The greatest singer of all time, according to William Shatner: “Such a superb voice”
Aside from an acting career spanning six decades, including his career-defining portrayal of Captain Kirk in the original Star Trek, William Shatner also has an acclaimed musical career. It began with his first album, The Transformed Man, which was released in 1968 during his Star Trek years.
Comprised mostly of a blend of readings from classic plays and recitations of popular songs with an instrumental accompaniment, it introduced the world to Shatner’s idiosyncratic talking-singing style of music. He would remain loyal to this with his following three albums, the second of which was released 36 years after the first. His musical career has continued to confound fans and critics alike ever since.
Regardless of your opinion of Shatner’s discography, it’s clear he knows a thing or two about music. And considering his unique style, it’s interesting to discover his favourite singer of all time. “If you’re asking me who is my favourite singer, I’d say Freddie Mercury,” he told The Guardian. “Who is my favourite band? Queen. Favourite song? ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’.”
Although there might not be a musician who is further away from Shatner’s deadpan vocals than Mercury, it’s not necessarily a unique opinion to hold. After all, with a four-octave vocal range, Mercury is considered one of the greatest singers in the history of rock music. He is pretty much universally beloved, and Queen produced some of the greatest rock music in history. Then there’s the fact that ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ is often considered one of the best songs of all time.
What is interesting is that Shatner didn’t come to this realisation until he recorded a cover of the song in 2011: “I did a recording of ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ and I had to listen to Freddie Mercury and Queen a lot to hear how it was done – this was years after they were gone.”
So, despite only realising the appeal of the iconic band and frontman 36 years after the release of their biggest song, the actor now considers it the top of his list. Given that he considers the band, the frontman and the song his top in all three categories, and the fact that this overtook his previous 80 years of listening at that point, it means he more or less has proclaimed the band the greatest act in the history of the media.
That’s big praise. And, surely, then it must have been nerve-wracking to release his own version of ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ to the world. Especially considering the song is so vocally layered. It’s not one you can take on alone at karaoke. Then again, he did have an entire recording studio and mixer presumably at his behest to work their magic, but nevertheless, it’s no easy feat.
His take is much flatter and less theatrical than the original, given his simple recitation of the lyrics. But this may have been a wise decision on his part, as it would surely be considered a grave sin to try and replicate the vocals of Mr Mercury. He might not have survived that one. I wonder what Freddie would think of his cover?
