Coachella's main stage got a jolt of rock royalty on Friday night when Benson Boone welcomed legendary Queen guitarist Brian May during a show-stopping performance of "Bohemian Rhapsody." The surprise moment marked May's first major public appearance since suffering a stroke just over seven months ago.
Benson Boone, who made his Coachella debut, lit up the stage wearing a dazzling blue, sparkly jumpsuit reminiscent of Freddie Mercury's iconic style. As he sat at the piano, Boone began to perform the beloved Queen classic, and moments later, May emerged dramatically from the top of the stage, guitar in hand, to join him for the legendary song.
"Please give it up for Queen guitarist Brian May," Boone told the crowd, which erupted in applause. The duo delivered a powerful rendition of the 1975 hit, with May performing his signature solo mid-song, showcasing the chemistry between the two artists.
After a brief exit from the stage, May returned to jam alongside Boone and guitarist Sus Vasquez, staying on to perform Boone's hit single "Beautiful Things." This unexpected collaboration was teased earlier in the day when May posted a photo with Boone on Instagram, calling him a "truly golden 22-year-old prodigy" and expressing pride in their new friendship.
Boone's set was livestreamed as part of Coachella's YouTube coverage, giving fans at home a front-row seat to one of the weekend's most buzzed-about moments. The performance not only highlighted Boone's talent but also served as a triumphant return for May, who had faced health challenges after a minor stroke in September 2024.
Before the performance, May shared his emotions about returning to the stage, writing in an Instagram post, "That old feeling — that cocktail of emotions -- fear — excitement — disbelief — belief — horror — gratitude — friendship — the will to create something special." He added, "Here we go!!!!"
Coachella, held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, kicked off its 2025 edition on April 11, running through April 13 and again from April 18 to 20. The festival is known for its diverse lineup, and this year's roster included Lady Gaga, Green Day, Travis Scott, and many more. Lady Gaga delivered a five-act career-spanning performance that showcased her theatricality and musical prowess.
During her set, Gaga emerged singing "Bloody Mary" at the top of a massive set piece, with a stage designed to resemble an ancient performance venue. She described her ambitious show, saying, "I decided to build you an opera house for you in the middle of the desert," before performing her hit "Alejandro." Her performance was received with rave reviews, solidifying her status as one of the festival's standout acts.
The opening day of Coachella was also marked by soaring temperatures, reaching over 100 degrees, which posed a challenge for attendees. Despite the heat, fans were treated to unforgettable performances, including those from Missy Elliott, who brought her space-themed tour to the festival, and Blackpink's Lisa, who made a strong impression as a solo artist.
As the festival continued, Boone announced that his second album, "American Heart," is set to drop on June 20, 2025. He premiered the title track during his set, revealing the cover art featuring him in front of an American flag. Boone's rise to fame has been meteoric, with his single "Beautiful Things" peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2024.
May's surprise appearance alongside Boone not only delighted fans but also marked a significant moment in his recovery journey. After suffering a stroke that temporarily affected his ability to move his left arm, May's return to the stage was a testament to his resilience and passion for music.
"It has changed my life this year and I hope you enjoy it," Boone said, reflecting on the significance of the performance. The collaboration between Boone and May was a highlight of the festival, showcasing the power of music to bring people together across generations.
As Coachella continues to attract fans from around the world, the festival remains a critical platform for artists to showcase their talents and connect with audiences. With a lineup that spans genres and generations, Coachella continues to be a defining moment in the music calendar.
In the end, the first day of Coachella 2025 will be remembered for its heat, its remarkable performances, and the unforgettable collaboration between Benson Boone and Brian May, a moment that encapsulated the spirit of the festival.
