“Bohemian Rhapsody” is one of rock’s most iconic songs. However, it was almost titled something else.
In notes from Freddie Mercury that will soon hit the auction block, it appears the epic track was originally titled “Mongolian Rhapsody.” Photos of Mercury’s notes were shared by The New York Times, and they show the word “Mongolian” scratched out and “Bohemian” written above. The outlet further notes, ” … The potential alternative title for ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ has been unknown since the song premiered almost 50 years ago, and has gone unmentioned in prominent Queen biographies.”
These notes from Mercury are one of nearly 1,500 items from the late Queen frontman that will go up for auction in September. As previously reported, Mercury’s longtime friend/confidant Mary Austin has partnered with Sotheby’s for a massive auction of Mercury’s possession he left to her in his will. The collection, titled “Freddie Mercury: A World of His Own,” is going on tour this summer to the following Sotheby’s locations on the following dates:
-New York: June 1-8
-Los Angeles: June 14-18
-Hong Kong: June 26-30
-London: August 4-September 5
The auction of Mercury’s items will take place in London over the course of three days on September 6-8. Items heading to auction range from stage costumes to hand-written lyrics to pieces of art Mercury collected. Complete details on the auction are available at Sothebys.com.