Imagine the thrill of discovering a hidden gem from one of rock's greatest bands – a song that hasn't graced a single ear until now. That's the excitement surrounding Queen guitarist Sir Brian May's upcoming revelation of an unreleased track. But here's where it gets intriguing: this isn't just any tune; it's one that could redefine how we view their classic era. Stick around to explore why this might spark debate among fans about preserving musical history.
Sir Brian May, the iconic guitarist of Queen, is set to unveil a previously unheard song titled "Not For Sale (Polar Bear)" during a festive radio special on Planet Rock. Recorded back in the sessions for Queen's groundbreaking 1974 album, Queen II, this track didn't make it onto the final release, leaving it shrouded in mystery for decades. For newcomers to Queen's story, Queen II was an early masterpiece that showcased their evolving sound, blending hard rock with progressive elements, and it's fascinating to think about what might have been lost in the editing process.
At 78 years old, Sir Brian – who is also a celebrated songwriter – will perform the song live for the first time on Monday, December 22, as part of his Planet Rock Christmas Special. And this is the part most people miss: while a bootleg recording from his pre-Queen band, Smile, might have circulated informally (think of bootlegs as unofficial recordings shared among collectors, often of varying quality and legality), May insists that no one has heard this official Queen version. It's slated to appear on the 2026 reissue of Queen II, but he's giving fans a sneak peek because, as he puts it, he's eager for feedback.
In his own words, the guitarist shared, “It’s a song that goes back a very long way, but to my knowledge, no one has ever heard this version. It’s a work in progress and will appear on the forthcoming rebuild of the Queen II album – coming next year – but I’m sneaking this into my Planet Rock special because I’m fascinated to know what people think about it. I hope people have a wonderful Christmas and a great New Year!”
Listeners can tune in to hear "Not For Sale (Polar Bear)" for the first time during Sir Brian's show at 6pm on that Monday, with a rerun on Christmas Day at 1pm. The special isn't limited to this revelation, though; it'll feature a curated mix of his beloved Christmas and holiday songs, including classics from artists like Bad News, Slade, Chuck Berry, and The Crystals. To add a personal touch, fans might even hear a festive hit from Sir Brian's wife, singer and actress Anita Dobson. Plus, May will share reflections on the music, tales, and cherished memories that shaped his Christmases, offering a warm, nostalgic journey through time.
As we dive deeper, it's worth clarifying for music novices: Queen, formed in the 1970s, was a powerhouse quartet consisting of Sir Brian on guitar, Roger Taylor on drums, the legendary late frontman Freddie Mercury, and bassist John Deacon. They've achieved massive success, boasting six UK number one singles and 10 UK number one albums. Iconic hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody” (a genre-bending epic with its operatic flair), “Killer Queen” (a catchy, flamboyant tune), “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” (a fun rockabilly-inspired track), and “We Are the Champions” (an anthemic stadium rocker) have cemented their legacy. Earlier this year, they were recognized as the most-played rock group on UK radio and TV in the 21st century by Phonographic Performance Limited, a testament to their enduring influence.
Now, here's a point that might stir some controversy: releasing unreleased tracks like this – especially after the original band's era – raises questions about artistic intent. Should these songs remain hidden to preserve the purity of the albums as the artists envisioned, or does sharing them allow fans to appreciate the creative process in new ways? For instance, some purists argue it's like uncovering a painter's sketches and displaying them as finished works, while others see it as an exciting extension of the band's story. What do you think – is this a respectful tribute, or does it risk altering how we remember Queen's masterpieces?
To enhance your holiday listening experience, consider diving into more of Queen's music or similar festive tunes. Enjoy unlimited access to over 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music. Sign up now for a 30-day free trial – terms apply. (Try for free at https://amzn.to/32gdyhr) Advertisement: If you sign up, we may earn a commission, which supports independent journalism like this article.
Thinking about Queen's impact, it's amazing how a band from the '70s still captivates us today. Do you agree that sharing unreleased material enriches the fan experience, or do you prefer sticking to the official catalog? What's your all-time favorite Queen song, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments – let's discuss!
