Brian May casts doubt on virtual Queen show over AI concerns

Queen guitarist Sir Brian May has cast doubt on plans for a virtual concert featuring late frontman Freddie Mercury due to concerns over artificial intelligence, the Daily Mail and the Telegraph reported. The 79-year-old musician expressed hesitation about an ABBA Voyage-style show because of the artificial intelligence required and what he termed the massive evil of data centres, according to the Daily Mail. [1][2]

The Daily Mail reported that Sir Brian and bandmate Roger Taylor are still searching for ways to recreate Queen's original line-up with Mercury, who died in 1991. However, the pair will only proceed if they can overcome the ethical issues tied to the technology. They had hoped to build an immersive show that would transport fans back in time, the Daily Mail said. [1]

Sir Brian co-founded the rock band Queen alongside Mercury and Taylor. He wrote major hits for the group including We Will Rock You and I Want It All. Beyond his music career, he is also an astrophysicist who completed his doctorate in 2007, as well as an animal welfare activist. [4][7]

The news comes shortly after Sir Brian clarified earlier reports regarding the band's future. As reported by Louder, the guitarist stated that previous claims about Queen permanently ending their live performances were a misinterpretation, noting he had never said the band would not tour again. [3]