Benson Boone Flips Off a Piano, Channels Freddie in a Cape, and Brings Out Brian May to Shred “Bohemian Rhapsody” at Coachella as the Crowd Erupts
In 2021, Benson Boone seemed set to become the next big American Idol star—even Katy Perry, a judge on the show, saw his potential. But in a surprising twist, Boone chose to leave the competition after reaching the Top 24 in Season 19. Refusing to be another product of reality TV, the 22-year-old forged his own path, eventually landing a spot in the U.S. Top 10 with his January 2024 hit “Beautiful Things.” Just five months later, he opened for Taylor Swift during the London stretch of her record-breaking Eras Tour. And on Friday, April 11, Boone added another milestone to his growing career—bringing out Queen legend Brian May during his first-ever Coachella appearance.
Social Media Swoons Over Benson Boone (And Brian May)
Boone’s Coachella debut showcased everything fans have come to love—his glittering stage outfit, acrobatic flair, and energetic charisma. But nothing could have prepared the crowd for the night’s biggest surprise: a guest appearance by Queen’s own Brian May during Boone’s set.
Wearing a dramatic cape, Boone began the performance seated at a grand piano while a full choir delivered the opening lines of Queen’s iconic “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Then, in a bold move, Boone literally flipped off the piano and launched into a powerhouse performance, channeling Freddie Mercury’s unforgettable spirit.
Just as the song’s legendary guitar solo neared, the stage lit up—and Brian May emerged from beneath it like a rock deity. The 77-year-old guitar legend wasted no time and tore into the solo with the same passion and power that made it a piece of music history.
Originally released in 1975 as part of Queen’s A Night at the Opera, “Bohemian Rhapsody” has always been a dramatic and operatic triumph. Boone brought that same theatrical energy to the performance, while May’s unexpected appearance elevated the tribute into an unforgettable spectacle.
As the final notes rang out, Boone respectfully bowed to May—a nod of reverence to the multi-talented artist who helped shape rock music history. May responded with a heartfelt salute, solidifying the moment as one of mutual admiration.
Crowd’s Reaction To Brian May Baffles Social Media
Though Brian May’s appearance with Boone set social media ablaze, many online fans were puzzled by the Coachella crowd’s seemingly muted response. People watching from afar couldn’t understand why the audience didn’t erupt.
“Why isn’t the audience freaking out over THEEE BRIAN MAY?!!?” asked one TikTok user, echoing the thoughts of many. Another joked, “Right concert, wrong crowd.”
While those at the festival may not have shown their excitement as expected, fans online had no trouble expressing their awe. One viewer summed it up perfectly: “This is how Freddie would’ve wanted his song to be performed.”
