Freddie Mercury, the iconic frontman of Queen, wrote “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” a rockabilly hit that topped the Billboard Hot 100 for four weeks in 1980. This song, a surprising departure from Queen’s usual sound, became their first No. 1 single in the United States and remains a beloved classic. But what inspired this unexpected rock and roll anthem?
Freddie Mercury’s Inspiration and Speedy Songwriting
Mercury penned “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” as a tribute to Elvis Presley, channeling the King’s early rock and roll energy. Interestingly, Mercury, a proficient pianist, composed this track on a guitar in just five to ten minutes. This unusual approach stemmed from his limited guitar skills, knowing only a few chords. In an interview, Mercury stated, “It was quite a good thing because I was restricted, knowing only a few chords. I couldn’t work through too many chords and because of that restriction, I wrote a good song, I think.” This self-imposed limitation proved fruitful, resulting in a simple yet infectious melody that resonated with audiences worldwide. The song’s stripped-down instrumentation, featuring prominent guitar riffs and a driving rhythm, further emphasized its rockabilly influences.
A Chart-Topping Success and Enduring Legacy
“Crazy Little Thing Called Love” quickly climbed the charts, reaching the pinnacle of the Billboard Hot 100 on February 23, 1980. Its reign lasted for four consecutive weeks, solidifying Queen’s presence in the American music scene. The song’s success transcended generations, becoming a staple in Queen’s live performances and earning its place in the pantheon of rock and roll anthems. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to Mercury’s songwriting genius, proving his ability to craft catchy and memorable tunes across diverse genres. Even with his limited guitar proficiency, he managed to create a song that captured the essence of rockabilly and resonated with millions.
Beyond “Crazy Little Thing Called Love”: A Day in Music History
February 23rd marks other significant events in music history. In 1963, The Chiffons’ “He’s So Fine” debuted, later becoming the subject of a plagiarism lawsuit against George Harrison for his song “My Sweet Lord.” In 1974, Billy Joel released his breakthrough album, Piano Man. Furthermore, notable birthdays include blues guitarist Johnny Winter (born 1944), Aerosmith guitarist Brad Whitford, and Howard Jones. These coinciding events highlight the rich tapestry of musical history surrounding the date “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” reached No. 1.
Freddie Mercury’s Rockabilly Triumph
“Crazy Little Thing Called Love” stands as a testament to Freddie Mercury’s versatility and talent. Written in mere minutes, this Elvis-inspired tribute became a global phenomenon, showcasing Mercury’s ability to transcend genre boundaries and create music that endures. Its success in 1980 solidified Queen’s position as a leading force in the music world and contributed to their lasting legacy. The song’s simple structure, catchy melody, and rockabilly spirit continue to captivate audiences, ensuring its place as a timeless classic.
