Ranking Queen II: All The Songs

Alright guys, let's dive deep into one of Queen's most ambitious and frankly, epic albums: Queen II. Released way back in 1974, this record is a real journey. It's split into two sides, the 'White side' and the 'Black side', each with its own distinct vibe. The White side, penned mostly by Brian May, is more ethereal and melodic, while the Black side, Freddie Mercury's domain, is darker, more theatrical, and packed with raw power. We're going to break down every single track, from the thunderous openers to the haunting closers, and give you our definitive ranking. So, grab your headphones, crank it up, and let's see where each gem falls in the grand scheme of this absolute masterpiece.

The Definitive Queen II Song Ranking

When we talk about ranking Queen II songs, we're really talking about dissecting a pivotal moment in Queen's musical evolution. This album isn't just a collection of tracks; it's a statement. It's where Freddie Mercury and the band really started to explore the sonic landscapes that would become their trademark. The production is richer, the arrangements are more complex, and the sheer ambition is palpable. So, let's get into it, shall we?

1. The March of the Black Queen

This is, without a doubt, the undisputed champion. The March of the Black Queen isn't just a song; it's a saga. Clocking in at over six minutes, it's a whirlwind of operatic drama, heavy rock riffs, and intricate vocal harmonies. From the majestic opening to the thunderous finale, it encapsulates everything that makes Queen so unique. It's a theatrical masterpiece, a true testament to Freddie Mercury's genius as a composer and performer. The sheer scale of it, the dynamic shifts, the storytelling – it’s just… everything. This track alone is worth the price of admission for the entire album. It perfectly embodies the dark, fantastical themes of the Black side and showcases the band's incredible musicianship and vocal prowess. If you want to understand the essence of Queen's early sound and their boundless creativity, this is where you start. It’s complex, it’s powerful, and it’s utterly unforgettable. The way it builds and evolves is simply breathtaking, a true highlight not just of Queen II, but of their entire discography. The layering of vocals and instruments creates a soundscape that is both dense and exhilarating. It’s a song that demands your full attention and rewards it tenfold with its sheer brilliance. It feels like a journey through a mythical realm, guided by Freddie's commanding vocals and Brian's searing guitar solos. This is the pinnacle of their early work, a song that still sends shivers down your spine with its sheer audacity and artistic vision. It truly is a monumental achievement in rock music.

2. Seven Seas of Rhye

Even though it's the title track of their first album, Seven Seas of Rhye as it appears on Queen II is the definitive version. This is the song that really put them on the map and became their first hit single. It’s got that instantly recognizable piano intro, Freddie’s soaring vocals, and a killer guitar solo from Brian May. It’s pure, unadulterated Queen magic. The energy is infectious, the melody is unforgettable, and it perfectly bridges the gap between the album's White and Black sides. It’s a song that makes you want to sing along, clap your hands, and maybe even stomp your feet. It has that anthemic quality that Queen would become so famous for. The lyrics, while fantastical, hint at the mythical world they were building. It’s concise, it’s powerful, and it’s undeniably catchy. This track is a perfect example of their early sound – a blend of glam rock, progressive rock, and sheer theatrical flair. It’s a song that feels both grand and intimate, drawing you into its fantastical narrative. The interplay between Freddie’s vocals and Brian’s guitar is masterful, each complementing the other perfectly. It’s a song that has stood the test of time and remains a fan favorite for good reason. Its impact on Queen's career cannot be overstated, serving as the catalyst for their global recognition. It's a glorious explosion of sound and emotion, a song that truly encapsulates the youthful exuberance and boundless talent of the band in their formative years. It's a triumphant declaration of their arrival on the music scene, bold and unforgettable.

3. Nevermore

This one is a bit of a hidden gem, but Nevermore is absolutely stunning. It's a beautiful, haunting ballad that showcases Freddie Mercury's incredible vocal range and emotional depth. The arrangement is stripped-back, focusing on Freddie's voice and Brian May's delicate guitar work, creating an intimate and melancholic atmosphere. It’s a masterclass in understated power. The lyrics speak of lost love and regret, and Freddie delivers them with such raw vulnerability. It’s the kind of song that stays with you long after it’s over. It’s a moment of pure emotional catharsis on the album, providing a much-needed contrast to the more bombastic tracks. The harmonies are sublime, adding another layer of beauty to the song. It’s a testament to the band’s versatility, showing they could deliver quiet, introspective moments just as effectively as they could deliver roaring anthems. This song, my friends, is pure poetry set to music. The subtle build-up and release of emotion are expertly handled, making it an incredibly moving listening experience. It’s a song that demonstrates the sophisticated songwriting and arrangement skills that were already present in the band at this early stage. The sheer emotional resonance of Freddie's performance is captivating, drawing the listener into a world of tender sorrow. Its simplicity is its strength, allowing the raw emotion of the vocals and the intricate guitar lines to shine through, creating a truly unforgettable and deeply affecting piece of music.

4. The Fairy Feller Master Stroke

Prepare yourselves for a dose of pure, unadulterated whimsy and rock brilliance with The Fairy Feller Master Stroke. This track is a psychedelic trip through a fantastical world, complete with elaborate storytelling and a soundscape that's as unique as it gets. It’s a song that demands your attention and rewards it with its sheer inventiveness. Brian May's guitar work is phenomenal, weaving intricate melodies and powerful riffs. Freddie's vocals are theatrical and captivating, perfectly embodying the bizarre characters and narrative. The song's structure is unconventional, shifting and evolving like a dream, which is precisely what makes it so compelling. It’s a testament to the band’s willingness to experiment and push boundaries, even this early in their career. The lyrics paint vivid pictures, drawing you into a surreal carnival of mythical beings. It’s a song that’s both playful and powerful, showcasing their incredible musicianship and imaginative songwriting. It’s a delightful, albeit eccentric, journey that highlights their unique blend of influences and their fearless approach to music creation. The dynamic shifts and unexpected turns keep you on the edge of your seat, proving that Queen was never afraid to be different. This is a prime example of their progressive rock leanings, blended with a flair for the dramatic that would become their signature. It's a truly captivating piece that showcases their artistic daring and their ability to craft complex, multi-layered narratives within a single song, making it an utterly unique and memorable listening experience.

5. White Queen (As It Began)

This is the majestic centerpiece of the White side, and White Queen (As It Began) is a truly beautiful song. It's got this soaring, almost medieval quality to it, with intricate vocal harmonies and Brian May's signature guitar tone taking center stage. It builds and builds, creating a sense of wonder and grandeur. Freddie’s vocals are pure class, full of emotion and power, while the guitar solo is nothing short of legendary. It perfectly captures the ethereal and melodic essence of the White side. The song tells a story, and you can feel the epic scope of it as it unfolds. It’s a track that showcases the band’s ability to create lush, atmospheric soundscapes. The harmonies are particularly noteworthy, creating a rich tapestry of sound that envelops the listener. It’s a song that feels both ancient and timeless, a true testament to Queen’s songwriting prowess. The dynamic range is impressive, moving from delicate passages to powerful crescendos, demonstrating their mastery of musical storytelling. It’s a song that evokes a sense of mythical grandeur and romanticism, making it a standout track on an already impressive album. The delicate balance between melody, harmony, and instrumental prowess is perfectly struck, creating a listening experience that is both emotionally resonant and musically sophisticated. It’s a classic Queen ballad in the making, full of grace and power.

6. Father to Son

Starting with that delicate piano intro, Father to Son is a progressive rock epic in miniature. It's a testament to Brian May's songwriting, weaving a narrative that's both personal and universal. The song evolves beautifully, starting softly and building to a powerful climax with searing guitar solos and soaring vocals. It’s got that classic Queen feel – ambitious, melodic, and packed with emotion. The lyrics explore themes of legacy and passing on wisdom, adding a layer of depth. It’s a journey within a song, showcasing the band's ability to craft intricate arrangements and dynamic shifts. The transition from the softer passages to the heavier rock sections is seamless and exhilarating. This track truly highlights Brian May's compositional skills and his distinctive guitar playing. It’s a song that demands repeated listens to fully appreciate its nuances and complexity. It’s a powerful statement about connection and continuity, delivered with Queen's signature blend of artistry and power. The operatic elements and layered vocals add to its grandeur, making it a truly memorable piece of music that showcases the band's artistic vision and their burgeoning talent for creating complex, multi-faceted compositions that are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging.

7. Ogre Battle

This is where the Black side really kicks into high gear, and Ogre Battle is a beast of a track. It’s dark, it’s heavy, and it’s got this raw, primal energy that’s just infectious. Freddie’s vocals are absolutely menacing, and Brian May’s guitar riff is killer. The production has this wild, almost chaotic feel to it, which totally works for the song's theme of battle. It’s a sonic assault, but in the best possible way. The song builds tension masterfully, with moments of quiet intensity before erupting into full-blown rock fury. It showcases the band's heavier side and their ability to create intense, atmospheric soundscapes. It’s a song that feels genuinely dangerous and exciting, a far cry from the gentler moments on the White side. The aggressive tone and driving rhythm make it an absolute headbanger. It’s a wild ride from start to finish, demonstrating the band’s versatility and their willingness to explore darker, more aggressive musical territories. The sheer force and power of this track are undeniable, making it a standout moment on the album that perfectly encapsulates the aggressive, fantastical narrative of the Black side. It’s a track that grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go until the very last note.

8. Procession

Technically an instrumental, Procession serves as a powerful opening to the White side. It’s a grand, almost military-style fanfare that immediately sets a majestic and serious tone. Brian May’s layered guitar work creates a rich, symphonic sound, making it feel much bigger than just a simple intro. It’s a bold statement that signals the ambitious nature of the album that’s about to unfold. While it might not have vocals, its impact is undeniable. It’s a fantastic piece of arrangement and composition that showcases the band’s musicality from the outset. It's a statement of intent, announcing their arrival with a fanfare that commands attention. The sheer sonic weight and orchestral feel it achieves with just guitars are remarkable, proving their innovative approach to studio production. It’s an impressive display of their instrumental capabilities and their meticulous attention to sonic detail, creating a grand overture that perfectly sets the stage for the melodic and ethereal journey of the White side. It’s a powerful, albeit brief, introduction that leaves a lasting impression of the band’s musical sophistication and their grand artistic vision.

9. Doing Alright

This is a solid rock track that really showcases the band’s early sound. Doing Alright has a great riff, catchy chorus, and some really nice vocal harmonies. It’s a bit more straightforward than some of the other tracks on the album, but it’s incredibly effective. Brian May’s guitar solo is tasteful and melodic, and Freddie’s vocals are strong and confident. It’s a song that feels good, with a positive and upbeat energy, even with its slightly melancholic undertones. It’s a great example of their ability to craft well-structured, enjoyable rock songs. The interplay between the instruments is tight, and the overall feel is one of youthful exuberance and solid musicianship. It’s a song that demonstrates their knack for writing accessible yet musically interesting material. While it might not have the epic scope of some of its album mates, its straightforward rock appeal and well-crafted structure make it a definite highlight, proving they could deliver powerful rock anthems with undeniable energy and charm. It’s a track that embodies the confident, swaggering spirit of early Queen, delivering a satisfying dose of classic rock.

10. Some Day One Day

This is Brian May’s sole vocal contribution on the album, and Some Day One Day is a lovely, somewhat understated track. It has a gentle, acoustic feel with a touch of melancholy. Brian’s vocals are soft and earnest, and the melody is quite pleasant. It’s a moment of quiet reflection amidst the album’s grander statements. While it might not have the immediate impact of some of Freddie’s vocal performances, it offers a different flavor and showcases Brian’s songwriting and vocal abilities. It’s a gentle interlude that adds to the album’s overall texture. The simple arrangement allows the sincerity of the vocals and the gentle guitar melody to shine through. It’s a sweet, reflective song that contributes to the album’s dynamic range, offering a peaceful pause before diving back into the more intense material. It provides a nice contrast and highlights the collaborative nature of the band, even with distinct individual contributions. It’s a charming and heartfelt piece that adds a unique dimension to the Queen II listening experience.

11. I Can't Live With You

This track, originally intended for Queen II but ultimately released later, is often debated by fans regarding its placement. However, within the context of Queen II, if it were included, it would likely find itself towards the latter half of the ranking. I Can't Live With You (in its original Queen II intended form) is a powerful rock song with a strong vocal performance and driving guitar. It has that signature Queen sound, energetic and anthemic. While it showcases their talent, it might not quite reach the conceptual heights or sheer groundbreaking innovation of the tracks that made the final cut for Queen II. It’s a solid Queen track, no doubt, but perhaps less essential to the album's core narrative and artistic statement compared to the others. It has a great energy and a memorable chorus, but it feels more like a standard rock song from the band rather than one that pushes their boundaries as significantly as, say, 'The March of the Black Queen' or 'Ogre Battle'. It's a good song, but in the grand tapestry of Queen II, it serves more as a powerful supporting element rather than a central pillar of its unique identity.

12. The Lady Who Can't Be Moved

This is actually a misremembered title; the actual song is **