ROCK MOMENT – Queen ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love’
Queen’s ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love’ is one of the band’s most playful and unexpected hits, showcasing their remarkable ability to explore diverse musical styles. Written by Freddie Mercury in 1979, the song pays homage to 1950s rock ‘n’ roll, particularly the sound of Elvis Presley, with its rockabilly rhythm and retro flair. Mercury reportedly composed the song in a hotel room while strumming a guitar—a rare occurrence, as he usually preferred piano—demonstrating his instinctive songwriting talent.
Recorded for the band’s 1980 album The Game, ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love’ marked a stylistic departure from Queen’s intricate, layered compositions. The track features a clean, simple guitar riff, steady upright bass line, and swinging drums, all wrapped around Mercury’s charismatic vocals. Brian May’s guitar solo, though brief, perfectly complements the song’s rockabilly energy, while Roger Taylor’s drumming and John Deacon’s bass provide a driving, danceable groove. Produced by Queen themselves, the track captures a spontaneous, live-in-the-studio feel, highlighting the band’s tight musical chemistry.
Released as a single in 1979, ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love’ became Queen’s first U.S. number-one hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100, and enjoyed international success. Its upbeat, fun-loving nature, combined with Mercury’s theatrical charm, appealed to a broad audience, helping Queen expand their fanbase in the United States. Over time, the song has endured as a rock classic, frequently covered by artists across genres and celebrated for its timeless energy. ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love’ remains a testament to Queen’s versatility, demonstrating their ability to masterfully blend homage, humor, and pop sensibility into a single infectious track.
