Killer Queen by Queen

“Killer Queen” by Queen is a masterclass in tasteful guitar work, written and performed by one of rock’s most inventive guitarists, Brian May. At LickLibrary, our in-depth, note-for-note guitar lesson on Killer Queen breaks down every nuance, technique, and tone-shaping moment found in this iconic track. Whether you're looking to improve your technical guitar skills, build expressive soloing vocabulary, or simply pay tribute to one of classic rock's most defining songs, this lesson is packed with valuable takeaways. Michael Casswell breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitarist – Brian May

Brian May, Queen’s legendary guitarist, is known for his orchestral approach to guitar layering, distinctive tone, and technical fluency. His playing on “Killer Queen” is an excellent example of his attention to melody, harmony, and tone. May often used a homemade guitar (“The Red Special”) and a sixpence coin as a pick, contributing to his unique sound. His influence spans generations of guitarists who admire his fusion of classical composition ideas with modern rock sensibilities.

“Killer Queen” demonstrates May’s musical intelligence, combining crisp rhythmic motifs with harmonised lead lines and complex phrasing. This is not just a solo—it's a composition in itself, and studying it offers a deeper understanding of the art of lead guitar arrangement.

Lesson Breakdown – Techniques and Benefits

String Bending

String bending features prominently in “Killer Queen,” used to add expressive vocal-like phrasing to solos and melodic runs. Learning to bend in tune improves your ear training and dynamic control, allowing you to convey emotion with precision.

Slides

Slide techniques in this lesson help with fluid transitions between notes, adding smooth, connected motion to your licks. Slides enhance your phrasing skills and are essential for expressive soloing.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Hammer-ons and pull-offs are used throughout the track to articulate fast passages and embellish melodies. These techniques improve finger strength, speed, and help in creating legato phrasing that flows effortlessly.

Double Stops

Brian May utilizes double stops for rhythmic and harmonic interest. Learning these allows you to play two notes simultaneously, creating a fuller sound in solos and riffs. It’s a great technique to spice up your playing with rich intervals.

Vibrato

Vibrato is essential for sustaining notes with character. In “Killer Queen,” May’s controlled vibrato adds expression to long-held notes. Mastering this technique gives your playing a voice-like quality, making solos more emotive and engaging.

Chord Progressions and Arpeggios

The rhythm guitar parts in Killer Queen are harmonically rich, using creative chord progressions and arpeggiated chord voicings. Understanding these concepts gives players a broader musical vocabulary and teaches you how to build tension and resolution in your own compositions.

Rakes

Subtle raking is used to add percussive attack to some lead phrases. This technique adds rhythmic complexity and a bluesy edge to solos, helping players develop better timing and muting control.

Unison Bends

May uses unison bends to create harmonically rich tension, often mimicking the sound of two guitars playing in sync. Practicing this improves your pitch accuracy and control during bending, a must for expressive soloists.

Hybrid Picking

Some licks in “Killer Queen” involve hybrid picking—a combination of pick and fingers. This technique allows for greater flexibility, cleaner string skipping, and dynamic nuance. It's an essential skill for modern guitarists looking to expand their picking approach.

Trills

Quick-fire trills are scattered throughout May’s melodic phrases, providing bursts of energy and texture. Practicing trills builds finger independence and speed, useful in many lead guitar scenarios.

Octave Melodies and Harmony

Brian May’s use of octave melodies and harmonised lines is a hallmark of his style. These techniques add thickness and drama to solos and riffs, ideal for players looking to emulate a bigger, more orchestrated sound.

Why Learn “Killer Queen”?

Studying Killer Queen is more than just learning a song—it's an opportunity to dissect and absorb the stylistic brilliance of Brian May. The solo work and intricate guitar parts offer insight into musical storytelling through guitar. This lesson is perfect for intermediate to advanced players looking to refine their touch, add sophisticated phrasing to their arsenal, and understand the compositional thinking of one of rock's greats.

Techniques Covered in This Lesson

• String Bending
• Slides
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Double Stops
• Unison Bends
• Vibrato
• Chord Progressions
• Arpeggios
• Rakes
• Hybrid Picking
• Trills
• Octave Melodies

This Killer Queen lesson is the perfect bridge between technical skill and musical artistry—an essential addition to any serious guitarist’s repertoire. Join us at LickLibrary and unlock the secrets behind Brian May’s iconic sound.