Benson Boone channeled Freddie Mercury with a theatrical cover of “Bohemian Rhapsody” during his Coachella set on Friday, April 11, 2025, which included a special guest appearance by none other than Queen guitarist Brian May. The tribute began with Boone, draped in a regal ermine-fur cloak, playing the song on piano, before giving way to May for an epic guitar solo. The duo was also joined by a choir of backing singers and an impressive light show.
May, 77, made a surprise appearance at Coachella just over seven months after suffering a stroke that temporarily affected his mobility. He showed no signs of his previous health issues as he flawlessly strummed away on the guitar, smiling throughout the performance. Following the performance, May stuck around to join Boone on his set closer, “Beautiful Things.”
Earlier in the day, May teased his Coachella appearance on social media, sharing a photo of himself and Boone on a private plane. “Look who I bumped into on the way to the fabled Palm Springs… Maybe something will happen?!” he wrote, hinting at the collaboration that fans would soon witness.
Boone, a 22-year-old singer-songwriter from Monroe, Washington, also took the opportunity to announce his upcoming sophomore album, “American Heart,” set for release on June 20, 2025. He debuted the title track during his set, which showcased his soaring vocals and theatrical flair, reminiscent of Mercury’s iconic performances.
As Boone began the rendition of “Bohemian Rhapsody” on the piano, he shed his fur cloak to reveal a sparkling silver leotard, similar to those worn by Mercury. The performance was marked by Boone’s signature acrobatics; at one point, he leaped over May while the guitarist continued to play. The crowd erupted in applause as Boone shouted, “Please give it up for Queen guitarist Brian May!”
The performance of “Bohemian Rhapsody” included a full choir dressed in robes and an impressive light show that mirrored the grandeur of Queen’s own stage productions. Boone’s energetic performance style, including backflips off the piano, captivated the audience, proving that he is a rising star in the music industry.
After the Queen cover, Boone performed several of his own hits, including “Cry,” “Drunk in My Mind,” and “Slow It Down,” leading the audience in a call-and-response for “Forever and a Day.” He also gave a live debut of “Mystical Magical,” further solidifying his reputation as a dynamic performer.
The Coachella set was not just a personal milestone for Boone but also a significant moment in his career, following the success of his debut album, “Fireworks & Rollerblades,” released in 2023. His breakout single, “Beautiful Things,” which was released in January 2024, became one of the biggest hits of the year and earned him a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist.
Boone’s collaboration with May was particularly poignant given the guitarist's recent health scare. In September 2024, May revealed that he had suffered a minor stroke, which left him temporarily unable to move his arm. He described the experience as “a little scary” but expressed relief that he could still play guitar after the incident. His return to the stage at Coachella demonstrated his resilience and passion for music.
In addition to Boone and May’s performance, the festival has seen a variety of surprise appearances, including Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong joining The Go-Go’s for a performance of their 1984 hit “Head Over Heels.” Green Day is set to headline the festival on Saturday night, April 12, 2025.
Despite the excitement of the performances, some festival-goers have expressed frustration over long queues and inadequate facilities, likening the experience to the infamous Fyre Festival. Nevertheless, fans can livestream performances on Coachella’s YouTube channel or via the new Coachella Livestream app, ensuring that those unable to attend in person can still enjoy the music.
As Benson Boone continues his ascent in the music industry, his Coachella performance marks a significant chapter in his career, blending the legacy of Queen with his unique style. With his sophomore album on the horizon and a summer festival circuit ahead, Boone is poised to make an even bigger impact in the music world.
