VM 2: Killer Queen - Flashcards

Front

Who wrote “Killer Queen” and when was it released?

Back

Freddie Mercury wrote it; it was released in 1974 on the album *Sheer Heart Attack*.

Front

What is “Killer Queen” about?

Back

A glamorous, high-class prostitute who enjoys luxury items like caviar and champagne.

Front

Which genre and style does “Killer Queen” belong to?

Back

Rock song with glam rock influences.

Front

Name the four members of Queen and their roles.

Back

Freddie Mercury (vocals/piano), Brian May (guitar), Roger Taylor (drums), John Deacon (bass).

Front

What is glam rock and how did Queen incorporate it?

Back

A style with flamboyant costumes and theatrical presentation; Queen added studio effects and lush arrangements.

Front

Who sings lead and backing vocals in “Killer Queen”?

Back

Freddie Mercury, with overdubbed harmonies.

Front

What’s special about the piano sound in “Killer Queen”?

Back

It's doubled with a honky-tonk (jangle) piano for a retro effect.

Front

Which two extra percussion instruments appear in the song?

Back

Triangle (bar 29) and windchimes (bar 68).

Front

What studio effects are used in the recording?

Back

Reverb, overdubbing, phaser (e.g. on “laser beam”), wah-wah, stereo panning, compression, distortion.

Front

What is the “Countryman Phase Shifter” used for?

Back

To create the phasing effect on the words “laser beam” (bar 17).