Queen and their iconic hit “Bohemian Rhapsody” have hit a new milestone over 45 years after its initial release.
In a release on Queen’s official website, “Bohemian Rhapsody” has reached “Diamond” status by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) by surpassing 10 million in sales and stream equivalents in the United States. By achieving this status, Queen becomes the first British band in RIAA history to receive “Diamond” status for a song.
In a statement on this accomplishment, Brian May said, “This is incredible news. At times like this, I have to pinch myself to be sure it’s real. All those wild dreams we had – this is beyond any of them. Huge thanks to all who have believed in us over the years.”
Roger Taylor added, “It’s a wonderful and gratifying thought to know the song has reached out and connected with so many people! We thank you all…onwards.”
In other Queen news: The band recently kicked off their new YouTube series appropriately called “The Greatest” in honor of Queen’s 50th anniversary. The series began on March 19 and will run for 50 weeks. Each week will see a new video released exploring the band’s most iconic moments both on stage and off. The first video offered a look at their very first single “Keep Yourself Alive.”
The clips that are a part of this 50-week series will be presented in chronological order “…from Queen’s earliest shows at London’s Rainbow and Odeon through vast arenas across the entire world on a journey culminating with the band’s latest record-setting achievements with Adam Lambert.”
