Freddie Mercury joined Brian May and Roger Taylor, formerly of the band Smile, and suggested the name 'Queen'. He adopted the stage name Freddie Mercury.

John Deacon joined Queen, completing the classic lineup of the band.

Queen released their self-titled debut album, which was well-received but did not immediately achieve significant commercial success.

Queen first charted in the UK with their second album, "Queen II", and later that year released "Sheer Heart Attack", which brought them more recognition.