It’s a new era for the beloved band.
Brian May has made a major decision about Queen’s future on the road, and longtime fans may want to pay attention. The 79-year-old guitarist says he decided 18 months ago that he no longer wants to spend long stretches touring, after the death of a close family friend made him rethink what he was willing to give up to stay on the road. His decision could mean Queen’s days of traditional extended tours are over, but May isn’t walking away from music. Instead, he’s looking toward a new chapter that gives him more time for his family, his astrophysics work and, as he puts it, his freedom.
In a recent interview with The Times, May shared that the death of a close family friend while Queen was touring the United States made him rethink future tours. The legendary guitarist realized that even in a family emergency, he couldn’t simply leave the tour for a few days and head home. That experience made him decide he no longer wanted to spend large chunks of time on the road.
“I love to play, I love to travel, but the trade-off is sacrificing your freedom,” May explained, adding that he has “a lot of astrophysics” he intends to pursue, in addition to spending time with his wife and grandchildren.
What Brian May’s Decision Means for Queen
Queen + Adam Lambert haven’t performed since their Rhapsody Tour ended in February 2024, and May’s recent comments suggest fans shouldn’t expect another major Queen tour in the future.
That doesn’t mean Queen is disbanding. May and drummerRoger Taylorare still considering ways to bring Queen’s music to audiences without committing to a traditional tour. An immersive experience like ABBA’s Voyage is one option. Other artists, like Harry Styles, have chosen longer-stay residencies that allow them to perform in one place for an extended period while fans travel to them.
Brian May Isn’t Retiring From Music
Fans shouldn’t take Brian May’s decision as a retirement announcement. It’s more like the end of one era and the beginning of another.
Queen’s music isn’t going anywhere, and May and Taylor haven’t ruled out performing together again. But after decades of stadiums, airports and hotel rooms, May is ready for a different kind of life—one that gives him the freedom to pursue his astrophysics, spend time with his wife and grandchildren and decide for himself when he wants to pick up the guitar and play.
For a musician who has spent more than five decades on the road, that may be the biggest change of all: Brian May isn’t saying goodbye to Queen. He’s simply choosing what comes next on his own terms.
This story was originally published by Parade on Oct 5, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.