THE LEAD singer of a Queen tribute act has spoken to the News and Star prior to their upcoming performance in Carlisle.

Mercury – The Ultimate Queen Tribute, will perform at the Sands Centre on Friday, June 3.

Discussing how he became the group’s Freddie Mercury, Joseph Lee Jackson said: “The initial process started in 1998 when I answered an advert in The Stage newspaper where they were looking for a singer to take on the role of Freddie. I had to audition for the part, I was the last of around 40 people who auditioned for the role.

 

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“Our guitarist Glenn saw something and heard something with me. I came from a musical theatre and performance background before and they offered me the role. I went away for three months to not only learn the songs but Freddie’s mannerisms and the way he sang live.”

The band have celebrated over 20 years performing together. Sharing his favourite moments as part of Mercury, Joseph said: “I’ve had many highlights. Freddie’s mother and sister have watched us on several occasions.

“We performed at a regatta in Mallorca and Roger Taylor was in attendance. After the show he came backstage to have a chat with us regarding the band which was a great experience for us all.

“The Freddie Mercury memorial concert in London was amazing too, we were invited by Freddie’s mum and we also had the opportunity to meet Brian May.”

When asked why he thinks the music of Queen continues to be loved by music fans of all ages, Joseph continued: “Obviously their music has stood the test of time. It wasn’t just a band performing at one end of a football field, it was the whole performance, from the staging and lighting to the costumes.

“Freddie’s delivery on stage was like he wanted everyone in attendance to become a part of the band and he wanted the audience to feel special. I’ve spoken to people who saw Queen live and they say that it was like he was performing just for them.

“They were so unique, four guys from different backgrounds who conquered the world.”

Tickets for the show cost £23.50 and are available through Better Box Office’s website.

 

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