the world of the ’60s.” In that instant, “Love Me Do” became an anthem of his youth, capturing the hopes and dreams of a generation. The song, released in 1962, marked the beginning of what would become an unprecedented cultural revolution, and for May, it was a song that would resonate for years to come.
A Fan from Afar
Although May’s love for “Love Me Do” was immediate, his experience with The Beatles was marked by a sense of longing. Growing up in the 1960s, May wasn’t allowed to attend pop concerts—his parents believed that these events were attended by “the wrong sort of people.” As a result, he missed out on seeing The Beatles perform live, despite being swept up in their global phenomenon. But it didn’t matter—“Love Me Do” and The Beatles’ groundbreaking music were enough to fuel his passion.
“It was impossible to doubt that the combination of the four lads was unique,” May said, acknowledging the extraordinary blend of talents that made The Beatles the cultural icons they became. The band’s music wasn’t just revolutionary—it was a soundtrack to the lives of countless young people like May, offering them an escape, a voice, and a sense of belonging.
John Lennon: The Heart of the Beatles’ Magic
When it comes to the individual members of The Beatles, Brian May has always been vocal about his admiration for John Lennon. In fact, he believes that Lennon was the most talented of the four. “As time went on, it became apparent that John Lennon was at the heart of this awesome power,” May said, reflecting on how Lennon’s personality, songwriting, and vision drove the band’s magic.
Though May was a fan of all the Beatles—praising Paul McCartney’s melodies, George Harrison’s spiritual influence, and Ringo Starr’s steady drumming—he felt that Lennon was the central figure in the group. For May, Lennon was the “coolest guy on earth,” a revolutionary force who shaped not only The Beatles but the very fabric of 1960s culture.
“Love Me Do” on the Charts: A Global Phenomenon
“Love Me Do” wasn’t just a personal favorite for Brian May; it was a massive hit that marked the start of The Beatles’ dominance in popular music. The single reached No. 17 on the UK charts when it was first released, staying on the chart for 18 weeks. Remarkably, it recharted years later, hitting No. 4 and remaining on the charts for an additional seven weeks.
In the United States, “Love Me Do” achieved great success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for one week and staying on the chart for 14 weeks. The song also appeared on 1962-1966, an album that soared to No. 3 on the Billboard 200 and remained on the chart for 175 weeks, solidifying The Beatles as a global phenomenon.
The song’s lasting legacy is undeniable, inspiring covers from artists like Bijele Strijele and David Bowie. For May, “Love Me Do” wasn’t just a chart-topping single; it was the start of something that would define the course of his own musical journey.
A Timeless Legacy
“Love Me Do” wasn’t just a song—it was a life-changing experience for Brian May and millions of others around the world. The Beatles’ influence on May’s musical evolution cannot be overstated, and “Love Me Do” remains a timeless reminder of the magic that happens when raw talent, passion, and vision come together in a way that changes the world.
For fans of Queen and The Beatles alike, it’s clear that May’s love for “Love Me Do” is more than just nostalgia—it’s a deep appreciation for a song that captured the spirit of an era and left an indelible mark on his life and career. Just as The Beatles’ music continues to inspire new generations of fans, “Love Me Do” remains a beloved classic, forever etched in the hearts of those who experienced its magic.
