Queen’s ’39, written by astrophysicist Brian May, tells a heartfelt sci-fi story intertwined with real physics, earning praise from renowned scientist Neil deGrasse Tyson.
- Song explores time dilation from Einstein’s relativity theory
- Brian May’s astrophysics PhD deeply influences the lyrics
- Neil deGrasse Tyson highlights the song’s scientific accuracy
What happened
Released in 1975 as part of Queen’s best-selling album A Night at the Opera, the song ’39 was penned and performed by Brian May, the band’s guitarist who also holds a doctorate in astrophysics. The song narrates a tale of space travelers who embark on a mission and return to Earth to find much more time has passed there than they experienced in space—capturing the phenomenon known as time dilation.
This concept reflects Einstein’s special relativity, where time passes at different rates depending on speed and gravity. The song’s ingenious storytelling uses a folk-style melody to present a complex scientific idea in a relatable way, blending May’s scientific knowledge with his musical talent.
Why it feels good
Brian May brings an authentic scientist’s insight to his music, enriching ’39 with layers of meaning beyond the surface folk tune. His real-life expertise lends credibility to the song’s depiction of relativistic time effects, making it a rare and inspiring blend of art and science that resonates strongly within the scientific community.
Astrophysicist and science communicator Neil deGrasse Tyson has praised the song for its accurate portrayal of time dilation and its educational value. For listeners who appreciate science, ’39 offers a poetic and accessible way to understand a fundamental aspect of modern physics, fostering curiosity and wonder.
What to enjoy or watch next
Queen fans and newcomers alike can enjoy ’39 during live shows or album listens to experience how the song’s folksy arrangement and ethereal vocals build into a captivating storytelling moment. In recent performances, May often pairs it with ’Love of My Life,’ another emotionally rich Queen classic, creating a thoughtful musical journey.
For those curious to dive deeper, exploring Neil deGrasse Tyson’s explanations of relativity through his podcasts or talks can enrich your appreciation of the song’s science. Whether you’re a music lover or a space enthusiast, ’39 invites you to reflect on time, love, and the bittersweet nature of exploration.