top of page
Search

Queen (May 1975) Sheer Show‑Biz–Feature

  • Writer: Queen
    Queen
  • May 1, 1975
  • 2 min read

Updated: May 6


Publication: Circus Magazine Date: May 1975 Country: USA

Section / Pages: London Column Feature

Title: Queen Rules Out Sheer Show‑Biz

Overview

This Circus Magazine one‑page feature from May 1975 presents Queen at a moment of rapid ascent, following the success of Sheer Heart Attack and the singles Killer Queen and Now I’m Here. Appearing in Jonh Ingham’s London column, the article positions Queen as a band thriving regardless of critical approval, comparing them to Jethro Tull and Grand Funk — groups whose popularity outpaced their reviews.

Brian May addresses the misconception that Queen were part of the glam‑rock or heavy‑metal wave, insisting their theatricality was never contrived. He explains that the band’s visual presentation — lighting, costumes, movement — is designed to reinforce the music rather than distract from it.

Freddie Mercury, Circus Magazine (May 1975) — “Though they have little in common musically, Queen seem to be joining the ranks of Jethro Tull and Grand Funk.”
Freddie Mercury, Circus Magazine (May 1975) — “Though they have little in common musically, Queen seem to be joining the ranks of Jethro Tull and Grand Funk.”


Article Summary

The feature highlights Queen’s growing international profile, noting their upcoming first tour of Japan, where they had already been voted Group of the Year 1974. May discusses the band’s evolving identity, distancing Queen from the glam‑rock label and aligning them instead with artists like Bowie and Roxy Music, who used theatricality as an extension of musical ideas.

The article also references Queen’s stage costumes designed by Zandra Rhodes, emphasizing the bold black‑and‑white contrasts that became part of their early visual signature.

May closes with a reflection on fame and self‑awareness:


“I sort of give myself a good look every now and then to see if I’m changing. But I feel in control of myself.”

Publication Details

  • Circus Magazine (USA)

  • Issue: May 1975

  • Column: London by Jonh Ingham

  • Page: 56

  • Feature Title: “Queen Rules Out Sheer Show‑Biz”

  • Photographer: Uncredited


© Copyright Notice

All magazine scans, photographs, and original text excerpts remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This Chronicle entry is a transformative, non‑commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference. No ownership of the original material is claimed or implied.


Comments

bottom of page