Queen – Breakthru

Queen – Breakthru: A High-Octane Anthem of Resilience

In the annals of rock music, Queen stands as a colossus, a band that defied categorization with its flamboyant theatrics, operatic vocals, and genre-bending musicality. Among their vast repertoire of iconic songs, “Breakthru” holds a special place, a high-octane anthem that pulsates with raw energy and an unwavering spirit of perseverance.

Released in 1989 on the album The Miracle, “Breakthru” marked a pivotal moment in Queen’s career. Following the colossal success of their 1986 album A Kind of Magic, the band sought to explore new sonic territories while retaining their signature sound. “Breakthru” embodies this evolution, seamlessly blending elements of rock, pop, and even a cappella vocals to create a truly unique and exhilarating listening experience.

The song’s narrative is open to interpretation, but at its core, it’s a powerful declaration of overcoming obstacles and achieving personal breakthroughs. The opening features a soaring a cappella section, originally conceived as a separate song titled “A New Life Is Born,” before being masterfully woven into “Breakthru” by frontman Freddie Mercury. This intro sets the stage for the electrifying guitar work of Brian May, propelling the song forward with a driving rhythm section.

Lyrically, the song is a potent cocktail of defiance and optimism. Lines like “We’re halfway there, whoa-oh / Living on a prayer” and “I’m breaking free” capture the essence of striving for a brighter future, even amidst adversity. Mercury’s vocals soar throughout the song, imbued with a raw power and conviction that perfectly complements the song’s energetic message.

Musically, “Breakthru” is a showcase of Queen’s masterful musicianship. John Deacon’s bass lays down a solid foundation, while Roger Taylor’s drumming provides a dynamic and propulsive force. May’s guitar work shines with his signature layered textures and electrifying solos, weaving a tapestry of sound that perfectly complements Mercury’s soaring vocals. The result is a sonic masterpiece that is both complex and undeniably catchy.

Beyond its immediate impact, “Breakthru” has become a timeless anthem for those seeking to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. The song’s powerful message and electrifying energy continue to resonate with listeners of all ages, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Queen’s legacy.

Lyric

I wake up
I feel fine
Your face
Chills my spine
Honey, you’re touchin’ something deep inside of me
Honey, you’re touchin’ something, you’re touchin’ me
I’m under your thumb, under your spell
Can’t you see? Yeah

If I could only reach you
If I could make you smile
If I could only reach you
That would really be a breakthrough
(Oh, I love it, love that one)

Video

Here are some additional details about the song:

• “Breakthru” was written by Freddie Mercury and Roger Taylor, credited to Queen.
• It was released as the second single from the album The Miracle in 1989.
• The song reached number seven on the UK Singles Chart and peaked at number six in the Netherlands and Ireland.
• The iconic music video for “Breakthru” features the band performing on an open platform of a fast-moving steam train, a visual embodiment of the song’s forward-moving momentum.