A Deep Dive into Queen’s “Doing All Right”: A Song of Duality and Early Promise
Ah, Queen. A name synonymous with operatic rock, flamboyant costumes, and the unforgettable voice of Freddie Mercury. But before they conquered stadiums and topped charts worldwide, Queen existed in a different form. From 1968 to 1970, guitarist Brian May, bassist Tim Staffell, and drummer Roger Taylor were part of a band called Smile. While commercially unsuccessful, Smile laid the groundwork for the musical phenomenon that would become Queen.
Background
“Doing All Right” is a fascinating piece that bridges the gap between Smile and Queen. Originally written by May and Staffell, the song appeared on Smile’s unreleased recordings and featured Staffell on vocals. However, when Queen formed and began recording their self-titled debut album in 1973, “Doing All Right” was revisited and given the full Queen treatment.
This reimagining of the song is what we’re most familiar with today. It serves as a microcosm of Queen’s musical identity, showcasing both their delicate and bombastic sides. Let’s delve deeper into this unique track and appreciate its significance in Queen’s story.
A Gentle Beginning: A Smile Reborn
The opening of “Doing All Right” is a stark contrast to the high-octane rock anthems Queen would become known for. Here, we hear a melancholic melody played on Brian May’s acoustic guitar, reminiscent of folk ballads of the late 60s. Freddie Mercury’s vocals, though powerful, are delivered with a softer touch, channeling the spirit of Tim Staffell’s original performance. The lyrics paint a picture of introspection and uncertainty:
“Looking around to find the words to say / Should be waiting for the skies to clear / Up we should be waiting for the in any way / My yesterday, my life was not today…”
This introspective mood reflects the anxieties and searching that young musicians often experience at the beginning of their careers. The line “My yesterday, my life was not today” hints at a desire for change and a yearning for a brighter future, something that would resonate deeply with aspiring artists.
The Shift: Unleashing the Queen Within
But “Doing All Right” doesn’t stay gentle for long. Around the two-minute mark, the song takes a dramatic turn. The acoustic guitar intro abruptly cuts out, replaced by a wall of distorted guitars and John Deacon’s pounding bass line. Roger Taylor’s drums shift into a driving rock beat, and Freddie Mercury unleashes his full vocal power. The lyrics become more assertive:
“I’m in alright, I’m out of sight / I’m feeling alright, everything’s alright, alright!”
This sudden shift in tone and tempo is a defining characteristic of Queen. They weren’t afraid to juxtapose tenderness with raw power, creating a dynamic and theatrical listening experience. In “Doing All Right,” this transition symbolizes the band’s burgeoning confidence and their desire to push boundaries.
A Song of Duality: A Bridge Between Eras
“Doing All Right” stands as a testament to Queen’s early experimentation. It’s a song that wears two distinct hats: a gentle ballad from their Smile days and a powerful rock anthem that foreshadows their future sound. This duality is fascinating and showcases the band’s willingness to embrace different styles.
The song also highlights the crucial role Brian May played in shaping Queen’s identity. Not only did he write the core of the song, but his decision to revisit it with a heavier arrangement speaks volumes about the band’s musical direction.
A Legacy of Innovation
While not a commercial hit, “Doing All Right” holds significant weight in Queen’s history. It serves as a reminder of their humble beginnings and the raw talent that would propel them to superstardom. It’s a song that showcases their ability to blend musical styles seamlessly, a skill that would become a hallmark of their iconic sound. So, the next time you hear Queen’s bombastic anthems, take a moment to appreciate “Doing All Right,” a song that bridges the gap between Smile and Queen, and hints at the musical revolution they were about to unleash upon the world.