Fat Bottom Girls by Queen
“Fat Bottomed Girls” is a classic track by the legendary British rock band Queen. Penned by the band’s iconic guitarist Brian May, this song made its debut on their seventh studio album, “Jazz,” released in 1978. It also features on their renowned compilation album “Greatest Hits.” When paired with “Bicycle Race” as a double A-sided single, it climbed to number 11 on the UK Singles Chart and reached number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.
Musical Composition
“Fat Bottomed Girls” stands out with its open bluesy, metallic guitar tuning, starting directly with its powerful chorus. Notably, it is one of the few Queen tracks that employs an alternative (drop D) guitar tuning. The music video for this energetic song was shot at the Dallas Convention Center in Texas in October 1978, adding to its historical significance.
Lyrics and Themes
The song is a playful ode to the narrator’s appreciation for fuller-figured women. It has an interesting interplay with “Bicycle Race,” with lyrical references connecting the two. Towards the end of “Fat Bottomed Girls,” Freddie Mercury can be heard shouting, “Get on your bikes and ride!” which is mirrored in “Bicycle Race” with the line, “Fat bottomed girls, they’ll be riding today.”
Critical Reception
Critics received “Fat Bottomed Girls” warmly. Cash Box highlighted its “solid thumping beat, soaring harmonies, and sonorous guitar work,” while Record World praised its “inventive lyrics and harmonies” delivered with class.
Live Performances
Queen included “Fat Bottomed Girls” in their concert setlists from 1978 to 1982, and it has since been featured in various television shows, films, and numerous cover versions by other artists. It continues to be a fan favourite in live performances, especially during the Queen + Adam Lambert tours from 2012 to 2023. Notably, it was also performed at the iHeartRadio Music Festival in 2013, featuring Fun.
Variations and Versions
Live renditions of “Fat Bottomed Girls” differ from the studio recording, with Freddie Mercury taking the lead vocals during the chorus, accompanied by two harmony parts sung by Roger Taylor (upper harmony) and Brian May (lower harmony). The studio version, however, features Brian May on lead vocals for the chorus without the upper harmony part. The single version, which can be found on the “Greatest Hits” album (excluding the 1992 US “Red Cover” version), omits the extended guitar interludes between verses and fades out before the song’s ending.
“Fat Bottomed Girls” by Queen remains a timeless rock anthem, celebrated for its catchy guitar riffs, engaging lyrics, and vibrant performances. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Queen’s innovative spirit and lasting impact on the world of music. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new listener, this track is sure to resonate with its infectious energy and classic rock appeal.