Brian May Clarifies Queen Touring Status After '50 Years Is Enough' Comments
Brian May has clarified that while he has decided against further touring with Queen, he has not permanently ruled out the band’s future. In an interview with The Times, May cited personal reasons, including the death of a family friend and a desire to pursue astrophysics and family time, as the basis for his decision. He noted that Queen + Adam Lambert’s last performance was in February 2024. May expressed interest in an immersive concert experience but voiced concerns about the reliance on AI and data centers. He also recalled Freddie Mercury’s final words after the 1986 Knebworth concert, suggesting Mercury knew of his grim prognosis at the time.
Key points
- Brian May stated he made a personal decision 18 months ago not to tour again, citing the death of a family friend and a desire to spend time with his wife and grandchildren.
- May expressed interest in an immersive concert experience but has reservations about the use of AI and data centers, which he called a 'massive evil.'
- May recalled Freddie Mercury saying 'I can't do this anymore' after the 1986 Knebworth concert, now believing Mercury knew of his grim prognosis at the time.
- May clarified on Instagram that he has not said Queen will never tour again, stating he is 'ever open to new adventures.'
- Roger Taylor recently released a solo album, and Adam Lambert released his own album in July, indicating continued activity from the band members.
Background
This story follows May’s earlier comments in September 2025 to Rolling Stone, where he expressed exhaustion with touring but had not yet permanently ruled it out. The band’s last performance was in February 2024 at Japan’s Tokyo Dome. May has also expressed concerns about traveling to the United States, citing safety concerns.
How outlets are covering it
Rolling Stone and Consequence of Sound reported May’s comments to The Times as a definitive end to Queen’s touring. GuitarPlayer and Louder emphasized May’s recollection of Freddie Mercury’s final words and the emotional weight of the 1986 Knebworth concert. May’s Instagram post, reported by Rolling Stone, clarified that his comments were mischaracterized, stating he has not permanently ruled out touring.
Why it matters
The decision by Brian May to end touring with Queen marks a significant moment for the band, which has been a major force in rock music for decades. May’s comments highlight the personal toll of touring and the evolving nature of live performances, including the potential for immersive experiences. The clarification on Instagram adds nuance to the story, suggesting that the band’s future is not entirely closed off.
What to watch
May and Roger Taylor are working on Queen projects behind the scenes. An immersive concert experience is being considered, but May has reservations about the use of AI. The band’s archival projects, including the Queen Budapest concert film, are in the pipeline.
- Brian May Says Queen Won’t Tour Again: ‘50 Years Is Enough’ Rolling Stone
- “Freddie came off stage at Knebworth and said, I can’t do this any more." Queen's Brian May recalls the moment he learned that Freddie Mercury had played his final gig with the band, and says Queen won't tour again Louder
- Brian May Says Queen Are Done Touring Consequence of Sound
- Brian May on the moment he realized Freddie Mercury knew his fate: “I can’t do this anymore” guitarplayer.com
- Brian May Says Queen Won’t Tour Again, Wary Of Avatar Show Because Of AI Stereogum
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