QUEEN CONFIRM RELEASE OF PREVIOUSLY UNHEARD SONG RECORDED MORE THAN 50 YEARS AGO

Queen fans are set for a major early Christmas surprise after Brian May confirmed that a previously unheard song recorded more than half a century ago will finally be released.

The legendary guitarist announced that the unreleased track, titled Not For Sale, will be unveiled later today, giving fans their first-ever opportunity to hear a song that has remained locked away in the band’s archives since the early 1970s. Written by May himself, the track dates back to 1974 and was originally recorded during sessions for Queen’s second studio album, Queen II.

Despite being worked on during a crucial period in the band’s early career, Not For Sale did not make the final track listing for Queen II, which was released that same year and went on to become one of the group’s most beloved and influential albums. The record marked a turning point for Queen, showcasing their increasingly ambitious songwriting, multi-layered harmonies and darker, more theatrical sound.

Now, more than 50 years later, the song has been carefully remastered and confirmed as part of a forthcoming rebuilt and expanded re-release of Queen II, scheduled to arrive in 2026. The release forms part of an ongoing effort by Brian May and Roger Taylor to revisit and preserve the band’s vast back catalogue, ensuring that historic recordings are presented in the best possible quality for modern audiences.

Speaking about the track, May acknowledged that some hardcore fans may be aware of earlier versions of the song circulating unofficially over the years. Before Queen was formed, May and drummer Roger Taylor were members of the band Smile, and a song known as Not For Sale (Polar Bear) has appeared in bootleg form among collectors.

However, May was keen to stress that this newly released Queen recording is entirely different and has never been officially heard until now.

“People might possibly have heard a bootleg version of Not For Sale (Polar Bear) by Smile, it’s a song that goes back a very long way,” he explained. “But to my knowledge no one has ever heard this version.”

He added: “It’s a work in progress and will appear on the forthcoming rebuild of the Queen II album, coming next year.”

For Queen fans, the announcement offers a rare glimpse into the band’s creative process during their formative years. The Queen II sessions took place at a time when the group were still finding their identity, blending hard rock, progressive elements and operatic ambition in a way that would later define their global success. Unearthed recordings from this era are especially prized, as they capture the raw experimentation that helped shape classics such as Seven Seas of Rhye and Ogre Battle.

Brian May will debut a previously unheard track from the band, originally recorded more than half a century ago, when he hosts a special Planet Rock show on December 22 – Credit: instagram.com/officialqueenmusic

The release of Not For Sale continues a trend of archival discoveries from Queen’s early years, following recent deluxe editions and box sets that have revealed alternate takes, demos and previously unheard material. For longtime fans who grew up with the band’s music, the chance to hear something genuinely new, yet deeply rooted in Queen’s golden era, is a rare and emotional experience.

While details of the full Queen II re-release have yet to be confirmed, anticipation is already building as listeners prepare to hear a song that has remained hidden for decades. As Queen’s legacy continues to endure across generations, Not For Sale serves as a powerful reminder that even after more than 50 years, the band can still surprise the world.