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Brian May Reveals Tensions Behind 'Under Pressure' Collaboration

7/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Brian May opened up about the creative tensions while working with David Bowie, revealing how the clash of powerful talents shaped their collaboration. During the mixing of "Under Pressure," he took a step back, resulting in much of his guitar work being overshadowed. Meanwhile, John Deacon's iconic two-note motif became the heartbeat of the hit.

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Story summary

Brian May opened up about the creative tensions while working with David Bowie, revealing how the clash of powerful talents shaped their collaboration. During the mixing of "Under Pressure," he took a step back, resulting in much of his guitar work being overshadowed. Meanwhile, John Deacon's iconic two-note motif became the heartbeat of the hit.