Brian May
Awards & Honours
6
Awards Won
6
Honours
2
Rankings
2
Covers
3
Records
Brian May is widely celebrated as one of the greatest guitarists in rock history. His innovative use of multi-layered guitar harmonies and his homemade Red Special guitar created a sound that is instantly recognizable. May's songwriting includes some of the most iconic anthems in music, such as 'We Will Rock You,' which is played at stadiums worldwide. His contributions to science, including a PhD in astrophysics and work with NASA, make him a unique figure in popular culture. Knighted in 2023, May's legacy spans music, science, and activism.
Awards
Honours & Distinctions
Knight Bachelor
Knighted for services to music and charity.
Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)
Appointed for services to the music industry.
Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society (FRAS)
Elected for contributions to astrophysics.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee
Inducted as a member of Queen.
Songwriters Hall of Fame Inductee
Inducted as a member of Queen.
Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
Queen received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Rankings & Lists
100 Greatest Guitarists
Greatest Guitarist of All Time
Magazine Covers
Rolling Stone
2005-01
Brian May: The Guitar God Who Also Has a PhD
Guitar World
2020-09
The Greatest Guitarists: Brian May
Records & Feats
First guitarist to earn a PhD in astrophysics
Brian May completed his PhD in astrophysics at Imperial College London in 2007, making him the first major rock guitarist to earn a doctorate in a hard science.
Queen's Greatest Hits is the best-selling album in UK history
Queen's Greatest Hits album has spent over 1,200 weeks on the UK Albums Chart and is the best-selling album of all time in the UK, a record that includes May as a key contributor.
We Will Rock You is the most played stadium anthem in sports
The song 'We Will Rock You,' written by May, is used at sporting events worldwide and is widely considered the most played stadium anthem in history.