Full Breakdown
Brian May Unveils Unreleased Queen Track During Christmas Special
12/23/2025, 11:33:50 AM
Unveiling a Hidden Gem: "Not For Sale (Polar Bear)"
On December 22, 2023, Queen guitarist Sir Brian May debuted an unreleased track titled "Not For Sale (Polar Bear)" during a Christmas special broadcast on Planet Rock. This song, recorded in 1974 during the sessions for Queen's album *Queen II*, had not been heard in its current form until this airing. May emphasized that while a bootleg version by his pre-Queen band, Smile, may have circulated, the version played during the special is unique and has never been heard before. He described it as a "work in progress" and expressed his eagerness to gauge listeners' reactions.
Background on Queen and the Track
Queen, formed in 1970, consists of Sir Brian May, drummer Roger Taylor, the late frontman Freddie Mercury, and bassist John Deacon. The band is renowned for its significant contributions to rock music, with hits like "Bohemian Rhapsody," "We Are the Champions," and "Crazy Little Thing Called Love." The group has sold approximately 300 million records globally and was named the most played rock act on UK radio and TV in the 21st century by Phonographic Performance Limited.
"Not For Sale (Polar Bear)" was initially recorded for *Queen II* but did not make the final album cut. May confirmed that this version will also be included in a remastered reissue of the album scheduled for 2026.
Official Statements & Responses
In his broadcast, May stated, “It’s a song that goes back a very long way, but to my knowledge, no one has ever heard this version. I’m sneaking this in because I’m just fascinated to know what people think about it.” He also wished listeners a "wonderful Christmas and a great New Year."
Criticism & Opposition
While the response to the song has been largely positive, some fans have expressed skepticism regarding the necessity of releasing previously unreleased material, questioning whether it adds value to Queen's legacy or merely capitalizes on nostalgia.
What's Next for Queen?
Looking ahead, May's wife, Anita Dobson, hinted that the band may not pursue extensive touring in the future, stating that they would focus on "little bits and bobs" rather than large tours. This follows comments from Roger Taylor about the band currently "resting." The future of Queen's touring and recording endeavors remains uncertain as the members age.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Sir Brian said: “It’s a song that goes back a very long way, but to my knowledge, no one has ever heard this version.” — Brian May, Guitarist, Queen
- “I hope people have a wonderful Christmas and a great New Year!” — Brian May, Guitarist, Queen
The Christmas special featuring "Not For Sale (Polar Bear)" will be rebroadcast on Christmas Day, allowing more fans to experience this newly unveiled piece of Queen's storied history.
