Back in 1986, Queen embarked on the Magic Tour, which would be their final string of live concerts with Freddie Mercury and John Deacon.
Now, the photographer who captured those incredible last live moments as a foursome together with Brian May and Roger Taylor has opened an exhibition of his photos.
The Queen guitarist himself, who hadn’t seen many of these amazing shots before, has since visited Proud Galleries in London, accompanied by the Swedish photographer, Torleif Svensson.”
Posting a new Instagram reel, the 77-year-old rock commented: “Amazing, so beautiful…the likes of which you have never seen.”
Sir Brian also pointed out the picture above as the one “I need to buy!”
The announcement shared: “Proud Galleries is delighted to present Queen – The Last Tour by Torleif Svensson, a captivating exhibition that delves into the unforgettable final tour of Queen, a band whose music and ethos continue to define the spirit of rock and roll. Through the masterful lens of Torleif Svensson, this collection captures the heart and soul of Queen’s electrifying last tour, preserving an intimate record of their legendary presence and unmatched charisma on stage.
“Svensson’s photographs, taken at the peak of Queen’s career, are more than just concert snapshots; they are windows into the multifaceted lives of the band members during one of the most poignant chapters of their journey. His images reveal the intensity and raw emotion of their performances, illustrating the energy shared with their devoted audiences. Here, Freddie Mercury’s commanding yet vulnerable presence, Brian May’s soaring guitar solos, Roger Taylor’s rhythmic power, and John Deacon’s steady presence come to life in frames that feel almost cinematic.
“The photographs invite viewers to reflect on the bittersweet nature of Queen’s final tour, a time when the band was at both a creative zenith and an emotional turning point. The scenes captured by Svensson show Queen as they were: a powerhouse in music and performance, whose music held audiences spellbound while carrying layers of complexity, tension, and camaraderie. As we examine the expressions, movements, and chemistry between these artists, we see the embodiment of the music’s depth and the bond they shared as bandmates, friends, and legends.”
The announcement added: “Queen – The Last Tour offers fans and newcomers alike an unparalleled opportunity to witness the raw power of Queen’s live performances and to reflect on the timeless impact of their work. Thirty years on, these images stand as a tribute to Queen’s legacy, inviting us to experience the iconic band through Svensson’s empathetic, unfiltered eye—a journey back to a moment when the band’s sound and spirit reverberated louder than ever.”
Queen—The Last Tour by Torleif Svensson is on display at Proud Galleries in London until January 2, 2025. To find out more, click here.
