Rediscovering a Folk-Rock Treasure: Enjoy “’39” by Queen (1975)
Queen, perhaps best known for their theatrical rock anthems and the inimitable charisma of frontman Freddie Mercury, ventured into a variety of musical styles over the course of their illustrious career. Among their more understated and intriguing compositions is the folk-inspired ballad “’39”, which was included on their groundbreaking fourth album, A Night at the Opera, released in 1975. While the record is often celebrated for the bombastic and operatic grandeur of tracks like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “’39” offers a refreshing contrast — a poignant, contemplative tale wrapped in acoustic warmth and lyrical complexity.
Penned and sung by guitarist Brian May, “’39” stands out as one of the more intellectually sophisticated and emotionally resonant pieces in Queen’s catalogue. The song is, in essence, a science fiction narrative told through a folk-music lens, illustrating May’s unique blend of musicality and his academic background in astrophysics. The plot follows a group of space explorers who embark on a near-light-speed journey in search of a new world. Though only a year passes for them aboard their ship, when they finally return to Earth, a full hundred years have elapsed — a haunting metaphor for the loneliness of time lost and the sobering realization of all that has changed.
Musically, “’39” is rooted in the traditions of skiffle and British folk-rock, carried by a rich arrangement of 12-string acoustic guitars, upright bass (played here by drummer Roger Taylor), and the warm, layered harmonies that became a Queen hallmark. Compared to the flamboyant productions of their more mainstream hits, this song feels intimate and reflective, balancing lyrical storytelling with a subtly complex instrumental arrangement that showcases the band’s versatility.
The brilliance of “’39” lies not only in its melody but also in its understated narrative depth. May’s lyrics are moving and thought-provoking, as he taps into themes of time, sacrifice, and the inevitable changes wrought by progress — themes that are as relevant today as they were when first penned nearly five decades ago. Remarkably, despite its more subdued tone and deeply introspective nature, the song holds a cherished place among Queen fans and has been covered and referenced numerous times across different genres and media.
Listeners who revisit or discover “’39” today will likely be struck by its timeless charm, lyrical richness, and the gentle sway of its acoustic arrangement. It’s a reminder that Queen was not merely a band of spectacle and volume, but one of depth, heart, and musical curiosity. For those who only know Queen’s louder anthems, “’39” offers a contemplative window into the thoughtful artistry that made the group universally admired not just as performers, but as songwriters and storytellers.
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Queen – “’39” (1975)