“Instinct, Not Rehearsal: Rick Wakeman on Freddie Mercury’s Natural Artistry and the Destiny of a Born Performer”
In a moving reflection on what defines true artistry, legendary keyboardist Rick Wakeman shared heartfelt thoughts on Freddie Mercury, painting a vivid picture of the Queen frontman’s innate brilliance. According to Wakeman, Freddie was not someone who meticulously choreographed his stage presence — in fact, quite the opposite. “I bet Freddie never prepared even a single one of the poses he struck on stage in advance,” Wakeman observed, suggesting that Mercury’s charisma wasn’t something learned or rehearsed. It was something deeply embedded in his nature.
This raw, instinctive energy, Wakeman says, is a rare form of art — one that can’t be taught, imitated, or manufactured. Mercury’s ability to captivate an audience with a simple gesture or glance wasn’t the product of calculated effort, but the spontaneous expression of someone who was born to do exactly what he was doing. “His technique was simply instinctive, natural — and that is a form of art in itself… there’s no way or method to achieve it,” Wakeman emphasized.
Reflecting further, Wakeman mused that he couldn’t even imagine Freddie Mercury doing anything else in life. “Honestly, I have no idea what he could have done if he hadn’t become The Singer… the one he was BORN to be.” It’s a powerful testament to destiny — a reminder that some people don’t just choose their paths, they are their paths.
Wakeman’s tribute captures something that resonates deeply with fans and artists alike: that true greatness often lies not in perfection or practice, but in authenticity. Freddie Mercury didn’t just perform — he became the music. Every movement, every note, every flash of emotion was a window into a soul completely aligned with its calling.
As we celebrate Mercury’s legacy, Wakeman’s words remind us that the most unforgettable artists are those who never try to be anything — they simply are. And Freddie Mercury, without question, was born to be a star.