Queen II: All Songs Ranked From Worst To Best
Hey Queen fans! Let's dive deep into the epic and often underrated Queen II album. Released in 1974, this album is a fascinating bridge between Queen's hard rock roots and their more theatrical, operatic ambitions. It’s divided into two distinct sides: the 'White Side' with songs mostly written by Brian May, and the 'Black Side' primarily featuring Freddie Mercury's compositions. So, buckle up as we rank every track from least to most awesome!
11. Loser in the End
Okay, let's be real. 'Loser in the End,' penned and sung by Roger Taylor, often finds itself at the bottom of Queen II rankings. It's not a bad song, per se, but it just doesn't quite measure up to the sheer brilliance of the other tracks on the album. The song has a straightforward rock vibe, driven by Taylor's drumming and a simple guitar riff. The lyrics talk about overcoming adversity and not letting setbacks define you. While the message is positive and relatable, the execution feels a bit generic compared to the unique storytelling and musical experimentation found elsewhere on the record. The production is also somewhat lacking, with a slightly muddy mix that doesn't allow the individual instruments to shine. Ultimately, 'Loser in the End' is a decent rock song, but it lacks the complexity, innovation, and overall impact of the other tracks on Queen II. It's a fun, energetic tune that's enjoyable in its own right, but in the context of such a groundbreaking album, it's hard to argue that it deserves a higher ranking. Die-hard Queen fans will still appreciate it for its raw energy and Taylor's passionate performance, but for casual listeners, it might be one of the less memorable tracks on the album. It's a testament to the strength of Queen II that even its weakest track has something to offer, but 'Loser in the End' ultimately falls short of the high bar set by the rest of the album.
10. The March of the Black Queen
Alright, before you grab your pitchforks, hear me out! 'The March of the Black Queen' is undeniably ambitious and complex. This track is like a mini-opera packed into six minutes, showcasing Freddie Mercury's early genius for blending genres and creating intricate vocal harmonies. However, its very complexity can be a bit overwhelming. The song jumps between musical styles and tempos, creating a somewhat disjointed listening experience. While the individual sections are brilliant, they don't always flow seamlessly together, making it a challenging song to fully grasp on the first listen. The lyrics are also quite abstract and surreal, which adds to the song's mystique but can also make it difficult to connect with emotionally. It's a song that demands your full attention and multiple listens to fully appreciate its nuances. But once you do, you'll discover a treasure trove of musical ideas and vocal acrobatics. The song's influence can be heard in later Queen epics like 'Bohemian Rhapsody,' and it remains a testament to Mercury's boundless creativity. However, compared to the more immediate and accessible tracks on Queen II, 'The March of the Black Queen' can feel a bit dense and impenetrable. Its complexity and lack of a clear narrative structure make it a less enjoyable listening experience for some, despite its undeniable musical brilliance. It's a song that rewards repeated listens, but its challenging nature may deter casual listeners from fully appreciating its intricacies. This song, guys, is just too complicated to sing.
9. Funny How Love Is
'Funny How Love Is' is a delightful, albeit somewhat lightweight, track on Queen II. Penned by Freddie Mercury, this song is a playful take on the unpredictable nature of love. It's a lighthearted romp with a catchy melody and clever lyrics, offering a brief respite from the more intense and dramatic moments on the album. The song's strength lies in its simplicity and infectious energy. It's a song that's hard not to smile along to, with its bouncy rhythm and Mercury's charismatic vocal delivery. The song also showcases Queen's versatility, demonstrating their ability to craft catchy pop tunes alongside their more complex and ambitious works. The production is clean and crisp, allowing the individual instruments to shine, and the song's brevity ensures that it never overstays its welcome. However, compared to the other tracks on Queen II, 'Funny How Love Is' can feel a bit underdeveloped. It's a fun and enjoyable song, but it lacks the depth and complexity of the album's more ambitious moments. The lyrics, while clever, are not particularly profound, and the song's overall impact is relatively minor. It's a song that's easy to overlook in the context of such a groundbreaking album, but it's nonetheless a charming and memorable tune that showcases Queen's lighter side. It's like a sweet little interlude that provides a welcome break from the album's more intense moments, reminding us that even Queen knew how to have a bit of fun.
8. Seven Seas of Rhye (Instrumental Version)
This instrumental version of 'Seven Seas of Rhye' is a tantalizing glimpse into what was to come. It served as a closer for the 'White Side' of Queen II and perfectly sets the stage for the fully realized version that would later appear on 'Sheer Heart Attack'. Brian May's guitar work shines here, creating a mystical and evocative atmosphere. The melody is instantly recognizable, and the arrangement is tight and dynamic, showcasing the band's instrumental prowess. While it lacks the vocals that would make the later version so iconic, this instrumental version still holds its own as a powerful and engaging piece of music. It's a testament to the strength of the composition that it can stand alone without vocals, conveying a sense of epic grandeur and adventure. The production is also excellent, with a clear and balanced mix that allows each instrument to shine. However, compared to the fully realized version, this instrumental version inevitably feels incomplete. It's a fascinating glimpse behind the curtain, but it lacks the lyrical depth and vocal power that would make the later version so unforgettable. It's like seeing a sketch of a masterpiece before the final brushstrokes are applied. While it's certainly a worthwhile listen for Queen fans, it's hard to argue that it surpasses the fully realized version in terms of overall impact and emotional resonance. But without a doubt, this version gave us a taste of what was coming in the next album!
7. Procession
'Procession' is a short, atmospheric instrumental piece that opens Queen II. Composed by Brian May, it serves as a grand and dramatic introduction to the album's overall concept. The song features layers of guitars creating a majestic and almost ethereal soundscape. It's a perfect example of May's signature guitar orchestrations, with each layer adding depth and texture to the overall sound. The song's brevity is both a strength and a weakness. It's long enough to create a mood and set the stage for the album, but it's also over before it really has a chance to develop. However, its impact is undeniable. It immediately establishes the album's ambitious and theatrical tone, preparing the listener for the epic journey that lies ahead. The production is also excellent, with a spacious and dynamic mix that allows the guitars to resonate and fill the sonic space. While it's not a song that can stand alone on its own, it's an essential part of the Queen II experience. It's like the overture to a grand opera, setting the scene and introducing the main themes that will be explored throughout the album. It's a perfect example of how a short instrumental piece can have a significant impact on the overall listening experience, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement for what's to come.
6. Ogre Battle
'Ogre Battle' is a ferocious and theatrical track that showcases Queen's heavier side. Written by Freddie Mercury, this song is a sonic assault of distorted guitars, thunderous drums, and Mercury's operatic vocals. It tells the story of a battle between mythical creatures, creating a sense of chaos and destruction. The song's arrangement is complex and dynamic, with sudden shifts in tempo and intensity that keep the listener on the edge of their seat. Brian May's guitar work is particularly impressive, with blistering solos and heavy riffs that perfectly capture the song's aggressive energy. Mercury's vocals are equally impressive, ranging from soaring high notes to guttural screams that convey the brutality of the battle. The song's lyrics are evocative and imaginative, painting a vivid picture of a world filled with monsters and mayhem. However, the song's intensity can also be a bit overwhelming at times. It's a relentless barrage of sound that can be exhausting to listen to for extended periods. But its impact is undeniable. It's one of Queen's heaviest and most aggressive tracks, and it remains a fan favorite to this day. It's a perfect example of Queen's ability to blend different genres and styles, creating a unique and unforgettable sonic experience. The song is a classic example of Queen's theatrical rock style.
5. White Queen (As It Began)
'White Queen (As It Began)' is a beautiful and ethereal ballad written by Brian May. This song is a delicate and introspective piece that showcases Queen's softer side. The song features May's gentle guitar work, Mercury's tender vocals, and a simple yet effective arrangement. The lyrics are poetic and evocative, telling the story of a pure and innocent queen. The song's melody is hauntingly beautiful, creating a sense of longing and nostalgia. It's a perfect example of May's songwriting talent, showcasing his ability to craft emotionally resonant songs that connect with listeners on a deep level. The song's production is also excellent, with a warm and intimate mix that allows the individual instruments to shine. The song is a perfect example of Queen's ability to blend different genres and styles, creating a unique and unforgettable sonic experience. It's one of Queen's most underrated ballads, and it deserves more recognition for its beauty and emotional depth. It is also a great song to sing along with, especially the high notes.
4. Some Day One Day
'Some Day One Day' is a Brian May-penned gem that often gets overlooked, but it's a fantastic example of Queen's early hard rock sound with a touch of folk influence. May's vocals are earnest and heartfelt, and the guitar work is simply stellar. The song has a driving rhythm and a memorable chorus that sticks in your head long after the song is over. The lyrics offer a message of hope and perseverance, encouraging listeners to keep striving for their dreams. The song's arrangement is tight and dynamic, with unexpected twists and turns that keep the listener engaged. It's a perfect example of Queen's ability to blend different genres and styles, creating a unique and unforgettable sonic experience. While it may not be as flashy or grandiose as some of the other tracks on Queen II, 'Some Day One Day' is a solid and well-crafted song that showcases Queen's versatility and songwriting talent. It's a reminder that even in their early days, Queen was capable of producing consistently high-quality music that stands the test of time. The production is also excellent, with a clear and balanced mix that allows each instrument to shine. Its catchy melody and positive message make it a joy to listen to, and it's sure to put a smile on your face. It's a great song to blast while driving down the highway or to listen to when you need a little boost of inspiration.
3. Father to Son
'Father to Son' is an epic track that blends hard rock with progressive elements, creating a powerful and moving listening experience. Brian May's guitar work is absolutely stunning here, with soaring solos and intricate arrangements that showcase his virtuosity. Freddie Mercury's vocals are equally impressive, ranging from delicate harmonies to powerful belting that conveys the song's emotional weight. The lyrics tell a story of intergenerational wisdom and guidance, offering advice from a father to his son. The song's arrangement is dynamic and dramatic, building to a soaring climax that leaves the listener breathless. It's a perfect example of Queen's ability to create music that is both musically complex and emotionally resonant. The song's production is also excellent, with a lush and layered mix that allows each instrument to shine. It's a song that demands to be listened to from beginning to end, and it rewards repeated listens with new discoveries and insights. 'Father to Son' is a testament to Queen's songwriting prowess and their ability to create music that transcends genres and generations. It's a true masterpiece that deserves to be recognized as one of their finest achievements. This song is very underrated.
2. Nevermore
'Nevermore' is a short, but incredibly beautiful and haunting ballad written by Freddie Mercury. This song is a delicate and introspective piece that showcases Queen's softer side. The song features Mercury's gentle vocals, a simple yet effective piano arrangement, and lyrics that evoke a sense of longing and loss. The song's melody is hauntingly beautiful, creating a sense of melancholy and sadness. It's a perfect example of Mercury's songwriting talent, showcasing his ability to craft emotionally resonant songs that connect with listeners on a deep level. The song's brevity is also a strength, as it leaves the listener wanting more. It's a perfect example of how a short song can have a profound impact, conveying a wealth of emotion in a concise and memorable way. The song's production is also excellent, with a warm and intimate mix that allows Mercury's vocals and the piano to shine. It is also very short, making you crave for more. Mercury truly shows his skill in this emotional song.
1. Seven Seas of Rhye
Was there ever any doubt? 'Seven Seas of Rhye' is the quintessential Queen song, a perfect blend of hard rock, fantasy, and sheer musical brilliance. This track is instantly recognizable from its iconic opening riff, and it never lets up from there. Freddie Mercury's vocals are at their most flamboyant and powerful, and the band's performance is tight and energetic. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a mythical world, filled with adventure and intrigue. The song's arrangement is dynamic and dramatic, building to a soaring climax that leaves the listener breathless. It's a perfect example of Queen's ability to create music that is both catchy and complex, accessible and ambitious. 'Seven Seas of Rhye' is a true masterpiece that has stood the test of time and remains one of Queen's most beloved and iconic songs. It's a song that everyone knows and loves, and it's a perfect representation of everything that makes Queen so great. It is also one of the greatest songs in rock and roll history. It's a song that deserves to be at the top of any list of Queen songs, and it's a fitting choice for the number one spot on our ranking of Queen II songs. It's just too good to ignore. It is still being listened to up to this day.