1991 Queen: Bohemian Rhapsody

A straight re-release following the death of Freddie Mercury on November 24, 'Bohemian Rhapsody' is the first time the same song has got to number one twice on separate occasions. From one angle the song remains the same and the write up from 1975 is as relevant here as it was then. Perhaps moreso - I wrote then that "'Bohemian Rhapsody' stands freakishly alone in the rock canon, a song that’s uniquely of itself and occupier of its own space" and this is no less evident now. "'Bohemian Rhapsody’ remains a curious proposition that has not been withered by age or repetition" (I wrote) and even now this most un-nineties of singles doesn't sound like a squatter in the charts. In fact, nestled up against Elton it sounds right at home. Overall though, I think it shows what an iconic and defining song it became for Queen both for the old fans in mourning and all the new ones not born in 1975 who'd been wowed by it at Live Aid. Nuff said really.