By Thomas Semioli

He was the most unassuming member of an iconic ensemble renowned for their pomp, circumstance, and groundbreaking canon who, incidentally, composed some of Queen’s most enduring hits including “Another One Bites the Dust,” and “You’re My Best Friend.”

John Richard Deacon – who also penned “Spread Your Wings, and “I Want to Break Free” among others –was the rhythmic and harmonic tether  that linked the diverse talents of Freddie Mercury, Brian May, and Roger Taylor.

Equally skillful in a supportive role or stepping into the spotlight as evidenced in his oft sampled “Under Pressure” motif and his astounding upper register lines in “Millionaire’s Waltz” – John was among the early adopters of Leo Fender’s innovative MusicMan StingRay bass, which he used on stage in the late 1970s. For studio recordings John’s weapon of choice was Fender Precision, including the active model which came out in the early 1980s.

Dig John with his active Fender Precision on “One Vision” https://youtu.be/-OGd4gplxQM  

A poised player who enhanced the talents of his more visible band mates – John Deacon’s artistry as a bassist and writer was an integral catalyst to Queen’s many artistic and commercial triumphs.

Deacon, now retired whilst his peers continue to tour as a Las Vegas inspired Queen revue, plied his final bass passage on the track “No One But You (Only the Good Die Young)” which appears on the compilation Queen Rocks (1997).

Dig John on “Millionaire’s Waltz” https://youtu.be/H-P0VznfK_E

Dig Tony Senatore’s rendition of these beacons of Deacon!

“You’re My Best Friend” https://youtu.be/DmSQWVckbaE

“Somebody to Love” https://youtu.be/IGI4gOFCV6A

“Millionaire’s Waltz” https://youtu.be/PKUzJeHKsgE

“Bring Back Leroy Brown” https://youtu.be/OfyeFxQ0nsk

“Jealousy” https://youtu.be/mQXch5C3Wcg