Princes Of The Universe
Queen
The Majesty of Queen's 'Princes Of The Universe'
Queen's 'Princes Of The Universe' is a song that exudes a sense of grandeur and invincibility, aligning with the band's larger-than-life image and rock opera style. The lyrics speak to the idea of being extraordinary and above the common fray, a recurring theme in Queen's music, which often celebrates individualism and the triumph of the human spirit. The song was written by lead guitarist Brian May and served as the theme song for the 1986 film 'Highlander', which is about immortal warriors battling through the ages. This context is crucial as it directly influences the song's lyrics and the notion of immortality and destiny.
The song's protagonist declares themselves 'immortal' with the 'blood of kings,' suggesting a lineage of power and a destiny to rule. This can be interpreted both in the literal sense, in line with the 'Highlander' narrative, and metaphorically, as a statement of the band's confidence and legacy in the rock world. The repeated assertion of being 'born to be kings' and 'princes of the universe' reflects a self-assured proclamation of their place at the top of the musical hierarchy. The lyrics also touch on themes of struggle and perseverance ('fighting to survive'), hinting at the competitive nature of the music industry and the challenges faced on the path to success.
The song's energy and bombastic delivery are characteristic of Queen's style, with Freddie Mercury's powerful vocals driving the anthemic chorus. The mention of 'flying the moon and reaching for the stars' with 'sword and head held high' evokes a sense of adventure and conquest, which is emblematic of the band's approach to their music and performances. 'Princes Of The Universe' is a celebration of ambition, the pursuit of greatness, and the belief in one's own exceptionalism, all set to the backdrop of Queen's signature rock sound.